The IMG Connect team is delighted to announce that we have been awarded a position on the NHS Workforce Alliance International Recruitment Framework for Lots 2 and 5!
This has been a long time in the making after the tireless work of our founders Marcus and Ruaidhri. It was hard work, starting the company amidst the uncertainty and disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, sweating over laptops wondering how on earth to countenance for a pandemic in an international recruitment business model! But many a late night working alongside our hard-working IMG Connect team has led us to this fantastic achievement, and well, here we are, a new chapter begins. Everyone at IMG Connect relishes the challenge and opportunity presented to us with this Framework award.
Moving forward, we remain focused on connecting NHS Trusts with highly skilled and dedicated doctors who provide exceptional care, compassion, and dignity to patients. This framework allows us to nurture long-term relationships with NHS Trusts and deepen connections suited to the professional development and career goals of our candidates.
We are committed to helping our clients limit the expense and unsustainable practice of hiring overpaid temporary locum doctors; all while ensuring that we recruit only the very best medical professionals.
With our appointment to this framework, we look forward to extending our support to more hospitals and NHS Trusts across the UK, and our role in their pursuit to build a sustainable workforce and deliver outstanding healthcare services to the community.
Guest blog, written by Dr Jon Turvey, Core Psychiatry Trainee, Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust
Dreams of providing quality psychiatric care within the dynamic medical landscape of a job in the NHS, often lead overseas psychiatrists from healthcare systems around the world to embark on the journey towards Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych).
As a crucial milestone on the path to a career in psychiatry within the UK, the MRCPsych examinations provide an internationally recognised credential that sets the bar for clinical excellence, comprehensive medical knowledge and training, and confident decision-making skills in the field.
In this blog, we’ll be covering some of the key aspects of the Paper A and B exams, as well as introducing you to PassMRCPsych, an online learning and resources platform for MRCPsych aspirants, summarised in the headings below:
Why does MRCPsych matter?
An overview of MRCPsych Paper A
Unpacking MRCPsych Paper B
IMG Psychiatrists partners with PassMRCPsych
Mapping your MRCPsych journey
Using PassMRCPsych for exam success
Why does MRCPsych Matter?
The value of holding MRCPsych cannot be understated, serving as both a symbol of your medical competence as a psychiatrist and giving you a competitive edge in the NHS job market. Attaining full MRCPsych demonstrates to potential employers that you have the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to provide high-quality care to patients.
MRCPsych also provides a steppingstone for further specialist training and can significantly enhance career prospects for international psychiatrists, more easily facilitating entry into more senior positions in the NHS, such as specialty doctor, the new specialist grade and consultant roles.
An overview of MRCPsych Paper A
Paper A is a written exam comprising 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and extended-matching questions (EMQs), sat over 3 hours and now held online, through test centres. Paper A forms the foundation of the MRCPsych and focuses on the basic sciences that underline psychiatric practice. It touches on areas such as neurosciences, psychology, and social sciences, which are the cornerstone of psychiatry and set the scene for more advanced topics.
The average pass mark is typically around 60-70%, although this varies slightly depending on the difficulty of the paper for each diet. As per the latest statistics from the Royal College website, approximately 65% of candidates pass Paper A each diet.
You can find a detailed breakdown of the Paper A exam here.
Unpacking MRCPsych Paper B
Similarly to Paper A, Paper B comprises 150 MCQs and EMQs sat over 3 hours through a remote test centre. Paper B requires an understanding of more nuanced clinical topics like psychopathology, treatment protocols, and management strategies for psychiatric disorders. It's about applying your foundational knowledge to real-world scenarios and demonstrating effective clinical decision-making.
For Paper B, the average pass mark usually ranges around 65-70%, with a pass rate of approximately 60%.
See here for an in-depth overview of the Paper B exam.
Partnering with PassMRCPsych
As an exciting development in our provision of medical education, IMG Connect and PassMRCPsych have forged a partnership to offer extensive support to overseas doctors preparing for the MRCPsych exams. This collaboration aims to ensure your exam success through a series of exam-focused webinars and a continuously evolving and up-to-date revision resource to keep pace with the demands of the MRCPsych exams, along with discounts on revision course subscriptions.
