FRCPath Part 2 – a detailed guide for overseas histopathologists 

  • November 05, 2021
 

The final exam in the FRCPath Histopathology series... 

International specialists in histopathology, cellular pathology or anatomic pathology looking to secure a job in the UK via the postgraduate qualification route will need to obtain Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists or FRCPath Histopathology by examination only.  

The completion of Part 1 and Part 2 of the Royal College of Pathology qualification for Histopathology results in eligibility for GMC registration (with the addition of the English language component). The FRCPath qualification is recommended for international pathologists looking to securing senior jobs in the NHS.  

The exams can be taken by IMGs from all over the world, provided certain eligibility criteria have been met.

Here we’ll take a closer look into these and other important questions through the following topics - skip to one of these sections if you know what you're looking for:

An overview of FRCPath Histopathology 

The FRCPath Histopathology exams are administered by the Royal College of Pathologists to test a doctor's knowledge and ability to apply this in the practice of histopathology within the scope of the Specialty Training Curriculum for Histopathology.  

The exams are as follows: 

  • FRCPath Part 1 
  • FRCPath Part 2 

To read more about the full FRCPath examination suite via out IMG resources, please click here

Please note that only full FRCPath satisfies the requirements for GMC registration for overseas doctors taking the postgraduate route. Alternative routes to GMC registration include PLAB and licensing exams such as USMLE. You can find out more about alternative routes here

For doctors who are interested in more senior roles in the NHS that are reflective of their current practice, we advise that FRCPath is the best route to take to GMC registration. Histopathology in the UK is consultant-led specialism; and many NHS job postings will have FRCPath as a requirement for doctors who are not on the Specialist Register. In most cases, and FRCPath qualification will help you to attain a locum consultant role. 

What is FRCPath Part 2? 

FRCPath Part 2 is the last exam in the FRCPath qualification. It is designed to recognise candidates who are close to the end of their training who can demonstrate an appropriate approach to independent practice. The assessment consists of six components which are take over a period of two days. The components include both written and face-to-face elements with an examiner where candidates are expected to demonstrate both clinical and practical knowledge as well as special techniques and complex diagnoses. Every section assesses a distinct set of professional skills which are all essential to effective performance ad an independent histopathologist and cytopathologist. 

Am I eligible to sit this exam? 

The FRCPath Part 2 Histopathology exam is open to candidates from every country, provided they have met certain criteria. This includes the expectation that most trainees will sit the Part 2 exam after at least 3 years of specialty training in Histopathology. There should also normally be a 12-month wait between passing the Part 1 exam and attempting Part 2.  

For full details, please see the Royal College website here

How is the exam structured and marked? 

The six stations of FRCPath Part 2 are detailed below: 

Surgical Histology  

Format: 20 x 20 mins stations, 20 cases over 3 hours and 20 minutes.  

This will include twenty cases presented in H&E stained slides in 20-minute slots over 3 hours and 20 minutes. The cases are selected according to a blueprint and include a balanced mix of neoplastic and non-neoplastic material, drawn from a wide range of organ systems. The cases will vary in difficulty from straightforward cases to cases not capable of diagnosis through a single H&E, prompting the use of further techniques and specialist opinions. 

Cytopathology  

Format: 8 x 20 mins stations, 16 cases 

Eight non-gynaecological cases in pairs, in 20-minute slots and will be marked according to pre-determined criteria. 

Macroscopic Pathology 

Format: 2 x 20 mins stations, 4 cases; 20 mins discussion 

Candidates will be provided with photos of 4 cases in the form of gross pathology specimens. Candidates will be provided with clinical information and asked to prepare responses to specific questions and mark on the photos where they would take blocks. There will be two 20-minute slots given to view two cases per slot, followed by a 20-minute discussion with two examiners. The exercise is designed for candidates to show their capabilities in discussing gross pathology and familiarity with block selection in relation to the RCPath Minimum datasets. 

OSPEs 

Format: 2 x 20 mins stations 

The objective structured practical examination (OPSE) includes two 20-minute stations, one of which is a written exercise and the other is conducted face-to-face with two examiners. Topics may include management/ clinical governance type and MDT-type cases, amongst other topics. 

Long Cases 

Format: 4 x 20 mins stations 

Four 20-minute stations of cases which cannot usually be covered by a single H&E section, requiring additional stains. These may include histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, among other cases. 

