IMG Library > EXAMS REGISTRATIONS QUALIFICATIONS

FRCR (Oncology) - a guide for overseas oncologists

• November 09, 2021

 

Overseas clinical or radiation oncologists wanting to secure a role in the UK via the postgraduate qualification route will need to attain Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR Oncology) in order to register with the GMC. FRCR Oncology is the UK Royal College qualification and the recommended route for oncologists looking to work in the UK as a specialist or consultant.

IMGs from any country in the world can sit the FRCR (Oncology) examinations, provided certain eligibility criteria are met.

These are summarised below along with a broad look at the following topics - skip to one of these sections if you know what you're looking for:

• What is FRCR (Oncology)?
• Am I eligible?
• What is the content and structure?
• Where and when can I sit the exams and how much will it cost me?
• How do I apply?
• How can I prepare for the exams?
• Passed? What next?

What is FRCR Oncology? 

Clincal oncologists become full members of the Royal College of Radiologists and achieve the designation, FRCR, once they have passed the three separate postgraduate medical exams that make up the FRCR (Oncology) examination suite. The FRCR (Oncology) examinations aim to test a candidate’s knowledge and clinical understanding against the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Oncology and the exams are a pre-requisite for anyone looking to go into a specialty training post as an oncologist in the UK. For more senior candidates, absence of FRCR (Oncology) will make it very difficult to attain locum-consultant posts unless you have a recognised equivalent or specialist registration in clinical oncology. 

The First FRCR Examination expects candidates to have acquired a broad knowledge of those subjects that relate to the investigation and management of patients with cancer. Candidates are examined against the Clinical Oncology curriculum. A new curriculum is being implemented from summer 2021, with all trainees expected to transfer to the new curriculum by August 2022 at the latest. Further details are available on the curriculum webpages. If you are unsure what curriculum you should be using for your studies in 2021 then please refer to the Royal College website page discussing the FRCR (Oncology) Part 1 exam here. 

When registering via the postgraduate route, only full FRCR satisfies the GMC postgraduate requirements for registration as an overseas doctor. There are three parts to the FRCR examinations:

1. FRCR (Oncology) Part 1 (CO1) > comprises four papers of single best answer (SBA) questions. The written papers for the four subjects are held twice a year over two consecutive days.
2. FRCR (Oncology) Part 2A (CO2A) (both must be passed in one sitting in order to attain a pass)
   • two separate single best answer papers
3. FRCR (Oncology) Part 2B (CO2B) 
   • a reporting session
   • a rapid reporting session
   • an oral examination

The FRCR (Oncology) examinations form an essential component of training for clinical or radiation oncologists in the UK. For overseas doctors relocating to the UK, FRCR is one of two options to support full GMC registration (postgraduate qualification or PLAB route). For doctors who wish to secure a senior clinical oncology job in the NHS reflective of their current practice, we advise that FRCR would be the best route to choose. FRCR is often an essential requirement for many job postings in the UK when a candidate does not already have Specialist Registration in Clinical Oncology or a recognised equivalent postgraduate qualification.

Eligibility for FRCR (Oncology): 

First FRCR: To be eligible you must:

• hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes.
• have completed courses covering the syllabus in the subjects listed below.
  • Cancer Biology and Radiobiology
  • Clinical Pharmacology

  • Medical Statistics
  • Physics
• There is no requirement to have held a clinical oncology training post in order to attempt the First FRCR Examination.

Final FRCR Part A: To be eligible you must: 

• have passed the First FRCR examination
• must have passed the First FRCR examination and have completed three years of supervised clinical oncology training covering the examination syllabus.
• In exceptional circumstances, with support from the Training Programme Director and at the discretion of the Medical Director (Education and Training), this minimum training period may be reduced to two years and six months.

Final FRCR Part B: To be eligible you must: 

• have passed the Final FRCR Part A, First FRCR and have completed three years of supervised clinical oncology training 

Content and structure for FRCR (Oncology)

First FRCR Examination: It is delivered through a digital platform and as such is now also available at a larger number of test centres than before. The First FRCR Examination comprises four papers of single best answer (SBA) questions. The written papers for the four subjects are held twice a year over two consecutive days. Further general information on the examination shows in the guidance notes for candidates here, however it can be summarised as below:

Each SBA question comprises a stem (a question or statement) and five items (answers) [labelled (a) to (e)]. Candidates are asked to decide which one of the five items represents the best answer to the question given in the stem. The four modules break down as below:

Cancer Biology and Radiobiology: the processes of cancer cell transformation and tumour development and how these processes may be demonstrated, and the response to ionising radiation of cells both individually and grouped as tissues.

