Dyslexia or Dyscalculia in GP Training.
- Elite Exams
- Apr 12
- 5 min read
If you’re finding some parts of GP training particularly challenging — especially when it comes to managing exam pressure, written tasks, or number-based work—you are not alone. Many GP trainees discover or revisit learning differences such as dyslexia or dyscalculia during this stage of their careers.
A Note to IMGs: You’re Not Weak for Seeking Support
For many International Medical Graduates (IMGs), acknowledging a possible diagnosis such as dyslexia or dyscalculia can feel especially daunting. There may be cultural pressures, fear of being judged, or concerns that disclosure could affect your standing, progression, or visa status.
“Will they think I’m not good enough?”
“Will this label follow me forever?”
“What if they question my degree or training?”
These are very real and valid fears—but it’s also important to gently challenge them.
The truth is, hiding a suspected learning difficulty or struggling in silence can create far more challenges down the line. It can affect your exam outcomes, mental health, and overall confidence in clinical settings. And when difficulties aren’t addressed early, it may lead to assumptions about performance or capability that are not accurate or fair. This can lead to integrity and probity issues.
By contrast, trainees who seek support early, get assessed, and put reasonable adjustments in place often report:
Improved confidence
Better exam preparation
More positive feedback in workplace-based assessments
Reduced stress and burnout
You are not less of a doctor for needing support—you are more self-aware, resilient, and committed to doing your best for your patients. The NHS, RCGP, and many deaneries value diversity in learning styles and experiences. Having a formal diagnosis does not make you “less than”—it empowers you to work smarter and gain access to the tools that allow you to thrive.
💡 Remember: Seeking support is not a weakness—it’s a smart, professional step that reflects your insight, not your inadequacy.
The good news? There’s support available in the UK. Early identification, open conversations, and the right assessment process can help ensure you receive reasonable adjustments to perform at your best.
This guide outlines step-by-step what to do, where to get help, and how to protect your wellbeing and future success.
1. Recognise Common Signs – Could This Be You?
It’s common for some difficulties to only come to light under the pressure of exams and postgraduate training. Consider whether you:
Struggle with timing in exams despite knowing the content
Find structured writing or grammar difficult
Avoid calculations or find numbers anxiety-inducing
Lose track of time easily or forget key admin tasks
Have a history of repeat exam failures or needing extra academic support
If any of these feel familiar, it’s okay. The important thing is that you are taking action now.
2. Screen Yourself Online First – Free and Quick
The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) offers a free online dyslexia screening tool. Start here:
If your screening is positive, you may wish to also complete the dyscalculia screening, especially if you find calculations or data interpretation difficult.
Start by Speaking to Your TPD or Educational Supervisor (ES)
If you screen positive, your Training Programme Director (TPD) or ES is your first point of call. Some deaneries offer NHS-funded assessments for GP trainees—so it’s always worth checking before you pay privately. Even if your deanery doesn’t fund assessments, your TPD and Educational Supervisor (ES) can guide you through the steps and offer pastoral and extra educational support.
✏️ Tip: Keep your ES and TPD informed early in the process— information about diagnoses presented late in training without prior discussion may raise questions during ARCP or when applying for exam adjustments.
4. Reflect and Document in Your Portfolio
Once you’ve completed the screening, reflect on the experience in your ePortfolio. This should include:
A short reflective entry
The screening result attached
A note that you’re exploring further assessment
A plan to discuss it with your ES and TPD, or what discussion you have had with your ES/TPD.
This shows insight, professionalism, and a proactive approach—all of which are valued in training.
5. Book a Full Diagnostic Assessment Through the BDA (unless informed by another assessment provider by your TPD).
If your screening suggests a potential learning difficulty:
Submit your results to the BDA—they will send you a list of approved assessors
You can choose between educational assessors, occupational assessors, or psychologists depending on your needs (e.g., behavioural support, exam planning)
Costs and waiting times vary, depending on the type of assessor and your location
🕓 Typical timelines:
Some appointments may be available in 4–6 weeks
Others can have a waiting time of up to 9 months, so it’s crucial to plan ahead💷 Cost: Anywhere from £350–£800, depending on provider and complexity.
6. Submit Your Report to the RCGP for Exam Adjustments
Once your formal diagnostic report is ready, submit it to the RCGP. They will review it and decide on appropriate adjustments. Commonly approved adjustments include:
Extra time for reading or consultation during exams like AKT or SCA
Access to a computer or assistive software, if you need/have one.
Rest breaks between exam sections
Modified formats (e.g., coloured paper, large fonts)
The RCGP requires reports that:
Are completed by qualified professionals
Follow recognised criteria (e.g., DSM-5 or ICD-10)
Include evidence of impact on learning or performance
Be aware of RCGP deadlines—exam adjustment requests often need to be submitted 6–8 weeks before your exam date.
7. Useful Tools While You Wait
While waiting for a diagnosis or adjustments, there are lots of practical tools that can help support your learning:
For reading and writing:
Text-to-speech apps (e.g., NaturalReader, Speechify)
Speech-to-text tools (e.g., Dragon Dictation, Google Voice Typing)
Grammarly for grammar and spelling support
For calculations and structure:
Mind-mapping software (e.g., XMind, MindMeister)
Coloured overlays or screen filters
Time management apps like Pomodoro timers or Forest
Many trainees use these tools informally or alongside formal support to boost performance.
8. What If You’re Already Midway Through Exams?
If you're already partway through training or have upcoming exams booked, don’t panic.
You can still apply for adjustments—just aim to do so before the cut-off date.
If you’ve already failed an exam and suspect an undiagnosed learning difficulty contributed, speak to your TPD. You may be able to appeal or reapply with support.
The key message is: it's never too late to seek help, but the sooner you start, the better the outcome.
9. Confidentiality and Professionalism
Disclosing a learning difficulty can feel daunting. It’s important to know:
Your diagnosis will be handled confidentially
It will not negatively impact your GMC registration or ARCP
Being proactive and transparent is seen as a strength, not a weakness
You are demonstrating professional insight and commitment to safe practice—exactly what training bodies and regulators are looking for.
10. Who to Talk to If You Need More Help
If you’re unsure where to turn next, try reaching out to:
Your deanery training support service
Your ES or TPD
The BMA for advice around workplace adjustments and rights
Peer groups or forums—some trainees find it helpful to hear from others with similar experiences.
Final Thoughts
Having dyslexia or dyscalculia does not define your abilities as a doctor. These are simply learning differences—not a reflection of your intelligence, compassion, or capability. With early support, practical tools, and the right adjustments, you can absolutely succeed in training and pass your exams with confidence. You’re not alone. And you’ve already taken the most important step—acknowledging the challenge and seeking support.
🔗 Start here: British Dyslexia Association – Screening & Assessments
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