Overseas histopathologists wanting to secure a job in the UK via the postgraduate qualification route will need to attain Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists in Histopathology or FRCPath in Histopathology, a sub-specialty exam of FRCPath. FRCPath is the UK qualification and a GMC-recognised postgraduate route.
International Medical Graduates (IMGs) from any country in the world can sit the sub-specialty FRCPath in Histopathology examinations, provided certain eligibility criteria are met. These are summarised below along with a broad look at the following topics:
What is FRCPath in Histopathology?
Eligibility for overseas doctors
FRCPath in Histopathology structure and format
FRCPath in Histopathology: Part 1 - MCQ/EMQ
FRCPath in Histopathology: Part 2 - Practical Examination
As an overseas candidate where can I take the exams and how much will it cost me?
How do I apply?
How to prepare and what resources are available?
Passed? What next?
What is FRCPath in Histopathology?
Set against the Curriculum for Specialty Training in Histopathology, the examinations are designed to recognise histopathologists close to the end of their training who can demonstrate sufficient knowledge and technique for independent practice. In other words, completion of the full set of exams (Part 1 & 2) demonstrates your ability to work at consultant level.
Eligibility for overseas doctors:
Below we outline the eligibility for overseas doctors looking to sit both FRCPath Histopathology exams. For international candidates, the eligibility criteria for FRCPath specialty examinations can be a little confusing when looking online so IMG Connect spoke to the Royal College directly in an effort to clarify this.
Time spent in histopathology training is stated as a requirement of eligibility and the Royal College do consider equivalents to NHS training programmes though there is no list of countries with accepted or unaccepted training programmes. The royal college advises you should speak to your Educational Supervisor or Sponsor (if you have one) who can advise you if you are ready or eligible to sit the Examinations if you are unsure. Remember, there are many overseas doctors applying for all parts of the FRCPath exams so don’t be put off applying!
Top Tip: If you have the required months training in a recognised programme in your country for Histopathology specifically, the chances are you will be eligible.
Eligibility for Part 1:You are required to have trained in a recognised training programme in Histopathology for a period of no less than 12 months.
Did you know? Candidates who have passed the FRCPath Part 1 examination in Histopathology who, after appropriate training, can attempt the Part 2 examination in one of the following: Forensic Pathology, Neuropathology or Paediatric Pathology.
Eligibility for Part 2: The Royal College expects you to have at least three years of specialty training specific to Histopathology in your own country. Furthermore, the Royal College strongly advises candidates to attempt Part 2 at least 12 months after passing Part 1.
FRCPath in Histopathology structure and format:
The FRCPath examinations consist of two parts:
Part 1 – One paper comprised of 125 multiple choice questions (SBAs and EMQs)
Part 2 – six-part practical examination held over two consecutive days.
Part 1 examination:
FRCPath Histopathology Part 1 One comprises of 125 multiple choice questions in both single-best-answer (SBAs) and extended-matching-questions (EMQs).
The exam is orientated towards assessing your overall knowledge and understanding of:
histopathology/ cytopathology
basic science underpinning pathology (inc. molecular biology)
full range of autopsy practices undertaken in an NHS District General Hospital
Part 2 Practical Examinations:
The exams consists of six components taken over two days, summarised below:
Part 2 Practical examinations
Surgical history
20 cases in 20-minute slots
Cytopathology
8 cases in 20-minute slots
Macroscopic pathology
4 cases with 20-minute reviews followed by 20-minute discussions
OSPEs
2 20-minute stations
Long cases
4 20-minute stations
Frozen sections
6 cases in 2, 20-minute stations.
One meeting with examiners in separate 20-minute station.
Surgical history: 20 cases are provided in 10 pairs of haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained slides in 20-minute slots over 3-hours 20 minutes of the second morning. The cases will represent a range of difficulties, with some proving complex cases requiring detailed description, differential diagnosis and special techniques or cases not diagnosable on a single H&E.
Cytopathology: Held on the first morning of the exam. Eight non-gynaecological cytology cases will be provided in pairs in 20-minute slots.
Macroscopic Pathology: This part is designed to allow candidates to demonstrate their capabilities in discussing gross pathology and familiarity with block selection in the context of the RCPath Minimum Datasets. Four cases provided in the form of photographs of gross pathology specimens. Two 20-minute slots will be provided for 2 cases, followed by 20-minute discussions with 2 examiners.
OSPEs: 2 x 20-minute stations. One of which is conducted face-to-face with 2 examiners while the other is a written exercise only. Possible topics can include management/clinical governance type and MDT type cases.
Long Cases: 4 x 20-minutes stations provided on the first afternoon including cases which cannot conventionally be covered in a single H&E stained section.
Frozen Sections: 6 cases viewed in 2 x 20-minutes stations (3 cases per station) before meeting with a pair of examiners in a 20-minute station. You need to take notes and be able to provide the examiners with a bottom-line diagnosis only, to form basis for discussion in face to face meetings.
Where can I take the exams and how much will they cost me?
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused disruption to Royal College exams across all specialties, and unfortunately the RCPath exams have been affected also. For the most up-to-date news on the RCPath examinations please refer to their website here.
FRCPath Part 1 (current COVID-19 arrangements): In 2022, the Part 1 examination will be offered using online delivery to candidates. This means you can take the exam remotely and will not need to travel overseas to sit the exam, or attend an examination centre. The College will deliver the written components of these examinations through a company called TestReach, the Oral components (including oral OSPE stations) will be delivered using a video-conferencing platform such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams and for the written examinations, candidates will be given the opportunity to trial the TestReach system to familiarise themselves with it ahead of the examination. You can read more about the new, remote examination process further here on our website.
Previously, the Part 1 examination was sat in multiple overseas centres and once the pandemic is under better control globally, it is highly anticipated the Royal College will return to previous set-ups.
The FRCPath Part 1 exam costs £622. You can see how the Royal College breaks down the cost here on their website.
FRCPath Part 2 (current COVID-19 arrangements): Part 2 exams will be held in person in the UK in 2022. There will be no online delivery for the exam.
Keep an eye on the RCPath website for the most up-to-date news on the exams.
The FRCPath Part 2 exam costs £1,308. You can see how the Royal College breaks down the cost here on their website.
How do I apply?
Applications must be made via the Royal College of Pathologists website, with applications only available once an application window is opened by the Royal College. This is usually twice a year, in SPrin and in Autumn.
How do I prepare for RCPath exams and what study resources are available?
With lots of resources available online, we have discussed with consultants the best place to start looking for materials relating to the exams. Most recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams.
Curriculum: Questions are set against the Curriculum for Specialist Training in Histopathology We recommend getting to know the curriculum as early as possible and using it as a road map for your study plan.
Regulations and Guidelines: Before applying for FRCPath examinations, the Royal College recommends you read both the General & Specialty Specific regulations and guidelines:
General Regulations and Guidelines
Royal College - Histopathology Regulations & Guidelines
Sample Questions:Testing yourself against previous exam questions is always a recommended way to prepare. Histopathology Part 1 sample questions
Cancer Datasets and Tissue Pathways: The College’s datasets for Histopathological Reporting on cancers have been written to help pathologists work towards a consistent approach for the reporting of the more common cancers and to define acceptable practices in handling pathology specimens. Whilst these are not specific to FRCPath examinations they are certainly relevant to the wider practice in histopathology.
IMG Connect advice:
Part 2 – food and drink:With multiple exams taking place for Part 2 in one day bring supplies! It will be a long day and there may not be access to food.
Hiring a microscope: For Part 2 you will be required to sit examinations in the UK and will require a microscope. The examination centres will not provide equipment for any applicants so you will need to hire a microscope in advance. There are a few companies easily accessible through a web search, find a microscope and book well in advance of the exam. You can arrange for the company to drop off and pick up the microscope from the exam centre, don’t worry!
I passed the FRCPath exams! What next?
First of all, congratulations! After you have passed both parts of FRCPath in Histopathology you can apply for a full registration with a license to practice. Once the GMC have approved your application, you can work as a histopathologist in the UK.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with an IMG Consultant to discuss UK job options in Histopathology, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable locations for you.
The Royal College makes it clear that individuals who reach the standard required to pass the FRCPath examination in their chosen specialty are deemed to have the necessary professional competence to practice unsupervised. FRCPath also greatly contributes to the Certificate Confirming Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR), the alternative route to the Specialist Register for doctors who do not complete their training in an approved UK training programme.
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
To help make your MRCEM journey a success - here we’ll take a closer look at MRCEM Primary, including eligibility, dates, fees & exam centers.
We will also provide some tips to give you the best chance of passing first time - giving you MRCEM success and moving closer towards full Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM).
Designed to help you prepare and sit the exam, we consider the following topics:
What is the MRCEM Primary?
What is the content and structure?
Can I sit the exam more than once?
What is the curriculum?
Am I eligible?
How can I apply?
Where and when can I take the exam? How much will it cost me?
How do I prepare for each exam and what resources are available?
Passed? What next?
What is the MRCEM Primary?
The MRCEM Primary Examination is the first examination in a series of three and is mapped to the Emergency Medicine 2015 Curriculum. You can find more detailed information provided in the RCEM Basic Sciences Curriculum (June 2010) which is available here or as a downloadable PDF.
The MRCEM Part A has been replaced by the MRCEM Primary exam with effect from August 2016.
Completion of the MRCEM examinations (Primary/ Intermediate/ OSCE) results in the award of membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine.