Clinical Pharmacology: the structure, action, use and evaluation of drugs used in the treatment of a patient with cancer.

Medical Statistics: with special reference to clinical trials and assessment of results, and the epidemiology of cancer.

Physics: the application of physical principles and methods in clinical radiotherapy, physical basis of the therapeutic uses of radioactive isotopes, radiation hazards and protection. A knowledge of SI units is expected.

Final FRCR (Part A): The examination expects candidates to have a wide knowledge of malignant disease and the management of patients with cancer. The main emphasis is on radiotherapy and drug therapy, but a good knowledge of general medicine, surgery and gynaecology is expected. You will be examined against the specialty training curriculum for clinical oncology and the clinical oncology syllabus. The Final FRCR (Part A) Examination comprises two papers of 120 single best answer (SBA) questions. It is held twice a year, normally in February and August/September and you are given three hours to answer each of the papers. Read the college's Purpose of Assessment to see this information in detail - however below we summarise the content and structure for FRCR Part A.

*The miscellaneous section contains questions on thyroid cancer, sarcoma, unknown primary, regulations, palliative care and a small set of questions that do not specifically fit into a defined site specific category.

FRCR Part 2B (Oncology) (CO2B): The exam requires you to have a wide understanding of malignant disease and management of patients with cancer. The biggest emphasis here is radiotherapy and drug therapy, though a strong knowledge of general medicine, surgery and gynaecology is expected also. You will be examined against the specialty training curriculum for clinical oncology and the clinical oncology syllabus.

The exam has both a clinical and oral component. Read the Royal College's Final FRCR Purpose of Assessment to understand the format and content in more detail, however a brief summary of both part is below:

Clinical Examination: This is the practical element and will involve you rotating round five strictly timed clinical assessment 'stations' where your skills are assessed by a pair of examiners. This part is to test the skills and competencies that are essential for safe and effective clinical practice as a clinical oncologist in the NHS. Patients with real clinical signs are used throughout this examination, allowing you to demonstrate your knowledge and judgment in as a realistic a scenario possible. 

The clinical examination will assess your ability to:

• identify important clinical signs using effective examination techniques
• give a rationale differential diagnosis
• order and interpret appropriate investigations
• identify the main treatment options
• select an appropriate, safe and sensible management plan
• recommend a safe radiotherapy technique, understanding and communicating the likely outcomes & side effects
• recommend a safe systemic treatment schedule, understanding and communicating their likely outcomes and side effects
• clearly discuss a likely prognosis in the case presented
• clearly demonstrate an ability to treat the patient sensitively, ensuring their comfort and dignity

Oral Examination: The structured oral examination assesses in-depth issues surrounding radiotherapy planning, diagnostic imaging and clinical decision-making and case management. Communication and ethical scenarios are addressed during this examination. It will mirror day-to-day clinical discussions and MDT meetings, essential elements to a Clinical Oncologist's role in the UK. There are several slides per question, and your answers can lead to further questions on subsequent slides by the examiners. The questions build as the discussion develops, and this oral examination allows each step of the case to be assessed and discussed as it would be in a real-life clinical scenario. 

The structured oral examinations allow for fair, valid and reliable assessments due to:

• uniformity of questions asked
• pairing of examiners (junior and senior) allowing for ongoing training and accurate data capture and marking
• four independent judgments of your performance
• the examination is blueprinted against both the curriculum and the range of RCR-designated skills required to be a competent oncologist in the NHS
• the use of an objective marking scheme which details the essential points required to pass each question

As an overseas candidate, where & when can I sit the exams and how much will they cost me? 

This link takes you to the examination updates section. Information on the dates, fees and venues for the FRCR examinations can found here. 

How do I apply for the FRCR (Oncology) examinations?

UK Trainees are given priority for examination places, whilst overseas candidates are offered the remaining places via a ballot system following the application closing date. If you've had your exam deferred due to cancellations over the last year, you will be prioritised. 

The Royal College urges anyone applying to read the examinations guidance before doing so. Applications are made online via the Royal College website here.

How should I prepare for the FRCR (Oncology) exams? 

With lots of materials online, we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for resources and materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you prepare, see below: 

Syllabus: The syllabus should always be your go-to for your studies. This is what you will be tested on, so it should be the foundation of your studies and preparation. As of May 2021 the new curriculum has been approved by the GMC but is pending full publication. You can find this on the Royal College website here.

