FRCPath Histopathology Part 2 - Details for International Candidates
- March 28, 2022
In response to the high number of inquiries we've had from overseas pathologists about the arrangements for the Autumn sitting of the FRCPath Histopathology Part 2 exam, we've been in contact with the Royal College of Pathologists and have summarised these updates under the headings below.
When will the FRCPath Histopathology Part 2 exam be held?
The publicised dates for the exam are Tuesday 11 and Wednesday 12 October 2022, although these are subject to change due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The withdrawal deadline for the exams is Friday 15 July 2022.
Can I sit the FRCPath Histopathology Part 2 exam in Autumn 2022?
The RCPath guidance which asks candidates to wait to sit the Part 2 exam the year after passing the Part 1 exam was in place to avoid overwhelming the limited capacity of the exam centres. Those who were successful in the Spring 2021 Part 1 exam are able to sit the Part 2 exam in Spring 2022. If the College needs to prioritise bookings, it will be done in the same way as previously. Therefore, if there is a requirement for candidates who have passed in Spring 2022 to wait until Spring 2023 to apply, a notice will be put on the News section of the examinations page around the end of May/ beginning of June.
It is therefore important to check regularly for updates to the examinations page, which you can do here.
Where can I sit the FRCPath Histopathology Part 2 exam in Autumn 2022?
Details on the Autumn 2022 sitting of FRCPath Part 2 have yet to be finalised, however, unlike Spring 2022, it may be possible to arrange to sit the exam in Irbid (Jordan), Dubai (UAE) or Cairo (Egypt) if there are sufficient applicants. The availability of FRCPath Part 2 examination centres outside the UK will be indicated on the Royal College website (when the application window opens for Autumn 2022 at the end of May) and candidates should contact the Examinations Department to express their interest in taking the exam in the available centre when they make their application.
We therefore advise that you keep an eye on the RCPath application page here.
Will the College have any microscopes available for me to use for the exam?
The College's overall policy is that the College and centres have no obligation to provide microscopes. Candidates can bring their own as this is equipment they are familiar with, or can hire a microscope. Some overseas centres may be more able to provide microscopes and if that is the case it would be stated on the letter sent to candidates with their centre confirmation.
If you would like to borrow a microscope for your FRCPath Histopathology Part 2 exam, we advise that you check well in advance what the options are for your chosen centre, or are available to you online.
If you have any further questions about the FRCPath exams, your route to the UK as an overseas histopathologist, or any other aspect of GMC Registration, the NHS or relocating to the UK, please get in touch with us here.
We'd also like to invite you to join the IMG Histopathologists online community - as well as support on Royal College exams, our Facebook group of international pathologists and dedicated pathology recruiters offers guidance on other aspects of working in the UK, including finding NHS posts and CESR.
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
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Deliver expert histological and cytological diagnostics as part of a subspecialist team.
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Contribute to teaching of junior medical staff and medical students.
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Participate in clinical governance, clinical audit, and departmental management.
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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