My experience of MRCPsych Paper A - Dr Bilal Zafar
- March 30, 2022
Are you an overseas psychiatrist taking the postgraduate route to GMC registration through the MRCPsych exams? Are you interested in sitting the exams in the future?
As part of IMG Stories, we're introducing Dr Bilal Zafar, a psychiatrist who has recently sat and passed the MRCPsych Paper A exam. Bilal will be sharing his experiences of the first of the Royal College of Psychiatrists exams, taking you through his preparation, experience of sitting the exam and sharing some hot tips for international MRCPsych aspirants.
1. Tell us about yourself... what should the IMG Community know about Bilal Zafar?
My name is Dr. Bilal Zafar and I'm from Karachi, Pakistan. I graduated from Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) in 2018 and cleared my FCPS residency entrance exam from College of Physicians & Surgeons, Pakistan. Currently, I'm working as a psychiatry resident at Liaquat National Hospital in Pakistan. I am also Editor in-chief at MEDizzy UK, Global Executive Member at Oli Health Magazine Turkey, and an i-act manager for mental health certified by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, UK. I served as an ambassador for Banja Luka International Medical Congress (BLIMC) 2019, the 25th Scientific Congress of Hellenic Medical Students and the 13th International Forum for Medical Students and Junior Doctors from Pakistan.
More recently in 2022, I excelled in the MRCPsych Paper A examination by Royal College of Psychiatrists.
2. What motivated you to sit the MRCPsych exams?
When I started my residency, I was originally convinced to aim for PLAB, however during my practice, I watched one of my supervisors clear all the Royal College exams. This inspired me to switch to my focus to MRCPsych.
3. At what point in your career and training did you sit the MRCPsych Paper A exam?
I took the MRCPsych Paper A exam in December 2021. For me, the timing was appropriate as I was in the second year of my residency, therefore more aware of the fundamentals. By this point, I had built enough thorough clinical experience to tackle Paper A.
4. How far in advance did you start preparing for the MRCPsych Paper A and how much time did you spend on revision?
I started studying for MRCPsych Paper A soon after clearing my FCPS entrance exam. I had initially allocated 2 hours of studying daily, but as I was at the beginning of my residency so my dedicated study time fluctuated. However, I did my best to adhere to my study plan. When I was around 6 months away from the MRCPsych Paper A exam date, I started aggressive preparation. This is what I recommend to everyone; you will never feel ready for the exam. Book a place, start your preparation and take the exam!
5. Did you benefit from speaking to senior colleagues or peers about the exam? Did you study with other candidates?
I was grateful to find very professional, concerned and co-operative senior colleagues. Their thorough guidance and support provided me with the strategy and study materials for this exam. Around 6 weeks before the exam, I joined a study group of IMGs (which I found through IMG Connect) where I found an amazing study partner. She had more than 5 years' experience in clinical psychiatry, and together we solved MCQs and discussed concepts - her experience benefited me a lot!
6. You are one of the creators of the fantastic MEDizzy UK Journal. How has this impacted your study and practice as a psychiatrist?
MEDizzy is the world's fastest growing medical learning communities. I joined the community 4 years ago. Back then, I was doing my internship and preparing for the residency entrance exam. For me, MEDizzy is a door to non-stop medical exposure, and I've learned a lot from the app and journal. MEDizzy journal was launched in 2020 and since then I've served as Editor-in-Chief. We serve the global medical community with the latest news, medical cases, medical technology, inspirational interviews and much more. I must say, sometimes it becomes difficult to maintain a work and study balance and there's no perfect formula for this. I would say my studies have made me what I am today and MEDizzy polished me.
7. How did you manage to juggle other commitments whilst studying for the exam (without panicking)?
Sometimes I don't know, myself! After booking my exam, I created a study plan. At the same time, I had to juggle my residency, medical writing on Fiverr, MEDizzy projects and, most importantly, my wedding. It was scheduled for the day after my MRCPsych Paper A exam. I was tangled in multiple commitments and you can only imagine the difficulty. Fortunately, I could manage my personal life, residency and exam and passed the exam on my first attempt, despite the odds. The key is to remain calm and believe that nothing in this world is impossible.
