MRCPsych Paper B – guidance, preparation and resources for overseas psychiatrists 

  • March 19, 2022
 

IMGs often have questions about the best ways to prepare for the MRCPsych Paper B exam, particularly with a new exam format and so many online materials geared towards UK trainees and applicants. 

So, what study materials, courses and support are available for international psychiatrists? Here we have compiled some of the best guidance and resources to help in your preparation for the Paper B exam. We will also address some of the changes in 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. 

If you’d like an overview of the entire examination series, take a look at the article published in our IMG Resources library here

MRCPsych Paper B

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

MRCPsych Paper B is a three-hour written exam which asses critical review and the clinical topics in psychiatry. 

The 150-mark paper comprises It is made up of around two-thirds multiple-choice questions (MCQ) and one-third extended matching item questions (EMI). One third of the paper covers critical review, with the other two thirds covering clinical topics. 

The breakdown of the sections is as follows: 

For full guidance on the structure of the exam, visit the examination page of the Royal College website or see our detailed blog on the MRCPsych Paper B exam here

Preparation 

It can be tough to know the best place to start, and after talking with some psychiatry consultants (both IMGs and UK trainees), the consensus was that the Royal College website is the best place to begin. There are some great resources on their website to help applicants to prepare for the exam. See below: 

SyllabusWe always suggest that this is the best place to start – plan your study around the curriculum topics and make a road map to your success in the exams. You can find this here

Current critical review syllabus: For Paper B, candidates will need to ensure that they make optimal use of the MRCPsych Paper B critical review - evidence-based practice syllabic content, available here

Sample Papers: These will help you polish your exam techniques and are a good way to regularly benchmark your knowledge against the syllabus. Additionally, they will help you work quickly on the day as you will already know what to expect. The samples can be found here

Marking schemes: Candidates pass or fail the written papers based on their performance. As such, it is a good idea to understand how the exam is marked so you can maximise your exam skills, giving you the best chance of a pass. These can be accessed here

Sample exam: These can help you understand the exact format of the exam and to familiarise yourself with the online exam environment. This is available here

Online exam guidance: Detailed guidance written specifically to guide candidates in preparing for an sitting an online exam, including technology checks and timings. The guidance can be accessed here

The Royal College also suggest taking a look at Passing the MRCPsych - an insider’s guide - a useful resource to help you to get over the first steps. This is available here

Other resources

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

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

SPMM Starter Study MaterialsA 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 Video LecturesA course covering the most important questions pertaining to clinical and critical appraisal topics. This is delivered through 19 hours of viewing - 10.5 hours of clinical topics and 8.5 hours of critical appraisal. Also provided is a PDF of Q-Bank to print and practice. These are available for 3 months from the date of purchase for the price of £199 and can be found here

Brainscape FlashcardsSets of web and mobile flashcards with hundreds of questions across all of the syllabus covered in the MRCPsych Paper B exam. This free resource can be used as either revision or practice material and is available here

Superego Café Question BankThis question bank provides over 500 multiple choice questions to help you prepare for your examination. The question bank includes constantly updated revision questions and is available as a mixed variety to reflect the MRCPsych Paper B examination. This can be accessed here

BMJ Revision QuestionsThe 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

Get Through MRCPsych Paper BWritten by authors with recent exam success, the book provides candidates with realistic and up to date MCQ and EMIs, closely matched to themes appearing most often in the Paper B exam. This can be found here

TrickCyclists Exam Notes: A series of psychiatry notes specifically tailored to the MRCPsych Paper B 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

Courses 

The SPMM and MRCPsychMentor resources are the most highly recommended by IMG psychiatrists we have spoken to and are available in different formats depending on your revision needs. 

MRCPsych Mentor Mock Exam

A three-hour long exam which simulates exam conditions with a mock exam paper comprising new questions not available in the question bank. It includes a revision mode, timed tests, extensive performance analysis and powerful question review functions. 

Duration 

6 weeks 

Cost 

£15 

Next start date 

On demand 

Website 

www.mrcpsychmentor.com/mocka/index.php 

 

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 

 

IMG Psychiatrists MRCPsych Paper B 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 B Study Course by joining the Facebook group here.