Frozen Sections 

Format: 2 x 20 mins stations, 6 cases; 20 mins discussion 

Six cases for review in two 20-minute stations where candidates should make notes, including a ‘bottom line’ diagnosis only, before discussing these with a pair of examiners in a face-to-face 20-minute station. 

Exam marking  

Each section of the exam is marked against a pre-determined specimen answer with a pass or fail awarded per section. Due to the importance of cellular pathology in medical practice, only a small margin of inaccuracy is allowed. Failure to distinguish across the benign/ malignant boundary (or other similar errors of equal significance in terms of affecting patient outcome) in 15-25% of cases in any section of the exam will result in a failure of the entire exam, regardless of performance in other areas with no leeway to compensate. Final marks will be approved by the Examinations Committee. 

Candidates attempting the FRCPath Part 2 exam have four attempts within which to pass the exam, and 7-years between each sitting to pass the full qualification. 

As an international histopathologist, where can I sit the exam? 

The exam currently takes place twice a year in Spring and Autumn and are held in the UK and in one overseas centre in Irbid, Jordan.  

For up-to-date information on exam centres, visit the Royal College website here

How much will the exam cost? 

The FRCPath Part 2 exam costs £1,416. A breakdown of the cost of the 2019 sitting of the exam can be found on the Royal College website here

How do I apply for the exam? 

Applications for each sitting of the exam open months in advance and are currently closed for the Autumn 2021 sitting. Applications for the Spring 2022 sitting will open in late 2021. Late applications are not accepted. Keep an eye on the Royal College website for up-to-date information on applications here

What is the best way to prepare for the exam? 

There are several resources available to help you prepare for your Histopathology FRCPath exam. As always, we recommend that the best starting point for your study is the Royal College website, particularly the Curriculum for Specialty Training in Histopathology. Your exam is based on this curriculum so familiarising yourself with it as soon as possible will give you the best chance for success. 

Other helpful resources for your study include: 

Regulations and guidelines – before applying for FRCPath exams, the College recommends you read both the general and specialty-specific regulations and guidelines, found below: 

Social media study groups – there are multiple study groups available across different platforms such as Telegram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. IMG Connect hosts study groups for FRCPath Part 2 – these are forums that bring together international doctors from all over the world in one communicative, constructive, and moderated space for learning, sharing, and supporting international histopathologists. 

If you are interested in joining the IMG Connect FRCPath Part 2 study group, please email info@imgconnect.co.uk to speak to our histopathology specialist and request your admission. 

Online courses, videos and other resources - there are some great online courses and resources available to prepare for the FRCPath Part 2 exam. These include everything from full mock exams to mock exams targeting specific sections of FRCPath Part 2 and YouTube videos. You can find a full list of these here, through our IMG resources library. 

FAQs - there is also a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document which the Royal College have compiled to help applicants who have questions about online examinations. You can read this here

#IMG Tips 

  1. Prepare early – getting your revision going as soon as possible will help you avoid those last-minute cramming sessions and increase your chances of passing first time. 
  2. Speak to your senior colleagues and peers – there are so many study materials to choose from - who better to ask for recommendations than histopathologists who have been through the process or are going through it with you? 
  3. Food and drink – there are multiple stations on both days of the exams so make sure you’re prepared with lots of fuel for the day as there may be no access to food. 
  4. Hire a microscope – for applicants for the UK sitting, examination centres will not have microscopes for you to use so you will need to hire one in advance. There are a few companies who rent microscope and you can find these through a quick web search! 
  5. Join the conversation – for news and updates on all things histopathology for IMGs, click here follow IMG Connect on social media and join the conversation. 

I’ve passed the FRCPath exams, what’s next? 

Firstly, congratulations! The FRCPath exams are not easy so this is an incredible achievement. Once you have passed both passed of the FRCPath in Histopathology, your postgraduate qualifications satisfy the requirements for GMC registration. You can now apply for full registration with license to practice. 

Get in touch with our IMG Connect histopathology specialist to discuss your options for specialist jobs in the UK or to find out more about where you fit into the NHS as a histopathology specialist with FRCPath.  

FRCPath also plays a big part in the Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR) application, the alternative route to the Specialist Register for overseas doctors who did not complete their training in an approved UK training programme. You can find out more about CESR in our guide for international doctors here

The team at IMG Connect hope you find this article helpful and wish you the best of luck in your FRCPath Histopathology Part 2 exam! 

Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:

            

 

Relevant Jobs

A NHS district general hospital in the South West is looking for a Consultant Histopathologist with an interest in bowel cancer screening. The histopathology department comprises a team of five consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This histopathology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath 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 hold full GMC registration, FRCPath or equivalent qualifications, and have at least three years of higher training. Those with an interest in bowel cancer screening are encouraged to apply. The salary will be between £99,532 and £131,964 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide a comprehensive histopathology and cytopathology reporting service, including work from the bowel cancer screening programme.
  • Participate in post mortem services, including coroner’s cases.
  • Attend and present cases at multidisciplinary meetings.
  • Contribute to the department\'s clinical governance and medical audit processes.

LIFE IN THE SOUTH WEST

The hospital is located in a coastal region, with popular residential options in both urban and rural settings. The area offers excellent schools, transport links, and leisure activities, from beach sports to countryside hikes. Historically, the region is known for its significant tourist draw due to the beautiful coastal landscape and maritime history.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOUR APPLICATION?

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 to your new role including:

  • Document gathering and checking
  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Short- and long-term accommodation sourcing
  • Travel Arrangements
  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
105,504 - £139,882
A Northern English NHS Trust is looking for a specialist register consultant histopathologist to join their pathology department, open to European specialists or those who have successfully gone through CESR. The role is available for additional earnings due to the need for postmortem reporting, something this role will majorly focus on. 

WHAT IS THE NHS TRUST LIKE?

This is one of the country’s top performing NHS foundation trusts, looking after the wellbeing of around half a million people. Hospital services are provided from 4 hospitals, with care also provided in people’s homes and other community facilities. They are also planning to rebuild a nearby existing community hospital, replacing the old hospital with an integrated health and social care facility. They have also opened a state-of-the-art NHS centre to bring together outpatient and diagnostic services, as well as primary care, under one roof. The Trust has received significant recognition including:
  • Being named among the 40 best performing NHS organisations in CHKS Top Hospitals programme 2015 for the eighth consecutive year
  • Rated 6th in the country for cancer patient experience (Macmillan)
  • Named ‘overall best trust’ at Patient Experience Network National Awards 2014
  • 11th in country in national A&E patient survey (CQC)
  • Named ‘Provider Trust of the Year’ at the HSJ awards 2013
  • Special recognition award at the national Patient Safety Congress
  • Patient Safety Award for pharmacist prescribing (UK Clinical Pharmacy Association)
  • British Medical Journal’s (BMJ) patient safety award for the trust’s Hip Quality
  • Improvement Programme

In March 2015, they were also chosen as a ‘vanguard’ site by NHS England – one of eight sites in the country to be tasked with taking a national lead on transforming care for patients and in July 2015, Jeremy Hunt, the health secretary, named the trust as an NHS organisation providing the very best standard of seven-day services for our patients, a standard to which other NHS trusts should aspire. The trust offers a wide range of specialties with some of the largest specialist departments in the region, including the largest trauma and orthopaedics service, one of the largest cardiology departments and one of the largest units in the region for colorectal surgery services.

WHAT IS THE PATHOLOGY DEPARTMENT LIKE? 

The department has full UKAS ISO 15189 accreditation. It\'s Histopathology and Cytopathology services are centralised into a custom-built laboratory in April 2003, which has accommodation for eight consultants plus specialist registrars. There is a well-equipped library and teaching suite within the department. Fully automated immunohistochemistry is provided with a comprehensive range of routine antibodies available at the Trust. The laboratories are served by the Telepath computer system with links across the Trust and NHS networks. PathoSys is used for reporting breast cores and resection specimens, colorectal cancer specimens, bowel cancer screening specimens, cervical punch and loop biopsies and bronchial biopsies and in line with recent advances in the field of histopathology, the department has introduced and have recently gone live with skin
reporting. The team consists of five consultant Histopathologists, two Specialty Doctors, plus up to two specialist registrars on rotation from a nearby infirmary who cover histopathology and cytology on a rota basis. The non-gynae cytology plus the surgical histology workload will be shared equally.

WHAT CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE? 

The Trust and Histopathology team are dedicated to supporting their doctors\' career development through devising a personal development plan, the post holder will be required to agree a programme of continuing professional development which meets his/her and service provision requirements. Regular MDT meetings are held for lung, colorectal, breast and upper GI. High definition videoconferencing and slide projection facilities are available in the MDT suites on the North Tyneside and Wansbeck sites and there will also be opportunity for the development of teaching experience. Undergraduate students from the affiliated University are regularly attached to clinical teams within the Trust and the new appointee would be expected to undertake teaching at an undergraduate level throughout the Trust, including the assessment of clinical medical students and examining from time to time.

