MRCPsych Examinations - Changes to the Exam Format

  • April 06, 2023
 

Following an extensive review of its assessment strategy, the Royal College of Psychiatrists has announced changes to the delivery of the MRCPsych examinations.

MRCPsych Paper A and B will remain online for the foreseeable future, and the CASC exam will remain online for the May 2023 diet, moving back to an in-person exam from September 2023.

Online MRCPsych Written Papers

The written MRCPsych papers (Paper A and Paper B) will continue to be delivered through a test centre of your choosing (including international centres). This exciting development was of course accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling MRCPsych examinations to be delivered for both overseas doctors and UK trainees.

The structure of MRCPsych Papers A and B remains that candidates complete 150 questions. From these questions, roughly 100 are multiple choice with single answers and 50 are extended matching questions which ask a series of multiple choice questions about information in a single question stem. 

The online system is straightforward, requiring only a few checks and guidelines to follow to help you make the process a success. 

In-person CASC Exam

Subject to final GMC approval, from September 2023 the CASC exam will be delivered face-to-face in the UK, with international centres for face-to-face delivery set to be introduced in 2024. There will be no further online diets after May 2023.

Face-to-face delivery enables candidates to better demonstrate that they meet the key capabilities outlined in the 2022 curriculum.

After consultation with stakeholders, it was clear that the validity and reliability of the examination was of prime importance, and that face-to-face assessment is the optimal way to assess the clinical skills required for psychiatric practice.

The structure of the MRCPsych CASC exam remains unchanged - candidates complete two circuits, each of eight stations. An examiner will evaluate your performance and the invigilator would be on hand to make sure that everything runs to plan. 

The September 2023 exam will be held in Sheffield, with international centres to be confirmed for 2024 onwards. If you are an overseas candidate for whom this change will delay when you will sit CASC, email the Royal College who are able to extend validity periods according to individual circumstances.


Getting started

An online application form must be completed and takes around 15 minutes. For full guidance on the application, please visit the Royal College website here.

Join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group to become part of a community of like-minded MRCPsych aspirants and dedicated psychiatry recruiters.

In the group you will find tailored resources for Psychiatry IMGs including our MRCPsych Crash Course. 

This course offers weekly sessions covering the entire exam and its various domains, including marking and station requirements. This is accompanied by small group role play sessions to allow IMGs to practice stations across various scenarios with feedback on each station, delivered by an experienced NHS psychiatrist and specialist psychiatry recruiters. These sessions are completely free to all doctors.

You can access our CASC Study Course by joining the Facebook group here.


Connect with us 

Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) and chat with an IMG Consultant to discuss your options for NHS roles with CESR support and start your journey towards Specialist Registration with IMG Connect. 

For access to a community of like-minded psychiatry IMGs and dedicated psychiatry recruiters, join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group.   

To receive the latest news and updates on all things psychiatry, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.  

            

 

Relevant Jobs

105,504 - 139,882

A leading NHS mental health hospital in the East of England is looking for a Consultant Psychiatrist in Old Age Psychiatry with a focus on functional illness within inpatient care. The service sits within a well-integrated healthcare system combining mental and physical health services. The post is based on a 22-bed ward, supported by a multidisciplinary team including psychologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and speech and language therapists. This Old Age Psychiatry job is open to both international and UK-based doctors, with MRCPsych or EEA specialist certification 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
  • Consultant level experience in old age psychiatry

  • Be eligible for GMC registration, either with MRCPsych (Full), or EEA specialist certification

  • Consultants with an interest and prior experience in old age psychiatry and inpatient functional illness should apply

  • The salary will be between £105,504 to £139,882 dependent on experience or grade

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
  • Provide medical oversight and psychiatric input for 22 beds (14 for functional illness, 8 for organic illness) on an inpatient ward

  • Conduct psychiatric assessments, care planning, and contribute to regular MDT reviews

  • Supervise junior doctors and support their training and development

  • Collaborate with community teams including the Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Team for Older People (CRHTT-OP)

  • Liaise with other services such as social care, physical health teams, and voluntary sector partners to ensure coordinated care

  • Engage in clinical documentation, audits, research, and educational activities

LIFE IN THE REGION

This region offers a balance of vibrant urban living and tranquil countryside settings. From lively city centres with extensive amenities to quiet villages rich in charm, there’s something for everyone. The area benefits from excellent rail and road connections (50 minutes to London) high-performing schools, and a diverse mix of leisure and cultural attractions.

Steeped in history, the region is known for its architectural heritage and community spirit, making it a highly desirable location for professionals and families alike.

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 all the way to starting your new post, 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

107,144 - 142,369

An NHS Board in Eastern Scotland is looking for a Consultant Psychiatrist with experience in Old Age Psychiatry to lead an outpatient community team.. The Psychiatry department comprises a team of psychiatrists and multidisciplinary professionals including Nurse Team Lead, Community Mental Health Nurses, Community Mental Health Nurses, Healthcare Support Workers, Care Home Liaison Nurses, Young Onset Dementia Nurse, Occupational Therapists, Psychologist, Dementia Post Diagnostic Support, Care managers, DPDS Link Worker, Alzheimer Scotland Link Worker.

