Synoptic assessment conditions

Designated certificates can only be awarded by the RCVS after passing a synoptic assessment.

For synoptic assessments undertaken at the University of Edinburgh the following conditions apply:

1. Candidates are encouraged to register interest in completing the synoptic as soon as possible.Please note: registration will not be finalised until successful results of all required modules are confirmed with the R(D)SVS and RCVS. If a candidate does not pass all relevant modules to sit the synoptic, they will be offered a refund or can transfer their place to the following year.
2. All candidates will be required to register their interest and pay at least two months prior to the oral synoptic examination and/or by the deadline set by the CertAVP Administrator. Late admissions will not be accepted; candidates must wait until the following year to be assessed.
3. The R(D)SVS will aim to offer at least one synoptic assessment series per year. The R(D)SVS may put candidates on a registration list for assessment based on those informing the CertAVP administrator of their interest to attend.
4. Candidates who fail the synoptic assessment will be given one opportunity to retake the assessment at the next proposed series. There will be a charge for the additional administration required. Candidates who fail on a second attempt may be referred back to the RCVS and following discussions with the R(D)SVS internal examiners, may be asked to undertake further training and/or advised to retake modules.
5. The R(D)SVS reserves the right to modify the timing and location of the synoptic assessment, as long as candidates are given 4 weeks notice.
6. The R(D)SVS reserves the right to modify the fee for synoptic assessment in line with University fees, and will ensure candidates have a minimum of 8 weeks notice before the next synoptic assessment.
7. The R(D)SVS cannot be held responsible for candidates' expenses should the synoptic assessment be cancelled within the last 48 hours, due to examiners being unable to attend.
8. The R(D)SVS acts as a representative of the RCVS, and as such follows their guidelines.