IMGs from any country in the world can apply for Specialist Registration, provided certain eligibility criteria are met, though there are different routes available based on a doctor’s qualifications and training.
Here we explore specialist registration in psychiatry for overseas consultant psychiatrists and specialists more closely. We’ll cover the Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR) in more detail, including the application process, costs, and eligibility criteria, along with some other topics, summarised in the headings below:
What is Specialist Registration?
What route to Specialist Registration is best for me as an overseas psychiatrist?
Do I have to complete CESR before I can work in the UK?
Do I need MRCPsych for Specialist Registration?
What is the CESR equivalence process?
What evidence do I need to submit for a CESR in psychiatry?
How much does CESR cost?
How long is the CESR application process?
#IMG Tips
How do I get started?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
Specialist Registration
Specialist registration in any specialty means that you can be appointed to a substantive (permanent) consultant position in the NHS. All psychiatrists who wish to take permanent consultant roles in the UK must show evidence of skills, knowledge, and experience in order to apply for Specialist Registration.
For psychiatrists, attaining specialist registration will mean you are qualified to practice independently as a consultant in the NHS.
Specialist Registration is additional to full registration with the GMC and is therefore not required to practice as a psychiatrist in the UK.
Routes to Specialist Registration
There are three types of certificates issued by the GMC for specialist registration, and the type of certificate you receive depends on which training route you followed.
For overseas doctors who have completed their full training outside a GMC-approved training programme, CESR is the route they will usually take towards attaining specialist registration. This route does not require further training, rather the submission of an application.
Doctors who have trained outside the UK or Switzerland, but within an EEA country, will be awarded CCT (Certificate of Completion of Training) after a successful specialist registration application. Specialist Certifications from across the EU are deemed as equivalent by the GMC, and therefore a straightforward application can be made. You can read more about this in the Specialist Registration section under your country on the GMC website here.
Psychiatry Positions in the NHS without CESR
It is important to note that you can apply for more senior psychiatry roles such as a specialty doctor (SAS), specialist grade or a locum consultant without being on the Specialist Register.
Similarly, overseas doctors do not require CESR before moving to the UK to work in the NHS.
In these NHS roles, you will have better pay and responsibilities that are more appropriate to your level of experience compared to a trainee. While working in these positions, you can collect evidence of your competences, particularly those specific to the UK psychiatry curriculum.
These positions also facilitate a faster route to the UK than the CESR route, which can take a substantial amount of time.
MRCPsych for Specialist Registration
Whilst it is always beneficial to complete MRCPsych, overseas doctors looking to join the Specialist Register do not necessarily need to have completed the Royal College postgraduate exams.
The standard test of knowledge in the CCT curriculum is the MRCPsych exam, so passing these exams confirms the attainment of the competencies of the Core Curriculum.
MRCPsych is only a requirement for doctors looking to attain Specialist Registration via the CCT route.
However, if CESR applicants have not successfully completed these exams, they must provide alternative evidence that demonstrates equivalent knowledge to psychiatrists who have passed the MRCPsych exams.
Even if the competencies covered by the exam require something that someone in your position would not routinely undertake (in your sub-specialty for example), you must still provide evidence of it – as the evaluators will not make assumptions outside the evidence presented.
CESR Equivalence Process
Equivalence describes the process of assessing an overseas applicant’s training and experience against the current psychiatry training programme requirements, in order to be awarded CESR.
The equivalence process involves submitting a written body of evidence to the GMC, consisting of:
training and/or competence
skills and knowledge
The Royal College of Psychiatrists will assess each application against the relevant Curriculum before providing a recommendation to the GMC, who will then make a decision.
Please note that Equivalence procedures are the responsibility of the GMC. Applications are made through their Certification Department and initial enquiries should be directed there.
Evidence Requirements for CESR in Psychiatry
Skills & Experience: The evidence provided for a CESR application in psychiatry must cover the knowledge, skills, and qualifications to demonstrate the required competencies in all areas of the General Psychiatry Curriculum, and the Advanced Module in the sub-specialty you are applying in. If evidence is missing from any area of the curriculum, the application will fail.
Primary Evidence: To demonstrate that you can do what is required by the curriculum, you need to submit primary evidence of your clinical practice which shows how you work on a day-to-day basis: letters, reports, assessments etc. References, retrospective case summaries, and reflective notes can all be used in a CESR application, but by themselves they are not sufficient.
Audit and Governance: You are required to submit evidence of your active leadership in audit, including evidence that you have completed at least one audit cycle
Currency of evidence: Your evaluators will be looking for evidence of current competency, generally defined as within the last five years. If you have completed training before this point, it is crucial that you provide evidence of maintaining competency across the whole area of the curriculum.
The GMC asks that only evidence that is strictly relevant is sent as it will help them to process the application quicker. The guidance on compiling your evidence will help you to decide what is relevant and what is not – you can find this on the GMC website here.
As a general guide, the GMC usually expects to see about 800-1200 pages of evidence, divided into four different domains, reflecting those of Good Medical Practice. The GMC recommends that you apportion the evidence provided as shown below:
Domain 1 - Knowledge, skills, and performance
Domain 2 – Safety and quality
Domain 3 – Communication, partnership, and teamwork
Domain 4 – Maintaining trust
Please note, you cannot compensate for evidence lacking in one area by providing more evidence in another area.
The full list of evidence required for each domain can be found on the GMC website here.
The Cost of CESR Applications
All psychiatrists applying for Specialist Registration must pay a fee. For CESR, this fee is £1,676. For CESR-CP and CCT, the cost is £439.
How long does is the application process for CESR in Psychiatry?
The GMC estimate that it can take between six and eight months to receive a decision, from the date you submit your CESR application.
As there is a substantial amount of evidence to gather for a CESR application, the process of preparing all the necessary documentation and applying for CESR can take even longer than this, and a typical candidate will usually set out to complete this within 1 – 3 years.
It is worth noting that more senior psychiatrists, such as consultants, are more likely to have achieved all the competences outlined in the curriculum.
The indicative period of training for a CCT in psychiatry is six years, so it is highly unlikely that you would achieve the competencies required for a CCT in a shorter period of time. Therefore, CESR is not suitable for more junior psychiatrists.
#IMG Tips
Research/think about the types of evidence you will need and begin to gather your evidence well in advance of making your application.
Gather evidence prospectively – this is much easier than retrospectively trying to pull together the evidence under additional pressures.
Make sure that your evidence is of the highest possible quality and is current – you will be assessed against the most recent curriculum.
Ensure that the evidence you collect demonstrates your competence across the whole of the psychiatry curriculum, not just your sub-specialty.
Remember to refer to the most up-to-date Psychiatry CCT Curriculum and Specialty Specific Guidance for the evidence requirements in your specialty.
Create a CESR ‘to-do list’ with sections under the GMC’s 4 domain headings – organise your evidence directly into these sections to manage your progress.
Do not submit original documents – all your copies, other than qualifications you’re getting authenticated must be accompanied by a proformas signed by the person who is attesting to the validity and accuracy of your evidence (your verifier).
Ask an IMG Connect recruitment specialist about NHS psychiatry posts with CESR support. These are not always advertised by a Trust, but we can help you to find a role which aligns well with your career goals in the NHS.
Join the IMG Psychiatrists community – as well as support on Royal College exams, our online community of international psychiatrists and dedicated psychiatry recruiters offers guidance on other aspects of working in the UK, including finding NHS posts and CESR.
Getting started
Many psychiatry IMGs likely haven’t completed a UK-approved training programme, but you could be eligible for Specialist Registration with the GMC via the CESR route. Take a look at our guide to CESR applications for psychiatry for more information on how to apply and what to expect.
If you have any further questions about Specialist Registration, your route to the UK, or would like guidance in finding NHS posts which offer CESR support, please get in touch with us here.
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.
There are several routes a radiation oncologist can take to GMC registration and clinical (radiation) oncology in the NHS.
