IMG Library > EXAMS REGISTRATIONS QUALIFICATIONS

MRCP (UK) - a guide for medical oncologists 

• March 14, 2022

 

Overseas medical oncologists looking to register with the GMC through the postgraduate qualification route will need to attain Membership of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP UK). 

Here we take a closer look at the MRCP (UK) examinations for doctors who have chosen their specialism in medical oncology, including a breakdown of each exam, fees and eligibility.  

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) from any country in the world can sit the MRCP examinations, provided certain eligibility criteria are met. These are summarised below along with a broad look at the following topics: 

• What is MRCP (UK)?
• Where does MRCP fit into my oncology training?
• How are the MRCP exams structured?
• Eligibility for overseas doctors
• How do I apply for the exams and what do they cost?
• Where can I sit the exams as an overseas medical oncologist?
• How should I prepare for the exams as an IMG?
• I’ve passed, what’s next?

Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you're looking for. 

What is MRCP(UK)? 

The Royal College of Physicians is the professional body responsible for the specialty of medicine throughout the UK. Among many other duties, its role is to set and monitor the educational curriculum for those training to enter the profession. 

As medical oncology comes under the umbrella of medicine, the postgraduate exams for medical oncologists are set and delivered by the Royal College of Physicians. For clinical oncologists, the Royal College of Radiologists are the overseeing body for training and exams. You can learn more about the clinical oncology postgraduate route here. 

The MRCP examinations assess a candidate’s knowledge of basic medical sciences, as well as clinical skills required for the diagnosis and management of disease. The exams are designed to test both applied basic science and principles of medicine to the level of a UK trainee with two to three years postgraduate experience. 

Therefore, completion of MRCP will allow you to work in the UK from ST3 level upward, with seniority beyond ST3 level dependent on experience. 

MRCP (as a postgraduate qualification) is one of the two main routes an overseas doctor can take to gain full GMC registration, the other being the PLAB route. For in-depth information on each of the MRCP exams, see our IMG Resources library here. 

MRCP as Part of Training in Oncology 

Full MRCP (UK) is a requirement for all oncologists wishing to go on to a specialty training post in the UK.

For doctors who wish to find more senior roles in the NHS which are reflective of their current practice and experience, IMG Connect advise that MRCP (UK) would be the best route to take to GMC registration. 

MRCP (UK) Exams Structure 

The MRCP exam has three parts as outlined below:  

MRCP (UK) Part 1 

The first exam in the MRCP exam suite tests a sample of medical knowledge skills and behavior are specified in the UK specialty training curriculum for core medical training / internal medicine training.  

The first examine that MRCP suite is designed to assess the candidate's knowledge and understanding of the clinical silences relevant to medical practice and of common or important disorders to a level appropriate for entry to specialist training. 

The examination has a two-paper format - each paper is 3 hours long and contains 100 multiple choice questions in a ‘best of five’ format. The paper both tests core knowledge and comprehension as well as a candidate's ability to interpret information and solve clinical problems. 

Each question has five options: one correct answer and four alternatives to the correct answer. 

The exam is also designed to help prepare candidates for the more challenging Part 2 written and PACES exam. 

For more detailed information on the content of the exam, see the Royal College website here. 

MRCP (UK) Part 2 

The second exam in the exam suite builds on the knowledge assessed in Part 1 and again tests the acquisition of a representative sample of medical knowledge skills and behavior. 

The questions will usually have a clinical scenario, may include the results of investigations and may be illustrated with images such as clinical photographs, pathology slides, inheritance trees ECGs, X-rays, CT and MR scans and echocardiograms. 

Questions are asked about the diagnosis investigation management and prognosis of patients using multiple choice questions in a ‘best of five’ format. 

For more detailed information on the content of the exam, see the Royal College website here. 

MRCP (UK) PACES 

The MRCP (UK) Practical Assessment of Clinical Examination Skills (PACES) assesses a candidate’s ability to carry out essential clinical skills. 