This Psychiatry job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCPsych or equivalent 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

  • Consultant level experience in psychiatry

  • Be eligible for GMC registration, either with MRCPsych (Full), or EEA specialist certification

  • Prior experience in Old Age mental health care.

Anyone with consultant experience in old  age psychiatry should apply. The salary will be between £107,144 - £142,369 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide clinical leadership and management in Old Age Psychiatry services.

  • Supervise junior doctors and contribute to their training and professional development.

  • Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality patient care.

  • Participate in service development and improvement initiatives within the department.

LIFE IN SCOTLAND

This location offers a blend of urban convenience and rural tranquillity, with easy access to major cities such as Edinburgh, Dundee, and Glasgow. Whether you prefer city living with vibrant culture and nightlife or coastal and countryside retreats with stunning landscapes, there are plenty of options.
The region has excellent transport links, making commuting easy, and offers high-quality schools and a wealth of recreational activities, including outdoor pursuits, cultural festivals, and family-friendly attractions.
Scotland is steeped in history, known for its ancient castles, famous universities, and contributions to global innovation. The country provides a unique cultural experience, rich in traditions and scenic beauty.

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

107,144 - 142,369
An NHS Board in Eastern Scotland is looking for a Consultant Psychiatrist with an interest in General Adult Psychiatry. The Psychiatry department comprises a team of consultants and multidisciplinary professionals and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Psychiatry job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCPsych or equivalent 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
  • Consultant level experience in psychiatry
  • Be eligible for GMC registration, either with MRCPsych (Full), or EEA specialist certification
  • Prior experience in adult community mental health care is desirable.

Anyone with an interest in community or inpatient psychiatry should apply. The salary will be between £107,144 - £142,369 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide clinical leadership and management in General Adult Psychiatry services.
  • Supervise junior doctors and contribute to their training and professional development.
  • Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality patient care.
  • Participate in service development and improvement initiatives within the department.

LIFE IN SCOTLAND

This location offers a blend of urban convenience and rural tranquillity, with easy access to major cities such as Edinburgh, Dundee, and Glasgow. Whether you prefer city living with vibrant culture and nightlife or coastal and countryside retreats with stunning landscapes, there are plenty of options.
The region has excellent transport links, making commuting easy, and offers high-quality schools and a wealth of recreational activities, including outdoor pursuits, cultural festivals, and family-friendly attractions.
Scotland is steeped in history, known for its ancient castles, famous universities, and contributions to global innovation. The country provides a unique cultural experience, rich in traditions and scenic beauty.

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 - 139,882

An NHS mental health hospital in the North West of England is looking for a Consultant in Old Age Psychiatry, with an interest in both functional and organic disorders. The Mental Health department is part of a well-established multidisciplinary team, working alongside Consultants, Specialty Doctors, and various healthcare professionals. This psychiatry job is open to both international applicants and UK-based doctors, though those with MRCPsych (Full) or an EEA equivalent qualification 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

  • Minimum of two years\' experience in old age psychiatry.
  • UK applicants with CTT and S12 and AC status preferred 
  • Be eligible for GMC registration, either with MRCPsych (Full) or an EEA qualification.
  • Prior experience in old age inpatient mental health care is desirable.
  • The salary will be between £105,504 - £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide psychiatric care and assessments for adult and older adult patients with both functional and organic mental health conditions.
  • Work closely with other Consultants, specialty doctors and the multi-disciplinary team to support care planning and patient management.
  • Run inpatient services and contribute to continuity of care between community and inpatient settings.

LIFE IN THIS UK REGION

This region offers a mix of urban and rural living, with bustling towns and peaceful countryside options for residents. The area boasts excellent transport links, making it easily accessible from major UK cities. There are highly rated schools, a variety of leisure facilities, and plenty of green spaces, making it a great location for professionals and families alike. Historically, the region has played a key role in British heritage, with significant contributions to industry, culture, and transportation.

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 and family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care.
105,504 - 139,882
A mental health service in the UK is looking for a Consultant in General Adult Psychiatry with an interest in crisis intervention and intensive home treatment. The psychiatry team consists of consultants and a multi-disciplinary support staff, working with a caseload of 15–20 patients. Applications are open to both UK and international doctors, with MRCPsych or CESR eligibility being particularly desirable.

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

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
  • Candidates must hold MRCPsych (or equivalent) and be eligible for GMC registration with Specialist Registration in General Adult Psychiatry or within six months of gaining CCT.
  • Prior experience in community or inpatient psychiatry is required.
  • The salary will be between £105,504 - £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
  • Provide clinical leadership for the Intensive Service team, ensuring high-quality home-based crisis care.
  • Assess and treat patients referred to the Intensive Team, contributing to care planning and management discussions.
  • Collaborate with inpatient services, community teams, and crisis services to support effective patient care.
  • Participate in the teaching and development of junior doctors and multidisciplinary colleagues.
LIFE IN THE REGION

This region offers a balance of rural and urban living, with access to beautiful countryside, historic landmarks, and well-connected towns. Professionals moving to the area benefit from excellent schools, transport links, and a range of cultural and outdoor activities.

The region has a rich historical significance, featuring historic towns, world-renowned heritage sites, and a vibrant local community. It is a desirable location for families and professionals looking for a high quality of 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 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.

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