Clinical (or radiation) oncologists looking to secure a job in the NHS will need to satisfy certain criteria before they can apply for full GMC (General Medical Council) registration with license to practice in the NHS. As an oncologist, these criteria depend on where in the world you trained, and the qualifications you hold. In this blog, we’re giving you a snapshot of the steps you need to take to start your journey to the UK, as an overseas oncologist. We’ll be covering the following:
Will my training be recognised in the UK?
How do I demonstrate my knowledge and skills as an EEA oncologist?
How do I demonstrate my knowledge and skills as a non-EEA oncologist?
How can I demonstrate my English language skills?
What is a certificate of good standing and how do I get one?
What do I need to register with the GMC?
Will I need a visa to work in the UK?
Recognition of knowledge and skills
For clinical oncologists who trained in an EEA country (all countries inside the EU, including Lichtenstein, Iceland, Switzerland & Norway), there are a number of different options potentially available to you.
Depending on the country and year you completed your residency or basic medical training, the GMC may automatically recognise your qualifications and grant you either General Registration, or Specialist Registration in the UK. To find out if your country’s qualifications will allow you to register for either general or specialist registration, check the relevant GMC page here.
Knowledge and skills for EEA radiation oncologists
Basic Medical Training: If you have met the basic medical training requirements, this would mean that you would not need to demonstrate your medical knowledge and skills to work as a doctor in the UK and would not need to complete a UK- recognised postgraduate qualification or PLAB to register with a license to practice. You would be granted full registration in this case, but not Specialist Registration.
Specialist Training / Residency: If you have met the criteria listed for your country, then once you have completed the GMC application process, you would be granted Specialist Registration in oncology and can be appointed as a substantive or permanent consultant in the NHS. So as an oncologist, if you hold a Relevant European Specialist qualification, you would be put on the specialist register for medical or clinical oncology and can be appointed as a substantive oncologist in the NHS.
Therefore, the main hurdle that you will face as an EEA doctor will be demonstrating that your English skills are of a high enough standard to practice safely and proficiently as a doctor in the NHS.
As a European oncologist, this is in most cases the easiest route to becoming GMC-registered and being able to practice oncology in the UK.
If you do not meet the GMC requirements for your training to be approved for full or specialist registration, other routes you may consider to GMC registration include PLAB or (via the postgraduate route) the Royal College exams for either clinical oncology (FRCR) or medical oncology (MRCP). You can find out more about these alternative routes here.
Knowledge and skills for non-EEA radiation oncologists
If you qualified as an oncologist outside the EEA, then you will have to demonstrate that both your medical knowledge and skills AND English Language capabilities meet the level required to practice safely in the UK.
Oncologists who've trained from outside the UK and EEA and must demonstrate to the GMC they have sufficient knowledge & skills to practice safely in the UK. For oncologists this can be done through one of three main routes:
Professional & Linguistics Assessment Board (PLAB)
The PLAB exam is a two-part exam that assesses a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO in the NHS, as such it does not demonstrate ability in oncology specifically. For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine. That said, for some senior doctors PLAB can be an attractive option, offering a quicker route to the UK, whilst still securing competitive salaries. If taking this option, clinical oncologists can then take up training or a more senior post once they have established themselves in the NHS. Take a look through our comprehensive guides on PLAB.
Fellowship of Royal College of Radiologists
The Royal College of Radiologists is the professional body that regulates the specialism of clinical oncologists in the UK, and Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR) is the full qualification attainable by examination. For overseas doctors, attaining FRCR (Oncology) will satisfy the knowledge & skill criteria for GMC registration and facilitate application for more senior roles in UK clinical oncology. Take a look at our IMG Resources library for complete guides on Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists for clinical oncology to learn more.
GMC recognised or equivalent qualifications
Some overseas qualifications and licensing exams are recognised by the GMC and accepted for registration purposes. This is to say these qualifications or licensing exams are considered as meeting the same standards as the Royal College qualifications.
To find out if your qualification is accepted by the GMC, take a look at our blog: Overseas accepted postgraduate qualifications.
English Language Testing
Both EEA and non-EEA oncologists, regardless of experience, and country of origin, must demonstrate that they have a sufficient grasp and competence of the English language. This can be done by passing either the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Occupational English Test (OET). Detailed guides to these tests can be found below:
IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors
OET – a guide for overseas doctors
Experience in English-speaking countries
For doctors who have at least two years of their most current experience in an English-speaking country, you can use a reference from your current employer or employers over these two or more years to demonstrate competence of the English language. This would exempt you from sitting an English language exam.
Certificate of Good Standing
All doctors registering with the GMC must provide a certificate of good standing from each medical regulatory authority they’ve been registered or licensed with in the last five years.
The medical regulatory authority may send you a certificate of past good standing if you're not currently registered or licensed with them. You can find out which medical regulatory authority to contact via the GMC website here.
Please note that each certificate is only valid for three months from the date it's signed and must be valid when we approve your application.
If there's no medical regulatory authority in the country to issue a certificate, the GMC will give you further advice once your application has been assessed.
GMC Registration
Once you’ve completed your English language exam, you can now apply for full GMC registration with a license to practice. For registration, you must provide evidence of:
English language capabilities - either your IELTS, OET or an approved reference from your current employer (if you have been working in an English-speaking country for the last two years).
AND
Certificate of good standing – the certificate from your medical regulatory authority which demonstrates good standing.
AND
(EEA oncologists) Sufficient skill and knowledge – as an EEA oncologist, this would either be your recognised EEA qualification.
OR
(Non-EEA oncologists) Sufficient skill and knowledge – as a non-EEA oncologist, this would either be PLAB, FRCR or a GMC-approved qualification.
To understand the registration process more fully, read our blog on GMC registration for overseas doctors here.
Visas
If you or your family are from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and started living in the UK by 31 December 2020, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme. Otherwise, you will need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.
A Tier 2 visa is the document given to a skilled worker by the UK Home Office following a job offer from a UK employer with a valid Tier 2 Sponsorship License. The list of valid Tier 2 Sponsors can be found here.
Understand Tier 2 visas and Certificates of Sponsorship in depth by taking a look at our article: Tier 2 Visa - how do I apply and what's the process?
Wondering whether you can relocate with your family? Take a look at our blog on the Tier 2 dependent visa below: Tier 2 Dependent visa - Can I bring my family with me to the UK?
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.
For clinical or radiation oncologists looking to come to the UK to work in the NHS, GMC registration and specialist registration is a crucial part of the process. Therefore, it’s important to put together a good application to present to the GMC, and IMG Connect are here to help with this.
For regular news and updates on the Royal College and all things oncology, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:
Hinduism is the fourth largest religion in the UK, with the Hindu community reaching some just under 1 million people.
Britain is home to one of the most diverse Hindu communities in the world. With such rich diversity, Temples and prayer rooms can be found in every corner of the country.
Hindu communities can be found across the UK, and are represented in all areas of British economic, cultural, political and working life. The NHS has a tradition of encouraging faith or religion to be expressed, with prayer rooms and chaplains provided in every trust across the UK.
The Council of Hindu Temples website provides a directory of all UK Temples.
The website is intended primarily for people looking for a Temple when in an unfamiliar area. But you can use it to find your closest Temple.
You can also find excellent information on the British Hindu community from the following:
The Hindu Forum of Britain
The Hindu Council UK
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Earlier in our Postgraduate Qualifications blog series, we took a general look at PLAB examinations and all its various parts as a whole. Now we’ll take a closer look at the first stage of your PLAB journey – PLAB 1.
Here we consider everything that you need to know about the exam including syllabus, dates, fees and preparation by covering at the following topics:
What is PLAB 1?
What's the format of PLAB 1?
Where can I sit PLAB 1?
How do I book?
How much does it cost?
How do I prepare and what resources are available?
What can I expect on the day of the exam?
When will I receive my results?
Passed? What next?
