10 Tips for Passing MRCPsych A & B with Dr Kevin Li

  • February 01, 2022
 

Are you an overseas psychiatrist taking the postgraduate route to GMC registration? Are you just beginning your journey through the MRCPsych exams?  

Today, we’re back with Dr Kevin Li, who will be sharing some top tips on the MRCPsych Paper A and Paper B for overseas MRCPsych A & B aspirants. Kevin is a brilliant psychiatry specialty doctor who relocated to the UK from Hong Kong, having passed the MRCPsych and received full GMC registration with license to practice. 

1. Start with the Royal College website 

This is the best place to begin as it has key information including the syllabus - on which the exam is based, helping to guide the course of your preparation and revision. 

2. Don’t use resources that are more than 3 years old – 5 years maximum 

The curriculum and syllabus for Specialty Training in Psychiatry are updated regularly, so it’s best to find and use resources that are as up-to-date as possible. 

3. Don’t combine study for Paper A and Paper B 

Focus on each paper as an individual element – they each have different requirements, including what sections of the syllabus they are targeting and how much experience you must have before sitting the exam.  

4. Divide your time according to the marks weighting of the sections 

For example, general adult and critical review have the most marks in the exam, with 20% and 33.5% respectively, so you should prioritise these in your revision, then try to spend a proportionate amount of time on each section based on the marks it holds. 

5. Perfect what you know 

If there are any areas you are experienced or confident in, try to perfect these in order to gain the most marks possible in what you find to be the least challenging areas. These areas may also be easier to revise if they are better aligned with your training and practice to date. 

6. Which exam should you sit first? It depends 

If you want to pass the exams as quickly as possible, it makes sense to apply for the nearest upcoming diet of whichever exam comes first.  

Knowledge wise Paper B has more sections and requires a lot more time and practice, particularly for critical review calculations. This combined with the Royal College’s advice of having 12 months’ experience in psychiatry before sitting the exam means that for most people, sitting Paper A first is the best choice. 

7. Use diagrams for more challenging topics 

Find or better still, create diagrams to better illustrate and explain the mor difficult to understand topics. Especially where you have little experience of a topic, it can be helpful to represent it visually. 

8. Keep difficult topics fresh in your mind 

If you need longer than 3 months to prepare for either exam, either leave the more difficult topics to the end of your revision or begin with them and be sure to revisit them at the end. You may not retain this information long-term, so it’s important to have it as fresh in your mind as possible when coming up to the exam. 

9. Take time off before the exam for intense study 

If you can, try to put some time aside in the week(s) coming up to the exam to for a final push of intense study before the exam. 

10. Practice is key 

Books are great resources for increasing your overall psychiatry knowledge, however they are not necessarily the best resources for the Paper A and Paper B exams. Question banks and past papers such as SPMM are very useful in preparing for the MRCPsych Paper A & B. 


Getting started

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

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

                      

The postgraduate route to GMC registration, whilst not the fastest, can be the most rewarding in the long run. The MRCPsych exams are the central components of psychiatry training in the UK, and as an international psychiatrist, this is the route that allows you to most closely align your qualifications with the requirements of more senior jobs in the NHS. 

 

Relevant Jobs

109,725 - 145,47

Consultant Psychiatrist – Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)
South Wales

A dynamic and transformational CAMHS service in South Wales is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with a strong interest in child and adolescent mental health. The successful candidate will join a well-established multidisciplinary team delivering specialist care across the region, contributing to service development and clinical leadership within a collaborative and forward-thinking environment. Doctors with MRCPsych, CESR interest, or a European Specialist qualification are encouraged to apply.

This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a progressive mental health service with access to regional tier 4 services and a population of approximately 380,000. The post supports the organisation’s strategic vision to integrate CAMHS more closely into community settings while developing clinical pathways in areas including eating disorders, complex care, youth justice, and neurodevelopmental disorders.

We welcome applications for full-time, part-time, or flexible working arrangements and will support CESR (Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration) development on an individual basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • Salary: £109,725 – £145,478 dependent on Consultant experience.