Clinical Oncology Curriculum implementation tools - a variety of tools are available to support the implementation of the new curricula. This page is very useful and has many different tools within the page. You can access it here.

Remote proctoring guidance - this is a new system and as with anything techy, problems can arise! Use this section of the Royal College to familiarise yourself with the new system with the new normal. Access this page here.

First FRCR examiners' reports - a guide for candidates and trainers preparing for future sittings. Access this here.

Trainees share their experiences of the Final FRCR examination - a two-part audio series featuring trainees talking about their experiences of preparing for and taking the examination.

Final FRCR examiner reports - a guide for candidates and trainers preparing for future sittings. Access the examiner reports archive here.

Final FRCR Part B demonstration films - clinical and oral demonstration videos. Access the Part B demonstration films here.

Sample oral questions - sample questions for the oral component of the Final FRCR Part B examination. You can access the sample questions here.

Connect with the Royal College - connect with the Royal College on YouTube to see their numerous videos that can be used for training and information purposes. Their channel can be found here.

IMG Oncologists

Join the IMG Oncologists Facebook group for access to a community of like-minded FRCR (Oncology) aspirants and dedicated oncology recruiters.

In this group you will find tailored resources for oncology IMGs, including access to our FRCR (Oncology) crash courses, completely free to all doctors.

You can access our IMG Oncologists community here.

I passed the FRCR Oncology exams! What next?

First of all, congratulations! After you have passed all three parts of your FRCR examinations, you can apply for a full registration with a license to practice. Once the GMC has approved your application, you can work as a doctor in the UK. This exam will form an integral part of any CESR application (if that is your route to specialist registration) and in most cases, if you have previous and relevant experience, will allow you to practice as a locum consultant clinical oncologist whilst you are not an accredited specialist on the specialist register. 

For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below: 

Relevant Jobs

Locum Consultant in Medical Oncology Gi & Lung Malignancies

105,504- 139,882

UK

Fixed Term

An NHS hospital in London is looking for a Locum Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in GI and Lung malignancies. The Oncology department comprises a team of 16 Consultant Oncologists and is supported by a multidisciplinary team of nurses, pharmacists, and radiographers. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or MRCP qualifications are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Applicants should have full GMC registration, MRCP (or equivalent), and substantial experience in Medical Oncology. Interest in Lung  and GI malignancies is essential. The salary will be between £105,504- £139,882 dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

• Provide specialist care for Breast and Lower GI cancer patients, including outpatient and radiotherapy services.
• Actively participate in multidisciplinary team meetings for Lung and GI malignancies.
• Engage in research, clinical audits, and teaching activities to support professional development.
• Contribute to the Acute Oncology Service (AOS) and provide clinical supervision for junior medical staff.

LIFE IN LONDON

London offers a dynamic and diverse environment with a mix of bustling urban areas and quieter suburban neighborhoods. It provides access to world-class educational institutions, excellent transport links, and a wide range of cultural, leisure, and historical attractions. London’s rich history and multicultural vibrancy make it an ideal location for both professional development and personal fulfillment.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

• CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
• Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms and recruitment practices.
• At least two video-calling interview preparation sessions.
• Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and guided throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives, including:

• Document gathering and checking.
• COS and visa application support if applicable.
• Assistance with sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
• Travel arrangements.
• Family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.

Locum Consultant Medical Oncologist - Breast & Colorectal

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An NHS hospital in the Midlands is looking for a Consultant Medical Oncologist with an interest in Breast and Colorectal cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of 2 Medical Oncologists and 10 Clinical Oncologists and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or MRCP/FRCR qualifications are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Applicants should have full GMC registration, MRCP and FRCR (or equivalent), and substantial experience in Medical Oncology. Interest in Breast and Colorectal cancers is essential. The salary will be between £105,504 - £139,882, dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

• Provide comprehensive oncological care, including management of Breast and Colorectal cancer patients.
• Attend and actively participate in relevant multidisciplinary team meetings.
• Engage in clinical audits, teaching, and research initiatives.
• Participate in the on-call rota and provide clinical supervision for junior medical staff.

LIFE IN THE MIDLANDS

The Midlands offers a mix of vibrant urban areas and picturesque rural settings. The region provides excellent schools, efficient transport links to major UK cities, and an array of leisure activities including cultural events, historical sites, and opportunities for outdoor adventures. The Midlands\' rich industrial and cultural heritage adds to its appeal, making it an excellent place to live and work.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

• CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
• Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms and recruitment practices.
• At least two video-calling interview preparation sessions.
• Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and guided throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives, including:

• Document gathering and checking.
• COS and visa application support if applicable.
• Assistance with sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
• Travel arrangements.
• Family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.