There are five clinical stations where there are either patients with a given condition, or trained stand-ins (surrogates). At each station, there are two independent examiners who will observe and evaluate the candidates' performance.  

PACES Carousel 

For more detailed information on the content of the exam, see the Royal College website here. 

Eligibility for Overseas Medical Oncologists 

Part 1 

To be eligible for MRCP (UK) Part 1, you must have a GMC recognised Primary Medical Qualification and a minimum of 12 months postgraduate experience in medical employment. 

Part 2 & PACES  

To be eligible for MRCP (UK) Part 2 & PACES, you must have passed Part 1 within the last seven years. 

Please note, whilst it is not essential to successfully complete Part 2 to sit PACES, the Royal College strongly advises you to do so, as pass-rates are much lower for those who sit PACES before passing Part 2. 

Applications 

Applications for all MRCP exams are made online through My MRCP(UK) account, via the Royal College website. You will need to create an account and submit evidence of your primary medical qualification, then make a payment online to confirm your application. 

The cost of the MRCP exams are as follows: 

Exam Centres 

The MRCP exams are held 4 times a year and can be sat in several locations around the world, including the UK, Manama, Dhaka, Cairo, Accra, Hong Kong, Reykjavik, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kerala, Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Erbil, Amman, Nairobi, Kuwait City, Kuala Lumpur, Malta, Kathmandu, Muscat, Karachi, Lahore, Doha, Jeddah, Riyadh, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Khartoum, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, New Jersey, Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Harare. 

Please note that the number of sittings for each exam varies between countries – you can find the full list of cities and dates here. 

The Part 1 and Part 2 exams are held online in the UK for candidates within the UK and Republic of Ireland. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there is limited availability of spaces for the PACES exam, and whilst every effort will be made to provide as many places as possible, if the number of applications for the exam exceeds the places available, candidates in UK training will be prioritised. 

Preparation and Resources 

With lots of resources available online, we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams. These include: 

Curriculum: Applicants are tested on a range of common and important disorders in General Medicine as set out in the Joint Royal Colleges’ Specialty Training Curriculum for Core Medical Training. We recommend getting to know the curriculum as early as possible and using it as a roadmap for your study.  

Sample questions for Part 1 & Part 2: It is a good idea to regularly benchmark your knowledge by testing yourself using example questions from the current exam syllabus provided by the Royal College see below: 

• Part 1 
• Part 2 

PACES scenarios: To familiarise yourself with the format of the PACES exam, take a look at sample scenarios from the stations. You can find these here. 

IMG Oncologists

Join the IMG Oncologists Facebook group for access to a community of like-minded MRCP aspirants and dedicated oncology recruiters.

In this group you will find tailored resources for oncology IMGs, including access to our MRCP crash courses, completely free to all doctors.

You can access our IMG Oncologists community here.

For an overview of how to prepare for exams, including advice on study groups, online community support, the best use of online resources & Royal College materials and courses, take a look at our blog: IMG Connects Top Tips for exam preparation. 

For more information on the MRCP exams including structure, preparation, dates and a content drill down, see the blogs we’ve written on each part of the examination suite: 

• MRCP (UK) Part 1 
• MRCP (UK) Part 2 
• MRCP (UK) PACES 

I’ve passed, what’s next? 

First of all, congratulations! This is a massive achievement and you deserve to put your feet up after all that hard work. With full MRCP, you can now apply for a full GMC registration with a license to practice (once you’ve passed an English language exam). Once the GMC has approved your application, you can work as a doctor in the UK. Nice one! 

Get in touch 

Don’t hesitate to contact an IMG oncology recruitment specialist to discuss GMC registration, oncology positions in the NHS, including typical NHS salaries, the most suitable UK locations and hospitals for you, and relocation. 