  • Full GMC registration with a licence to practise is essential.

  • Eligibility for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register or within six months of CCT.

  • Section 12 approval (or eligibility within 6–12 months).

  • Experience delivering psychiatric care in CAMHS or related services is required.

  • A collaborative, developmental, and family-focused approach, with excellent communication and leadership skills, is highly valued.

  • Opportunities for career development through CPD, peer supervision, quality improvement, and service leadership.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide consultant-level psychiatric care to children and adolescents as part of a multidisciplinary CAMHS team.

  • Lead clinical care planning, review, and treatment delivery in partnership with colleagues across mental health, health, education, and social care.

  • Work closely with specialist regional services including adolescent inpatient units, eating disorder outreach services, and forensic CAMHS consultation teams.

  • Participate in the CAMHS consultant on-call rota (with prospective cover).

  • Contribute to service improvement, pathway development, and integrated working in line with strategic planning goals.

  • Provide supervision and clinical leadership to junior medical staff and allied professionals.

  • Participate in annual appraisal, job planning, and revalidation, with access to local peer groups and CPD.

  • Uphold principles of clinical governance, information governance, and risk management across the CAMHS Directorate.

LIFE IN SOUTH WALES
South Wales offers a rare combination of coastal beauty, green open spaces, and urban convenience. With beautiful landscapes, affordable living, and excellent local amenities, it is an ideal location for professionals and families alike. The region is well-connected by public transport and road networks and offers easy access to nearby cities and airports.

Healthcare professionals in the area benefit from a supportive and inclusive working environment and access to a wide network of services across health, education, and social care.

If you are passionate about delivering outstanding CAMHS care and want to help shape future services in a supportive, innovative setting, we welcome your application. Please note that we may close this post early if sufficient applications are received.


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 interview preparation sessions.

  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, 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 other aspects of pastoral care.

109,725 - 145,478

Consultant Psychiatrist – Acute Inpatient Service
South of England | Close to London

  • Salary: £109,725 – £145,478 dependent on Consultant experience.
  • Recruitment premia £15,000 over 3 years *subject to policy requirements
  • Relocation allowance: up to £8000 *subject to policy requirements

An inclusive and progressive NHS mental health trust in the South of England is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with a strong interest in acute inpatient care. The successful candidate will join a compassionate and collaborative multidisciplinary team, providing high-quality psychiatric care to adults and clinical leadership across inpatient services. Doctors with MRCPsych, CESR interest, or a European Specialist qualification are encouraged to apply.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a leading NHS Foundation Trust known for integrated working, a strong culture of kindness and respect, and its commitment to clinical excellence and innovation.

Applications are welcome for full-time, part-time, or flexible working patterns. CESR (Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration) support is available and tailored to individual needs.


JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • Full GMC registration with a licence to practise is essential.

  • Eligibility for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register or within six months of CCT.

  • Section 12 approval (or eligibility within 6–12 months).

  • Clinical experience in managing acute adult mental illness in inpatient settings is required.

  • Strong teamworking, communication, and leadership skills are essential.

  • Ongoing opportunities for professional development through training, leadership pathways, teaching, and academic engagement.


CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide Consultant-level psychiatric care to adult inpatients, in line with the Trust’s Acute Operational Policy.

  • Deliver clinical leadership and active involvement in quality improvement initiatives.

  • Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to a recovery-focused, trauma-informed approach to care.

  • Coordinate with specialist and community teams to ensure effective patient transitions and continuity of care.

  • Supervise and support junior doctors, specialty trainees, and students.

  • Participate in Consultant on-call rota (details available on request).

  • Engage in audit, teaching, research, and service development activities.


LIFE IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND

Located in the South of England, this opportunity offers the perfect balance of professional fulfilment and quality of life. The area combines vibrant urban centres, picturesque countryside, and excellent transport links — with London just 30 minutes away by train, and both Heathrow and Gatwick airports nearby for easy international travel.

This region is known for its historic market towns, outstanding schools, and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. Whether you\'re relocating alone or with family, it offers something for everyone — from city convenience to coastal calm.