The Royal College strongly advises all applicants to familiarise themselves with the Basic Sciences Curriculum when preparing to sit the MRCEM Primary Examination.
General advice is to get to know the curriculum as early as possible and use it as a road map for your study plan.
What is the content and structure?
The MRCEM Primary exam consists of one 3-hour paper of 180 multiple choice, single best answer questions (SBAQs).
You must choose one best answer from a choice of five feasible answers.
The paper will examine all the domains of knowledge in the Basic Sciences Curriculum including:
Anatomy
Physiology
Pathology
Microbiology
Pharmacology
Evidence Based Medicine
Can I sit the exam more than once?
Candidates are permitted a maximum of six attempts in which to pass the MRCEM Primary Examination.
Previous attempts at the MRCEM Part A examination prior to August 2016 do not count towards the number of available attempts.
The examination is conducted in English and candidates are advised that IELTS Level 7 is the expected standard for completion of the MRCEM examinations. Remember, you will need to have a pass of 7.5 average in all areas of IELTS to complete your GMC registration.
What is the curriculum?
The blueprint for the MRCEM Primary Examination is as follows:
Category
Sub-Category
Questions
Anatomy
Upper limb
Lower limb
Thorax
Abdomen
Head and Neck
Central Nervous System Cranial Nerve Lesions
60
Physiology
Basic cellular physiology
Respiratory physiology
Cardiovascular physiology
Gastrointestinal physiology
Renal physiology
Endocrine physiology
60
Pharmacology
Gastrointestinal pharmacology
Cardiovascular system
Respiratory system
Central Nervous System
Infections
Endocrine system
Fluids and electrolytes
Muscoskeletal system
Immunological products and vaccines Anaesthesia
27
Microbiology
Principles of microbiology
Pathogen groups
18
Pathology
Inflammatory responses
Immune responses
Infection
Wound healing
Haematology
9
Evidence Based Medicine
Statistics Study methodology
Principles of critical appraisal
6
TOTAL
180
Am I eligible?
To be eligible you must hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes.
You do not need to be registered with the GMC to enter.
Don’t forget! You may need a visa to enter a different country to sit the exam. Failure to check this could prevent you from sitting the exam and your examination fee will not be refunded.
How can I apply?
All applications are made online.
Please note, the application can take some time to complete so it is always advisable to apply well in advance of the deadlines.
Applications submitted after the application period will not be accepted.
Links to all application forms and application windows are available here.
Where and when can I take the exam? How much will it cost me?
Exam dates and locations for 2019 are currently available, these are regularly updated by the Royal College and can be found here.
Examination
Centre
Fees
MRCEM Primary
Short Answer Question Paper
London, Dublin, Edinburgh, Leeds, Cardiff
£310
Chennai, Hyderabad, New Delhi, Reykjavik, Kuala Lumpur, Muscat
£390
How do I prepare for the exam and what resources are available?
With lots of resources available online, we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams. See below:
Curriculum:
Applicants are tested on a range of common and important disorders in Emergency Medicine as set out in the Emergency Medicine Training Curriculum 2015.
Information Packs:
These provide detailed information for the relevant examination components so that you can best prepare for your studies and what to expect on the day:
MRCEM Primary
Sample questions:
Test your knowledge using example questions from the current exam syllabus provided by the Royal College, see below:
• Primary – sample questions
Glossary of Terms:
The royal college uses many terms that may cause confusion, so take plenty time to understand the terms and definitions used in this guide.
Candidates are expected to be rigorous in their use of these terms.
Glossary of terms used in RCEM exams.
Online resources:
There are lots of resources online, such as videos on YouTube, MRCEM courses and useful reading materials. We think that these are a great addition to your study plan, just be sure to check your sources.
For a useful overview of how to prepare for exams, including advice on study groups, online community support, best use of online resources & Royal College materials and courses, take a look at our blog: IMG Connects Top Tips for exam preparation
Passed? What next?
If you are completing the papers in order, the next step will be to apply for MRCEM Intermediate Certificate. For more information take a look at our blog where we explore MRCEM Intermediate and everything that you need to know about how to sit the exam, including syllabus, dates, results, fees and preparation.
IMG Jobs
Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK
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Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists
Get in Touch
Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
Exam places for MRCP PACES have been hard to secure in some countries. This increase in demand has continued through to 2023, so what can you do to maximise your chances of securing an examination place?
The Royal College of Physicians has advised that they are working to grow capacity internationally. However, this will not have an immediate impact on the number of spots available across the world.
With so many overseas doctors missing out on a spot, we have put together some of the main discussion points to help you to broaden your chances of sitting the exam as soon as possible.
All applications submitted during the application period will be treated equally, with spaces being allocated using a random lottery model. Some spaces are reserved for local trainees and some priority can be given for applicants near the end of their eligibility periods.
So, to maximise your chance of success, we suggest that not only do you apply to your closest PACES exam centre, but also to 3 more centres that you are able to travel to.
Apply to more centres
Why should I apply for more centres? More applications equals more chance of securing a place. They way that it works is that if you are not successful with your 1st preference (most local centre), then you will be considered for a space in your 2nd choice centre, and so on until you secure a spot.
Of course, this means that you must be willing to travel to sit the exam. This can be costly, especially if you have to travel to a different country, flights and hotels are not cheap! As such, we suggest taking some time to carefully choose the locations that will not only have the possibility of a spare place, but where your costs will be kept to a minimum.
Candidates will be notified on the outcome of their application within 2 weeks from the closing date, giving you time to plan your travel if necessary.
Whilst this advice does not guarantee a place to sit the exam, it will increase your chances.
If you are not sure what to do, or have any other questions regarding the PACES exam, get in touch with an IMG Connect specialist.
Take a look at our IMG library for more information regarding postgraduate exams & PACES
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!
Get in Touch
Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS jobs & hospital locations for you.
Follow us on social media for news and updates on GMC registration, the Royal College and NHS through the links below:
Are you an overseas psychiatrist taking the postgraduate route to GMC registration through the MRCPsych exams? Are you interested in sitting the exams in the future?
As part of IMG Stories, we introduce to you Dr Praveen Kumar, a psychiatrist who has recently sat and passed the MRCPsych Paper B exam. Praveen will be sharing with you his experiences of the second of the Royal College of Psychiatrists exams, taking you through his preparation, experience of sitting the exam and sharing some hot tips for international MRCPsych aspirants.
1. Tell us about yourself... what should the IMG Community know about Praveen Kumar?
I'm a Malaysian psychiatrist and I completed most of my training as an Ob-Gyn in Borneo. I originally came to the UK for the PLAB 2 exam, with my ultimate aim being to relocate to Australia. I had planned on spending a few weeks in the UK as a vacation, as it was my first time flying to the west. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I was stuck in the UK for some time.
I decided to enter the psychiatry training programme in Inverness, Scotland (CT1) just out of curiosity, because mental health was hardly spoken about in rural Malaysia, so I knew little about it. This was my main plan while I waited for restrictions to ease in Malaysia so I could return home, however plans changed, and I've been here ever since.
2. What motivated you to sit the MRCPsych exams?
I had no experience in psychiatry before starting my training in February 2021, but I felt I owed it to my patients to have at least some basic knowledge. I felt studying for MRCPsych would prepare me for the role, so I took Part A and B early on.
3. At what point in your career and training did you sit the MRCPsych Paper B exam?
I sat Paper A in December 2020 and Paper A in October 2021, so this was quite early on in my training.
4. How far in advance did you start preparing for the MRCPsych Paper B and how much time did you spend on revision?
I began preparing around 6 months before the exam. I'd have 8-20 hours of zoom study sessions weekly for the 6 months, studying around 4-6 days a week.
5. Did you benefit from speaking to senior colleagues or peers about the exam? Did you study with other candidates?
I relied on study groups via a WhatsApp group for discussions and attended weekly zoom study sessions. I formed a study group by seeking out other candidates after posting a message on MRCPsych groups on Facebook.
6. Have you already completed MRCPsych Paper A and how do you feel it prepared you for the Paper B exam?
I completed MRCPsych A on Dec 2020. By then I had already conducted many group studies and had 117 group study mates that continued with me into part B. We did the same format of group study that I hosted before.
7. How did you manage to juggle other commitments whilst studying for the exam (without panicking)?
Since I am on my own here in the UK, I was able to invest a lot of time and energy in hosting daily study sessions because at the start, it kept me grounded while I was stuck in a foreign country. It gave me the opportunity to communicate with so many people in a setting other than my workplace. It was fairly challenging initially while I moved between Airbnbs (7 in total!) while waiting for flights back home. It was only when I was accepted into a psychiatry training programme in Inverness and acquired stable accommodation that things became a lot easier.
8. What resources did you use to prepare and practice for the MRCPsych Paper B exam?
The hardest part was actually statistics which took up 1/3rd of the exam questions, so the goal was to complete the statistics syllabus, then move on to cover clinicals, repeat statistics again, then finally start mocks before the exam. This was the process that was recommended to me by some friends who passed the exam before me.
The SPMM mocks and high yield questions were most helpful for clinical and stats, but the Psychmentor notes were also really good with the questions and mocks helping to fortify our knowledge.
The Statistics and Research Methods (Cambridge Crash Course) by Dr Paul Wilkinson helped loads with statistics near the end.
I didn’t use any notes or SPMM videos, but I’ve heard they helped others quite a lot.