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

Relevant Jobs

Consultant Clinical Oncologist (Gynae and Upper GI)

105,504- 139,882

UK

Fixed Term

An NHS specialist cancer centre in Lancashire and South Cumbria is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in gynae and upper GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors.

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 gynae and upper GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

Provide systemic therapy services for patients  across UHMB sites.

Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and support associated administrative duties.

Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).

Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.

LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA

The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural heritage and modern living.

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

Consultant Medical Oncologist (Melanoma)

105,504- 139,882

UK

Fixed Term

An NHS teaching hospital, in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in Melanoma. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.

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 Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or MRCP are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Medical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.

• The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

• Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.

• Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.

• Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.

• Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.

Life in Kent

 The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.

Kent boasts a wide range of excellent primary and secondary schools, including several grammar schools, and is well connected to London via high-speed rail and road. Residents enjoy easy access to historic castles, the coast, national parks, shopping, and outdoor activities—perfect for both adults and families.

Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent holds historical significance with its Roman heritage, medieval cathedrals, and coastal defense legacy, offering a unique blend of culture and natural 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 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

Consultant Medical Oncologist (Upper & Lower GI)

105,504- 139,882

UK

Fixed Term

An NHS specialist cancer centre in Lancashire and South Cumbria is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in upper and lower GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors.

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 MRCP are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone with an interest in upper and lower GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

• Provide systemic therapy services for patients with upper and lower GI cancers across UHMB sites.

• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings for lung and upper GI cancer and support associated administrative duties.

• Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).

• Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.

LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA

The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural heritage and modern living.

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

Consultant Medical or Clinical Oncologist specialising in Breast

£106,000 to £154,760

Wales

Fixed Term

An NHS specialist cancer centre in Cardiff is looking for a Consultant in Clinical or Medical Oncology with an interest in Breast cancer. The Oncology department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors.

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 or FRCR (UK) qualifications are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone with an interest in breast cancer should apply.

The salary will be between £106,000 to £154,760dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-Contribute to outpatient and inpatient clinical care, including the Acute Oncology Service at Velindre Cancer Centre and providing advice to Health Board colleagues when on call.
-Participate in the Assessment Unit services
-Latest news & breaking headlines
-Engage in multidisciplinary team decision-making processes.
-Opportunities to deliver services at the new Velindre Cancer Centre (VCC) in Cardiff, scheduled to open in Spring 2027

LIFE IN CARDIFF

The hospital is based in Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, offering a vibrant urban lifestyle. For those seeking a more rural living environment, the surrounding areas such as the Vale of Glamorgan provide picturesque countryside settings.

Cardiff boasts a range of educational institutions, excellent transport links including a comprehensive bus and train network, and leisure activities suitable for both adults and families. The city offers numerous parks, cultural venues, and sporting facilities.

Historically, Cardiff played a significant role during the Industrial Revolution, with its coal exports powering much of the world\'s industries. The city\'s docks were once among the busiest in the world, underscoring its importance in British 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:

-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

Consultant Clinical or Medical Oncologist with interest in Breast, Urology and Colorectal

£105,504- £139,882

UK

Fixed Term

An NHS hospital in Bath, South West England is looking for a Consultant Clinical or Medical Oncologist with an interest in  either Breast, Urology and/or Colorectal Cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of 12 Clinical Oncologists, 8 Medical Oncologists, and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, specialist nurses, and research staff. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

• Experience and interest in Breast, Urology and/or Colorectal Oncology is required.
• The salary will be between £105,504 - £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience and grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

• Manage patients with Breast, Urology and/or Colorectal Cancers, including systemic anti-cancer therapies (SACT), immunotherapy, and targeted treatments.
• Provide expert care in oncology inpatient and outpatient settings and contribute to multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings.
• Participate in clinical research, with access to a well-established clinical trials unit and national research collaborations.
• Engage in teaching and mentoring junior doctors, registrars, and medical students, with opportunities for leadership in education and training.

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 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