Mapping Your Journey: A 4-Month Study Plan
Navigating the MRCPsych exams is no easy feat. It demands rigorous and methodical preparation for UK trainees and IMGs alike. Here's a 4-month study plan for each exam to keep your preparation on track:
Month 1: Get to Grips with the Syllabus - Familiarise yourself with the syllabus and identify key areas that you need to focus on (these may be areas you are less familiar with or those not covered by your current practice). Use this month to dive into the revision notes on PassMRCPsych. Join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group for access to Paper A and Paper B study courses to support your study alongside your PassMRCPsych resources.
Month 2: Deep Dive into Topics - In this month, start working on each topic systematically. Use the revision notes to ensure you cover every aspect and create your own short notes for quick revision closer to the exam date.
Month 3: Challenge Yourself - This is the month to test your knowledge. Attempt the MCQs in the question bank regularly. This will help you gauge your understanding and identify areas of weakness. Don’t forget to read the explanations when you get the answers wrong!
Month 4: Revise and Review - Revision is the key to retaining information. Revisit your short notes, attempt more MCQs, and make full use of the PassMRCPsych mock tests to familiarise yourself with the exam pattern. This final month should be dedicated to reinforcing your learning, particularly on topics which you need to keep in your short-term memory.
Remember, while this study plan serves as a roadmap, you should adapt it to suit your personal learning style and pace e.g., time available to prepare and external commitments. The aim is to ensure comprehensive understanding and effective retention of knowledge.
PassMRCPsych - Your Companion in Success
The seemingly vast MRCPsych syllabus might appear intimidating, but with the right guidance and resources, passing Paper A and Paper B can transform from an uphill task into an achievable goal. Here's where PassMRCPsych comes into play.
The online platform is armed with resources tailored specifically to the MRCPsych syllabus, from comprehensive revision notes that decode every topic in the syllabus, to an MCQ question bank with over 5000 questions, and mock exams providing the perfect opportunity to test your knowledge under timed conditions.
Better still, PassMRCPsych can also be used through a mobile app (on both iOS and Android), ensuring that your study materials are just a tap away and facilitating the seamless switch from studying at your desk to revising on-the-go.
It’s important to acknowledge that the MRCPsych exams come with a not insignificant cost. Understanding the financial constraints that often accompany rigorous exam preparations, PassMRCPsych offers highly competitively priced subscriptions which ensure that every aspirant, regardless of their budget, has access to top-notch preparation resources.
Dr Aisha, a satisfied user, shared her experience:
"PassMRCPsych.com was instrumental in my MRCPsych journey. The meticulous revision notes, the challenging MCQs, and the realistic mock exams provided an unparalleled learning experience. The convenience of a mobile app made it possible for me to study anywhere, anytime. And the affordable subscription didn't put a dent in my pocket while offering unparalleled resources."
Your Future Awaits
With your career goals within reach, embark on your journey towards conquering the MRCPsych exams by subscribing to PassMRCPsych for Paper A and Paper B. Utilise their exhaustive resources and mock exams, and watch your preparation transform into success!
For a walkthrough of the PassMRCPsych platform and resources, join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group.
To receive the latest news and updates on all things psychiatry, including the MRCPsych, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
GMC Registration can be a long and complex process. With several options available for overseas doctors to demonstrate evidence of their skills and knowledge, it can be difficult to decide the best route to take to register with the GMC.
For international doctors planning their route to the UK, the two most common and popular routes by far are the UK postgraduate qualifications (MRCPCH for paediatricians) or PLAB. Here we provide a summary of both pathways and briefly consider their benefits to help you make the best choice in your journey to the UK as an IMG.
GMC Registration for Overseas Doctors
PLAB for GMC Registration
MRCPCH for GMC Registration
Which is better for me as an IMG: PLAB or MRCPCH?
#IMG Tips
How do I get started?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
GMC Registration for Overseas Doctors
Registering with the GMC is a multi-stage process, including key timings actions and documents. To receive full registration, international doctors must provide evidence of:
What is often the most long and challenging part of the process is providing sufficient evidence of skills and knowledge, however, you can check whether you have a GMC-accepted postgraduate qualification here.