Overview of PLAB 1
PLAB 1 tests your ability to apply your knowledge for the care of patients at the house level, or Foundation year 2 in the UK (12 months of medical practice). Questions relate to current best practice in the UK, and equipment routinely used in UK hospitals. You’ll need to answer the questions in relation to published evidence and not according to your local arrangements. Remember, this is an exam for entry into the UK Healthcare system.
The exam covers the common, important and acute conditions (those common in emergency departments) seen by trainees entering the second year of the Foundation Programme (FY2), and the management of long-term conditions seen in primary care.
Still unsure on PLAB as a whole? Take a look at a more general overview of the PLAB examinations.
PLAB 1 Format
PLAB 1 is a written exam made up of 180 multiple choice questions, with the test lasting three hours in total. Each question starts with a short scenario followed by a question and five possible answers, from which you must choose the correct answer.
The GMC has created a helpful guide setting out what the PLAB test covers, which you can download here.
PLAB 1 Centres
You can sit the exam in both the UK and several overseas locations. PLAB 1 is run four times a year in the UK and overseas venues hosted by the British Council.
Overseas venues are listed here with contact details.
At IMG Connect we advise that you check the closing date for applications for the closest venue. Also, be sure to submit your application in advance as applications submitted after the closing date will not be considered.
Booking PLAB 1
You can book your PLAB 1 examination using your GMC Online account where you can view available dates and book under the My Tests section.
Before you book a PLAB exam you must have:
an acceptable overseas primary medical qualification.
a GMC Online account to book or cancel the exam.
evidence of English competency – before you can book a test you will need to provide your English language test scores. If you've taken the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test or the Occupational English Test (OET), you can complete this in the 'My Tests' section at GMC Online.
Due to a backlog in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it can be difficult to secure a place for the PLAB exams.
On Saturday 10 December 2022 at 10 am (GMT) the GMC will release PLAB 1 places for the following dates across all locations:
10 August 2023
2 November 2023
You’ll need to access GMC Online by 10 am (GMT) using this link (rather than the usual link on the GMC Online web page).
PLAB 1 Cost
The PLAB 1 test costs £255.
Preparation & Resources
We have discussed this question at length with IMGs and the GMC, and whilst there are many resources to choose from online, we recommend the following GMC guides to help you start your preparations.
The PLAB Blueprint:
This is a helpful guide to what will be included in the exam. Our IMGs advise this is the best place to start with your preparations. The Blueprint sets out clearly all the topics and skills needed to pass the exam.
Download the PLAB Blueprint here.
The Foundation Programme curriculum: The topics and skills covered in the PLAB Blueprint are identical to those undertaken by doctors starting their second year of Foundation Programme Training (FY2).
You can find the Foundation Programme curriculum here
Guidance and interactive tools:
The GMC ‘Good Medical Practice’ document explains the core advice to doctors on the standards expected of them. During PLAB 1 you will be expected to demonstrate the professional values and behaviours set out in ‘Good Medical Practice’ when you take the exam and when you practise as a doctor in the UK.
You can test your knowledge of Good Medical Practice using the following online tools:
Explanatory guidance
Good Medical Practice in action interactive online tool
Welcome to UK practice interactive online tool
Sample questions:
30 sample questions along with their answers can be found on the GMC website here.
Courses:
You do not need to attend a study or coaching course to pass, but many candidates choose to do so. PLAB 1 can be passed under your own preparation, however PLAB 2 usually requires further study and courses.
There are many courses and materials out there. If you are unsure of how to approach your study preparations, don’t hesitate to ask an IMG Consultant for some recommendations or guidance on which course or resource to use.
Remember, we speak to IMGs who've passed these exams on a daily basis and are more than happy to pass on their wisdom!
What can I expect on the day of the exam?
First of all, once booked, the GMC will advise you on what time to arrive. You will likely be there for approximately four hours in total.
Do I need to bring anything to the test?
You will need to bring Identification, your booking confirmation and stationery:
For identification, the venue will accept any one of the following:
Passport
UK Immigration and Nationality Department identification document
Home Office travel document
If by accident you don't have one of the above you can take the exam but you'll need to provide your identification document later in the process.
Booking confirmation:
Bring the booking confirmation that includes your GMC booking reference number
Stationery:
You should bring HB pencils, an eraser and a pencil sharpener.
Maximum Attempts for PLAB 1
For PLAB 1, you can take the test 4 times. If you have not passed after 4 attempts, to be eligible to take the test again you must have completed a further 12 months experience of clinical practice or post graduate qualification.
Passed? What's next?
Once you have passed PLAB 1, you can take the PLAB 2 examination in the UK. Read our blog for more information on how to sit PLAB 2, which includes everything that you need to know about how to sit the exam, syllabus, dates, results, fees and preparation.
IMG Jobs
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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 through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
Many Hong Kong psychiatrists complete MRCPsych as part of their training or are at least aware of the exam. Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists examinations (MRCPsych) is one of the best ways for Hong Kong psychiatrists to register with the GMC and find psychiatry jobs in the NHS.
The exams can be taken by International Medical Graduates (IMGs) from any country in the world, provided certain eligibility criteria are met. Here we provide a summary of these exams from a Hong Kong perspective, along with a broader look at the topics below:
Where does MRCPsych fit in for Hong Kong Psychiatrists?
What does MRCPsych mean for Hong Kongers?
MRCPsych can lead to CESR or Specialist Registration in the UK
An overview of MRCPsych and how can Hong Kong Psychiatrists use it for GMC registration
Eligibility for Hong Kong Psychiatrists
What is the exam content and format?
Assessment Portfolio
Sponsorship Requirements
How do I apply for the exams?
How much will it cost me?
As a Hong Kong psychiatrist, where can I sit the exams?
How can I prepare for the MRCPsych examinations
IMG Tips
Passed? What next?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
Where does MRCPsych fit in for Hong Kong Psychiatrists?
Postgraduate training in Hong Kong is governed by the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists, and historically, psychiatric training in Hong Kong has aligned closely with the UK system of postgraduate education. Most psychiatrists in Hong Kong obtain membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych) as part of their post graduate training.
The structure of postgraduate training in Hong Kong also closely follows expectations for UK Trainees by covering the same 6 years of higher specialist training. In Hong Kong, the first three years of basic training incorporate the pre-MRCPsych training scheme, which gives the trainee the opportunity to take the MRCPsych examinations at a similar time in the process to the UK.
What does MRCPsych mean for Hong Kongers?
The mental health service in Hong Kong has undergone tremendous change over the last 20-30 years, developing a solid foundation in training, legislation, research and academic work. Hong Kong has fast developed a highly regarded psychiatry service and workforce. This level of training and service, coupled with membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych) means that Hong Kong Psychiatrists, including specialists and trainees, fit very well into the UK system.
Links through IMG Connect to several of the top performing trusts in the UK, has seen several Hong Kong psychiatrists flourish in the NHS, year on year.
MRCPsych can lead to CESR or Specialist Registration in the UK
With the parallels in post-graduate specialist training and qualifications like MRCPsych and FHKCPsych, and the high level of experience of Hong Kong Psychiatrists, Hong Kongers are able to enter CESR programmes successfully, gaining specialist registration in the UK reasonably quickly.
Hong Kong Psychiatrists possess the right level of skills, experience and qualifications required for a psychiatrist to apply for CESR. Upon entering the UK system, typically in a job with CESR support, HK psychiatrists can work towards completing the CESR application process with the support of their new employer, leading to being a specialist psychiatrist in the UK.
What is MRCPsych and how can Hong Kong Psychiatrists use it for GMC registration?
The MRCPsych examinations are the main component of specialty training for psychiatrists in the UK. The Royal College exams are designed to test your knowledge of basic medical sciences as well as the clinical skills required for diagnosis and management within psychiatry.
For IMGs from Hong Kong, MRCPsych is one of the two main routes to full GMC registration - you can find a range of articles covering these routes in our resource library here: Royal College or PLAB route.