9. Let's face it, exams are not everyone's favourite day out... so on the day of the exam, what did you do to relax?
I prepped by reassuring myself that I did practice and study as best I could. I was ultimately looking to gather knowledge that would allow me to better help my patients. Whatever else came out of the process was secondary.
10. What was your experience like on the day?
I felt like I could hear the voices of my study mates as I did the exam. It didn't feel particularly difficult to be honest, because I'd had lots of practice sessions.
11. What was the most challenging part of the exam?
There were some tricky bits, for example being asked the percentage of patients who have a particular illness!
12. Now that the MRCPsych exam is provided online, how (if at all) was the test different to exams sat in person?
I didn't see it as much different to be honest.
13. In hindsight, would you have done anything differently?
Nothing really. I genuinely enjoyed the study sessions and I hope others did too.
14. What nugget of advice would you give to any MRCPsych Paper B aspirants?
Form or join a study group with people from various backgrounds. Mine had folks from around the globe with psychiatry experience ranging from none at all to 12 years. Their input was gold - more so since the exam is very relevant to our day-to-day practice.
15. What are your plans going forward?
I’m actually doing a couple of diplomas at the moment. I plan to collaborate with some people on some research/publication opportunities. This is mostly to bide time during CT2 as I am only allowed to sit the CASC exam during CT3 after 2 years psychiatry experience.
The postgraduate route to GMC registration, whilst not the fastest, can be the most rewarding in the long run. The MRCPsych exams are the central components of psychiatry training in the UK, and as an international psychiatrist, this is the route that allows you to most closely align your qualifications with the requirements of more senior roles in the NHS.
Join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group for access to a community of like-minded overseas MRCPsych aspirants and dedicated psychiatry recruiters.
For news and updates on all things psychiatry, including GMC registration, the Royal College and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
IMGs often have questions about the best ways to prepare for the MRCPsych Paper B exam, particularly with a new exam format and so many online materials geared towards UK trainees and applicants.
So, what study materials, courses and support are available for international psychiatrists? Here we have compiled some of the best guidance and resources to help in your preparation for the Paper B exam. We will also address some of the changes in the availability of test centres and exam delivery as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The topics we’ll cover are as follows:
What is MRCPsych Paper B?
How do I get started with my preparation?
What other resources are available?
How has the exam been affected by COVID-19?
#IMG Tips
Passed? What’s next?
If you know what you’re looking for, skip ahead to the relevant section.
If you’d like an overview of the entire examination series, take a look at the article published in our IMG Resources library here.
MRCPsych Paper B
Let’s begin with a quick recap of the second exam in the MRCPsych examination suite.
MRCPsych Paper B is a three-hour written exam which asses critical review and the clinical topics in psychiatry.
The 150-mark paper comprises It is made up of around two-thirds multiple-choice questions (MCQ) and one-third extended matching item questions (EMI). One third of the paper covers critical review, with the other two thirds covering clinical topics.
The breakdown of the sections is as follows:
For full guidance on the structure of the exam, visit the examination page of the Royal College website or see our detailed blog on the MRCPsych Paper B exam here.
Preparation
It can be tough to know the best place to start, and after talking with some psychiatry consultants (both IMGs and UK trainees), the consensus was that the Royal College website is the best place to begin. There are some great resources on their website to help applicants to prepare for the exam. See below:
Syllabus: We always suggest that this is the best place to start – plan your study around the curriculum topics and make a road map to your success in the exams. You can find this here.
Current critical review syllabus: For Paper B, candidates will need to ensure that they make optimal use of the MRCPsych Paper B critical review - evidence-based practice syllabic content, available here.
Sample Papers: These will help you polish your exam techniques and are a good way to regularly benchmark your knowledge against the syllabus. Additionally, they will help you work quickly on the day as you will already know what to expect. The samples can be found here.
Marking schemes: Candidates pass or fail the written papers based on their performance. As such, it is a good idea to understand how the exam is marked so you can maximise your exam skills, giving you the best chance of a pass. These can be accessed here.
Sample exam: These can help you understand the exact format of the exam and to familiarise yourself with the online exam environment. This is available here.
Online exam guidance: Detailed guidance written specifically to guide candidates in preparing for an sitting an online exam, including technology checks and timings. The guidance can be accessed here.
The Royal College also suggest taking a look at Passing the MRCPsych - an insider’s guide - a useful resource to help you to get over the first steps. This is available here.
Other resources
IMG Connect has a library of written resources geared towards preparation for the Paper B exam. If you’re interested in any of these, please get in touch here and we would be delighted to share these with you.
Other online resources available for the exam include a mixture of paid and free resources. These include:
SPMM Starter Study Materials: A range of comprehensive study materials and subject-based question banks with evidence-based answers and explanations (SPMM HiYield and SmartRevise). These are available for 6 months from the date of purchase for the price of £299 and can be found here.
SPMM Video Lectures: A course covering the most important questions pertaining to clinical and critical appraisal topics. This is delivered through 19 hours of viewing - 10.5 hours of clinical topics and 8.5 hours of critical appraisal. Also provided is a PDF of Q-Bank to print and practice. These are available for 3 months from the date of purchase for the price of £199 and can be found here.
Brainscape Flashcards: Sets of web and mobile flashcards with hundreds of questions across all of the syllabus covered in the MRCPsych Paper B exam. This free resource can be used as either revision or practice material and is available here.
Superego Café Question Bank: This question bank provides over 500 multiple choice questions to help you prepare for your examination. The question bank includes constantly updated revision questions and is available as a mixed variety to reflect the MRCPsych Paper B examination. This can be accessed here.
BMJ Revision Questions: The BMJ has created an app-based revision resource with over 270 core questions, including the SBA and EMQ formats that will be seen in the exam. They are available at several price points dependent on the duration of access, from £29.99 for one month to £129.99 for 12 months. These are available here.
Get Through MRCPsych Paper B: Written by authors with recent exam success, the book provides candidates with realistic and up to date MCQ and EMIs, closely matched to themes appearing most often in the Paper B exam. This can be found here.
TrickCyclists Exam Notes: A series of psychiatry notes specifically tailored to the MRCPsych Paper B exam, including the nine topics covered by the exam and more. They are available in word and PDF format and are free to be used, distributed and modified. They are available here.
Courses
The SPMM and MRCPsychMentor resources are the most highly recommended by IMG psychiatrists we have spoken to and are available in different formats depending on your revision needs.
MRCPsych Mentor Mock Exam
A three-hour long exam which simulates exam conditions with a mock exam paper comprising new questions not available in the question bank. It includes a revision mode, timed tests, extensive performance analysis and powerful question review functions.
Duration
6 weeks
Cost
£15
Next start date
On demand
Website
www.mrcpsychmentor.com/mocka/index.php
SPMM Booster Mock Exams
These practice tests are simulations of the real exam prepared to the exam blueprint, allowing you to identify your weakest areas before the actual exam. This package includes access to 6 individual practice papers, comprising reconstructed questions from the most recent exams. Subscriptions can be purchased only 10 weeks before the College exam date.
Duration
N/A
Cost
£249
Next start date
On demand
Website
spmmcourse.com/local/coursepackages.php
IMG Psychiatrists MRCPsych Paper B Crash Course
This is a tailored MRCPsych Paper A course for overseas psychiatrists. This course offers weekly sessions covering the exam and its various domains. This is accompanied by practice MCQs and EMQs for exam-style practice, delivered by an experienced NHS psychiatrist and specialist psychiatry recruiters. These sessions are completely free to all doctors.
The course is supplemented by additional advice and guidance on MRCPsych as a whole, GMC registration support, as well as guidance and webinars on other topics such as finding work in the NHS, relocation support and specialist registration.
You can access our IMG Psychiatrists Paper B Study Course by joining the Facebook group here.
How the exam has been affected by COVID-19
As a result of the pandemic, all MRCPsych exams have moved online. Applicants from Singapore and Hong Kong who intended to sit exams in local centres are also invited to apply for the online sitting of the exam. You can learn more about the online exams for MRCPsych in the blog we've written here.
The application process for the exam takes 15 – 20 minutes where candidates will need a valid debit/ credit card, as well as the email address and full details of your sponsor. Further details on the application process can be found here.
#IMG Tips
Start your revision early – starting in advance allows you to pace yourself and get ahead of the stresses of last-minute revision and anxiety.
Build on your existing knowledge and experience – you’re being tested on things which you’ll likely be familiar; take your experiences and use that to bolster any new information you learn through your revision.
Think about your personal learning style and use this to plan effective revision - consider the ways you study best and use them to your advantage; take what’s available online and maximise their impact on your preparation.
Maintain a work-life balance – whilst you should dedicate time to study for the exam, it’s important to avoid burnout by setting aside time away from work and revision to reset and clear your mind.
Join the online psychiatry community - for news and updates about all things psychiatry for IMGs, follow IMG Connect on social media and join the conversation here.
For regular news and updates on the Royal College and all things histopathology, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:
Passed? What next?
Great stuff, this is a massive achievement and you deserve to put your feet up for a while! After a well-earned break, you can apply to sit the CASC exam, which you are eligible for once you’ve passed the MRCPsych Paper A and Paper B exams. For more information, take a look at our blog we will explore MRCPsych CASC and everything that you need to know about how to sit the exam, including syllabus, dates, results, fees and preparation.
For more useful blogs & articles on exams, registrations & qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG Resources library.
Overseas clinical or radiation oncologists wanting to secure a role in the UK via the postgraduate qualification route will need to attain Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR Oncology) in order to register with the GMC. FRCR Oncology is the UK Royal College qualification and the recommended route for oncologists looking to work in the UK as a specialist or consultant.