There are 5 ways in which an overseas doctor can demonstrate their skills and knowledge:
PLAB
Acceptable Postgraduate Qualification / Licensing Examination
Relevant European Qualification
Sponsorship / MTI
CESR / CESR-CP / CEGPR
Please note that only one type of evidence is required to demonstrate skills and knowledge for GMC registration.
Of these routes, the most accessible are PLAB and the Acceptable Postgraduate Qualification because they are two of the only routes that do not depend on the country you’ve trained in – the UK postgraduate exams and PLAB can be sat by doctors.
For a detailed breakdown of all the routes available to IMGs, see our blog here.
Professional & Linguistics Assessment Board (PLAB)
The first and most common route we’ll be discussing, which is particularly popular among junior doctors, is PLAB.
PLAB is a two-part exam (one written and one practical element), which assesses whether a candidate is at least as capable as a doctor starting the second year of their Foundation Programme Training (FY2 or F2) and can therefore work safely as an SHO (Senior House Officer) in the NHS.
The GMC has produced a useful video summary of the PLAB exams which you can watch here, or for a more detailed overview, see our IMG Resources library.
MRCPCH - UK Postgraduate Qualification for Paediatricians
The UK’s postgraduate qualifications are a more popular route for senior overseas doctors, and those looking to gain posts in the NHS which are reflective of their experience.
For paediatrics, this can be done by attaining Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) is the professional body that regulates the specialism of paediatrics in the UK, and MRCPCH is the full qualification attained through these examinations.
Take a look at our IMG Resources library for complete guides on MRCPCH to learn more.
PLAB vs MRCPCH
Both MRCPCH and PLAB are respectable routes that demonstrate skills and knowledge and will allow an international doctor to register with the GMC and work in the UK. To decide which route of the two is best for you, you’ll need to consider the benefits of each and how they align with your needs and priorities in moving to the UK.
Seniority of Positions in the NHS
It would be difficult for an overseas paediatrician to obtain a more senior post in the NHS without either MRCPCH, a GMC-approved training programme, or extensive experience from a similar, English-speaking healthcare system. PLAB alone will not give overseas doctors access to senior posts in the NHS.
Training
To practice as a consultant in the UK, you must have gone through specialty training and will need a GMC-recognised postgraduate qualification to do so, whether a qualification from the country in which you completed your specialty training, or MRCPCH.
Time
PLAB has two stages and can take anywhere between 3-9 months to prepare from start to finish.
MRCPCH has four stages, the last of which must be taken after at least 30 months of postgraduate experience with at least 12 months involving the care of emergency paediatric patients and can take anywhere between 24-36 months to prepare from start to finish.
Cost
MRCPCH has varying costs depending on whether you sit the exams in the UK or overseas. If sitting the exam in the UK, the exams can cost around £1,985, whereas sitting the exams overseas can cost up to £3,235.
PLAB costs £1,189, and whilst PLAB 1 can be sat in many overseas centres around the world, PLAB 2 is only delivered in the UK. You can find a list of overseas centres for PLAB 2 here.
So for both MRCPCH and PLAB, candidates will have to travel to the UK, meaning that the additional cost of visas, accommodation and flights must be factored in.
It’s also important to note that these costs can rise if re-sits of the exams are necessary.
Summary
PLAB, as an exam which examines a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO, does not assess ability in paediatrics specifically. For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine, I.e., paediatrics.
PLAB allows doctors to enter the UK system much faster than other routes and for this reason alone, it is favoured by international doctors when considering their path to the UK.
MRCPCH involves three more difficult examinations and takes more time to prepare for. However, for overseas doctors, attaining MRCPCH will allow you to jumpstart your career in the UK, as you don't need PLAB or Core Training.
Additionally, MRCPCH will facilitate the application for more senior roles in UK paediatrics than PLAB.
#IMG Tips
Determine your priorities – your goals and timeline for relocating to the UK are important in deciding which route is best for, and this is different for everyone.
Plan well ahead – depending on the route you choose, you may be embarking on a long journey through these exams, so plan how you will fit them into your life and how best to prepare to maintain a good work-life balance at the same time.
Find a support network – once you know which exams you will sit, find a support network of others who are also preparing for the exam.
