How to prepare for FRCPath Part 1 with Dr Maria
- January 31, 2022
Are you an overseas histopathologist looking to sit the FRCPath exams?
Today we’re bringing you a guide on how to prepare for the FRCPath Histopathology Part 1 exam from Dr Maria, clinical fellow in cellular pathology in London. Maria passed the FRCPath Part 1 exam in March 2021 and is sharing her top tips for FRCPath aspirants, including study planning, revision materials and what you should know about the Part 1 exam.
1. Create a plan and schedule for your study (this is most important!)
I started studying around 3 months before the exam, spending 2-3 hours per day on weekdays and around 5-7 hours on study at the weekend.
REMINDER: This all depends on how much you know already. You cannot focus constantly for hours, so you should schedule your studying time around the way that you know you work best.
Leading up to the exam
Try to keep at least 2 weeks free prior to the exam to re-revise problematic topics and genetics.
The day before exam
Be kind to yourself. Have a good meal, try to relax if you can and avoid stressing too much. Go to bed early and have a good, long sleep.
2. Revision materials
I had been revising using my old notes, where I studied from these books (the best for trainees in my opinion):
Foundation in Diagnostic Pathology series
- Dermatopathology
- Pulmonary Pathology
- Hematopathology
- Head and Neck Pathology
- Gynecologic Pathology
- Bone and Soft Tissue Pathology
- Cell and Tissue Based Molecular Pathology
- Pulmonary Pathology
- Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology
- Genitourinary Pathology
- Breast Pathology
- Neuropathology
- Gastrointestinal and Liver Pathology
Diagnostic Pathology series
- Diagnostic Pathology: Head and Neck
- Diagnostic Pathology: Genitourinary
- Diagnostic Pathology: Spleen
- Diagnostic Pathology: Thoracic
- Diagnostic Pathology: Neuropathology
- Diagnostic Pathology: Hepatobiliary and Pancreas
- Diagnostic Pathology: Nonneoplastic Dermatopathology
- Diagnostic Pathology: Neoplastic Dermatopathology
- Diagnostic Pathology: Bone
- Diagnostic Pathology: Breast
- Diagnostic Pathology: Familial Cancer Syndromes
- Diagnostic Pathology: Molecular Oncology
- Diagnostic Pathology: Infectious Diseases
- Diagnostic Pathology: Gastrointestinal
- Diagnostic Pathology: Kidney Diseases
- Diagnostic Pathology: Placenta
- Diagnostic Pathology: Gynaecological
- Diagnostic Pathology: Transplant Pathology
- Diagnostic Pathology: Cardiovascular
- Diagnostic Pathology: Intraoperative Consultation
- Diagnostic Pathology: Cytopathology
- Diagnostic Pathology: Paediatric Neoplasms
- Diagnostic Pathology: Endocrine
- Diagnostic Pathology: Normal Histology
- Diagnostic Pathology: Lymph Nodes and Extra-nodal Lymphomas
- Diagnostic Pathology: Blood and Bone Marrow
- Diagnostic Pathology: Vascular
- Diagnostic Pathology: Hospital Autopsy
There are so many books, and it would be too expensive to purchase them all, so stick to what you've got in your department or can borrow from friends or colleagues.
The Pathology Outlines website is also excellent for quick review and genetics! There are also MCQs.
Some trainees study from the Robbins Pathology books, however, in my opinion, this book alone is not enough for the Part 1 exam.
For the MCQs, I used the following resources:
- Practical Applications in Histopathology, Cytopathology and Autopsy: an MCQ/ EMQ Resource – Limci Gupta, Jayson Wang, Val Thomas
- Anatomic Pathology Board Review – Jay H. Lefkowitch
- Robbins Review of Pathology - Edward Klatt, Vinay Kumar
- Sternberg's Diagnostic Surgical Pathology Review – Pier Luigi Di Patre, Darryl Carter
- Various past papers I found within my network
If you have access to old presentations from FRCPath Part 1 courses, I’d suggest having a look at them. It’s a good idea to use them to review and revise a topic, followed by some MCQs on that topic.