For psychiatrists who wish to take more senior roles reflective of their current practice, IMG Connect advise that MRCPsych would be the best route to take, rather than PLAB.
As above, Hong Kong Psychiatrists who possess full MRCPsych can register to work in the UK. Whether 3 years into specialist training, or complete in all aspects of the postgraduate programme in Hong Kong, whether working as an Associate Consultant, Consultant or Professor, using the MRCPsych postgraduate route to GMC registration is applicable to you.
Psychiatrists in all main specialisms of psychiatry are eligible for registration and very much in demand to fill vacancies within the NHS.
A very successful route for Hong Kong Psychiatrists has been to secure a non-training post in the NHS, often appointed as a Specialty Doctor, Specialist Grade. Coupled with a developed CESR support programme, a non-training post can ensure swift progress to specialist registration in the UK. CESR will be a requirement for Hong Kong Psychiatrists to allow an appointment to a permanent consultant post.
For Hong Kong Psychiatrists who have not yet sat the examinations, in the following sections of this blog we will provide an overview of the format, dates, fees and exam centres, as well as look at how to prepare.
Eligibility for Hong Kong Psychiatrists
The MRCPsych examinations can be taken by any registered doctor in Hong Kong.
Each examination has different criteria, to complete the full MRCPsych a Hong Kong doctor must be registered with the medical council of Hong Kong, or any recognised medical board if working elsewhere overseas. They must also complete the Assessment Portfolio for Overseas Candidates demonstrating that they have complete 3 years of equivalent training.
For each part of the exam the Royal College suggest the following eligibility criteria:
MRCPsych Paper A
You are eligible for Paper A if you are a fully registered medical practitioner (in Hong Kong or elsewhere)
MRCPsych Paper B
It is a recommended to have at least 12 months experience in psychiatry before taking this examination.
Clinical Assessment of Skills and Competencies (CASC)
You have a pass in both Paper A and B; AND
You can demonstrate you have sponsorship in place. Sponsorship forms must be submitted by an appropriate medical education lead confirming that the eligibility requirements to sit the MRCPsych examinations have been met; AND
You have 24 months post internship experience in Psychiatry; AND
(Overseas candidates) Assessment portfolio
Exam content and format
The MRCPsych examinations consist of two written papers (Paper A + Paper B) and one clinical examination (CASC).
Paper A – The scientific and theoretical basis of psychiatry
This is a three-hour written paper, worth 150 marks and comprising of 150 questions made up of approximately two thirds multiple choice questions (MCQ) and one third extended matching item questions (EMI).
It covers the following sections of the syllabus:
Behavioural Science and Socio-cultural Psychiatry
Human Development
Basic Neurosciences
Clinical Psychopharmacology
Classification and Assessment in Psychiatry
Paper B - Critical review and the clinical topics in psychiatry
This is a three-hour written paper, worth 150 marks and comprising of 150 questions. The content includes one third critical review and two thirds on clinical topics.
It covers the following sections of the syllabus:
Organisation and delivery
General adult
Old age
Psychotherapy
Child & adolescent
Substance misuse
Forensic
Learning disability
Critical review
CASC - Clinical Assessment of Skills and Competencies
The CASC is based on a format similar to OSCEs. Specifically, the examination consists of two circuits which must be completed on the same day.
In total, the circuit includes 16 stations, made up of:
Five stations on history taking, including risk assessment
Five stations on examination, including physical and mental state
Six stations on patient management
Stations consist of several elements with instructions provided to all candidates, marked against the examiners construct.
These have a standardised format with elements in common between stations of a similar type. Find out more here.
For a more detailed guide on the recent MRCPsych exam changes, read our blog on Online MRCPsych Examinations.
Assessment Portfolio for Hong Kong Psychiatrists
The assessment portfolio should demonstrate achievement of equivalent competencies to those defined in the ARCP documented on the application form, including competencies in Psychotherapy AND Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, or Learning Disability, by the time of application.
In addition, you must demonstrate that you have undertake the following activities as part of your structured job plans:
Observation in interviewing patients in ward rounds for specified reasons
Observation in interviewing patients in out-patient or community settings or other contexts for specified reasons
Assessment via formal presentation of cases with their medical notes; discuss management of cases with their Clinical or Educational Supervisor
Formal assessment of competencies in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry or Learning Disability AND Psychotherapy
Assessments and achievement of competencies should take place in a range of settings and psychiatric specialties with structured, documented feedback on performance having been provided.
Whilst there is no assessment criteria form available, (this is incorporated into the online submission), take a look at the ARCP assessment portfolio form for CT1-3 in the UK, which should help give you a starting point for your own portfolio.
For Hong Kong Psychiatrists, the good news is that since the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists embarked on the expansion and development of formal specialisms in psychiatry, the core competencies required by the Royal College in the UK are easier to gain access to than in other parts of the world. At the time of writing, the Hong Kong College oversees the following clinical divisions: general adult psychiatry, old age psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry, psychotherapy, addiction psychiatry, rehabilitation psychiatry and learning disability.
Postgraduate training in Hong Kong allows for MRCPsych aspirants to apply for the examinations with confidence.
Sponsorship Requirements
Hong Kong MRCPsych candidates must have a sponsor in place in order to support evidence that their three years of training satisfy Royal College criteria of having achieved equivalent competencies at appropriate competency levels (year 1, 2, 3) for each component of the examination.
Sponsorship is required by all applicants for entry to the CASC exam and your sponsor should be an appropriate medical education lead, confirming you have met the requirements to sit the MRCPsych examinations.
Acceptable sponsors in Hong Kong include:
College Tutor
Training Programme Director
Educational Supervisor
Head of School
Director of Medical Education (or equivalent)
Head of Department of Psychiatry
Consultant responsible for employee/trainee appraisal
Once your sponsor has authorised your application, you will receive a confirmation email from the Royal College, and you will be asked to complete your application and proceed to payment.
Applications for Hong Kong Doctors
To apply from Hong Kong, you will need to complete an online application form which takes about 15 – 20 minutes. Applications must be submitted no later than 3:30pm UK time (10:30pm HK time) on the last day of the application period.
Note: the online application form for Paper A, B and CASC will only be available during the published application dates and applications submitted after this will not be accepted.
You can sit Paper A and B in any order. You will be required to enter contact details and training history, including your medical registration. If applying for the CASC, you will also need to provide the contact details of your sponsor.
After you have completed the written exam, you have 1,643 days to sit the CASC – you can find specific time limits here.
Exam Costs and Payment
Payment is made by Visa or Mastercard credit/debit card, and the costs for 2021 are as follows:
Candidate
Paper A
Paper B
CASC
PMPT Trainees and Affiliates (UK & Ireland Centres)
£486 (~HK$5228)
£437 (~HK$4701)
£1,004 (~HK$10,799)
Non-PMPT Trainees and Affiliates (UK & Ireland Centres)
£539 (~HK$5797)
£485 (~HK$5217)
£1,115 (~HK$11,993)
Exam Locations
Due to the ongoing difficulties presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the CASC examination will not be run in Hong Kong in 2022.
The good news is that changes have been made and all examinations for MRCPsych can be taken online. Hong Kong psychiatrists can now sit all three MRCPsych exams without leaving the country, and even from the comfort of your own home. This makes it easier for HK doctors to complete the MRCPsych examinations and work towards their GMC registration within a normal time frame.
Exam dates
These are the exam dates available at the time of writing.
Paper A
Diet
Date of Examination
Application Period
Publication of Results
2
8 December 2021
4 - 22 October 2021
11 February 2022
1
14 June 2022
4 – 14 April 2022
22 July 2022
2
6 December 2022
3 – 14 October 2022
15 February 2022
Paper B
Diet
Date of Examination
Application Period
Publication of Results
1
29 March 2022
25 January – 4 February 2022
13 May 2022
2
4 October 2022
25 July – 5 August 2022
4 November 2022
CASC - UK & Ireland
Diet
Date of Examination
Application Period
Publication of Results
1
10 – 21 January 2022
1 – 12 November 2021
25 February 2022
2
12 – 23 September 2022
6 – 17 June 2022
31 October 2022
How do I prepare for the MRCPsych examinations?