Sources
https://www.rcpch.ac.uk/education-careers/examinations/mrcpch-about
https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/plab
https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/before-you-apply/evidence-to-support-your-application
Getting started
Once you’ve decided which exams are best for you, it’s time to delve deeper into the exams and what they entail. For more useful blogs and articles on PLAB or MRCPCH, registrations and qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG Resources library.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with one our recruitment specialists if you would like to discuss your options in the NHS once you have completed PLAB or MRCPCH.
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
Overseas doctors often have questions about the best ways to prepare for PLAB, particularly with so many online resources available with varying reviews and price points.
So, what study preparation, materials, courses and support are available for international doctors? We have compiled some of the best resources and courses to help you in your preparation for the PLAB 1 exam.
The topics we will cover are as follows:
What is the PLAB 1 exam?
What do I need in preparation for the PLAB 1 exam?
How do I get started with my revision?
What other resources are available?
#IMGTips
Passed? What’s next?
For an overview of the entire examination series, have a look at our article in the IMG Resources library here.
A Recap of PLAB 1
Let’s begin with a quick recap of the first exam in the PLAB examination suite.
PLAB 1 covers the common, important and acute conditions (those common in emergency departments) seen by trainees entering the second year of the Foundation Programme (FY2), and the management of long-term conditions seen in primary care.
Questions relate to current best practice in the UK, and equipment routinely used in UK hospitals. You’ll need to answer the questions in relation to published evidence and not according to practices within your local arrangements. Remember, this is an exam for entry into the UK healthcare system.
For full guidance on the structure of the exam, see our detailed blog on the PLAB 1 exam here.
Preparation
You can book your PLAB 1 examination using your GMC Online account where you can view available dates and book under the My Tests section.
Before you book a PLAB exam you must have:
an acceptable overseas primary medical qualification.
a GMC Online account to book or cancel the exam.
evidence of English competency – before you can book a test you will need to provide your English language test scores.
On Saturday 10 December 2022 at 10am (GMT) the GMC will release PLAB 1 places here for the following dates across all locations:
10 August 2023
2 November 2023
Getting Started
There are many resources to choose from online in starting your preparation for PLAB 1, however we recommend the following GMC guides to help you start your preparation.
The PLAB Blueprint: this is a helpful guide to what will be included in the exam. Our IMGs advise this is the best place to start with your preparations. The blueprint sets out clearly all the topics and skills needed to pass the exam. Download the PLAB Blueprint here.
The Foundation Programme curriculum: the topics and skills covered in the PLAB Blueprint are identical to those undertaken by doctors starting their second year of Foundation Programme Training (FY2). The curriculum can be found here.
Guidance and interactive tools:
The GMC ‘Good Medical Practice’ document explains the core advice to doctors on the standards expected of them. In the exam you will be expected to demonstrate the professional values and behaviours set out in ‘Good Medical Practice'.
You can test your knowledge of Good Medical Practice using the following online tools:
Explanatory guidance
Good Medical Practice in action interactive online tool
Welcome to UK practice interactive online tool
Sample questions: 30 sample questions along with their answers can be found on the GMC website here.
What other resources are available?
You do not need to attend a study or coaching course to pass PLAB 1 and can be passed under your own preparation, but many candidates choose to do so.
Below are additional resources which can be used to aid your preparation.
PLABABLE Question Banks
Limited access (3 – 5 months) to a bank of over 2,500 questions with explanations for the exam, including practice by categories, timed mock practices, revision guides and dedicated study groups. You can access the course here.
MedRevisions Question Bank
An online question bank consisting of more than 4000 questions based on important PLAB 1 topics. The questions are lengthier and slightly more challenging compared to other question banks. There are also customisable mock exams which you can find here.
PLABverse Notes
Compact and organised notes with illustrations and comparisons. Around 300 pages with clinchers and hot notes at the end of each chapter and one-time full access to all chapters. You can choose from 3 plans of 3 months, 6 months or 1 year here.
PLABABLE Revision Course
A 4-day revision course, shooters, giving you the best chance to class club one. In this course you will find expert teachers who developed and wrote the question bank, high-level topics which are frequently asked in the exam and interactive and detailed lectures based on the most recent UK guidelines. Further information about the course can be found here.
