MRCP (UK) PACES - What if I can't secure an exam place?

  • November 01, 2022
 

Exam places for MRCP PACES have been hard to secure in some countries. This increase in demand has continued through to 2023, so what can you do to maximise your chances of securing an examination place? 

The Royal College of Physicians has advised that they are working to grow capacity internationally. However, this will not have an immediate impact on the number of spots available across the world. 

With so many overseas doctors missing out on a spot, we have put together some of the main discussion points to help you to broaden your chances of sitting the exam as soon as possible. 

All applications submitted during the application period will be treated equally, with spaces being allocated using a random lottery model. Some spaces are reserved for local trainees and some priority can be given for applicants near the end of their eligibility periods. 

So, to maximise your chance of success, we suggest that not only do you apply to your closest PACES exam centre, but also to 3 more centres that you are able to travel to. 

Apply to more centres

Why should I apply for more centres? More applications equals more chance of securing a place. They way that it works is that if you are not successful with your 1st preference (most local centre), then you will be considered for a space in your 2nd choice centre, and so on until you secure a spot. 

Of course, this means that you must be willing to travel to sit the exam. This can be costly, especially if you have to travel to a different country, flights and hotels are not cheap! As such, we suggest taking some time to carefully choose the locations that will not only have the possibility of a spare place, but where your costs will be kept to a minimum. 

Candidates will be notified on the outcome of their application within 2 weeks from the closing date, giving you time to plan your travel if necessary. 

Whilst this advice does not guarantee a place to sit the exam, it will increase your chances. 

If you are not sure what to do, or have any other questions regarding the PACES exam, get in touch with an IMG Connect specialist.

Take a look at our IMG library for more information regarding postgraduate examsPACES


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99,532 - 131,964

A hospital in a UK region is looking for a Consultant in Intensive Care Medicine with an interest in Anaesthesia (optional up to 2 PAs). The ICU team includes consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Intensive Care position is open to both international and UK-based applicants, with a preference for those holding European Specialist qualifications or Fellowship of the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine (FICM) or AFICM.

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LIFE IN THE REGION

This hospital is based in a region known for its balance of urban and rural living, with vibrant cities and scenic countryside nearby. The region is perfect for families, offering excellent schools, good transport connections, and a wide range of leisure activities.

Historically significant, the area is home to famous landmarks and has played a crucial role in UK history, making it a culturally rich environment 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:

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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:

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A Teaching Hospital in the North West region is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Gynaecology and Upper GI Oncology. The Oncology department comprises a large team of Consultant Clinical Oncologists and is supported by a wide group of middle grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or suitable Royal College qualification are most encouraged to apply.

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The hospital is based in the North West of England, with the closest urban areas offering a range of living options from city life to more rural surroundings.

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HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

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LIFE IN THE NORTH WEST

The hospital is located in a vibrant city with both urban and rural living options. The region boasts excellent schools, transport links, and numerous outdoor and cultural activities. Historically, the area is known for its scenic beauty and significant landmarks.

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  • 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:
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99,532 - 131,964

We are recruiting for an experienced and motivated Consultant Physician in Gastroenterology to join a friendly and enthusiastic team in the North West of England. 
This is an excellent opportunity for candidates who are interested in securing CESR within 1 - 2 years. The post involves out-patient and in-patient duties and a regular commitment to both in-reach into the medical admissions unit and on-call for general medicine.
Sub specialty interest will be encouraged where this contributes to and complements the department and Trusts’ service needs

What is the trust like?

The Trust was formed on 1 October 2019 with the merger of two large tertiary trusts partnering with wider areas of the North West of England to become one of the first 14 areas nationally to be confirmed as an Integrated Care System. The trust services to a half a million people. We’re responsible for delivering over 70 services across 15 main locations and we employ over 6500 members of staff.

What is the department like? 

The team of 16 consultants including six consultant gastroenterologists and one specialty doctor in gastroenterology to provide an integrated digestive diseases service across the hospital. The department has two dedicated GI wards within the Infirmary for the treatment of inpatients. There is a dedicated 3-room endoscopy unit along with 2 dedicated rooms in a new, state of the art facility. There is a specialist GI physiology lab on both sites.

The Trust provides access to radiology services, CT scanning, including CT colonography and MRI (including MR enteroclysis), and medical physics imaging on two sites. The trust also has a radiotherapy and oncology on site at Carlisle with outreach services to  the hospitals. There is a Palliative care consultant based on each site with links to hospice and community services.

CESR
International candidates are welcome and CESR will be supported. Direct input will be provided on a regular basis from the Clinical Director, with opportunity for shadowing, lists and portfolio building built into the job plan.
The team has recent experience of supporting IMGs with the CESR process, benefiting any newly appointed candidate. 
The remainder of the appointee’s professional time will be deployed flexibly on other clinical duties, administration, teaching, research, clinical audit and continuing medical education. The Trust supports the requirements for continuing professional development as laid down by the Royal College of Physicians and is committed to providing time and financial support for these activities.

Career Development and Opportunties available 

The posts represent a fantastic career opportunity for clinicians with drive and commitment to completing CESR and securing a permanent consultant post. The opportunity to work closely with an experienced consultant and management structure is excellent.This is an opportunity to join an organisation in which Clinicians are at the forefront of management. 

The successful candidate will be encouraged to develop any particular interest she or he has and a timetable will be agreed in advance, to reflect the particular interests of the applicant, the specialist interests of the existing Consultants, and the needs of the Trust.There is considerable opportunity for an appointee to develop sub-specialist services

Life in the area

This is an opportunity to develop your career in supportive and friendly town in the North West of England, set in fantastic scenery. The local are is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, with national parks on your doorstep. 
Cost of living in this area is excellent, making this a brilliant location to settle & buy property. The area provides excellent educational, cultural and sporting facilities, making this a fantastic location for families.

Am I eligible for this role?

To be eligible for this vacancy you will need the following: 

EEA candidates: 

  • Recognised European Medical Degree
  • Specialist Qualification in Gastroenterology
  • IELTS or OET 

Non-EEA candidates: 

  • MRCP(UK) 
  • GMC Recognised Qualifications
  • IELTS or OET 

UK-based candidates: 

  • Within six months of CCT or CCT Holder

This is a great opportunity for any experienced physicians interested in Gastroenterology looking to work in the NHS 

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