With lots of materials online, we have discussed with IMGs the best exam resources and materials for Hong Kong doctors. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams. 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.
Sample Papers: These will help you prepare and polish your exam techniques. They are helpful in familiarising yourself with the exam format to allow you to work quickly and efficiently on the day, and are a good way to benchmark your knowledge and progress against the syllabus.
Paper A sample questions
Paper B sample questions
Marking schemes (Paper A and B): Candidates pass or fail the written papers based on their performance, and not how well you perform against other candidates. As such, it is a good idea to understand how the exam is worked, so you can maximise your exam skills, giving you the best chance of a pass. Marking schemes can be found here.
Marking scheme (CASC): A good start with CASC preparation is to get to know how you will be assessed, take a look at the criteria for scoring a pass mark in CASC, as well as the History Marksheet, Management Marksheet and Examination Marksheet.
CASC examination guide: The Royal College have produced a helpful guide for candidates which provides information on stations, role plays and assessment.
CASC preparation videos: Here you will have the opportunity to see CASC stations in action. This will give you a good idea of what to expect and help you prepare.
CASC Blueprint: This helpful summary details stations in some detail and gives a useful overview of the exam format.
The Royal College also suggest taking a look at Passing the MRCPsych - an insider’s guide - a useful guide to help you to get over the first steps.
#IMG Tips
Start preparing early - as ever at IMG Connect, we believe in preparation. Early preparation gives you the best chance for success and lessens the need for the dreaded last-minute cramming.
Join a study group – a great way to share resources, tips and meet new friends at the same time! To join an international study group, get in touch on our Facebook community group, see below.
Practise, practise, practise – psychiatry IMGs preparing in Hong Kong have told us that it is vital that you practise your clinical examinations, even better if under the supervision of a colleague who has already passed the exams
Join the online psychiatry community – connect with like-minded psychiatrists and dedicated psychiatry recruiters in the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group.
For regular news and updates on the Royal College and all things psychiatry, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:
Passed? What’s next?
Whether you completed MRCPsych as part of your postgraduate training some time ago, or have recently completed the examinations, you can apply for a full GMC registration with license to practice. Once the GMC has approved your application, you can work as a doctor in the UK.
This is a great time to get in touch with us to discuss your route towards and preparation for GMC registration, or to find psychiatry jobs in the NHS if you’re further along in the process. In the meantime, why not have a look at our blog on Finding Psychiatry Jobs in the UK for Hong Kong Doctors.
If you’ve passed part of the MRCPsych exams, it’s time to look ahead to your next exam. You can find comprehensive guides to each of the MRCPsych exams in the IMG Resources library.
Are you an overseas physician looking to move to the UK?  Here, you can hear first-hand the experiences of an international general physician who has been through the process, from completing their MRCP and GMC registration, to securing an NHS job and relocating to the UK?
IMG Stories is our series introducing you to international doctors who we have helped to relocate to the UK - sharing their personal journeys from working overseas to securing a new job as a doctor in the NHS.
Today we introduce you to Rehan Qureshi, a brilliant general medicine specialty doctor who relocated to the UK from Saudi Arabia with his wife, children and his mother in 2020. Having passed the MRCP and English language exams, Rehan received full GMC registration with license to practise. He is now working in the NHS at Scarborough General Hospital in the north of England – where he is making a fantastic impact on the service and wider community.
Tell us about yourself - what should the IMG community know about Rehan Qureshi?
I'm a physician with a special interest in acute and renal medicine and over 19 years of multi-centre clinical experience. My other areas of interest are clinical research, healthcare quality and patient safety, medical education as well as medical leadership.
What motivated you to move to the UK?
I was practicing overseas where despite working very hard, I had very limited prospects in terms of career progression and growth. I have always admired the NHS’ policy of ‘fair and equal opportunities for all’, and I view the UK in general as a fair and multicultural society.
Tell us about your experience with the Royal College of Physicians exams...
Honestly, these were some very hard times … as a family, it was quite tough for us while I was taking my MRCP exams. Each time I failed, my wife cried … but I didn't because I knew, the only way to get through the process and past failure was resilience! That helped and in the end I passed!
Do you have any tips or advice for overseas doctors who are currently working towards MRCP?
Never lose hope. Set a goal, work hard towards it and keep trying until you succeed! Avoid negativity and people who discourage you. Remember, MRCP is very much doable, though not easy. Practice is the key!
How did you manage to navigate and juggle the different aspects of registration whilst working?
I divided my day into four parts: work, MRCP, family and rest. I'd ususally finish work by 5pm and immediately begin my MRCP practice from 5pm - 8pm at the hospital. After getting back home at about 8:30pm, I'd have time for dinner and to spentd a couple of hours with family before going to sleep. The weekends were definitely better, but I'd still spend at least 6 hours in the library. I'd suggest you start your intense preparation no sooner than 6 months in advance. You need to work hard, but try to avoid burnout. For me, it worked.
Did you have any major or unexpected issues with the GMC registration process or your visa application?
I had none at all - everything went smoothly.
How did you find a medical oncology job within the NHS?
To be honest, I connected with Marcus & Ruaidhri, who did everything for me. They actually made my journey to getting my first NHS job a piece of cake! This was to the extent that when we arrived in the UK and reached our hotel, (at a time when the UK was in lockdown due to COVID), we had all our groceries promptly delivered by them. What more could anyone ask for? I knew some friends who were working with other agencies that left everything to them. With how much IMG Connect had helped me, I used to ask Ruaidhri questions to help my friends as well.
My advice: find yourself an agency that is known to be responsible and is keen to truly help. I personally found IMG connect very very helpful!
Tell us about your journey to the UK...
It was scary to travel at a time when the UK was in lockdown and COVID-19 cases were so high. However, my journey was made very simple, since all the logistics including visas were sorted by Ruaidhri, so we did not face any unnecessary hassle. I would say, it was a very smooth transition, we enjoyed two weeks of quarantine as we had been longing to spend some quality time together as a family and enjoy a good rest before starting up again.
What has been your experience working with IMG Connect?
The support I received on this journey was amazing. I absolutely could not ask for more. For the first time in my life, I traveled without any need to think or worry about logistics because they were being so well-managed by Ruaidhri and his team at IMG connect. My wife and I were traveling with young children and my elderly mother, and I must say, we have been taken care of very well!
How are you settling into life in the UK?
We have been settling in very well. In Scarborough, we have a beach that my children enjoy going to, and they also love their new school. Not for a single day have we felt that we are in a country of different culture, ethnicity or faith. My daughter had a pleasant surprise when her school teacher greeted her with 'Eid Mubarak' on the day of Eid festive, which was a great welcome during our first time celebrating Eid in the UK. The UK is truly wonderful and people are very welcoming here. It's beautifully blended multi-cultural society and we consider the UK our home now.
What have you enjoyed most about living in Scarborough in particular?
So many things: the beach, the variety of fun activities for children - like steam engine trains and parks. We've even enjoyed snow for the first time. Fish and chips are great! Traveling in the UK is absolutely easy and fun and there's so much to do and see.
What opportunities have become available to you through your work?
I am really enjoying my current role. Within a year of joining the NHS as a specialty doctor, I now hold 4 different roles: I'm a senior lecturer at Hull York Medical School, an SAS regional representative for RCP London, an SAS Teaching Fellow and a member of the RCPQI. I’m also starting my postgraduate certificate in health professions education funded by the HEE. I have the support of mt Trust with my CESR application and have been given the opportunity for research and to become a medical examiner.
