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

€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.

96,990 - 107,155

A trust in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Doctor in Child and Adolescent Mental Health with an interest in community-based care for children and young people. This exciting role supports the a CAMHS team, providing vital services to a diverse population across both urban and rural settings. The multidisciplinary team includes mental health practitioners, psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers, occupational therapists, and administrative support staff.

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 license to practice and at least six years of CAMHS experience.
Desirable: Experience working with children and young people in mental health or multidisciplinary settings.
Salary: £96,990 - £107,155 per annum, dependent on experience.

Core Duties of This Role

  • Comprehensive psychiatric assessment, care planning, and evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents.

  • Leadership and consultation within a multidisciplinary team, with opportunities for supervision and teaching.

  • Liaison with professionals in education, paediatrics, social care, and adult mental health services.

  • Contribution to clinical governance, service development, and quality improvement.

  • Participation in clinical audits, peer reviews, and regular MDT meetings.

Life in the West Midlands

The West Midlands offers a blend of vibrant towns and peaceful countryside, giving professionals and families the flexibility to choose a lifestyle that suits them. The region features outstanding schools, excellent transport links (M5, M50, and nearby airports), and a wealth of leisure activities, from historical landmarks to outdoor exploration in areas like the Malvern Hills.

With strong educational institutions and a rich cultural history, the West Midlands supports both personal and professional growth in a balanced and welcoming environment.

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 practices.

  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions.

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

Once you’ve accepted your new role, you’ll be guided by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will assist you all the way to starting your new role, including:

  • Document gathering and checking.

  • COS and Visa application support, if applicable.

  • Assistance with finding accommodation.

  • Family support for schools and pastoral care.

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.

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