Let's Do This: 2024-25 Radiology Applications Updates Released (Part 2)!
Part 2 of our hot take on the changes to the 2024-25 radiology application, what it means for you and of course, how to smash it (the RadCast way)!
Long time no see mi amigo!
If you haven’t read part 1, then what are you doing? Don’t be that person. Go read it and come back.
Without further ado, let’s get into it.
The Red or Blue Pill: Interventional Radiology (IR) Themed Tracks
In a similar fashion to previous years, candidates will be able to select IR themed training tracks when ranking their deanery preferences. Already, we’ve seen a bit of panic amongst candidates thinking they have to decide at this very moment in time if they’ll wield the power of a Logitech MX Master 3S mouse as a diagnostic radiologist or choose to master the might of the Seldinger technique as an interventional radiologist (image guided surgeon if you’re a fancy pants).
We at RadCast HQ politely advise you to “take a chill pill”. You don’t need to decide your subspecialty right now and in fact, the guidance does state that those of you who do select an IR themed track and decide to “allow it fam”, then you are free to do so. Similarly, if you get sick of looking at lung nodules all day and wish to get paid to stab someone with a sharp pointy thing, with consent of course, then you can apply for an interventional radiology subspecialty training at ST4 (provided there is capacity and funding in your deanery for this).
In a nutshell, you are not shackled to a set route.
Minimum MSRA Scores
Whilst the format of the MSRA is the same as previous years, the recruitment panel this year has released the minimum MSRA scores required for each domain. Specifically, candidates need to score a minimum of 201 in each of the MSRA domains to be even deemed eligible to be ranked. What does that mean? Well, you can’t “make up” for marks in one domain by smashing the other domain. So, make sure to take each part of the MSRA seriously and give it equal attention.
If you’re looking for tips on how to maximise your MSRA score, check out our YouTube video where we spoke to Dr Alex Bow who got 608 in his exam!
Ranking Calculations Changed
Last year, your final rank comprised of your MSRA score (20%), your interview score (50%) and your self-assessment verified score (30%).
This year, your final rank will be compromised of your interview score (60%) and your verified self-assessment score (40%).
Yes, you read that right. MSRA does NOT count towards your FINAL RANK.
When we first heard this, we broke out the champagne glasses at RadCast HQ (fizzy rose water for Muhammad). Most of you know that we are quite “opinionated” about the MSRA (which is putting it lightly). That’s why we’re over the moon that your MSRA score won’t be used towards your final rank. However, don’t get too excited just yet and go off to burn your MSRA revision books. You can’t neglect the MSRA since it will STILL be used to SHORTLIST you with the top 850 scoring candidates being invited for an interview i.e. nobody will find out about your PhD in radiomics at an interview if you can’t get a competitive MSRA cut-off.
Interview Format To Stay The Same
Thank God.
We don’t know why but the interview format seems to have been getting the short end of the stick for the last few years. Like every time you thought the format was nailed…BAM…it was changed again. That’s why we’re so glad to hear that the interview format will be the same as last year i.e. 2 x 10 minute interview stations that will assess “your commitment to the specialty” and “communication skills”. Plus, they’ll be using the same software platform as last year “Qpercom Recruit” (probably the cousin of SkyNet). One change to note is that the interview will now run across five days (instead of the previous 4). This probably reflects the growing number of applicants to radiology and how the assessors need an additional day to get through all the candidates!
Last year, the interview format was the big curve ball for applicants. From prioritising scan requests to highlighting the radiology specific skills they had, the interview really did push candidates to their limits. Of course, as is the RadCast way, we’ve updated our signature Clinical Radiology Application & Interview Course (CRAIC) to reflect these new changes with new modules added to help you nail these added domains. For those of you wanting to sign up, just use the button below to get access. Honestly, it’s the most comprehensive course out there covering the application from A-to-Z which you can access 24/7. Plus, you’ll get access to our exclusive telegram group where you can directly reach out to us for advice/support.
Proposed Changes For 2025-26 Application Cycle
This is the first time we’ve ever seen specialty recruitment teams outline the future changes to candidates in advance. We saw it recently for Core Surgical Training and now, Clinical Radiology has put forward the changes they want to make for the 2025-26 application cycle i.e. for next year. Specifically, they’ve proposed:
Reducing the domains from 7 to 5
Merging teaching and training and formal teaching qualifications
Removing Prizes and awards
Introduction of a portfolio station at interview
Removal of the verification process
Looking at the changes and taking them for face-value, they seem to be heading in the right direction. It’ll be interesting to see what the new portfolio descriptors are once there are only 5 domains. Plus we think the best change is the re-introduction of the portfolio station. Honestly, this will give you an opportunity to really highlight your achievements to the interviewers and it’ll remove the ambiguity that comes with the remote verification system currently in place.
Our Final Thoughts (Part 2)
We know. That was a lot to take in. But as always, we are here with you every step of the way. So, what do we advise you to focus on at this present moment in time? Here’s our top two RadCast tips:
Focus on the MSRA - please in the name of all things holy, do not neglect this exam. It is used to shortlist you for an interview. Find whatever time you can and channel it towards the MSRA.
Get those high yield portfolio points - we’ve outlined these to you in part 1 of this newsletter so crack on. Honestly, the portfolio is worth more this year (40 vs. 30%) and every point counts. Remember, the competition ratio last year was 11.92 and we really do think it’s going to go up again this year.
Now, we’re going to go get a stiff drink since we have a lot of emails to catch up (we drafted these newsletter editions late last night). Whatever you do, please don’t stress. You’ve got this and we are here to support you. We are working tirelessly to get through the emails and we will respond to you (pinky promise). As always, reach out to us via hello@radcast.co.uk if you have any questions.
Till next time,
From your ‘make sure to check Oriel’ friends,
Jamie, Uzoma and Muhammad
RadCast Co-Founders