For comparison, I was in my previous position for a decade, and only had one role with no career progression prospects.
What’s next for you now that you’re working in the UK?
I think you should always aim high with your goals. I aim to establish myself as a clinical leader as well as an academic leader, a clinical researcher and principal investigator. In the short term, I look forward to taking on the new 'Specialist' role and making progress on my CESR application with my hospital's support.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in moving to the UK?
This would be my mother's visa. I'm an only child, so I couldn't relocate without her. Before finding IMG connect, many agencies had contacted me with job opportunities and all refused to help with my mother's visa. IMG Connect on the other hand, never give up. Marcus & Ruaidhri, perhaps, enjoy such challenges :-) Ruaidhri literally went out on a limb to help me on this. He contacted people, introduced me to an agency, helped me prepare the entire case and finally - we got it done and my mother was given her visa! I can't tell you what a huge relief it was. A big thank you to Ruaidhri, Marcus and the entire team at IMG Connect for this!
Have you experienced any culture shocks living in the UK?
Not at all! As I said, the UK is a multicultural, multi-faith country. People here in Yorkshire are very welcoming. We can easily find Halal food from local shops which also sell vegetarian food. We have a mosque in town, and there are separate prayer rooms for both male and female Muslim staff in the hospital. We feel so at home here.
What have you missed about Saudi Arabia the most?
We've definitely missed our old friends, and relatives.
Is there anything you wish you’d known before you began your journey to live and work in the UK?
I already had most of the information I needed before I came by Ruaidhri and Marcus, so there was nothing that came as a shock or surprise to me.
Do you have any tips or advice for international doctors who want to move to the UK?
I have a couple of pieces of advice. Firstly, if you are struggling to progress in your career, consider relocating to the UK. Here, it does not matter who you are, or where you come from. What matters is how dedicated and hardworking you are and I think your hard work always pays off. The NHS is a great institution and wonderful place to work. Secondly, I'd say consider taking an specialty doctor role. It's a great position where you'll have career prospects to develop as a locum consultant and enjoy a good work-life balance.
Moving to live and work in the UK is a big decision to make but can be massively rewarding in many ways. International doctors have the chance to find a new home and the NHS presents an incredible opportunity to secure rewarding jobs, progress within their field and explore adjacent opportunities such as CESR (for non-EEA doctors), writing publications and research. Whatever route an overseas doctor may take on their journey to the UK, IMG Connect is here to support them through every step and welcome them to the IMG Connect family.  
To receive the latest news and updates on the Royal Colleges, GMC registration and the NHS, as well as more #IMGStories, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
Are you an overseas medical oncologist looking to move to the UK? Here you can hear first-hand the experience of an international medical oncologist who has been through the process, from completing their MRCP and GMC registration, to securing an NHS job and relocating to the UK?
IMG Stories is our series introducing you to international doctors who we have helped to relocate to the UK - sharing their personal journeys from working overseas to securing a new job as a doctor in the NHS.
Today we introduce Kishore Kumar, a brilliant consultant oncologist who relocated to the UK from India. Kishore has been living and working in the UK after receiving full GMC with license to practice. He is now working in the NHS at South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, where he is making a positive impact on the service and the wider community.
Tell us about yourself - what should the IMG community know about Kishore Kumar?
I am a medical oncologist who moved to the UK from India. I moved to the UK later in my life than most IMGs, I'd say, having worked as a consultant medical oncologist in India for over 11 years before I decided to move to the NHS. The system I worked in was quite similar to the NHS (free medical care at the point of access), and whilst I was looking for a change, this was something I enjoyed about my previous work and was looking for that in any healthcare system I may move into.
What motivated you to move to the UK?
The NHS is arguably one of the finest healthcare systems in the world (I know many some may disagree, but having personally seen some other systems, I would definitely rate the NHS very highly). Working in the NHS was a long-held desire of mine, so the move was logical once the opportunity presented itself.
Tell us about your experience with the Royal College exams...
I passed the MRCP exams in 2005 at a time when there were no overseas centers in India. I had to travel to the UK for the exam, which was held in Glasgow and I also attended a training session in Ealing Hospital for the exam. It was very exciting process for me, especially visiting the UK for the first time.
Do you have any tips or advice for overseas doctors who are currently working towards MRCP?
I passed the exam quite a while ago, so I'm not sure how relevant my advice will be to current candidates. However, from my experience, overseas doctors need to understand the NHS system to do well, especially for the PACES exam. Practices which build on this knowledge would be helpful.
How did you manage to navigate and juggle the different aspects of registration whilst working?
Since I was working full time, I needed to set aside dedicated time to study for the MRCP exams. I roped in a friend (a very bright doctor) who would conduct mock exams for me over the weekends.
Did you have any major or unexpected issues with the GMC registration process or your visa application?
Since I was applying for GMC registration a significant amount of time after passing the MRCP, the GMC wanted evidence that I was still up-to-date in my practice. Luckily, this wasn't too complicated and the GMC advisor was very helpful.
How did you find a medical oncology job within the NHS?
Two words: IMG Connect. I was completely new to the process and I was quite unsure about locations and the general steps. Ruaidhri form the IMG Connect team was my go-to person for everything, from advice regarding locations, to job profiles, visas, and GMC registration. I don’t think I would have made it here if not for him. Most importantly, IMG Connect really listened and took into consideration all of my needs and worries. They go far beyond any of the simple questions you may have for them and cover all angles, including things you may not have considered yourself!
I would advise any IMGs hoping to relocate to the UK to find someone (like Ruaidhri) who will genuinely look after THEIR interests. It is easy to land up in the wrong role and to struggle through the complications of trying to leave soon after. If in doubt, seek advice from overseas doctors already in the UK and honest recruitment teams like IMG Connect.
Tell us about a day in the life of an NHS consultant medical oncologist...
The days are usually quite busy. They are split into two sessions (morning and afternoon), with at least one session (sometimes both) being a clinic and the other an MDT or another supportive activity. Working in the UK is very different to working in India, in some ways. At my current hospital, we see far less patients than I used to, but the amount of time spent on each patient is far greater. Of course, five-day working weeks are very welcome (it was six in India).
Tell us about your journey to the UK...
I arrived in early November 2020, when the UK had just gone into its second lockdown. COVID numbers were very high and many people advised me against traveling until things had settled. However, at this point I didn’t see COVID-19 going away anytime soon and decided there was no time like the present. The only difference was my family made sure I traveled business class to decrease the risks - this was the only time I've ever flown business class and it was nice ;-)
What has been your experience working with IMG Connect?
Absolutely fantastic! I can’t thank Ruaidhri and Marcus enough for everything. Just to give you an example, once I'd landed in the UK and reached my accommodation, I had to quarantine for two weeks. Ruaidhri drove over 3 hours (one way, at night) from Scotland to my place and brought in groceries for the next two weeks, since I would not be able to go shopping. Need I say more.
Although it’s been almost a year since my arrival in the UK, I still regularly chat with Ruaidhri and Marcus. We're like old friends at this point.
How are you settling into life in the UK?
I'd say I'm settling in quite well, and my colleagues agree. I am currently here without my family (they will join me later), so I've needed something to do at the weekends. Once the lockdown lifted, I bought a car and have traveled quite a bit. I go trekking most weekends and enjoy visiting new places.
What have you enjoyed most about living in Middlesbrough in particular?
The proximity to great places to visit. It’s just 20 minutes from the beach, or the Yorkshire Moors. London (from Darlington) is less than 3 hours away, and Scotland is a couple of hours away, as is the lake district.
What’s next for you now that you’re working in the UK?
My department has been very helpful. They are actively supporting me in my CESR application process, and I'm getting involved in research and clinical trials. I have also been given teaching opportunities, and even delivered a talk in the Royal College of Physicians CPD series.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in moving to the UK?
I'd say the separation from my family, primarily on account of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Have you experienced any culture shocks living in the UK?
