These findings demonstrate that performance on an SJT predicts performance in a high-fidelity clinical simulation (the CSA) in international medical graduates. Although the constructs tested by SJTs are debated, and are likely to vary across settings, culturally appropriate knowledge of interpersonal competence is likely to be evaluated. Improving the confidence of doctors in this area through targeted educational interventions, rather than focusing on increased clinical knowledge, is likely to be more effective at reducing disparities observed in postgraduate examination performance. Thus, there are important implications for the design of specialty selection and licensing assessments globally.