The Trust is committed to inclusivity, wellbeing, and the development of its workforce, offering access to flexible working and a wide range of staff benefits.


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 interview preparation sessions.

  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, 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 other aspects of pastoral care.

€222,215 to €266,925 per annum

Consultant Psychiatrist (General Adult Psychiatry) – Republic of Ireland

Location: Republic of Ireland - South
Salary: €222,215 to €266,925 per annum
Organisation: Health Service Executive (HSE), Ireland
Specialism: General Adult Psychiatry
Job Type: Inpatient and Community Services

A trust in the South of the Republic of Ireland is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with expertise in General Adult Psychiatry to lead a multidisciplinary team delivering both inpatient and community mental health services. The psychiatry department consists of a diverse and well-established team, including Consultant Psychiatrists, Nurse Team Leads, Community Mental Health Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Psychologists, Support Workers, and other allied health professionals.

This role offers an excellent opportunity to work across varied settings, contributing to high-quality care for adults with complex mental health needs. Applicants with European Specialist qualifications or UK CCT are strongly encouraged to apply, and both internationally based and Ireland-based doctors are welcome.

Job Requirements and Details

  • Consultant-level experience in General Adult Psychiatry.
  • Eligible for Medical Council of Ireland (MCI) registration with an equivalent European or UK specialist certification.
  • Prior experience in adult mental health services is essential.
  • Salary ranges from €222,215 to €266,925, depending on experience and qualifications.

Core Duties of the Role

  • Provide clinical leadership in General Adult Psychiatry across both inpatient and community settings.
  • Supervise and support the development of junior doctors and multidisciplinary colleagues.
  • Deliver patient-centred care in collaboration with a skilled multidisciplinary team.
  • Contribute to ongoing service development and quality improvement within the department.

Life in the Republic of Ireland – South Region

The South of Ireland is known for its high quality of life, combining vibrant urban life with the tranquillity of coastal and rural living. The region offers beautiful landscapes, excellent schools, rich cultural traditions, and a welcoming community. Well-connected transport links and a variety of recreational and family-oriented opportunities make it a fantastic place to live and work.

How IMG Connect Will Support You

By applying through IMG Connect, you will benefit from dedicated support throughout your relocation and recruitment journey, including:

  • CV and application preparation tailored to Irish medical systems.
  • Interview preparation, including two in-depth coaching sessions.
  • Contract and salary negotiations to ensure you receive the best relocation package.

Once placed, our relocation team will assist with:

  • Document collection and verification
  • Visa and work permit guidance
  • Short- and long-term accommodation solutions
  • Travel planning and pastoral support for you and your family, including school search and local integration

This is an exciting opportunity to join a progressive and supportive mental health service, delivering high-impact care in General Adult Psychiatry within one of Ireland’s most scenic and vibrant regions.

€222,215 to €266,925 per annum

Consultant Psychiatrist (Old Age Psychiatry) – Republic of Ireland

Location: Republic of Ireland - South
Salary: €222,215 to €266,925 per annum
Organisation: Health Service Executive (HSE), Ireland
Specialism: Old Age Psychiatry
Job Type: Inpatient and Community Services

A trust in the South of the Republic of Ireland is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with expertise in Old Age Psychiatry to lead a multidisciplinary team providing both inpatient and community services. The psychiatry department consists of a diverse team of professionals including Consultant Psychiatrists, Nurse Team Leads, Community Mental Health Nurses, Healthcare Support Workers, Care Home Liaison Nurses, Young Onset Dementia Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Psychologists, Dementia Post-Diagnostic Support, Care Managers, and other support staff.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work across both inpatient and community services, allowing for a broad and varied clinical experience in the field of old age mental health care. The position is open to both international applicants and those already based in Ireland, and those with equivalent qualifications such as a European Specialist qualification or CCT in the UK are strongly encouraged to apply.

Job Requirements and Details

  • Consultant level experience in psychiatry.

  • Eligible for Medical Council of Ireland (MCI) registration with equivalent European certification.

  • Prior experience in Old Age Mental Health is essential.