How the exam has been affected by COVID-19

As a result of the pandemic, all MRCPsych exams have moved online. Applicants from Singapore and Hong Kong who intended to sit exams in local centres are also invited to apply for the online sitting of the exam. You can learn more about the online exams for MRCPsych in the blog we've written 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

#IMG Tips 

  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. Build on your existing knowledge and experience – you’re being tested on things which you’ll likely be familiar; take your experiences and use that to bolster any new information you learn through your revision. 
  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; take what’s available online and maximise their impact on your preparation. 
  4. Maintain a work-life balance – whilst you should dedicate time to study for the exam, it’s important to avoid burnout by setting aside time away from work and revision to reset and clear your mind. 
  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. 

For regular news and updates on the Royal College and all things histopathology, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:

            

Passed? What next? 

Great stuff, this is a massive achievement and you deserve to put your feet up for a while! After a well-earned break, you can apply to sit the CASC exam, which you are eligible for once you’ve passed the MRCPsych Paper A and Paper B exams. For more information, take a look at our blog we will explore MRCPsych CASC and everything that you need to know about how to sit the exam, including syllabus, dates, results, fees and preparation. 

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.

 

Relevant Jobs

105,504 - 139,882

A UK-based mental health service is seeking a Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist to join their Neurodevelopmental Team. This is a part-time (0.8 FTE), permanent post, offering an exciting opportunity to take on a senior clinical leadership role within a well-established specialist service for children and adolescents with complex neurodevelopmental conditions.

The team operates within a multidisciplinary framework, delivering comprehensive assessments, pharmacological treatment, and evidence-based care for young people. The role is ideal for experienced consultants looking to shape service delivery while maintaining strong clinical involvement.

This opportunity is also open to international applicants, particularly those eligible for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register and who will be applying via CESR.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • Job Title: Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist – Neurodevelopmental Team

  • Contract: 8 Programmed Activities (PAs) per week – Part-Time

  • Contract Type: Permanent
  • Salary: £105,000 – £139,000 (pro rata, dependent on experience)

Applicants must have:

  • Full GMC registration with a licence to practise
  • GMC Specialist Register in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Section 12(2) MHA approval, or a willingness to complete this upon appointment
  • Experience working in child, adolescent, or neurodevelopmental psychiatric services
  • Strong leadership, multidisciplinary collaboration, and communication skills
  • The ability to travel independently across service sites, including schools and service users\' homes

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Lead on psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and pharmacological treatment planning for young people with complex and/or high-risk neurodevelopmental presentations.

  • Provide consultation and guidance to the multidisciplinary team, as well as external agencies including paediatrics, schools, Tier 4 providers, and primary care.
  • Maintain clinical oversight for young people under the care of the team, participating in emergency assessments and the consultant out-of-hours rota.
  • Attend and contribute to weekly multidisciplinary team meetings and clinical formulations.
  • Collaborate with carers, families, and professionals to co-create effective, evidence-based care plans.
  • Support transitions from child to adult mental health services in line with protocol.
  • Fulfil duties under the Mental Health Act, including conducting assessments and contributing to reports and tribunals as required.
  • Maintain clear and timely medical documentation and support audit and quality improvement initiatives.

MANAGEMENT & STRATEGIC RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Provide senior clinical leadership in partnership with the non-medical Clinical Team Lead.

  • Contribute to the development of service-wide clinical guidelines and care pathways.
  • Support service planning and transformation initiatives based on emerging need.
  • Actively participate in governance activities, clinical audit, and performance monitoring.
  • Engage with stakeholders and external partners at strategic and operational levels.

LIFE IN THE REGION

This role is based in a well-connected and scenic part of the UK, ideal for those who enjoy a balance between urban accessibility and countryside living. With excellent road and rail links, London is just 1 hour by train and car, offering easy commuting and travel.

The area is highly attractive for families, with access to top-rated schools, green open spaces, and a vibrant local community. Whether you\'re seeking historic towns, cultural attractions, or tranquil rural retreats, this region offers something for everyone.
 

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.
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.

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