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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  • 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

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  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation

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