UKCAT: Composition of the UKCAT

Candidates have two hours to complete the UKCAT. Each section is timed separately. The format is multiple choice questions (MCQ) where candidates select one answer from a list of various options. The five subtest components of the UKCAT include:

  • Verbal reasoning
  • Quantitative analysis
  • Abstract reasoning
  • Decision analysis
  • Non-cognitive analysis

Example of a UKCAT question:

Read the following passage on 'Sleeping Disorders and Diabetes' and determine whether on the basis of the information provided, the question statements are; True, False or Can't Tell without further information.

According to the NHS, type 2 diabetes, that is often associated with obesity, affects about 2.3 million people in the UK with at least 500,000 more who are not aware that they have the condition. Research has linked type 2 diabetes and sleeping disorders, suggesting there is a connection between diabetes and the way the body responds to the 24-hour cycle of light and dark. The new genetic research points to a gene involved in detecting melatonin - a hormone that is part of the body's internal clock - and an increased risk of diabetes. The findings of the research will raise the possibility of genetic tests to identify people vulnerable to developing type 2 diabetes.

Questions:

  1. People who are obese are more likely to suffer from sleeping disorders.
  2. Genetic tests are available to identify people with type 2 diabetes.
  3. There are about 2.8 million people in the UK affected by type 2 diabetes.
  4. People with type 2 diabetes are often awake during the night and sleep during the day.