Saudi Medical Licensure Exam (SMLE): Guide & 2025 Dates

What is the SMLE Exam

Saudi Medical Licensure Examination (SMLE) is an examination system for the assessment of the competency of medical professionals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS), is responsible for supervising and regulating healthcare professionals in the kingdom and is responsible for conducting the Saudi Medical Licensure Examination (SMLE).

Saudi Arabia medical licensing exam (SMLE) evaluates the knowledge and skills of medical professionals in order to ensure the required standards for practicing medicine in the kingdom. SMLE exam is a prerequisite for obtaining a medical practicing license to practice medicine in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

So passing the SMLE is mandatory for every health professional inside the Kingdom.

It is a computer-based exam composed of 150-200 multiple-choice questions (MCQS) and has up to 20 pilot questions. It is a 4 hour exam which is divided into two parts of 100 questions each, the time limit for each section is of 120 minutes and there is break of total of 30 minutes.

The SMLE assesses a wide range of medical knowledge by using multiple-choice questions (MCQs). The types of MCQ can vary but mainly these are single-best-answer questions, multiple true/false questions, and extended matching questions.

It evaluates health professionals on clinical reasoning, analysis, interpretation, problem-solving, decision-making, knowledge application,s and patient care. The exam content is updated periodically.

SMLE exam requirements

Eligibility criteria for the SMLE include having a medical degree from an accredited institution.

A valid residency permit.

To register for the SMLE  and individual needs to of submitt an online application and needs to pay the exam fee.

The SMLE consists of 2 parts:
- a computer-based exam
- a clinical skills exam.

The SMLE content is composed of all medical topics, like anatomy, physiology, ethics, and pharmacology etc.

For SMLE studying from reliable sources and practicing with sample exam questions is mandatory for success.

To obtain a practice license to practice in Saudi Arabia passing the SMLE is crucial for all medical professionals.

The SMLE results are based on a pass/fail basis. 60% is the minimum passing score.

It is allowed to take a retake SMLE, but the specific rules and regulations of SMLE must be followed.

After passing the SMLE career opportunities for medical professionals are opened in Saudi Arabia.

SMLE EXAM registration online\ How to apply for SMLE exams

Registration process for Saudi Medical Licensure Examination (SMLE)

The registration process is composed of several steps.

*Candidates need to create an account on the SCFHS website.
*Upload all the necessary personal information.
*Then need to upload their educational documents, comprising medical degrees and tall ranscripts.
*After completion of all these steps, candidates will need to pay the registration fee.
*Then select the preferred location of the SMLE exam and date.

SMLE Exam dates 2025

First testing period 2025   1 January to 23 January

Second testing period 20252 February to 19 February

Third testing period 20252 Mar to 20 Mar

Fourth testing period 20256 April to 24 April

Fifth testing period 2025May 4 to 22 May

Sixth testing period 202515 June to 3 July

*NOTE*If you fail the SMLE, you can retake the exam after one year from the date of your first attempt.

You are allowed one annual improvement attempt per year, provided your professional classification and registration are complete.

SMLE Exam Tips for Success

Passing the Saudi Medical Licensure Examination (SMLE) requires strategic preparation and a strong understanding of medical concepts. Here are some key tips to help you succeed:

Understand the Exam Format

The SMLE consists of 150-200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) covering various medical disciplines. Familiarize yourself with the question types, including single-best-answer, multiple true/false, and extended matching questions.

Use Reliable Study Resources

Study from official SCFHS guidelines, recommended textbooks, and online resources. High-yield review books and question banks like UWorld, Kaplan, and Medscape can also be beneficial.

Practice with MCQs

Practicing SMLE Exam MCQs regularly improves your problem-solving skills and boosts confidence. Utilize free and paid question banks to simulate real exam conditions.

Focus on Weak Areas

Identify your weak subjects and dedicate extra time to reviewing them. Prioritize high-yield topics like internal medicine, surgery, pharmacology, and ethics.

Manage Your Time Wisely

The exam is divided into two parts with 100 questions each, allowing 120 minutes per section. Practice time management to ensure you complete all questions within the given time.

Stay Calm and Confident

Get adequate rest before the exam, stay hydrated, and maintain a positive mindset. Exam stress can impact performance, so relaxation techniques like deep breathing can help.

By following these tips and maintaining a disciplined study routine, you can enhance your chances of passing the SMLE and securing your medical license in Saudi Arabia.