MRCPsych Paper A – preparation, resources and courses for IMGs 

  • April 14, 2022
 

Overseas doctors often have questions about the best ways to prepare for MRCPsych Paper A, particularly with the changes to the exam format and so many online materials geared towards UK applicants and trainees. 

So, what study preparation, materials, courses and support are available for international psychiatrists? We have compiled some of the best guidance and resources to help you in your preparation for the Paper A exam. We will also address some changes to the availability of test centres and exam delivery as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The topics we’ll cover are as follows: 

If you know what you’re looking for, skip ahead to the relevant section. 

For an overview of the entire examination series, have a look at our article in the IMG Resources library here

What is MRCPsych Paper A? 

Let’s begin with a quick recap of the first exam in the MRCPsych examination suite.  

MRCPsych Paper A is a three-hour written exam which covers the scientific and theoretical basis of psychiatry 

The paper comprises 150 questions and is worth 150 marks, with two thirds being multiple choice questions (MCQ) and the other third, extended matching item questions (EMI). 

The breakdown of the sections is as follows: 

For full guidance on the structure of the exam, see our detailed blog on the MRCPsych Paper A exam here

Preparation 

It can be tough to know the best place to start, so we’ve spoken to some IMG psychiatrists and the consensus was that the Royal College website is the best place to begin. There are some great resources on their website to help candidates in their preparation for the exam. These include: 

Syllabus: We always recommend this as the best place to start – plan your study around the curriculum topics for a road map to your success in the exam. You can find this here

Sample papers: These will help you perfect your exam techniques and are an effective way to benchmark your knowledge against the syllabus. They will also help you work quickly on the day as you will already know what to expect. The sample papers can be found here

Marking schemes: It’s always a good idea to understand how exams are marked so you can structure your revision accordingly, giving you the best chance of a pass. These are available here

Sample exam: Samples of the exam are also helpful in fully understanding the format and to familiarise yourself with the online exam environment, particularly as this is a more recent change to the exam. This is available here

Online exam guidance: This guidance has been written specifically to help candidates to prepare for sitting an online exam, including technology checks and timings that will be in place on the day. This will be more useful closer to the exam date. The guidance can be accessed here

Passing the MRCPsych - an insider’s guide: the Royal College suggest having a look through this guide, which is a helpful resource to help you to get over the first steps, available here

What other resources are available? 

IMG Connect has a library of written resources geared towards preparation for the Paper A exam. If you’re interested in any of these, please get in touch here and we would be delighted to share these with you. 

The most highly recommended resources are the SPMM and MRCPsychMentor resources. They are available in different formats depending on your revision needs: 

SPMM Starter Study Materials: A range of comprehensive study materials and subject-based question banks with evidence-based answers and explanations (SPMM HiYield and SmartRevise). These are available for 6 months from the date of purchase for the price of £299 and can be found here

SPMM Booster Mock Exams

These practice tests are simulations of the real exam prepared to the exam blueprint, allowing you to identify your weakest areas before the actual exam. This package includes access to 6 individual practice papers, comprising reconstructed questions from the most recent exams. Subscriptions can be purchased only 10 weeks before the College exam date. 

Duration 

N/A 

Cost 

£249 

Next start date 

On demand 

Website 

spmmcourse.com/local/coursepackages.php 

 

MRCPsychMentor Revision Course: unlimited access to a bank of over 2000 questions, including some from previous exams. These are delivered in the same format as will be in the exam (MCQs and EMIs), with practice timed tests you can complete as many times as you like. You can access the course here

MRCPsychMentor Mock Exam

There are two three-hour long exams available here which simulates exam conditions with mock exam papers of questions not available in the question bank. They include a revision mode, timed tests, extensive performance analysis and powerful question review functions. 

Duration 

6 weeks 

Cost 

£15 each 

Next start date 

On demand 

Website 

www.mrcpsychmentor.com/mocka/index.php 

 

IMG Psychiatrists MRCPsych Paper A Crash Course

This is a tailored MRCPsych Paper A course for overseas psychiatrists. This course offers weekly sessions covering the exam and its various domains. This is accompanied by practice MCQs and EMQs for exam-style practice, delivered by an experienced NHS psychiatrist and specialist psychiatry recruiters. These sessions are completely free to all doctors.

The course is supplemented by additional advice and guidance on MRCPsych as a whole, GMC registration support, as well as guidance and webinars on other topics such as finding work in the NHS, relocation support and specialist registration.

You can access our IMG Psychiatrists Paper A Study Course by joining the Facebook group here.


Other online resources available for the exam include a mixture of paid and free resources: 

  • BMJ Revision Questions: The BMJ has created an app-based revision resource with over 270 core questions, including the SBA and EMQ formats that will be seen in the exam. They are available at several price points dependent on the duration of access, from £29.99 for one month to £129.99 for 12 months. These are available here
  • TrickCyclists Exam Notes: A series of psychiatry notes specifically tailored to the MRCPsych Paper A exam, including the nine topics covered by the exam and more. They are available in word and PDF format and are free to be used, distributed and modified. They are available here

How have the exams been affected by COVID-19? 

As a result of the pandemic, all MRCPsych exams have moved online. You can learn more about the online exams for MRCPsych here

The application process for the exam takes 15 – 20 minutes where candidates will need a valid debit/ credit card, as well as the email address and full details of your sponsor. Further details on the application process can be found here

#IMGTips 

  1. Start your revision early – starting in advance allows you to pace yourself and get ahead of the stresses of last-minute revision and anxiety. 
  2. Divide your study time according to the marks percentage for each section – dividing your time in this way will ensure you’re putting most of your time towards what will gain you the most marks. 
  3. Think about your personal learning style and use this to plan effective revision - consider the ways you study best and use them to your advantage. 
  4. Try to take some time off work before the exam – you’ll likely be preparing for the exam alongside full-time work, so, if possible, take around 5-7 days somewhere in the run-up to the exam for some intense revision. 
  5. Join the online psychiatry community - for news and updates about all things psychiatry for IMGs, follow IMG Connect on social media and join the conversation here. 

Passed? What next? 

Great stuff, this is a fantastic achievement and you should take a well-deserved break! 

Once you’re ready, you can apply to sit the Paper B exam (or CASC if you started with Paper B). For more information, take a look at our blog, where we explore MRCPsych Paper B and everything you need to know about sitting the exam, including dates, results, fees and structure. 

For more useful blogs & articles on exams, registrations & qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG Resources library


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. 

            

 

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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

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

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CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

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

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  • 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:

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

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  • 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.

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CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

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LIFE IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND

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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.

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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.

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Core Duties of the Role

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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.
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  • Contract and salary negotiations to ensure you receive the best relocation package.

Once placed, our relocation team will assist with:

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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.

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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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