PLABABLE Big Mock Exam
The ‘big mock’ features 180 high yield questions, not found in the PLABABLE question bank. The mock is available for six months from purchase, and you will find a mix of topics that will give you a more accurate prediction of where you stand in your preparation. The mock can be found here.
PLAB 1 Keys
PLAB 1 Keys offers an online subscription containing simplified and updated notes (provided as key points) that are required to pass PLAB 1. These are exam explanations compiled and converted into key points with diagrams and flow charts which makes it easier to understand. The subscriptions can be accessed here.
#IMGTips
Start your revision early – starting in advance allows you to pace yourself and get ahead of the stresses of last-minute revision and anxiety.
Consider other essentials for the exam – you will need evidence of English language proficiency as well as a GMC online account and these (particularly your English exam) will need to be prepared in advance.
Think about your personal learning style and use this to plan effective revision - consider the ways you study best and use them to your advantage.
Try to take some time off work before the exam – you’ll likely be preparing for the exam alongside full-time work, so, if possible, take around 5-7 days somewhere in the run-up to the exam for some intense revision.
Passed? What's next?
Once you have passed PLAB 1, you can take the PLAB 2 examination in the UK. Read our blog for more information on how to sit PLAB 2, which includes everything that you need to know about how to sit the exam, syllabus, dates, results, fees and preparation.
IMG Resources
For more useful blogs & articles on exams, registrations & qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG library.
Get in Touch
Don’t hesitate to get in touch via email or using the 'Ask a Question' button above to discuss job options in the NHS and the best locations for you, CESR and a typical salary in the UK.
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
FRCR Part 1 or CR1 is the first exam in the FRCR postgraduate qualification.
The completion of all the exams in the Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR) examination suite leads to eligibility for GMC registration. The exams can be taken by IMGs from any country, provided certain criteria have been met. In this article, we’ll take a look at the following:
An overview of FRCR exams
A deep dive into FRCR Part 1
How is the exam marked?
Am I eligible for the exam?
As an overseas radiologist, where can I sit the exam?
How much will the exam cost and how do I apply?
What is the best way to prepare for the exam?
#IMG Tips
I’ve passed the FRCR Part 1 exam, what’s next?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
An Overview of FRCR
FRCR is the set of postgraduate examinations administered by the Royal College of Radiologists to test a candidate’s knowledge and clinical understanding within the scope of the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Radiology.
The exams are as follows:
Please note that only full FRCR satisfies the postgraduate requirements for overseas doctors.
You can read an overview of the full FRCR examination suite via our IMG Resources library.
For doctors who are interested in securing senior roles in the NHS which are reflective of their current practice or grade, we advise that FRCR is the best route to take to GMC registration. FRCR is often a requirement for NHS locum consultant job postings where candidates are not already on the Specialist Register for radiology. The FRCR route allows senior candidates to better align their qualifications with the specifications of relevant jobs.
FRCR Part 1 - Anatomy & Physics
FRCR Part 1 is the first in the set of FRCR exams. This exam expects candidates to have gained knowledge of the physical principles that underpin diagnostic medical imaging and of the anatomy needed to perform and interpret radiological studies.
The exam is designed to assess whether candidates have an appropriate knowledge of the anatomy that underpins all radiological imaging including radiography, fluoroscopy, angiography, computed tomography (CT), ultrasound imaging and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
The two components of the exam are Anatomy and Physics.
Anatomy
The exam features an electronic image viewing session, mimicking what radiologists would encounter in clinical practice in order to be valid, thus the questions consist of radiological images on a computer screen as this is the normal medium, as opposed to film or printed on paper.
The exam includes 100 questions - most of these are quite straightforward with an arrow indicating a specific anatomical structure as shown by a specific modality. These are typically “name the arrowed structure” questions, with space provided for a free text answer.
The exam lasts 90 minutes and individual modalities are given roughly equal weight as follows:
cross-sectional
plain radiographs
contrast studies
Different body parts are also given roughly equal weight covering the following areas:
head, neck and spine
chest and cardiovascular
abdomen and pelvis
musculoskeletal
Recognising a radiological anatomical structure and unprompted recall of its precise name is a key aspect of the everyday work of clinical radiologists, and doing so in a timely manner without routine recourse to reference material reflects real-life clinical practice.