IMGs from any country in the world can sit the FRCR (Oncology) examinations, provided certain eligibility criteria are met.
These are summarised below along with a broad look at the following topics - skip to one of these sections if you know what you're looking for:
What is FRCR (Oncology)?
Am I eligible?
What is the content and structure?
Where and when can I sit the exams and how much will it cost me?
How do I apply?
How can I prepare for the exams?
Passed? What next?
What is FRCR Oncology?
Clincal oncologists become full members of the Royal College of Radiologists and achieve the designation, FRCR, once they have passed the three separate postgraduate medical exams that make up the FRCR (Oncology) examination suite. The FRCR (Oncology) examinations aim to test a candidate’s knowledge and clinical understanding against the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Oncology and the exams are a pre-requisite for anyone looking to go into a specialty training post as an oncologist in the UK. For more senior candidates, absence of FRCR (Oncology) will make it very difficult to attain locum-consultant posts unless you have a recognised equivalent or specialist registration in clinical oncology.
The First FRCR Examination expects candidates to have acquired a broad knowledge of those subjects that relate to the investigation and management of patients with cancer. Candidates are examined against the Clinical Oncology curriculum. A new curriculum is being implemented from summer 2021, with all trainees expected to transfer to the new curriculum by August 2022 at the latest. Further details are available on the curriculum webpages. If you are unsure what curriculum you should be using for your studies in 2021 then please refer to the Royal College website page discussing the FRCR (Oncology) Part 1 exam here.
When registering via the postgraduate route, only full FRCR satisfies the GMC postgraduate requirements for registration as an overseas doctor. There are three parts to the FRCR examinations:
FRCR (Oncology) Part 1 (CO1) > comprises four papers of single best answer (SBA) questions. The written papers for the four subjects are held twice a year over two consecutive days.
FRCR (Oncology) Part 2A (CO2A) (both must be passed in one sitting in order to attain a pass)
two separate single best answer papers
FRCR (Oncology) Part 2B (CO2B)
a reporting session
a rapid reporting session
an oral examination
The FRCR (Oncology) examinations form an essential component of training for clinical or radiation oncologists in the UK. For overseas doctors relocating to the UK, FRCR is one of two options to support full GMC registration (postgraduate qualification or PLAB route). For doctors who wish to secure a senior clinical oncology job in the NHS reflective of their current practice, we advise that FRCR would be the best route to choose. FRCR is often an essential requirement for many job postings in the UK when a candidate does not already have Specialist Registration in Clinical Oncology or a recognised equivalent postgraduate qualification.
Eligibility for FRCR (Oncology):
First FRCR: To be eligible you must:
hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes.
have completed courses covering the syllabus in the subjects listed below.
Cancer Biology and Radiobiology
Clinical Pharmacology
Medical Statistics
Physics
There is no requirement to have held a clinical oncology training post in order to attempt the First FRCR Examination.
Final FRCR Part A: To be eligible you must:
have passed the First FRCR examination
must have passed the First FRCR examination and have completed three years of supervised clinical oncology training covering the examination syllabus.
In exceptional circumstances, with support from the Training Programme Director and at the discretion of the Medical Director (Education and Training), this minimum training period may be reduced to two years and six months.
Final FRCR Part B: To be eligible you must:
have passed the Final FRCR Part A, First FRCR and have completed three years of supervised clinical oncology training
Content and structure for FRCR (Oncology)
First FRCR Examination: It is delivered through a digital platform and as such is now also available at a larger number of test centres than before. The First FRCR Examination comprises four papers of single best answer (SBA) questions. The written papers for the four subjects are held twice a year over two consecutive days. Further general information on the examination shows in the guidance notes for candidates here, however it can be summarised as below:
Day One
Format
Cancer Biology & Radiobiology
50 questions over 2.5 hours
Clinical Pharmacology
40 questions over 2 hours
Day Two
Format
Physics
50 questions over 2.5 hours
Medical Statistics
40 questions over 2 hours
Each SBA question comprises a stem (a question or statement) and five items (answers) [labelled (a) to (e)]. Candidates are asked to decide which one of the five items represents the best answer to the question given in the stem. The four modules break down as below:
Cancer Biology and Radiobiology: the processes of cancer cell transformation and tumour development and how these processes may be demonstrated, and the response to ionising radiation of cells both individually and grouped as tissues.
Clinical Pharmacology: the structure, action, use and evaluation of drugs used in the treatment of a patient with cancer.
Medical Statistics: with special reference to clinical trials and assessment of results, and the epidemiology of cancer.
Physics: the application of physical principles and methods in clinical radiotherapy, physical basis of the therapeutic uses of radioactive isotopes, radiation hazards and protection. A knowledge of SI units is expected.
Final FRCR (Part A): The examination expects candidates to have a wide knowledge of malignant disease and the management of patients with cancer. The main emphasis is on radiotherapy and drug therapy, but a good knowledge of general medicine, surgery and gynaecology is expected. You will be examined against the specialty training curriculum for clinical oncology and the clinical oncology syllabus. The Final FRCR (Part A) Examination comprises two papers of 120 single best answer (SBA) questions. It is held twice a year, normally in February and August/September and you are given three hours to answer each of the papers. Read the college's Purpose of Assessment to see this information in detail - however below we summarise the content and structure for FRCR Part A.
Paper 1
Tumour Type
No. of Questions
Respiratory
24
Urology
24
Head & Neck
24
Skin
12
CNS
12
Gynaecology
24
Paper 2
Tumour Type
No. of Questions
Breast
24
Lower Gastrointestinal
24
Upper Gastrointestinal
12
Haematology
12
Miscellaneous*
38
Image-based
10
*The miscellaneous section contains questions on thyroid cancer, sarcoma, unknown primary, regulations, palliative care and a small set of questions that do not specifically fit into a defined site specific category.
FRCR Part 2B (Oncology) (CO2B): The exam requires you to have a wide understanding of malignant disease and management of patients with cancer. The biggest emphasis here is radiotherapy and drug therapy, though a strong knowledge of general medicine, surgery and gynaecology is expected also. You will be examined against the specialty training curriculum for clinical oncology and the clinical oncology syllabus.
The exam has both a clinical and oral component. Read the Royal College's Final FRCR Purpose of Assessment to understand the format and content in more detail, however a brief summary of both part is below:
Clinical Examination: This is the practical element and will involve you rotating round five strictly timed clinical assessment 'stations' where your skills are assessed by a pair of examiners. This part is to test the skills and competencies that are essential for safe and effective clinical practice as a clinical oncologist in the NHS. Patients with real clinical signs are used throughout this examination, allowing you to demonstrate your knowledge and judgment in as a realistic a scenario possible.
The clinical examination will assess your ability to:
identify important clinical signs using effective examination techniques
give a rationale differential diagnosis
order and interpret appropriate investigations
identify the main treatment options
select an appropriate, safe and sensible management plan
recommend a safe radiotherapy technique, understanding and communicating the likely outcomes & side effects
recommend a safe systemic treatment schedule, understanding and communicating their likely outcomes and side effects
clearly discuss a likely prognosis in the case presented
clearly demonstrate an ability to treat the patient sensitively, ensuring their comfort and dignity
Oral Examination: The structured oral examination assesses in-depth issues surrounding radiotherapy planning, diagnostic imaging and clinical decision-making and case management. Communication and ethical scenarios are addressed during this examination. It will mirror day-to-day clinical discussions and MDT meetings, essential elements to a Clinical Oncologist's role in the UK. There are several slides per question, and your answers can lead to further questions on subsequent slides by the examiners. The questions build as the discussion develops, and this oral examination allows each step of the case to be assessed and discussed as it would be in a real-life clinical scenario.
The structured oral examinations allow for fair, valid and reliable assessments due to:
uniformity of questions asked
pairing of examiners (junior and senior) allowing for ongoing training and accurate data capture and marking
four independent judgments of your performance
the examination is blueprinted against both the curriculum and the range of RCR-designated skills required to be a competent oncologist in the NHS
the use of an objective marking scheme which details the essential points required to pass each question
As an overseas candidate, where & when can I sit the exams and how much will they cost me?
This link takes you to the examination updates section. Information on the dates, fees and venues for the FRCR examinations can found here.
How do I apply for the FRCR (Oncology) examinations?
UK Trainees are given priority for examination places, whilst overseas candidates are offered the remaining places via a ballot system following the application closing date. If you've had your exam deferred due to cancellations over the last year, you will be prioritised.
The Royal College urges anyone applying to read the examinations guidance before doing so. Applications are made online via the Royal College website here.
How should I prepare for the FRCR (Oncology) exams?
With lots of materials online, we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for resources and materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you prepare, see below:
Syllabus: The syllabus should always be your go-to for your studies. This is what you will be tested on, so it should be the foundation of your studies and preparation. As of May 2021 the new curriculum has been approved by the GMC but is pending full publication. You can find this on the Royal College website here.
Clinical Oncology Curriculum implementation tools - a variety of tools are available to support the implementation of the new curricula. This page is very useful and has many different tools within the page. You can access it here.
Remote proctoring guidance - this is a new system and as with anything techy, problems can arise! Use this section of the Royal College to familiarise yourself with the new system with the new normal. Access this page here.
First FRCR examiners' reports - a guide for candidates and trainers preparing for future sittings. Access this here.