No real 'shocks', but I've found the people here quite friendly. The only shock really is how expensive things are compared to India (things like train fares, eating out etc). I've also been introduced to things I'd never done before, like filling petrol and air in a car, ironing clothes etc.
What have you missed about India the most?
Other than my family, I miss the sunny days most (where I lived in India was sunny and not very hot). I will never take the sun for granted again!
Is there anything you wish you’d known before you began your journey to live and work in the UK?
Not really. Having friends and family who already lived in the UK (as well as the power of the internet), meant that a lot of my questions had already been answered and there was a lot of information available to me.
Do you have any tips or advice for international doctors who want to move to the UK?
Moving to the UK is something to consider if you're an IMG looking for a good work-life balance. A medical oncologist might be paid better in some countries, but it would be difficult to beat the quality of work and the relatively stress-free work environment here. I'd say try to avoid landing here during the winter - it does not make a very good first impression, but if you have interests in other areas (especially travel or hiking), the summers here are really awesome!
Moving to live and work in the UK is a big decision to make but can be massively rewarding in many ways. International doctors have the chance to find a new home and the NHS presents an incredible opportunity for IMGs to secure rewarding jobs, progress within their fields and explore adjacent opportunities such as CESR, writing publications, teaching opportunities and research.
Whatever route an overseas doctor may take on their journey to the UK, IMG Connect is here to support them through every step and welcome them to the IMG family.  
Join the IMG Oncologists Facebook group for access to a community of like-minded MRCP aspirants and dedicated oncology recruiters.
In this group you will find tailored resources for oncology IMGs, including access to our MRCP crash courses, completely free to all doctors.
You can access our IMG Oncologists community here.
For regular news and updates on the Royal College and all things oncology, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:
For many overseas psychiatrists, as well as UK based trainees, the MRCPsych exams can be overwhelming. Where do you turn for study materials? How do you prepare for the exams? What are the exams dates and fees? Where can I sit the exam? How can I find support online?
To help a little, in this blog we will explore MRCPsych Paper A and everything that you need to know about how to sit the exam, taking a detailed look at the following topics:
An overview of MRCPsych
What is MRCPsych Paper A?
How is the exam structured and marked?
Am I eligible to sit this exam?
As an international psychiatrist, when and where can I sit the exam?
Where and how do I apply?
How much will the exam cost?
What is the best way to prepare for MRCPsych A?
#IMG Tips
Passed? What next?
If you know what you're looking for, skip ahead to the relevant section!
An overview of MRCPsych
The MRCPsych exams are the central components of psychiatry training in the UK. The examination series is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge of basic medical sciences as well as the clinical skills needed for diagnosis and management within psychiatry.
Full MRCPsych satisfies the postgraduate requirements for full GMC registration for international psychiatrists taking this route towards working in the UK.
The exams within the series are as follows:
MRCPsych Paper A
MRCPsych Paper B
MRCPsych CASC
For a more general overview of the MRCPsych examinations via our IMG Resources, please click here.
MRCPsych Paper A
Paper A is a three-hour written exam covering the scientific and theoretical basis of psychiatry.
The exam, comprised of 150 questions, is worth 150 marks:
two-thirds multiple choice questions (MCQ), and
one-third extended matching item questions (EMI)
Exam structure and marking
Paper A covers the following sections of the current syllabus:
The percentage split and marks allocation on the 150-mark exam is broken down as follows:
Section
Percentage
Marks
Behavioural Science and Socio-cultural Psychiatry
16.67%
25 marks
Human Development
16.67%
25 marks
Basic Neurosciences
25%
37 - 38 marks
Clinical Psychopharmacology
25%
37 - 38 marks
Classification and Assessment in Psychiatry
16.67%
25 marks
Eligibility
Trainee psychiatrists from any country in the world can sit the MRCPsych examinations providing that they meet the eligibility requirements.
You are eligible to sit Paper A if you are a fully registered medical practitioner.
Exam locations and dates
We have good news – in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Royal College of Psychiatrists has made the decision to move all MRCPsych exams online! This means you can sit the MRCPsych exams from your home country with submission and preparation details available on the Royal College website.
This change makes it immensely easier for international doctors to complete their Royal College exams and work towards GMC registration within a normal timeframe and with reduced disruptions.
Examination dates (at the time of writing) are as follows:
Examination Date
Application Period
Results Publication Date
1 December 2022
26 September - 7 October 2022
15 February 2023
Exams are usually held twice a year – and we will regularly check the Royal College website for updates and changes.
Applications
To apply, you’ll need to complete the Royal College online application form. This form is only available during the published application dates and must be submitted prior to the closing date. If you miss the cut off, your application will not be considered.
For new overseas candidates, you will need to register for a Royal College login first.
You will need to provide the following:
Personal details
Primary Medical Qualifications & Registration
Training
Written paper selection
Fees
At the end of your application, you will be directed to an online payment system where you can pay by credit or debit card, so make sure you have your details ready.
Once your application is complete you will receive two confirmation emails, one to confirm receipt of the application and one to confirm the payment has been received.
See below for MRCPsych Paper A fees for 2021:
PMPT Trainees and Affiliates (UK & Ireland Centres) - £486
Non-PMPT Trainees and Affiliates (UK & Ireland Centres) - £539
Preparation
With lots of resources available online, we have discussed with our IMG Psychiatry Community 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. We’ve collated these 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 access this here.
Sample Papers: These will help you prepare and polish your exam techniques and are a good idea to regularly benchmark your knowledge against the syllabus. In addition, sample questions will help you work quickly on the day, you will already know what to expect. The sample papers can be found here.
Marking schemes: Candidates pass or fail the written papers based on their performance, and not how well you perform against other candidates. As such, it is a good idea to understand how the exam is marked, so you can maximise your exam skills and give yourself the best chance of a pass. Marking schemes can be found 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.
#IMG Tips
Start early – preparation is key and the best way to avoid last-minutes stress and cramming.
Use the Royal College website – this should be your best friend...or at least one of them. There are so many useful resources on these – what better place to start your revision?
Join our online support community - for all things psychiatry, including access to a community of likeminded psychiatrists and MRCPsych aspirants, follow IMG Connect on social media and join the conversation.
Passed? What next?
If you are completing the papers in order, the next step will be to apply for Paper B. For more information take a look at our blog where we explore MRCPsych Paper B and everything you need to know about how to sit the exam, including syllabus, dates, results, fees and preparation.
For more useful blogs & articles on the MRCPsych exams, registrations & qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG library.
Good luck in your MRCPsych Paper A exam!
Are you an overseas psychiatrist preparing to take the MRCPsych CASC exam?
International doctors often have questions about how to prepare for the CASC exam, particularly when there are so many materials and information online which can be overwhelming or mostly geared towards UK applicants and trainees.
What study materials, courses and support are available for IMGs? Here we have compiled some of the best advice and resources available to help in your preparation for the exam.
The topics we’ll cover are as follows - skip to one of these sections if you know what you're looking for:
What is MRCPsych CASC?
How do I get started with my preparation?
What other resources are available?
#IMG Tips
How have the exams been affected by COVID-19?
What’s next for me?
If you’d like an overview of the entire examination series, take a look at the article published in our IMG Library here.
What is MRCPsych CASC?
Let’s begin with a quick recap of the CASC exam. The Clinical Assessment of Skills and Competencies or CASC is a practical exam which takes the format of an OSCE and tests your clinical skills in a range of competencies.
It is made up of two circuits of individual stations made up of:
Five stations on history taking, including risk assessment
Five stations on examination, including physical and mental state
Six stations on patient management
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 CASC exam here.
Getting started with 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 general 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.
Royal College Materials
Syllabus: this is the best place to start - you should always plan your study and preparation around the topics within the curriculum to start you off on the best path to success. You can find this here.
CASC candidate guide: this handy guide contains information on domain-based marking, candidate instructions, pass mark, exam criteria and grade descriptors, which you can access here.
