Are you an oncology IMG looking to sit your FRCR (Oncology) Part 1 (CO1) exam?
International doctors often wonder about the best ways to prepare for the first FRCR (Oncology) exam. There are many resources available online, but with so much geared towards UK applicants and trainees, it can be difficult to decide what is best suited to you as an overseas candidate.
Here we have compiled some of the best resources and guidance for overseas FRCR CO1 applicants preparing for the exam. We will also touch on some of the recent changes to the format, delivery, and availability of the exam in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The topics we’ll be discussing include the following – skip ahead to one of these sections if you know what you’re looking for:
As a reminder, FRCR (Oncology) Part 1 or CO1 is the first exam in the FRCR (Oncology) examination suite. The full set of exams, Part 1, and Part 2A and 2B, or CO1, CO2A and CO2B are the exams required by international doctors to satisfy the requirements for GMC registration through the postgraduate route.
The assessment expects that candidates have a broad knowledge of subjects that relate to the investigation and management of patients with cancer.
The exam consists of five modules which are taken through four exam papers over two days. On each day, candidates may attempt any number of modules. Altogether the FRCR CO1 exam has 180 SBA (single best answer or multiple choice) questions.
The exam structure is as follows:
For an in-depth breakdown of each of the FRCR (Oncology) Part 1 modules, see our detailed blog, FRCR (Oncology) Part 1, through the IMG resources library, where you can also read an overview of the full FRCR (Oncology) examination suite.
Please note that only full FRCR satisfies the GMC’s postgraduate requirements for overseas doctors.
We have discussed with IMGs the best way to prepare for the first FRCR (Oncology) exam and most recommended beginning with the Royal College website and resources, which they have compiled to aid in your preparation.
Curriculum: The FRCR (Oncology) exam is based on the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Oncology, and as a rule of thumb, your revision should start here to ensure you are focusing on the exact material that will be in your exam. Knowing the curriculum is key and you can find these on the Royal College website here.
Royal College resources include:
There are several other resources available online, from flashcard-style revision materials to tips and advice from former candidates who have passed the exam:
The Clinical Oncology Registrar
This former candidate has compiled tips, guidance, and notes (including revision notes) on the First FRCR exam. These include revision advice, downloadable materials on key topics and links to good books and core materials to use. You can find the full blog here.
A compilation of recommended books and notes shared by a former FRCR oncology candidate. There are general tips, as well as more detailed notes on the exam modules. These can be accessed here.
The BMJ has created an app-based physics revision resource with core questions on elements of the physics module, in the same multiple-choice format as will be seen in the exam. They are available at several price points depending on the duration of access, which ranges from £24.99 for one month to £139.99 for one year. This can be accessed here.
A set of flashcards with over 1300 questions across all modules. This free resource can be used as either revision or practice material and is located here.
This website is home to exam tips, an online revision course for the physics module (including timed mock exams), sample cases and articles. The price of the physics course ranges from £25 for one month to £115 for one year. This can be found here.
First FRCR (Oncology) is still taking place in person, but the number of exam centres has been reduced. For now, these are Belfast, Birmingham, Bridgend Wales, Crewe, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, and London. Overseas centres for now are in Hong Kong, India, and Malta.
For advice on preparation before applying for the exams, see the Royal College website here.
In this group you will find tailored resources for oncology IMGs, including access to our FRCR (Oncology) crash courses, completely free to all doctors.
You can access our IMG Oncologists community here.
Firstly, congratulations! This is an incredible achievement, and you deserve to treat yourself after all that hard work! With a pass in the First FRCR Oncology in hand, you can look ahead to the Final FRCR Oncology (CO2A and CO2B) exams. Once you have completed all parts of FRCR Oncology, you can apply for full GMC registration with a license to practice. Nice one.
We hope this is helpful for any overseas doctors preparing to sit their Final FRCR exam and the team here at IMG Connect wish you the best of luck!
Don’t forget to share your progress and successes with us using the hashtag #imgstories on social media, we love to hear from you.
An NHS district general hospital in the North of Scotland is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Lung, Head & Neck, or Breast cancer. The oncology department comprises a team of 7 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCR (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
FRCR, full GMC registration with specialist registration or within 6 months of CCT, along with broad experience in prescribing radiotherapy and SACT, are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Lung, Head & Neck, or Breast radiotherapy should apply. The salary will be between £107,144 and £142,369 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Manage a subspecialty caseload in Lung, H&N or Breast radiotherapy, delivering high-quality care and treatment planning.