|
TOPIC |
START DATE |
DURATION |
|
Breast |
27 October 2020 |
6 days |
|
GIT |
2 November |
8 days |
|
Liver, GB, Pancreas |
10 November |
8 days |
|
Skin |
18 November |
6 days |
|
Endocrine System |
24 November |
7 days |
|
CNS |
1 December |
7 days |
|
Renal & Urinary |
8 December |
9 days |
|
Bone |
17 December |
5 days |
|
Soft Tissue |
22 December |
9 days |
|
CVS |
31 December |
5 days |
|
Thoracic Pathology (Lung & Mediastinum) |
5 January 2021 |
7 days |
|
Lymph Node |
12 January |
7 days |
|
MGT |
19 January |
7 days |
|
FGT & Placenta |
26 January |
8 days |
|
Oral & Nasal |
3 February |
7 days |
|
Autopsy & Forensic |
10 February |
7 days |
|
General |
17 February |
7 days |
|
Cytopathology |
24 February |
5 days |
|
Clinical Governance |
1 March |
5 days |
|
Syndromes & Paediatric |
6 March |
5 days |
|
General Revision |
11 March onwards |
- |
This is a guide to the revision schedule I used for my FRCPath preparation. I actually started studying in December, so I had less time to fit this all in, but I was able to revise faster to cover everything.
3. FRCPath Part 1 Exam
The questions in the FRCPath Part 1 exam are usually quite straightforward, so you either know the answer or you don't, nothing misleading or tricky.
Some key topics you’ll need to know for the exam:
- Genetics and the mutation of tumours (and yes...you'll need to learn each tumour that has any typical mutation and its name)
- Immunohistochemistry of lesions
- Microscopic pictures (all the micro images I had in the test depicted typical morphology)
- Genetic syndromes, the mutations behind them and what lesions are most common
- Datasets - they are quite wordy, so focus only on pTN, and the stage of each organ system
- Audit
- Parts of a microscope
There were some questions from general pathology (necrosis, inflammation, etc.), but I’d say most of the questions were from GI, breast, gynae, skin, soft tissue and kidney.
However, you'll have at least a few questions from each of the other organ systems, so it's better to study everything rather than focus on the most common ones only.
#IMG Tips
- Prepare early – try to start your preparation early to give yourself enough time to cover all the relevant sections on the Royal College curriculum.
- Find the right materials to support your study – it's good to use a combination of resources for your study to reinforce existing knowledge and benchmark your progress. Try to find the right materials for you as early as possible to hit the ground running with your revision.
- Familiarise yourself with the Royal College curriculum – we cannot stress this enough! All countries have different training programmes, so being well versed in what the RCPath will be looking for is key.
- Join the IMG Histopathologists community – as well as support on Royal College exams, our online community of international pathologists and dedicated pathology recruiters offers guidance on other aspects of working in the UK, including finding NHS posts and CESR.
Getting started
Attaining FRCPath Histopathology is a great first step for histopathologists wanting to find senior roles in the NHS. It can be difficult for overseas trainees to prepare for the first exam in the Royal College examination suite, but this quick guide from a successful FRCPath pathologist is a great start for pathologists pursuing the postgraduate route to GMC registration and finding work in the UK.
For more information on the FRCPath exams, take a look at our IMG Resources library.
If you have any further questions about FRCPath, your route to the UK as an overseas histopathologist, or any other aspect of GMC Registration, please get in touch with us here.
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
An NHS university teaching hospital in East Yorkshire are recruiting for a Consultant in Histopathology with an interest in gynaecological, gastrointestinal, skin, head and neck, breast, urological, or cardiothoracic pathology. The Histopathology department comprises a team of 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
6 months NHS consultant experience is desired for this role, though anyone with specialist registration should apply also, and anyone with an interest in gynaecological, gastrointestinal, skin, head and neck, breast, urological, or cardiothoracic pathology will be most welcome.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Deliver expert histological and cytological diagnostics as part of a subspecialist team.
-
Contribute to teaching of junior medical staff and medical students.
-
Participate in clinical governance, clinical audit, and departmental management.
-
Engage in MDTs and ensure maintenance of subspecialist expertise through CPD and EQA participation.
LIFE IN EAST YORKSHIRE
This hospital is based in a dynamic coastal region with urban living options in the city and peaceful rural life in nearby market towns.
The area offers top-performing schools, excellent universities, efficient road and rail links, and a wealth of family-friendly leisure activities from museums to national parks.
Steeped in maritime history, the area is known for its cultural vibrancy and as a former UK City of Culture, with a variety of architectural, historical, and recreational gems to explore.
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
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 cardiothoracic pathology
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
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.
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