  • Salary will range from €222,215 to €266,925 depending on experience and qualifications.

Core Duties of the Role

  • Provide clinical leadership in Old Age Psychiatry services across both inpatient and community settings.

  • Supervise and support the training and professional development of junior doctors.

  • Work collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team to provide high-quality care to patients.

  • Participate in the development and improvement of services within the department.

Life in the Republic of Ireland - South Region

The South of Ireland offers a wonderful blend of vibrant urban areas and peaceful rural settings. With stunning coastlines, charming villages, and bustling cities, it’s an ideal location for both professional and personal life. Major cities offer excellent cultural, recreational, and family-oriented opportunities.

Transport links are efficient, and the region is home to highly regarded schools, a wealth of outdoor activities, and a rich cultural scene. Ireland\'s unique history and traditions provide a welcoming and enriching experience.

How IMG Connect Will Support You

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

  • CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.

  • Application support with expert knowledge of Irish medical specialties and recruitment processes.

  • Interview preparation including at least two video calling interview sessions.

  • Contract and salary negotiations for the best possible relocation package, including accommodation and other benefits.

Once you have accepted your new role, IMG Connect’s relocation team will guide you through the entire transition, including:

  • Document gathering and verification.

  • Visa and work permit assistance if required.

  • Accommodation support for both short- and long-term housing.

  • Travel and relocation assistance, including support for your family in finding local schools or any other necessary pastoral care.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic team and contribute to the ongoing development of services in the field of Old Age Psychiatry in the Republic of Ireland\'s South Region.

£106,000 to £154,760

A Health Board on the South Wales coast is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist to join a central clinic as part of an evolving mental health service committed to delivering a 24-hour single point of admission, supported by two treatment wards and five dynamic community mental health teams.

This is a fantastic opportunity to lead clinical change within a supportive and multidisciplinary environment, where collaboration with management and clinical colleagues is highly valued.

This opportunity is open to both UK-based and international doctors, with CESR portfolio support available to help progress toward specialist registration.


Job Requirements and Details

Qualifications: Full GMC registration with a licence to practise, MRCPsych preferred, CCT or equivalent specialist qualification and training in Psychiatry.
Experience: Applicants must have significant experience in general adult psychiatry.
Desirable: Previous leadership roles, community mental health experience, and involvement in service development or clinical governance.
Salary: £106,000 to £154,760 per annum, dependent on experience and length of service.


Core Duties of This Role

  • Take overall clinical responsibility for outpatient care, including the development and oversight of Care and Treatment Plans.

  • Provide leadership and supervision to the multidisciplinary team, with clear delegation of responsibilities.

  • Contribute to service planning in line with the strategic direction of the Health Board.

  • Provide educational supervision to junior medical staff, supporting training and development in line with Royal College guidelines.

  • Actively participate in quality assurance, clinical governance, risk management, and clinical audit processes.

  • Fulfil on-call commitments on a 1:14 rota, with prospective cover across the SBUHB area.

  • Engage in continuous professional development, including annual job plan review and maintenance of Royal College CPD requirements.

  • Opportunities for involvement in research and innovation are encouraged and supported.


Living and Working on the South Wales Coast

The South Wales coast offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and urban convenience. With stunning beaches, nearby national parks, and a thriving cultural scene, the region provides a high quality of life for professionals and families.

The area is well connected, with excellent schools, vibrant communities, and strong transport links to Cardiff, Bristol, and London. Whether you\'re seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful place to call home, the South Wales coast offers an ideal setting for both work and leisure.


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 will assist you with:

  • CV preparation with a bespoke session from one of our NHS recruitment specialists.

  • Application support tailored to psychiatric roles and NHS expectations.

  • Two comprehensive video interviews to prepare for your NHS panel.

  • Contract negotiation including salary, relocation, and service expectations.

Post-offer, your IMG Connect relocation executive will guide you through:

  • Visa sponsorship (including COS and application support).

  • Accommodation search assistance.

  • Family relocation support (schools, childcare, etc.).

  • Local area orientation and integration advice.

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