Participate in MDT meetings, clinical governance, research and teaching activities.
Contribute to acute oncology on-call cover and peripheral clinics across the region.
Lead or support the development of new services or innovations in clinical delivery within the department.
LIFE IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
This job is based in the Scottish Highlands, a region known for both its bustling city of Inverness and rural escapes like Beauly or Fort Augustus.
The Highlands offer excellent schools, strong transport links including rail and air connections, and year-round recreational options from hiking to arts festivals. The city also has a vibrant cultural and social scene for families and professionals alike.
Rich in heritage, the Highlands are home to some of Scotland’s most renowned history—from clan culture to castles—making this region both a scenic and significant place to live and work.
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
An NHS teaching hospital in the North of England is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with all interests considered. The oncology department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration or MRCP (UK) 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
Full GMC registration with a licence to practise and inclusion (or eligibility within 6 months) on the Specialist Register in Medical Oncology are required for this role. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Manage and treat patients with cancers as part of the site-specific MDTs.
Provide on-call and acute cover for oncology inpatients and new inpatient referrals on a rotational basis (1 week out of 8).
Attend weekly multi-disciplinary meetings.
Hold an honorary lecturer position at a local medical school and participate in undergraduate teaching.
Participate in clinical research as appropriate.
Train and teach specialty trainees in medical oncology.
LIFE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND
This role is based in the North of England, a region that offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and rural charm. Residents can enjoy city living in York or find quieter settings in the nearby countryside and villages. The area boasts outstanding schools, excellent transport links, and a wide variety of cultural, sporting, and outdoor activities. With its strong ties to Britain’s industrial heritage and the beautiful countryside on its doorstep, the North of England is a popular choice for healthcare professionals relocating to the UK.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
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
Would you like this version saved as a text document?
An NHS teaching hospital in the East Midlands of England is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Upper Gi, HPB, and Breast cancers. The Oncology department comprises of a large team of Medical Oncology Consultants and Clinical Oncology Consultants, supported by prescribing Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) and rotational specialist registrars (SPRs).
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or FRCR qualifications are most encouraged to apply.
Full GMC registration and FRCR (or equivalent) are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Upper Gi, HPB, and Breast cancers should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN THE EAST MIDLANDS
The hospital is based in a vibrant city offering both urban living in the city center and rural living in surrounding villages like West Bridgford. The area boasts excellent schools, efficient public transport links, and a variety of leisure activities, including theaters, sports venues, and parks. Nottingham holds historical significance as the legendary home of Robin Hood and played a pivotal role in the UK\'s industrial history.
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:
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 role, including:
An NHS hospital in South East England is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in Lung Cancer. The Oncology department comprises a team of four Clinical Oncologists and a Consultant Radiographer, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or GMC Medical Oncology Specialist Register, CCT, or CESR 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.
Full GMC registration with a license to practice and entry on the GMC Medical Oncology Specialist Register (or within six months at the time of interview), CESR, or a GMC-recognised equivalent training are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Lung Cancer should apply. The salary will be between , dependent on experience or grade.
A vibrant coastal city in South East England, with popular residential areas including Southsea for urban living and nearby countryside towns such as Petersfield for a more rural lifestyle. The area is well connected, with direct train links to London, excellent schools, and a wide range of leisure activities, from watersports to historic naval attractions. As one of Britain’s most historically significant naval cities, Portsmouth is home to the famous HMS Victory and the historic dockyard, making it a fascinating place to live and work.
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:
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:
An NHS district general hospital in the South West of England is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in breast and skin cancers. The Clinical Oncology department comprises a team of 11 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors and specialist nurses.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
This oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone with an interest in breast and skin cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Take ownership of site-specific oncology services, primarily in breast and skin cancer.
Participate in outpatient clinics, support patients undergoing day case treatments, and assist the Acute Oncology Service.
Contribute to education and training of junior medical staff and engage in multidisciplinary team working.
Participate in clinical governance, audits, and contribute to ongoing research and service development.
LIFE IN THE SOUTH WEST
This role is based in a beautiful coastal region in the South West, with access to popular towns and seaside resorts perfect for both urban and rural living. The area features excellent schools, well-connected transport options, and a wide range of outdoor activities from beach days to countryside walks. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural history, the region is a top choice for medical professionals relocating to the UK.
Would you like this packaged into a downloadable file or published in a particular format next?
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
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