Physics
The purpose of the physics exam is to assess whether candidates understand the underlying principles that underpin the generation of images in the various modalities, such that they:
select the most appropriate imaging technique for a clinical scenario from the intrinsic properties of the method of image generation
understand the risk, safety and quality consideration that are inherent in image generation to allow an informed choice of the appropriate modality and any alteration in technique
demonstrate the requirements of legislation that require the use of those techniques that require ionising radiation to be justified by a professional had been met
This exam lasts two hours and comprises 40 questions. Each question includes a stem (a question or statement) and five items (answers). The answers must be marked true or false and it is possible for all five items to be true or for all to be false.
The question distribution of the physics paper is as follows:
matter and radiation – 3
radiography & fluoroscopy – 6
radionuclide imaging – 6
radiation safety – 6
computed tomography – 6
magnetic resonance imaging – 6
ultrasound – 6
other – 1
Marking
Both exams are marked by a delivery platform which is programmed with the correct answers.
Marks are awarded for each exam as follows:
The anatomy examination is marked out of 200, and answers are marked as follows:
full accuracy = 2 marks
less accuracy, but still correct (e.g. omits ‘left’ or ‘right’ for a paired structure) = 1 mark
incorrect = 0 marks
The physics examination is marked out of 40, and answers are marked as follows:
correct = 1 mark
incorrect = 0 marks
The standard for success is determined based on the difficulty of the questions in each sitting and may therefore vary between sittings and sets of images.
For more information on the exam content and structure, read the guidance notes for candidates on the College website.
Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for FRCR Part 1 is:
holding a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes.
holding a formal clinical radiology post in which they are actively receiving clinical radiology training.
no minimum period of clinical experience or training is required to enter the exams
Exam Centres
The current venues for the First FRCR (CR1) exam are:
Belfast, Birmingham, Bridgend Wales, Crewe, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London and Plymouth. Overseas centres for now are in Hong Kong, Singapore, India, Egypt and Malta.
The exam is typically held three times a year over two consecutive days. 2023 exam dates are as follows:
February 2023
Physics – Thursday 9 February
Anatomy – Friday 10 February
June 2023
Physics – Thursday 8 June
Anatomy – Friday 9 June
September 2023
Physics – Thursday 14 September
Anatomy – Friday 15 September
For updates on exam dates, including the application window, keep an eye on the Royal College website here.
Applications & Cost
First FRCR (CR1) 2023 exam cost:
Members - £319
Non-members - £406
Please note that these costs vary slightly for some overseas centres.
UK trainees are given priority for examination places, followed by members of the Royal College and finally non-members. Each window lasts around a week and all candidates should apply for the exams through the Royal College website here.
Preparation
Although there are many online materials to aid in your preparation for FRCR Part 1, as always, we recommend you start your preparation on the Royal College website, particularly with the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Radiology. In using these as a blueprint for your preparation, you will ensure your study is focused on the most relevant and useful information as prescribed directly from teaching materials.
Instructional video and demonstration site: a walkthrough video of the FRCR Part 1 exam format with guidance and instructions which can be found here for the physics component and here for anatomy.
Anatomy module guidance: advice for the anatomy module has been compiled by the College here.
Specimen questions: sample questions and answers have been put together by the College and are available here.
#IMG Tips
Prepare early – the best way to avoid stress and last-minute cramming is to get started as soon as possible.
Get familiar with the exam content – during your study (at least to start off with), the curriculum should be your guide to the FRCR exams.
Practise, practise, practise – go through as many practice questions as you can and regularly review your progress using mock exams.
Sources
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/clinical-radiology/examinations/frcr-part-1-radiology-cr1
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/cr1_anatomy_purpose_of_assessment_statement.pdf
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/cr1_physics_purpose_of_assessment_statement.pdf
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/clinical_radiology_curriculum_2020.pdf
I’ve passed the First FRCR exam, what’s next?
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 in hand, you can look ahead to the Final FRCR CR2A and CR2B exams. Once you have completed all parts of FRCR, you can apply for full GMC registration with a license to practice.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team to learn more about the opportunities available to you once you’ve passed FRCR.