Trainees share their experiences of the Final FRCR examination - a two-part audio series featuring trainees talking about their experiences of preparing for and taking the examination.
Final FRCR examiner reports - a guide for candidates and trainers preparing for future sittings. Access the examiner reports archive here.
Final FRCR Part B demonstration films - clinical and oral demonstration videos. Access the Part B demonstration films here.
Sample oral questions - sample questions for the oral component of the Final FRCR Part B examination. You can access the sample questions here.
Connect with the Royal College - connect with the Royal College on YouTube to see their numerous videos that can be used for training and information purposes. Their channel can be found here.
IMG Oncologists
Join the IMG Oncologists Facebook group for access to a community of like-minded FRCR (Oncology) aspirants and dedicated oncology recruiters.
In this group you will find tailored resources for oncology IMGs, including access to our FRCR (Oncology) crash courses, completely free to all doctors.
You can access our IMG Oncologists community here.
I passed the FRCR Oncology exams! What next?
First of all, congratulations! After you have passed all three parts of your FRCR examinations, you can apply for a full registration with a license to practice. Once the GMC has approved your application, you can work as a doctor in the UK. This exam will form an integral part of any CESR application (if that is your route to specialist registration) and in most cases, if you have previous and relevant experience, will allow you to practice as a locum consultant clinical oncologist whilst you are not an accredited specialist on the specialist register.
For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:
The MRCEM OSCE exam requires a considerable amount of revision and preparation....
And we are often asked by Emergency Medicine doctors where they should look for MRCEM OSCE resources, online revision materials, mock stations and preparation courses.
Here we compile the best advice, tips, courses and resources available for the Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM) OSCE exam whilst also address some understandable concerns about the effect of COVID-19 on availability of test centres and upcoming exams.
What is the MRCEM OSCE?
The MRCEM OSCE consists of 18 stations (16 patient encounters & 2 rest stations), each one lasting for about 7 minutes. The MRCEM OSCE exam will not only test your theoretical knowledge, but also your resus skills and communication skills. Even candidates who are working in an emergency medicine department (ED or ER) often find these OSCEs difficult. Even if you have strong background knowledge in Emergency Medicine the exams can still be tricky due to a heavy reliance on testing your communication skills and etiquette.
Preparation is therefore vital for all doctors who intend to take the MRCEM OSCE (part C) exam. This can be broken down into the following:
Practical day-to-day work (colleague observations & feedback, peer groups, study groups)
Online revision resources (subscriptions, reading materials, tutorials, videos)
Courses (face to face, online)
In general, emergency medicine course tutors advise setting aside at least 2-3 months preparation in addition to your Emergency Medicine experience.
How has the COVID-19 coronavirus afffected MRCEM exam centres & dates?
The Royal College of Emergency Medicine took the difficult decision to cancel all events for the months of April, May and June following the escalation of the virus. As the UK and most of the world remain in some form of lockdown, the Royal College has not announced when it is expecting to open up it's centres again. Understandably this will be tied into government advice and that of the WHO whilst most examiners involved in the OSCE examinations will be tied into urgent clinical duties.
IMG Connect is keeping a very close eye on the examination schedule and will keep all our IMGs informed as soon as the College publishes some updates. You can find the updated exam schedule here.
However, this does not mean you cannot use the time to prepare for your OSCE!
So how to get started?
The first step is to ensure you are familiar enough with the Royal College of Emergency Medicine Curriculum (2015), and to use this to create your study plan covering the whole curriculum, whilst also identifying areas of weakness to strengthen.
Take a look through Mastering Emergency Medicine – a practical guide to re-enforce your solid background in Emergency Medicine knowledge before you start approaching the stations. Note that this book was first published in 2009, and some aspects may be slightly outdated.
Familiarise yourself with the stations, techniques and format by watching online videos and tutorials - you can find both free and paid tutorials online.
YouTube has many great videos available to get you started, covering basics of examination and OSCE guides through to mock OSCE scenarios:
Mcleods Examination videos (Basics of examination)
OSCE guides - Geeky Medics
Bromley webinars and tutorials
Watching these videos before you start your practice sessions (and then repeatedly throughout your study plan) will give you a huge boost.
Resources for MRCEM OSCE
General advice is to use a variety of resources, including reading materials, online subscriptions to videos and tutorials, podcasts and videos. The following have helped IMGs on their journey to successful completion of the MRCEM OSCE:
Bromley Emergency Courses online tutorials:
Revision communication videos
Revision examination videos
Revision procedure videos
MRCEM OSCE course Podcast
Geeky Medics – Emergency Medicine
Practical work - peer groups and senior colleague observations
The best way to practice and solidify what you have learnt from your studies is to organise group sessions and observations at work.
Observations at work
Ask senior colleagues to observe and offer feedback to you on a regular basis on the EM ward. Receiving quality feedback in a formal setting is widely regarded as fundamental to your advances in emergency medicine practice.
Group sessions
When organising a peer group of Emergency Medicine OSCE aspirants, advice is to have a maximum of three/four persons per group. Three works very well because you can each play a role during role play sessions.
When conducting role plays, you may want to organise yourselves as follows:
Patient (use instructions for the actor provided in the textbooks, remember each patient has a backstory and there are many aspects the actor must show, including emotion)
Exam Candidate
Examiner (takes notes, observes, marks the checklist and gives immediate and detailed feedback on all aspects of the marking sheet)
Remember to take turns and swap roles, work as the patient, exam candidate and the examiner. Stick to the exam format, for example set a time limit of about 7 minutes which will allow you to get a clear understanding of how to pace yourself and finish before 7 minutes. Remember not to be too fast, or too slow, helping you to make every second count.
Feedback is crucial to improving your practice. As you practice together, look at the checklists after you perform each station and find out if you are missing anything.
When taking up the examiner role ensure to give detailed feedback covering all marking criteria (intro, examination, body language and winding up - the four key areas that can improve your score). Once the examiner has delivered their feedback, discuss as a group, considering how to improve in all aspects of the exam criteria.
Build stamina
Once you have a routine in place for peer group practical OSCE simulations, build up towards completing a full set of stations. This should be done for each member of your group. The exam can be tiring, which can in turn affect your performance on the day of the exam. For example, if exhausted at the final stations, it can be hard to maintain your clear communication and positive body language, so a full run through will help you to understand what it will be like on the day and what you need to do to ensure that you are consistently performing.
Record sessions
Try recording your group scenarios. IMGs who have done this repeatedly informed us that this was one of the single most important methods for seeing first-hand how to improve. We are after all our own worst critics! Take notes on the way you enter the room, move, talk, express yourself, your non-verbal cues, body language and interactions.
Take a course
There are various workshops organised by expert course tutors in Emergency Medicine designed to help you pass. You can find these online and anecdotal evidence suggests that taking a face to face course improves your chances of passing the MRCEM OSCE exam.
Speak to an IMG Consultant to check what courses might be suitable for you, if there is not a course where you live, it may be possible for us to organise one for you and your peers.
Is a course necessary?
Many overseas doctors preparing for their FRCEM or MRCEM Emergency Medicine examinations wonder if they should take a course as part of their preparation. In short, we advise that all IMGs should attend as many courses as possible. The knowledge gained on an MRCEM or FRCEM course goes well beyond the exam.
One issue is of course that courses cost a considerable amount of money, but if you consider that taking a course increases your chances exponentially of passing the examinations first time, the cost is offset by not having to pay to re-sit and all the additional costs that come with it (i.e. flights & accommodation).
Finding courses can be tricky
So take some time to work out what you specifically need help with and the stage you are at in the process. Search online to find the course that will suit your needs the most.
Speak to your peers, some may have attended a course that they felt had a positive impact on the learning and preparation.
Once you think you have found a course that suits your needs, such as an MRCEM OSCE course, check reviews posted by other IMGs to be sure of the quality of the tutoring.
If you have found a course that suits your needs, has good reviews recommendations from your peers, then it will likely be worth the investment. As a direct result you will likely pass the exams much quicker, helping you to secure the Emergency Medicine job that you want in the NHS.
On the day of exam - tips from IMGs
Passing any exam is not easy, passing the Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM) OSCE examination even more so. In speaking with IMGs about their journey through the MRCEM OSCE exams, we have heard many thoughts about what it takes to pass. To help IMGs preparing to take the test, here we share some tips from past examinees and OSCE course tutors.
Firstly, it is good to know that every IMG taking the test is in the same position as you, perhaps anxious about how to prepare and worried about the exam day. We are told that the exam is just an ordinary day on the ward, so why then do so many excellent practicing EM physicians struggle to pass at first attempt?
It is perhaps important to say that the advice below is not just from not just those IMGs who passed first time, but from those who had to learn from their mistakes and take the test a second or even third time.
The most common thing that we hear is that IMGs must adapt their skill set to the requirements of the NHS system as well as changing their mindset to be able to work under intense observation.
Further reasons they struggle are:
1. Anxiety
Experiencing anxiety during exams is completely natural and the fact that the OSCE stations are only 7 minutes adds to this in the Part C. The only way to combat exam anxiety is to accept that is both natural and inevitable. The best way to prepare and suppress the adrenergic surge is with practice, practice and more practice. The best way to practice is under exam conditions and if possible, this should be timed and observed by different examiners.