They would also be expected to to participate in clinical audit activities (personal, departmental and inter-departmental) including clinical audit meetings. The post holder will have a reflective approach to their own practice with an ability to acknowledge poor behaviour and act upon feedback sought from others during the Trusts 360o appraisal.

The Trust has also puts emphasis on their commitment to the development of leadership skills.

LIFE IN THE REGION:

The region offers both the opportunity for scenery but also city living. Firstly, there is easy accessibility to one of the finest coasts in Britain, with unspoilt sandy beaches and wild rocky headlands, as well as the National Park with its 400 square miles of wooded valleys and open moorland rich in wildlife. The North Pennines are an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the wildest and least populated region of high moorland in England. Sailing, golf, fishing, riding, walking, cycling, rock climbing, gliding and watersport facilities abound and there are most types of sporting and leisure pursuits including major national football, rugby, cricket, athletics and horse racing venues within easy reach.

Then, the vibrant and modern city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne is the major educational, cultural and business centre for the North East of England and offers a combination of lively bars, top-rated nightclubs and many musical and theatrical attractions. Eldon Square is an excellent shopping centre in the City and for a complete shopping experience, the Metro Centre in Gateshead boasts over 360 shops and services all under one roof. A magnificent new Concert Hall has been constructed on the opposite side of the river to the Quayside Development.

A neighbouring pleasant market town boasts a race course, three golf courses, an historic abbey and a country park, is located 20 miles west of Newcastle upon-Tyne. Situated in the Tyne Valley, Hexham is the focal point for the rural Tynedale District, the largest local authority district in England and one of the most consistently beautiful. The town enjoys good road and public transport links to Newcastle. To the west of Hexham is the City of Carlisle and the M6. The town is also particularly well placed for access to the Lake District.

For families, local education opportunities are very good, with a number of league-leading junior, senior and sixth form schools and colleges in both the private and public sector. Housing is excellent with a wide range of affordable properties both period and modern. As a result of the proximity to the National Park, its historic centre and relative prosperity, this area is now one of the most popular residential locations in North East England with reasonable house prices. The region also has an excellent road, rail and metro network, and the busy ports have regular sailings to the continent. From Newcastle International Airport, flights are available to most national and international destinations.

AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?

EEA candidates: 

  • Recognised European Medical Degree or Specialist Qualification in Histopathology
  • Full and specialist registration (and with a license to practice) with the General Medical Council or be eligible for registration within six months of interview
  • Experience in postmortem, and prostate and skin pathology

Non-EEA candidates: 

  • FRCPath
  • Full and specialist registration (and with a license to practice) with the General Medical Council or be eligible for registration within six months of interview
  • Experience in postmortem, and prostate and skin pathology

UK-based candidates: 

  • Within 6-months of CESR or CCT in Histopathology
  • Experience in postmortem, and prostate and skin pathology
99,532 - 131,964

An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Locum Consultant Histopathology to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant working in an established Histopathology department in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support, and international applications from IMGs are welcome.

The NHS Trust

This NHS Trust is a modern and progressive healthcare organization located in the UK. The Trust provides a wide range of acute and general hospital services, serving a large and diverse population. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to providing the highest quality care, the Trust is dedicated to supporting the professional growth of its staff. The Trust has a strong focus on patient-centered care and works closely with the community to ensure the delivery of comprehensive health services. As an NHS Trust, it offers a dynamic and supportive environment, making it an ideal place for doctors looking to develop their careers within the NHS.

The Trust is also involved in various research initiatives and collaborates with academic institutions, further enhancing its reputation as a leader in healthcare. This is an excellent NHS job opportunity for those interested in joining a forward-thinking organization committed to clinical excellence.

The Department & Team

The Histopathology Department at this NHS Trust is a well-established and highly regarded unit within the organization. The department is equipped with the latest diagnostic technologies, enabling the delivery of high-quality pathology services. The team is composed of experienced consultants, specialty doctors, and a skilled support staff, all working collaboratively to provide accurate and timely diagnostic services. The department plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of various medical conditions, making it an integral part of the hospital’s operations.

The team is known for its supportive and inclusive environment, which encourages continuous learning and professional development. Regular multidisciplinary meetings and case discussions are held to ensure the highest standards of patient care. This NHS job offers an excellent opportunity for doctors to join a team that values clinical excellence and is committed to providing the best possible outcomes for patients.

