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

105,504 to 139,882

A leading NHS hospital in South West England is looking for a Consultant in Histopathology with an interest in general histopathology and non-gynae cytology, with opportunities to develop a special interest. The Histopathology department consists of a team of highly experienced consultants, supported by middle-grade doctors. This Histopathology job is open to both international and UK-based applicants, though those with FRCPath or equivalent qualifications are particularly 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

FRCPath or equivalent qualification and CCT within 6 months of interview (or international equivalent) with experience in general histopathology and non-gynae cytology are required for this role, and The salary will be between the standard NHS Consultant pay scale, with salary dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide high-quality histopathology and non-gynae cytology diagnostics.
  • Participate in MDT meetings and offer expert histopathological opinions.
  • Engage in teaching and mentorship of junior doctors and medical students.
  • Contribute to audit, governance, and quality assurance initiatives.

LIFE IN SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

This hospital is located in a thriving town in South West England, offering urban living with access to quieter rural surroundings. The region provides excellent schools, strong transport links to major cities, and a variety of recreational activities, including beaches, national parks, and cultural festivals.

Historically, the area is known for its medieval landmarks, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, making it an excellent location for both professional and personal life.

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
105,504 to 139,882
A teaching hospital in South England are looking to appoint a consultant histopathologist on a remote basis to report digitally for uro-pathology, skin, and breast pathology cases. Should candidate wish to be based on site, or with a hybrid work pattern this can of course be facilitated. 

Cellular Pathology Services

The Cellular and Anatomical Pathology Department encompasses histopathology, cytopathology, neuropathology, and anatomical pathology. Annually, it processes approximately 38,000 surgical biopsies, 2,000 non-cervical cytology samples, and conducts around 1,100 postmortem examinations.

The department is staffed by a multidisciplinary team, including consultant pathologists, biomedical scientists, and technical specialists. Services provided involve diagnostic evaluations of tissue samples to identify diseases such as cancer and precancerous conditions, utilizing techniques like special stains, immunocytochemistry, electron microscopy, and molecular methods. The department\'s facilities are equipped to deliver timely and accurate diagnoses, with most straightforward biopsies reported within 14 working days.

Eligibility

Working arrangements can be discussed openly, with an understanding that flexible working and full off-site reporting is accepted and offered for those requiring so, and with specialist registration NHS consultant experience are invited to apply. 
107,144 - 142,369

A teaching hospital in Scotland is looking for a Consultant in Cellular Pathology with an interest in gastrointestinal and/or hepatobiliary pathology. The pathology department comprises a team of 15 consultants and is supported by a team of specialty trainees and biomedical scientists. This Cellular Pathology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCPath 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

FRCPath or equivalent and at least five years of training in pathology are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in gastrointestinal and/or hepatobiliary pathology should apply. The salary will be between £107,144 - 142,369, dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide diagnostic histopathology and/or cytopathology services, with a focus on gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary pathology.
  • Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, ensuring quality case discussion and consensus.
  • Contribute to the training and supervision of pathology trainees and biomedical staff.
  • Engage in continuous service improvement and audit activities to maintain high-quality standards.

LIFE IN SCOTLAND

This hospital is located in a vibrant city by a major river, offering a mix of urban and rural living. Popular areas for living include both lively city neighborhoods and tranquil countryside settings.

The region boasts excellent schools, convenient transport links to major cities, and leisure activities including hiking, cycling, and cultural venues like museums and concert halls.

Historically, this area has been a center for innovation, with a strong reputation for industries ranging from life sciences to creative technology.

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 to 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
105,504 to 139,882
A NHS histopathology department in the North East of England are looking recruit experienced NHS histopathologists for remote digital reporting posts. This is a salaried full-time NHS position and can offer work in one specialty or multiple, ether part or fully remote. 

Eligibility for these roles:
  • Specialist Registration in Histopathology with the GMC - this is essential and candidates cannot be considered without this.
  • Strong experience reporting histology in one or multiple organ systems 
105,504 to 139,882
An NHS Trust is looking for a Consultant Histopathologist with an interest in GI & dermatopathology. The Histopathology department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This role is open to both international and UK-based doctors, with portfolio support for CESR available.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
  • FRCPath or equivalent and Full GMC Registration are required.
  • The salary will be competitive and dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
  • Provide histopathology services for diagnostics.
  • Participate in the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme.
  • Collaborate in academic and educational activities.
  • Contribute to digital Histopathology system development.

LIFE IN THE REGION
The position is based in a city offering a mix of urban amenities and scenic rural living options. Families will find excellent schools, easy access to transport, and a range of leisure activities. The region has a rich cultural and historical significance.

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