We are not of the opinion that this practice should be done last minute in the week before the exam, instead, your practice should start long before this point. Ask your senior colleagues in the ED to observe and comment upon your history taking and examination skills. If you can get into a routine of doing this with 3 to 5 patients per day you will be able to run through nearly all the most likely scenarios in only 12 shifts. Another great strategy is to teach OSCEs to the more junior doctors within the department. Teaching can be a powerful learning tool and has helped many aspirants with their revision.
2. Lack of practice
Make no mistake – the exam is very tough. Over 50% of candidates failed the 2016 sitting. Unless you are freakishly good at cramming you will need to set aside at least 3 months to prepare. IMGs will all study in different ways. Remember you have been through many exams all on your own. Whatever revision method works for you, stick to it. Once you know that you are going to study, make a revision plan and stick to it.
Practice in any way that you can. As above, be sure to ask senior colleagues to observe and offer feedback to you on a regular basis on the EM ward.
To practice out of work, form a small group of colleagues who are also taking the test and run through role plays, taking turns to be patient, doctor or examiner.
Pay careful attention to time keeping as it is very common for candidates to run out of time, particularly in history taking and communication skills stations.
3. Lack of familiarisation with curriculum
If you don’t know what you could be tested on, you won’t know what to prepare. The MRCEM OSCE is mapped to the competences of Year 1-3 of the Emergency Medicine 2015 Curriculum which is available on the 2015 Curriculum page. You should familiarise yourself with the Year 1-3 competences in preparation for sitting this examination.
4. Not being able to communicate effectively
Many IMGs have made the mistake of thinking that communication is only about what you say, not considering how you say it, and what you look like when you are saying it. Of course, you may be anxious, which can make you behave differently and say things in a different way. So, if you have practiced as above, make sure you incorporate practicing communicating not just focusing on what you say, but also your body language when saying it. Remember that between 70% of our communication is non-verbal!
Try to speak audibly and clearly and if at all possible, sit at the same level as the patient with an open posture. Attempt to make a connection with the patient, maintain good eye contact and give them your undivided attention. Treat actors and mannequins as if they are real patients, interact with them in the same way that you would on the EM ward.
Be direct and to the point but deliver any bad news in a sensitive and empathetic manner. Always check whether the patient has understood what you have said and ask if they have any questions.
5. Reading and deciphering the instructions
It is vitally important to read the instructions very carefully before entering a station. Easy marks are frequently lost by nervous or over-confident candidates that have overlooked key information or made assumptions by misreading. This is a mistake many IMGs have made, so learn from their mistakes and be sure to read everything carefully. Once read, make a plan of how you will approach the scenario. Once your minute is up… deep breath and smile!
If you have any questions about how to prepare for the MRCEM OSCE exam, including advice on courses, resources, mock scenarios, online materials and revision books, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with an IMG Consultant.
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Are you a psychiatrist finalising your revision for the MRCPsych CASC exam? Here are the tips you can't live without!
As you've likely got months of dedicated study behind you already, in the final push to the exam, we’re sharing some of the essential tips from Dr Kevin Li (MRCPsych) for your final days of preparation for CASC.
Mental state, history taking and risk assessment (8 stations)
It is important to demonstrate your clinical skills in assessing symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations.
Prepare for a cognitive examination station!
Management and counselling (8 stations)
Address any concerns or expectations early on in the station
Provide factual knowledge and information - some last minute reading up on topics such as ECT, psychiatric emergencies and ECG is very important!
For stations where you encounter angry patients or relatives, demonstrating good communication skills is more important than delivering lots of factual knowledge
Prepare stock phrases and questions
Empathetic statements
I can appreciate this must be very difficult for you
I understand that this must be quite concerning
Soft questions to elicit sensitive information
How are you coping with...?
Are you doing anything to manage the stress of the situation?
Phrases to manage angry situations
I appreciate your concerns and why you feel let down
We are all trying our best to help
Reflect on your manner and style of speaking
It is important to try and demonstrate genuine empathy!
Do not sound paternalistic or patronising
Take an MDT approach where necessary - the clinical team is good backup where you don't know what to do e.g. next steps like admissions
Always be courteous and do not show any anger or frustration
Always look at and address the actor
Time management
Get yourself an analogue countdown timer to allow you to properly manage your time during the stations
Look the part
Dress professionally, as if you were speaking to a real patient (pick your outfit at least the night before)
Finally...
As much as it is important to practice a lot near the exam, it is equally important to relax the day before and morning of the exam. At that stage, try not to think about what you have not practiced or not read! You will have sufficient knowledge, it’s just about communicating it and executing it confidently.
We hope you find these tips helpful and wish you the best of luck in your exam. Don't forget to share your successes with us on social media using the hashtag #imgstories
Join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group to become part of a community of like-minded MRCPsych aspirants and dedicated psychiatry recruiters.
In the group you will find tailored resources for Psychiatry IMGs including our MRCPsych Crash Course.
This course offers weekly sessions covering the entire exam and its various domains, including marking and station requirements. This is accompanied by small group role play sessions to allow IMGs to practice stations across various scenarios with feedback on each station, delivered by an experienced NHS psychiatrist and specialist psychiatry recruiters. These sessions are completely free to all doctors.
You can access our IMG Psychiatrists CASC Study Course by joining the Facebook group here.
Get in touch
Passed the MRCPsych CASC exam? Get in touch with one of our dedicated psychiatry recruitment specialists here to discuss your next steps towards GMC registration, finding work in the NHS and relocating to the UK.
To receive the latest news and updates on all things psychiatry, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
GMC Registration is a complex process. For histopathologists who’ve qualified outside the EEA region there are two main pathways to consider – FRCPath and PLAB.
Whilst these are the most common routes to GMC registration, this is not an exahaustive list. There are other options such as Royal College sponsorship and GMC-approved qualifications or licensing exams, and you can read more about these here.
Here we will give a summary of both of the main routes and briefly consider their benefits.
PLAB for GMC Registration
FRCPath for GMC Registration
Which is better for me as an overseas pathologist, PLAB or FRCPath?
#IMG Tips
How do I get started?
Professional & Linguistics Assessment Board (PLAB)
The first and most popular route with most junior doctors is PLAB.
PLAB is a two-part exam (one written one practical), and which assesses whether you are at least as capable as a doctor starting the second year of their Foundation Programme Training and can therefore work safely as an SHO in the NHS.
The GMC have created a video summary of the PLAB exams which you can watch here, or for a more detailed overview, see our IMG Resources library.
FRCPath - UK Postgraduate Qualification
The UK postgraduate qualification for histopathology – FRCPath Histopathology - is the most popular and recommended route for overseas doctors who have completed a training or residency programme, and will be looking for senior pathology positions in the NHS.
By completing both parts of the FRCPath you are awarded Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists. The Royal College of Pathologists is the professional body that regulates the pathology specialties in the UK. Take a look at our IMG Resources library for complete guides on FRCPath for histopathology to learn more.
PLAB vs FRCPath
Both are legitimate routes and will allow you to register with the GMC and work in the UK. To decide which route is best for you, you’ll need to consider the benefits of each and how they align with your priorities and needs in moving to the UK.
Seniority of Positions in the NHS
Histopathology is a consultant led specialty in the UK, and it would be difficult for an overseas pathologist to obtain a more senior post without FRCPath, or extensive experience from a similar, English speaking healthcare system. PLAB alone will not give overseas doctors access to senior posts in the NHS.
Time
PLAB has two stages and can take anywhere between 3-9 months to prepare from start to finish.
FRCPath has two stages and can take anywhere between 18-30 months to prepare from start to finish.
Cost
FRCPath costs just under £1,930 and whilst the Part 2 exam is an in-person exam, the Part 1 exam can be taken online. You can read about the changes to the FRCPath 1 delivery here.
PLAB costs £1,189, and both exams are sat in person. PLAB 1 can be taken in the UK or several overseas centres, which you can find here. PLAB 2 must be taken in the UK.
For both FRCPath Part 2 and PLAB 2, candidates will have to travel to the UK, meaning that the additional cost of visas, accommodation and flights must be factored in.
It’s important to note that these costs can rise if re-sits of the exams are necessary.
Summary
PLAB, as an exam which assesses a doctor’s ability to work safely in the UK, does not demonstrate ability in histopathology specifically. For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine.
Additionally, PLAB can facilitate GMC registration much faster than other routes – so if you feel you can attain an offer of employment in the UK with your overseas experience only – but GMC registration is the one thing standing in your way – PLAB may be a good option for you.
FRCPath involves two more difficult examinations and takes more time to prepare for. Attaining FRCPath in Histopathology will allow you to jumpstart your career in the UK, you’ll most likely be able to take a consultant role. You would not need PLAB or Core Training in addition to FRCPath.
Additionally, histopathology in the UK is also a consultant-led specialism, and FRCPath demonstrates competency to practice unsupervised as a consultant.
#IMG Tips
Determine your priorities – your goals and timeline for relocating to the UK are important in deciding which route is best for, and this is different for everyone.
Plan well ahead – depending on the route you choose, you may be embarking on a long journey through these exams, so plan how you will fit them into your life and how best to prepare to maintain a good work-life balance at the same time.
Find a support network – once you know which exams you will sit, find a support network of others who are also preparing for the exam. A great way to do this is to join IMG Histopathologists, an online pathology community of UK and NHS histopathology aspirants and dedicated histopathology recruiters. You’ll find advice, guidance and news and updates about all things histopathology for IMGs. Join the conversation here.
Getting started
Once you’ve decided which exams are best for you, it’s time to delve deeper into the exams and what they entail. For more useful blogs and articles on PLAB or FRCPath exams, registrations and qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG Resources library.