For the latest news and updates on all things radiology, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
GMC Registration can be a long and complex process. With several options available for overseas doctors to demonstrate evidence of their skills and knowledge, it might be difficult to decide the best route to take to register with the GMC.
For international doctors planning their route to the UK, the two most common and popular routes by far are the UK postgraduate qualifications (MRCEM for emergency medicine physicians) or PLAB. Here we provide a summary of both pathways and briefly consider their benefits to help you make the best choice in your journey to the UK as an IMG.
GMC Registration for Overseas Doctors
PLAB for GMC Registration
MRCEM for GMC Registration
Which is better for me as an IMG: PLAB or MRCEM?
#IMG Tips
How do I get started?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
GMC Registration for Overseas Doctors
Registering with the GMC is a multi-stage process, including key timings actions and documents. To receive full registration, international doctors must provide evidence of:
What is often the most long and challenging part of the process is providing sufficient evidence of skills and knowledge, however, you can check whether you have a GMC-accepted postgraduate qualification here.
There are 5 ways in which an overseas doctor can demonstrate their skills and knowledge:
PLAB
Acceptable Postgraduate Qualification / Licensing Examination
Relevant European Qualification
Sponsorship / MTI
CESR / CESR-CP / CEGPR
Please note that only one type of evidence is required to demonstrate skills and knowledge for GMC registration.
Of these routes, the most accessible are PLAB and the Acceptable Postgraduate Qualification because they are two of the only routes that do not depend on the country you’ve trained in – the UK postgraduate exams and PLAB can be sat by doctors.
For a detailed breakdown of all the routes available to IMGs, see our blog here.
PLAB - Professional & Linguistics Assessment Board
The first and most common route we’ll be discussing, which is particularly popular among junior doctors, is PLAB.
PLAB is a two-part exam (one written and one practical element), which assesses whether a candidate is at least as capable as a doctor starting the second year of their Foundation Programme Training (FY2 or F2) and can therefore work safely as an SHO (Senior House Officer) in the NHS.
The GMC has produced a useful video summary of the PLAB exams which you can watch here, or for a more detailed overview, see our IMG Resources library.
MRCEM - UK Postgraduate Qualification for Emergency Medicine
The UK’s postgraduate qualifications are a more popular route for senior overseas doctors, and those looking to gain posts in the NHS which are reflective of their experience.
For emergency medicine, this can be done by attaining Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine. The Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) is the professional body that regulates the specialism of emergency medicine in the UK, and Membership of the College of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM) is the full qualification attained through these examinations.
Take a look at our IMG Resources library for complete guides on MRCEM to learn more.
You can also read our interview with Dr Behzad Rashid to learn about the experience of an IMG Emergency Medicine resident going through MRCEM.
PLAB vs MRCEM
Both MRCEM and PLAB are respectable routes that demonstrate skills and knowledge and will allow an international doctor to register with the GMC and work in the UK. To decide which route of the two is best for you, you’ll need to consider the benefits of each and how they align with your needs and priorities in moving to the UK.
Seniority of Positions in the NHS
It would be difficult for an overseas emergency medicine doctor to obtain a more senior post in the NHS without either MRCEM, a GMC-approved training programme, or extensive experience from a similar English-speaking healthcare system. PLAB alone will not give overseas doctors access to senior posts in the NHS.
Training
To practice as a consultant in the UK, you must have gone through specialty training and will need a GMC-recognised postgraduate qualification to do so, whether a qualification from the country in which you completed your specialty training, or MRCEM.
Due to the more specialised nature of MRCEM, we advise emergency medicine doctors to complete MRCEM, as many NHS Trusts will list MRCEM as a requirement on job descriptions. MRCEM also allows IMGs access to more senior roles and competitive salaries.
Time
PLAB has two stages and can take anywhere between 3-9 months to prepare from start to finish.
MRCEM has three stages, the last of which must be taken after at least 24 months of postgraduate experience with at least 6 months in emergency medicine and can take anywhere between 24-36 months to prepare from start to finish.
Cost
MRCEM costs £1,115 for the three exams. Whilst the Primary and Intermediate SBA exams are delivered worldwide via computer-based testing company, the OSCE is delivered in London (UK), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Kochi (India), so there may be the added expense of international travel.