Continued Professional Development

This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within Histopathology, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interest. The Histopathology Department at this NHS Trust is dedicated to the continuous professional development of its staff. Doctors joining the department will have access to a wide range of educational resources, including regular training sessions, workshops, and seminars. The department also encourages participation in research activities and offers support for those interested in pursuing academic qualifications.

Additionally, there are opportunities to attend national and international conferences, further enhancing the learning experience. The Trust’s commitment to professional development ensures that doctors are well-equipped to achieve their career goals while contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge.

Location

This area in the UK is an excellent place for international doctors to relocate to, offering a high quality of life for both individuals and families. The region is known for its affordable cost of living compared to other parts of the UK, making it an attractive option for those looking to settle in the country. Safety is a top priority, with the area boasting low crime rates and a friendly community atmosphere. The region is home to a variety of schools, both public and private, that provide excellent educational opportunities for children. There are numerous things to do, from exploring beautiful parks and natural areas to enjoying a vibrant arts and culture scene.

The area also benefits from excellent transport connections, with easy access to major cities via road and rail. Additionally, the region is diverse and multicultural, making it a welcoming place for people from all backgrounds.

Am I eligible for this role?

UK based candidates:

  • Experience in Histopathology

EEA candidates: 

  • Experience in Histopathology
  • European Specialist Qualification

Non-EEA candidates:

  • FRCPath
  • Experience in Histopathology
99,532 - 131,964

A leading UK-based pathology service is seeking a European or UK accredited Histopathologist to join their expanding team at a newly refurbished pathology hub. The modern laboratory features fully integrated digital pathology services and a highly experienced, diverse team, making it an ideal environment for both newly qualified and experienced pathologists looking to further their specialisation. The department is recognised for its high performance and supportive atmosphere, offering an excellent opportunity for doctors, whether new to the UK healthcare system or those looking to advance their careers.

Pathology Service Overview

This prominent pathology service provides a comprehensive range of diagnostic services, including biochemistry, haematology, microbiology, and histopathology, to a large catchment area. It is supported by a multidisciplinary team of consultants and specialists, ensuring high-quality and timely care across hospitals and clinics.

Career Development Opportunities

The service is committed to the ongoing development of its medical staff, with opportunities to pursue sub-specialisation in areas of anatomical interest. The new appointee will contribute to both formal and informal teaching of trainees and may participate in postgraduate education programs. There are also opportunities for research through the dedicated Research and Development Department, with research actively encouraged during designated sessions. Furthermore, the new consultant will gain valuable experience participating in multidisciplinary team meetings (MDTs), which are regularly held within the department.

Living in the Region

The area offers a unique combination of both tranquil rural settings and vibrant city life. Residents can explore beautiful landscapes or enjoy cultural attractions in nearby cities. The region is home to esteemed universities and quality schools, with well-established transport links connecting it to major cities and airports. Housing options range from charming historic homes in smaller towns to contemporary developments in more urban areas, accommodating a variety of lifestyles.

How will IMG Connect support your application to this role?

Any European or UK-based histopathologists on the specialist register for histopathology will be eligible to apply, as will any IMG having undergone the CESR pathway to secure specialist registration. 

IMG Connect can subsequently help you with CV preparation, interview practice, contract negotiations, and subsequent relocation planning to the UK, for you and your family. 

For any overseas doctor looking to develop as a specialst in the UK, IMG will keep it simple for you!

50,00 - 80,000

IMG Connect are proud to be representing NHS England in the recruitment of a paediatric & perinatal fellowship role, providing overseas pathologist the access to specialist registration / CESR in their field, without the need to enter specialty training. With the opportunity to work in either one or multiple of the UK\'s largest and most established NHS pathology departmetns, this Fellowship in Paediatric and Perinatal Pathology is ideal for either paediatric pathologists with extensive overseas experience, or young-aspiring pathologists with a strong interest and desire to train further in paediatric & perinatal pathology.

The Fellowship is designed as an 18 month training programme for international medical graduates who are experienced paediatric/perinatal foetal pathologists who are willing to work as consultants in this field in the UK. You will work and train in one or two of the NHS\'s largest and most renowned institutions.

Am I eligiible?

  • Full FRCPath Histopathology is desirable
  • FRCPath Part 1 is essential
  • Current active duties in adult autopsy
  • 5-years histopathology experience, including some performance of perinatal autopsies as well as adult autopsy.
  • Pass in either IELTS or OET

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