Or if you have any questions on PLAB or Postgraduate qualifications, feel free to get in touch with our histopathology consultants here.
For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below.
The final exam in the FRCPath Histopathology series...
International specialists in histopathology, cellular pathology or anatomic pathology looking to secure a job in the UK via the postgraduate qualification route will need to obtain Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists or FRCPath Histopathology by examination only.
The completion of Part 1 and Part 2 of the Royal College of Pathology qualification for Histopathology results in eligibility for GMC registration (with the addition of the English language component). The FRCPath qualification is recommended for international pathologists looking to securing senior jobs in the NHS.
The exams can be taken by IMGs from all over the world, provided certain eligibility criteria have been met.
Here we’ll take a closer look into these and other important questions through the following topics - skip to one of these sections if you know what you're looking for:
An overview of FRCPath Histopathology
What is FRCPath Part 2?
Am I eligible to sit this exam?
How is the exam structured and marked?
As an international histopathologist, where can I sit the exam?
How much will the exam cost?
How do I apply for the exam?
What is the best way to prepare for the exam?
#IMG Tips
I’ve passed the FRCPath exams, what’s next?
An overview of FRCPath Histopathology
The FRCPath Histopathology exams are administered by the Royal College of Pathologists to test a doctor's knowledge and ability to apply this in the practice of histopathology within the scope of the Specialty Training Curriculum for Histopathology.
The exams are as follows:
FRCPath Part 1
FRCPath Part 2
To read more about the full FRCPath examination suite via out IMG resources, please click here.
Please note that only full FRCPath satisfies the requirements for GMC registration for overseas doctors taking the postgraduate route. Alternative routes to GMC registration include PLAB and licensing exams such as USMLE. You can find out more about alternative routes here.
For doctors who are interested in more senior roles in the NHS that are reflective of their current practice, we advise that FRCPath is the best route to take to GMC registration. Histopathology in the UK is consultant-led specialism; and many NHS job postings will have FRCPath as a requirement for doctors who are not on the Specialist Register. In most cases, and FRCPath qualification will help you to attain a locum consultant role.
What is FRCPath Part 2?
FRCPath Part 2 is the last exam in the FRCPath qualification. It is designed to recognise candidates who are close to the end of their training who can demonstrate an appropriate approach to independent practice. The assessment consists of six components which are take over a period of two days. The components include both written and face-to-face elements with an examiner where candidates are expected to demonstrate both clinical and practical knowledge as well as special techniques and complex diagnoses. Every section assesses a distinct set of professional skills which are all essential to effective performance ad an independent histopathologist and cytopathologist.
Am I eligible to sit this exam?
The FRCPath Part 2 Histopathology exam is open to candidates from every country, provided they have met certain criteria. This includes the expectation that most trainees will sit the Part 2 exam after at least 3 years of specialty training in Histopathology. There should also normally be a 12-month wait between passing the Part 1 exam and attempting Part 2.
For full details, please see the Royal College website here.
How is the exam structured and marked?
The six stations of FRCPath Part 2 are detailed below:
Surgical Histology
Format: 20 x 20 mins stations, 20 cases over 3 hours and 20 minutes.
This will include twenty cases presented in H&E stained slides in 20-minute slots over 3 hours and 20 minutes. The cases are selected according to a blueprint and include a balanced mix of neoplastic and non-neoplastic material, drawn from a wide range of organ systems. The cases will vary in difficulty from straightforward cases to cases not capable of diagnosis through a single H&E, prompting the use of further techniques and specialist opinions.
Cytopathology
Format: 8 x 20 mins stations, 16 cases
Eight non-gynaecological cases in pairs, in 20-minute slots and will be marked according to pre-determined criteria.
Macroscopic Pathology
Format: 2 x 20 mins stations, 4 cases; 20 mins discussion
Candidates will be provided with photos of 4 cases in the form of gross pathology specimens. Candidates will be provided with clinical information and asked to prepare responses to specific questions and mark on the photos where they would take blocks. There will be two 20-minute slots given to view two cases per slot, followed by a 20-minute discussion with two examiners. The exercise is designed for candidates to show their capabilities in discussing gross pathology and familiarity with block selection in relation to the RCPath Minimum datasets.
OSPEs
Format: 2 x 20 mins stations
The objective structured practical examination (OPSE) includes two 20-minute stations, one of which is a written exercise and the other is conducted face-to-face with two examiners. Topics may include management/ clinical governance type and MDT-type cases, amongst other topics.
Long Cases
Format: 4 x 20 mins stations
Four 20-minute stations of cases which cannot usually be covered by a single H&E section, requiring additional stains. These may include histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, among other cases.
Frozen Sections
Format: 2 x 20 mins stations, 6 cases; 20 mins discussion
Six cases for review in two 20-minute stations where candidates should make notes, including a ‘bottom line’ diagnosis only, before discussing these with a pair of examiners in a face-to-face 20-minute station.
Exam marking
Each section of the exam is marked against a pre-determined specimen answer with a pass or fail awarded per section. Due to the importance of cellular pathology in medical practice, only a small margin of inaccuracy is allowed. Failure to distinguish across the benign/ malignant boundary (or other similar errors of equal significance in terms of affecting patient outcome) in 15-25% of cases in any section of the exam will result in a failure of the entire exam, regardless of performance in other areas with no leeway to compensate. Final marks will be approved by the Examinations Committee.
Candidates attempting the FRCPath Part 2 exam have four attempts within which to pass the exam, and 7-years between each sitting to pass the full qualification.
As an international histopathologist, where can I sit the exam?
The exam currently takes place twice a year in Spring and Autumn and are held in the UK and in one overseas centre in Irbid, Jordan.
For up-to-date information on exam centres, visit the Royal College website here.
How much will the exam cost?
The FRCPath Part 2 exam costs £1,416. A breakdown of the cost of the 2019 sitting of the exam can be found on the Royal College website here.
How do I apply for the exam?
Applications for each sitting of the exam open months in advance and are currently closed for the Autumn 2021 sitting. Applications for the Spring 2022 sitting will open in late 2021. Late applications are not accepted. Keep an eye on the Royal College website for up-to-date information on applications here.
What is the best way to prepare for the exam?
There are several resources available to help you prepare for your Histopathology FRCPath exam. As always, we recommend that the best starting point for your study is the Royal College website, particularly the Curriculum for Specialty Training in Histopathology. Your exam is based on this curriculum so familiarising yourself with it as soon as possible will give you the best chance for success.
Other helpful resources for your study include:
Regulations and guidelines – before applying for FRCPath exams, the College recommends you read both the general and specialty-specific regulations and guidelines, found below:
General Regulations and Guidelines
Histopathology Regulations and Guidelines
Social media study groups – there are multiple study groups available across different platforms such as Telegram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. IMG Connect hosts study groups for FRCPath Part 2 – these are forums that bring together international doctors from all over the world in one communicative, constructive, and moderated space for learning, sharing, and supporting international histopathologists.
If you are interested in joining the IMG Connect FRCPath Part 2 study group, please email info@imgconnect.co.uk to speak to our histopathology specialist and request your admission.
Online courses, videos and other resources - there are some great online courses and resources available to prepare for the FRCPath Part 2 exam. These include everything from full mock exams to mock exams targeting specific sections of FRCPath Part 2 and YouTube videos. You can find a full list of these here, through our IMG resources library.
FAQs - there is also a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document which the Royal College have compiled to help applicants who have questions about online examinations. You can read this here.
#IMG Tips
Prepare early – getting your revision going as soon as possible will help you avoid those last-minute cramming sessions and increase your chances of passing first time.
Speak to your senior colleagues and peers – there are so many study materials to choose from - who better to ask for recommendations than histopathologists who have been through the process or are going through it with you?
Food and drink – there are multiple stations on both days of the exams so make sure you’re prepared with lots of fuel for the day as there may be no access to food.
Hire a microscope – for applicants for the UK sitting, examination centres will not have microscopes for you to use so you will need to hire one in advance. There are a few companies who rent microscope and you can find these through a quick web search!
Join the conversation – for news and updates on all things histopathology for IMGs, click here follow IMG Connect on social media and join the conversation.
I’ve passed the FRCPath exams, what’s next?
Firstly, congratulations! The FRCPath exams are not easy so this is an incredible achievement. Once you have passed both passed of the FRCPath in Histopathology, your postgraduate qualifications satisfy the requirements for GMC registration. You can now apply for full registration with license to practice.
Get in touch with our IMG Connect histopathology specialist to discuss your options for specialist jobs in the UK or to find out more about where you fit into the NHS as a histopathology specialist with FRCPath.
FRCPath also plays a big part in the Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR) application, the alternative route to the Specialist Register for overseas doctors who did not complete their training in an approved UK training programme. You can find out more about CESR in our guide for international doctors here.
The team at IMG Connect hope you find this article helpful and wish you the best of luck in your FRCPath Histopathology Part 2 exam!
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
Are you an overseas pathologist preparing for FRCPath Histopathology Part 2 exam?
Overseas doctors often wonder how to prepare for the FRCPath Part 2 examination, especially when so much content and advice online appears geared towards UK applicants and trainee. So what study courses, resources and support is available to an overseas histopathologists looking to take the test?
Here we have compiled some of our advice and resources available to help you prepare for the exam, whilst we also address some of the changes in availability of test centres and upcoming exams as a result of COVID-19 pandemic.
What is FRCPath Part 2?