Blueprint: the CASC blueprint is a more detailed breakdown of the skills being assessed within the exam and the categories and stations candidates should expect to find. This is available here.
Marksheets: copies of the marksheets which are used in the exam are available online for history, management and examination and allow candidates to familiarise themselves with the marksheets in advance, found here.
Sample stations videos: you can watch videos of sample stations from a face-to-face examination – this will be similar to what you can expect on the day as the principles will remain the same for online exams. You can access these here.
What other resources are available?
IMG Connect have a library of written resources geared towards preparation for the CASC 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:
Books
These are the most highly rated books for MRCPsych CASC on Amazon:
Pass the CASC for MRCPsych – Seshni Moodliar (£34.70)
Get Through MRCPsych CASC – Melvyn W. B. Zhang (£45)*
How to Pass the MRCPsych CASC – Andrew Iles (£33.99)
* Get Through MRCPsych CASC is particularly highly regarded by recent CASC candidates who have passed the exam.
Other resources
Passing the MRCPsych Exams – an insider’s guide: a useful guide to the MRCPsych CASC exam written by former trainees and members of the Psychiatric Trainees’ Committee (PTC). This can be found here.
MRCPsych CASC flashcards: flashcards created by a former candidate who has passed the exam. 136 flashcards which cover different aspects of the exam. These are available for free here on Brainscape.
CASC Cluster Cards – Oxfordpsych revision cards written by a consultant psychiatrist in the UK. This is a set of 100 CASC scenarios with instructions and guidance to remember. These can be found here at a cost of £169.
CASC Videos – SPMM: 86 exam stations performed by consultants and role players under exam conditions, featuring advice and tips from examiners for each task. 6 months access is priced at £180 and is available on demand. These are available here.
Oxfordpsych – access to the Oxfordpsych online video bank featuring short and long instruction CASC stations, covering the range of stations and tasks listed in the CASC blueprint. 6 months access costs £169 and £99 for 3 months and can be found here.
Online courses
CASC Prepare mock exam
This exam consists of 16 stations which have all featured in previous RCPsych CASC exams. The mock will be conducted in the format of the actual exam and detailed written feedback on RCPsych marking sheets will be provided after the exam. Other aspects of the exam such ass time management, and communication strategies will also be discussed.
Duration
4 hours
Cost
£310
Next start date
Ongoing
Website
https://www.cascprepare.com/mock-exam
Oxfordpsych CASC mock exam
These online exams are based on the RCPsych CASC blueprint. Candidates take the 16 stations under exam conditions and interview with professional actors with CASC experience. Candidates will receive written feedback for each station.
Duration
4 hours
Cost
£475
Next start date
Autumn 2022
Website
http://www.oxfordpsychcourse.co.uk/index.php/online-registration
CASC Master mock exam
This mock exam is carried out over skype or zoom and has 8 continuous stations with one 20-minute break, followed by the final 8 stations. It is set according to the CASC blueprint and is available with or without an actor.
Duration
4 hours
Cost
£325
Next start date
TBC
Website
https://www.cascmaster.com/skypemockcasc
IMG Psychiatrists MRCPsych CASC Crash Course
This is a tailored MRCPsych CASC course for overseas psychiatrists sitting the CASC exam. 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.
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 CASC Study Course by joining the Facebook group 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.
Find the right materials for you – whether its online courses, books or flashcards, try to figure out what the best materials are to jumpstart your preparation
Speak to your peers and colleagues – your senior colleagues may have been through this process themselves and may have helpful tips and guidance to share. Or maybe you’ll find a like-minded peer with whom you can be study buddies! Take advantage of those around you to support you on this journey.
Practise, practise, practise - Our IMGs have shared that it’s crucial that you practice your clinical examinations as often as possible, preferably under the supervision of a senior colleague which will allow you to receive feedback.
Join our online psychiatry community - for news and updates about all things psychiatry for IMGs, follow IMG Connect on social media and join the conversation.
I've passed, what’s next?
Once you’ve passed MRCPsych CASC, you’ve completed the Royal College of Psychiatrists examination suite. Great stuff, this is a massive achievement! Armed with this and your English language test, you are ready to apply for full GMC registration with license to practice.
You may want to start looking for NHS jobs and with the click of a button, you can receive them directly to your inbox. To receive jobs postings which you can tailor to your desired grade, specialty and sub-specialism, sign up here.
If you have any questions about any element of CASC, the Royal College exams as a whole or any other queries related to the processes involved in IMGs coming to the UK to work in the NHS, please get in touch and our psychiatry specialist will be more than happy to assist you.
For access to a community of like-minded MRCPsych aspirants 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.
The histopathology job market in the UK is fantastic.
Vacancies for histopathologists coming from outside of the UK can be found in a variety of ways, and it can be a little confusing navigating the minefield that is GMC registration, a job search and considering what steps you need to take when relocating to the UK. Working with IMG Connect will give you easy access to vacancies for trained histopathologist, though remember your job opportunities will vary depending on what qualifications you hold, and how advanced your GMC registration is.
The IMG Connect job search is a dedicated online recruitment service for overseas doctors looking to secure a job in the NHS.
Save time and get expert advice based on your preferences
Performing a job search online can take up a lot of your time, so at IMG Connect we are here to do the time-consuming work for you. Upon registering, you will have a dedicated consultant whose role is to find jobs that match your skills, and apply for NHS jobs on your behalf.
You can receive jobs updates by E-mail to view new posts to suit your job search every day.
Create a profile – it takes 30 seconds
It really is that easy, so why not take advantage of our resources, time and energy to find you the right job in the NHS suited to your preferences. By providing us with some key details we can quickly assess which jobs are best suited to your preferences, and even email you job alerts for new exciting roles which we think will interest you!
We understand you, and our clients
When looking for a pathology job in the NHS, it can be hard to try to find out key information before applying, such as:
What specialty specific training or development will be avialable to you?
Can the trust support CESR applicants and is their CESR programme established enough for my needs?
What is the job plan and how much time will I spend my time?
What is it like to work and live there?
How does a histopathology department operate in the NHS?
What salary will I get paid, and can I earn extra through additional duties or private work?
It can be tricky to get all the answers you want before applying online, so we spend our time getting to know both our clients and you, finding out as much key information as possible to help you to make the right decisions. Including details on the pathology department, hospital & trust, as well as an overview of what it is like to live in the area, including housing and the cost of living, as well as access to schools for your children, childcare and finding work for spouses.
Making an impact
We will also provide you with top tips on CV writing, job applications and interviews, ensuring that your application and interview makes the most impact with our NHS clients.
Making it personal
Once registered, you can quickly search and apply for NHS jobs using our job search, and take advantage of many useful articles written to support you through your journey to the UK. In addition, when you sign up to 'job alerts' we will automatically email you each time a relevant Pathology vacancy comes available that you may be interested in. Once logged in, you can also save job details and make applications.
By registering with IMG Connect, you will:
Have a dedicated consultant who understands your preferences and will do the time-consuming job searches and applications for you.
Find your ideal NHS position amongst thousands of unadvertised vacancies - from consultant to middle grade
Be the first to hear about new vacancies – registering with IMG Connect means that your CV will gain priority with our NHS clients, and will professionally represented by international recruitment experts.
To help you find a job in the NHS simply follow these easy steps:
Register with IMG Connect
Fill in the 'Personal details' section.
Arrange a chat with your dedicated IMG Consultant
Sign up to receive 'job alerts’
Search our live pathology jobs
Searching for pathology jobs in the NHS could not be easier
If you want to find out more about the many different pathology jobs available within the NHS - it only takes a minute to register with IMG Connect and receive expert advice and representation. We have helped many overseas pathologists into consultant, specialty doctor, registrar, clinical fellow and staff grade NHS roles, whilst offering expert guidance to many more IMGs on NHS doctor pay, royal college qualifications and English language testing. We’d be happy to help you!
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.
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