Consultant in Clinical Oncology in Breast/Gynae

105,504- 139,882

Wales

Fixed Term

An NHS hospital in Wales is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Breast and Gynaecological cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of consultant and is supported by a large team of specialty doctors and registrars. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or FRCR/MRCP are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Applicants should have full GMC registration, FRCR/MRCP (or equivalent), and substantial experience in Clinical Oncology. Interest in Breast and Gynaecological cancers is essential. The salary will be between £105,504- £139,882 dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

• Provide comprehensive oncological care, including outpatient and inpatient management of Breast and Gynaecological cancer patients.
• Attend and actively participate in relevant multidisciplinary team meetings.
• Contribute to clinical audits, teaching, and research initiatives.
• Participate in the on-call rota and provide clinical supervision for junior medical staff.

LIFE IN WALES

Wales is renowned for its stunning landscapes, from the dramatic peaks of Snowdonia to its serene coastline. Urban living can be enjoyed in bustling towns, while rural options offer peace and natural beauty in the countryside. The area provides excellent schools, reliable transport links to major UK cities, and a wealth of leisure opportunities, including outdoor pursuits, cultural festivals, and historical landmarks. Wales’ rich cultural heritage and medieval history make it a unique and rewarding place to live and work.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

• CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
• Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms and recruitment practices.
• At least two video-calling interview preparation sessions.
• Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and guided throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives, including:

• Document gathering and checking.
• COS and visa application support if applicable.
• Assistance with sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
• Travel arrangements.
• Family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.

Consultant Clinical Oncologist (Breast)

105,504- 139,882

UK

Fixed Term

An NHS hospital in the East of England is looking for a Fixed-Term Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Breast. The Oncology department comprises a team of 11 Clinical Oncologists and 4 Medical Oncologists, supported by specialty doctors and trainees. This role is open to both international and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Applicants should have full GMC registration and significant experience in clinical oncology. Interest in Breast is essential. The salary will be between £105,504- £139,882 dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

• Provide comprehensive service for oncology management, particularly for Breast tumour sites, attending MDTs as needed.
• Participate in a consultant rota for emergency duties and reciprocal cover during absences.
• Engage in teaching, research, and audit activities within the Oncology department.
• Undertake clinical supervision for junior doctors and trainees as required.

LIFE IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND

The hospital is based in a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque architecture. Residents can choose between vibrant urban living or a peaceful rural lifestyle in nearby charming villages. The region offers excellent schools, convenient transport links, and a variety of leisure activities, including cultural events, outdoor pursuits, and family-friendly attractions. Historically, the area has played a significant role in British agriculture and is celebrated for its contributions during World War II.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

• CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
• Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
• At least two video-calling interview preparation sessions
• Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:

• Document gathering and checking
• COS and Visa Application support if applicable
• Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
• Travel arrangements
• Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care

Consultant Clinical Oncologist (Gynae and Skin)

105,504- 139,882

UK

Fixed Term

An NHS hospital in the East Midlands is looking for a Locum Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Gynaecological and Skin cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of 24 consultants and is supported by a large team of specialist doctors and registrars. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR/MRCP are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Full GMC registration, FRCR/MRCP (or equivalent), and oncology experience at SpR or equivalent level are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Gynaecological and Skin cancers should apply. The salary will be between dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

• Provide high-quality oncology services, including radiotherapy and systemic therapies, for Head and Neck and Skin cancers.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and clinical governance activities.
• Engage in clinical trials and contribute to research initiatives.
• Supervise and mentor junior medical staff and participate in teaching programmes.

LIFE IN THE EAST MIDLANDS

The East Midlands offers a mix of urban living in thriving cities and serene rural landscapes in the surrounding counties. Urban living can be enjoyed in bustling towns and cities, while rural options include charming villages and countryside retreats. The region has excellent schools, efficient transport links to London and the North, and diverse leisure opportunities including cultural festivals, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities. Its rich history and cultural diversity make it a highly desirable place to live and work.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?*

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

• CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
• Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms and recruitment practices.
• At least two video-calling interview preparation sessions.
• Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and guided throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives, including:

• Document gathering and checking.
• COS and visa application support if applicable.
• Assistance with sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
• Travel arrangements.
• Family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.