First a quick reminder of what the FRCPath Histopathology Part 2 is. The Part 2 exam consists of six components which are taken over two days. Each component comprises a different number of cases provided in 20-minute stations or slots. The components include both written and face-to-face elements with the examiner where candidates should demonstrate and discuss both clinical & practical knowledge as well as complex diagnoses and special techniques. This is done through elements of interpreting and writing reports, interpretation and OSPE. If you want to have a more detailed overview of the FRCPath exam then take a look through the article published in our online IMG Library here, or take a look through the Royay College of Pathologists website here.
So how do I get started with my preparation?
Starting is often the hardest thing to do, and as there are many resources available online, it's hard to tell where the best place is to start. After discussing this with consultants who've passed (both UK trainees and IMGs), most recommended starting with the Royal College, who have posted some useful resources on their website to aid in your preparation.
Curriculum: The exam questions are based on the Curriculum for Specialist Training in Histopathology. As a first step, we recommend becoming familiar with this curriculum as early as possible to reinforce your knowledge and to provide a solid foundation for your study plan. Knowing the curriculum is key - as this is what you will be tested on.
Regulations and guidelines: Ensure you have read both the general regulations and guidelines and the specialty specific regulations and guidelines.
Social Media study groups: There are many social media study groups available across various platforms. These include Telegram, Facebook, WhatsApp and to a lesser extent LinkedIn. IMG Connect hosts study groups for FRCPath Part 1 and 2 exams - these are forums that bring together international doctors from all over the world into one constructive, communicative and moderated space where you can share exam tips, stories and woes, and the opportunity to buddy-up with similar colleagues looking to pass the test.
If you think you would be interested in joining either the IMG Connect FRCPath 1 or Part 2 Study groups, please email info@imgconnect.co.uk to speak to the histopathology specialist and request your admission.
Online Courses for FRCPath Histopathology: There are a few online courses which provide preparation, from full mock exams to individual component courses. We've spoken with some IMGs to understand which courses they favoured, and below we have summarised a few of these. With all courses, it is advised that you register your interest as early as possible as they are in high demand.
Pathology Online Hub - FRCPath Part 2 Histopathology Full Mock Exam
This is a complete mock exam course with interactive live discussion sessions and individual feedback for each participant. Sessions will be delivered by UK based pathologists with extensive experience of teaching for the FRCPath exam. Participants will be provided with the mock exam for all the 7 components of FRCPath 2 under strict timed conditions closely simulating the real exam.
Mock exam will include: Cytology, Short surgical cases, Long cases, Frozen section, Macroscopic examination, OSPE 1 Viva and OSPE 2 Written.
Live sessions will include: Exam format and tips on how to prepare with a structured study plan, Review and discussion of all mock exam answers, Group performance summary, Common pitfalls in exam and how to avoid them, and Tips on answering technique for exam.
Duration
3 days
Cost
£270 (£70 registration fee and £200 payable 8 weeks prior to course start date)
Next start date
TBC
Website
www.pathologyonlinehub.com/full-mock-course
Oxbridge Medica - FRCPath Part 2 Mock Course
This is an online 2-day practical course with both a mock examination and seminars preparing trainees for the FRCPath Part 2 Examination. This is a unique course giving trainees that all important pre-exam Mock (under exam conditions) with the papers individually marked and scored in line with the actual exam. The course speakers have knowledge of the Royal College exam - some of them are examiners, and all are experienced teachers.
Duration
2 days (Day 1 = mock exam | Day 2 = review and preparation)
Cost
£300 (£75 registration fee and £225 payable 4 weeks prior to course start date)
Next start date
TBC
Website
http://oxbridgemedica.org/product/frcpath-part-2-mock-course-20th-21st-september-2021/
Oxbridge Medica - FRCPath Part 2 Surgical Course
This is an online 2-week Surgical Revision Course preparing trainees for the FRCPath Part 2 Examination and is exam oriented and includes surgical and cytology mock tests, live-streamed lectures and feedback. The course aims to provide an approach to the part 2 examination, and to cover common exam cases, whilst the trainers have been selected for their expertise within their disciplines, both in their clinical acumen but also their teaching skills. The format of the course is intense and demanding but also rewarding.
Duration
2 weeks, intensive
Cost
£800 (£75 registration fee and £725 payable 4 weeks prior to course start date)
Next start date
TBC
Website
oxbridgemedica.org/product/frcpath-part-2-surgical-course-1st-14th-september-2021
IMG Histopathologists FRCPath Part 2 Course
This is a tailored FRCPath Histopathology course for overseas pathologists sitting the Part 2 exam. This course offers weekly sessions which provide an approach to the FRCPath exams for IMGs specifically, guiding them through the preparation for the exam, delivered by an experienced NHS consultant pathologist and specialist histopathology recruiters. These sessions are completely free to all doctors.
The course is supplemented by additional advice and guidance on FRCPath and other registrations, GMC registration support, as well as guidance and webinars on other topics such as finding work in the NHS, relocation support and specialist registration.
You can access our IMG Histopathologists FRCPath Part 2 Course by joining the Facebook group here.
What other helpful FRCPath 2 resources are out there?
1. What I wish I'd known - A series of YouTube videos produced by the Royal College of Pathologists. The videos are interviews and advice from four pathologists sharing their experiences of the FRCPath Part 2 exam and what they wish they’d known before taking the exam.
2. FRCPath Part 2 Past Examination Surgical Cases – These are from Virtual Pathology at the University of Leeds. The slides can be magnified, and each case comes with a diagnosis.
3. How to Survive and Thrive in the FRCPath Part 2 - This is a detailed breakdown of the complete exam with advice and marking guidance, created by Dr James Henry, Consultant Cellular Pathologist at Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
How has COVID-19 affected FRCPath UK and Overseas test centres & upcoming exams?
The Spring session was postponed for international candidates in response to the pandemic, but discussions are taking place on the possibility of the FRCPath exam taking place at an overseas centre in Autumn 2021. Whilst the Royal College will try to accommodate as many international candidates as possible, priority will be given to candidates entering for the January sitting.
IMG Advice to FRCPath 2 Aspirants
Finding courses can be tricky and mock exams can cost a lot of money, so take your time to consider your options and what best suits your needs, whether that is a paid short course, or free materials which you can access whenever you need them. Speak to peers and supervisors - they may be able to offer advice based on first-hand experience of the courses or general preparation.
Of course, if you need further advice on choosing an FRCPath Part 2 online course, or on this stage of qualifying to work for the NHS, don’t hesitate to get in touch with IMG Connect and request to speak to our Histopathology specialist, Marcus Anderson. He'll be happy to help.
The team at IMG Connect hopes that this article and has been useful for any overseas histopathologists looking to take the FRCPath Part 2 exam. Good luck IMGs!
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
Following an extensive review of its assessment strategy, the Royal College of Psychiatrists has announced changes to the delivery of the MRCPsych examinations.
MRCPsych Paper A and B will remain online for the foreseeable future, and the CASC exam will remain online for the May 2023 diet, moving back to an in-person exam from September 2023.
Online MRCPsych Written Papers
The written MRCPsych papers (Paper A and Paper B) will continue to be delivered through a test centre of your choosing (including international centres). This exciting development was of course accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling MRCPsych examinations to be delivered for both overseas doctors and UK trainees.
The structure of MRCPsych Papers A and B remains that candidates complete 150 questions. From these questions, roughly 100 are multiple choice with single answers and 50 are extended matching questions which ask a series of multiple choice questions about information in a single question stem.
The online system is straightforward, requiring only a few checks and guidelines to follow to help you make the process a success.
In-person CASC Exam
Subject to final GMC approval, from September 2023 the CASC exam will be delivered face-to-face in the UK, with international centres for face-to-face delivery set to be introduced in 2024. There will be no further online diets after May 2023.
Face-to-face delivery enables candidates to better demonstrate that they meet the key capabilities outlined in the 2022 curriculum.
After consultation with stakeholders, it was clear that the validity and reliability of the examination was of prime importance, and that face-to-face assessment is the optimal way to assess the clinical skills required for psychiatric practice.
The structure of the MRCPsych CASC exam remains unchanged - candidates complete two circuits, each of eight stations. An examiner will evaluate your performance and the invigilator would be on hand to make sure that everything runs to plan.
The September 2023 exam will be held in Sheffield, with international centres to be confirmed for 2024 onwards. If you are an overseas candidate for whom this change will delay when you will sit CASC, email the Royal College who are able to extend validity periods according to individual circumstances.
Getting started
An online application form must be completed and takes around 15 minutes. For full guidance on the application, please visit the Royal College website here.
Join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group to become part of a community of like-minded MRCPsych aspirants and dedicated psychiatry recruiters.
In the group you will find tailored resources for Psychiatry IMGs including our MRCPsych Crash Course.
This course offers weekly sessions covering the entire exam and its various domains, including marking and station requirements. This is accompanied by small group role play sessions to allow IMGs to practice stations across various scenarios with feedback on each station, delivered by an experienced NHS psychiatrist and specialist psychiatry recruiters. These sessions are completely free to all doctors.
You can access our CASC Study Course by joining the Facebook group here.
Connect with us
Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) and chat with an IMG Consultant to discuss your options for NHS roles with CESR support and start your journey towards Specialist Registration with IMG Connect.
For access to a community of like-minded psychiatry IMGs and dedicated psychiatry recruiters, join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group.
To receive the latest news and updates on all things psychiatry, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.