8. What resources did you use to prepare and practice for the MRCPsych Paper A exam?
I relied on SPMM notes, SPMM high yield MCQs and mock exams. For my MRCPsych Paper A, I used a retro approach to studying. In this technique, I first solved the MCQs of any topic and studied the same topic later from the SPMM notes. I practiced mock exam questions 6 times. Always remember - revision is the key. You may cover a long list of topics but if you don’t revise what you studied earlier you won’t retain this information. While practicing questions, read them carefully and memorise the explanations. Lastly, I also used the Shorter Oxford Textbook of Psychiatry and Kaplan Neuroanatomy.
9. What is the single best resource you would recommend for IMGs to use when preparing for the MRCPsych Paper A and why?
SPMM and SPMM only. The mock exams and practice questions are similar to real exam questions. Take the mock exams 6 weeks prior to the actual exam and solve them in the provided time. This will give you real insight about your time management and retention and recall power.
10. Let's face it, exams are not everyone's favourite day out... so on the day of the exam, what did you do to relax?
Nobody should study on the day of exam. This makes you more anxious. For me, I was getting married the very next day and I had so much going around at home and in my mind. My exam was at 12pm, so I woke up at 7am, took a shower, got dressed, and left for the examination centre at 10:00 am.
11. What was your experience like on the day?
My experience was overwhelmingly amazing! It was an online exam at a local examination centre. In the exam there were 3 sections of 50 questions each. We had an option to take a break after completing each section, but I didn’t take any breaks as I thought it might disturb my continuity. Most of the questions were doable for me as I had practiced mock questions. However, there were some entirely new questions as well. In every section, I gave a reasonable amount of time to at least 5 questions. The rest of them didn’t take much time. Therefore, I completed the exam in 2 hours.
12. What was the most challenging part of the exam?
The most challenging part of the exam was the EMIs. They took a fair amount of time and I had to recall my basic concepts and put them together to solve these questions.
13. In hindsight, would you have done anything differently?
After the exam, I was confident about my performance. I thought I'd taken a good approach to the exam and ws confident in the results.
14. What nuggets of advice would you give to any MRCPsych Paper A aspirants?
I would recommend that you not wait for the ‘right time' or a time when you're ‘fully prepared'. There is neither a right time nor any point when you're completely prepared. Book the test, make full use of the question banks, take mock exams, start studying and sit your exam.
15. What did you do to celebrate passing the exam?
On the day the exam results were to be released, I was at home, and my wife and I were anxiously waiting for the email from the Royal College. The moment we saw “PASS” in the email, my wife literally shouted “You did it, Bilal!”. It was a priceless moment. Later that night, we arranged a gathering of close friends and family to celebrate my achievement.
16. What are your plans going forward?
So far, I am a candidate for FCPS (Psych) and MRCPsych. My plan is to take the intermediate module of FCPS in August 2022 and then take MRCPsych Paper B in September 2022. I aim to complete MRCPsych by next year. As far as MEDizzy is concerned, we aim to expand the community by initiating new projects such as the ambassador program and advancing MEDizzy Inspire where we interview the most deserving personalities from the world of medicine who can become inspiration for young healthcare professionals.
Join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group for access to a community of like-minded overseas MRCPsych aspirants.
For news and updates on all things psychiatry, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
Relevant Jobs
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
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Job Title: Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist – Neurodevelopmental Team
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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
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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
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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.
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
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Be eligible for GMC registration, either with MRCPsych (Full), or EEA specialist certification
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Consultants with an interest and prior experience in old age psychiatry and inpatient functional illness should apply
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The salary will be between £105,504 to £139,882 dependent on experience or grade
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Provide medical oversight and psychiatric input for 22 beds (14 for functional illness, 8 for organic illness) on an inpatient ward
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Conduct psychiatric assessments, care planning, and contribute to regular MDT reviews
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Supervise junior doctors and support their training and development
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Collaborate with community teams including the Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Team for Older People (CRHTT-OP)
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Liaise with other services such as social care, physical health teams, and voluntary sector partners to ensure coordinated care
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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
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
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Consultant level experience in psychiatry
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Be eligible for GMC registration, either with MRCPsych (Full), or EEA specialist certification
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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
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Provide clinical leadership and management in Old Age Psychiatry services.
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Supervise junior doctors and contribute to their training and professional development.
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Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality patient care.
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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
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
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.