PLAB costs £1,189, and whilst PLAB 1 can be sat in many overseas centres around the world, PLAB 2 is only delivered in the UK. You can find a list of overseas centres for PLAB 2 here.
So for both MRCEM and PLAB, candidates will have to travel to the UK, meaning that the additional cost of visas, accommodation and flights must be factored in.
It’s also important to note that these costs can rise if re-sits of the exams are necessary.
Summary
PLAB, as an exam which examines a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO, does not assess ability in emergency medicine specifically. For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine, I.e., emergency medicine.
PLAB allows doctors to enter the UK system much faster than other routes and for this reason alone, it is favoured by international doctors when considering their path to the UK.
MRCEM involves three more difficult examinations and takes more time to prepare for. However, for overseas doctors, attaining MRCEM will allow you to jumpstart your career in the UK, as you don't need PLAB or Core Training.
Additionally, MRCEM will facilitate the application for more senior roles in UK emergency medicine than PLAB.
#IMG Tips
Determine your priorities – your goals and timeline for relocating to the UK are important in deciding which route is best for, and this is different for everyone.
Plan well ahead – depending on the route you choose, you may be embarking on a long journey through these exams, so plan how you will fit them into your life and how best to prepare to maintain a good work-life balance at the same time.
Find a support network – once you know which exams you will sit, find a support network of others who are also preparing for the exam.
Sources
https://rcem.ac.uk/exam-mrcem/
https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/plab
https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/before-you-apply/evidence-to-support-your-application
Getting started
Once you’ve decided which exams are best for you, it’s time to delve deeper into the exams and what they entail. For more useful blogs and articles on PLAB or MRCEM, registrations and qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG Resources library.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with one our recruitment specialists if you would like to discuss your options in the NHS once you have completed PLAB or MRCEM.
For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
FRCR CR2A and CR2B and the final exams in the FRCR qualification.
Completions of all three parts of the Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR) qualification results in eligibility for GMC registration, once the English language component has also been met.
The FRCR examinations are key to an international oncologist being able to secure senior oncology jobs in the NHS and can be taken by IMGs from any country, provided certain eligibility criteria have been met. In this article, we take a closer look at the following:
An overview of FRCR
How are the Final FRCR exams structured?
How are marks awarded for CR2A and CR2B?
Am I eligible to sit Final FRCR?
Where can I sit the exams and how much do they cost?
How do I apply for the exams?
What is the best way to prepare for FRCR CR2A and CR2B?
I’ve passed the FRCR Radiology exams, what’s next?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
An Overview of FRCR Radiology
FRCR Radiology is the set of three postgraduate examinations administered by the Royal College of Radiologists to test candidates’ knowledge and clinical understanding within the scope of the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Radiology.
The exams within the exam suite are as follows:
You can read an overview of the full FRCR Radiology examination suite via our IMG Resources library.
Please note that only full FRCR satisfies the postgraduate requirements for overseas doctors.
Alternative routes to GMC registration include PLAB and other recognised GMC qualifications or licensing exams, which you can find out more about here.
A Deep Dive into FRCR Part 2A & 2B
Final FRCR Part A
The Final FRCR Part A examination assesses knowledge of the sciences that underpin clinical radiology including physics as applied to imaging including molecular biology, medical statistics, radiological findings in pathological and normal conditions together with their differential diagnosis, management pathways, and radiological interventions.
The examination comprises two single best answer papers, each containing 120 questions and covering a broad range of the core curriculum. Exams are 3 hours for each sitting.
The paper comprises a mix of questions from across a wide range of the curriculum:
Cardiothoracic and Vascular
Musculoskeletal and Trauma
Gastro-intestinal
Genito-urinary, Adrenal, Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Breast Paediatric
Central Nervous and Head & Neck
Final FRCR Part B
The Final FRCR Part B examination assesses different aspects of a candidate’s radiological skills, all of which are considered necessary for safe and effective radiological practice.
The exam has three components:
reporting (long cases) – 6 cases in 75 minutes
rapid reporting – 30 plain radiographs in 35 minutes
oral exam – 2 x 30-minutes vivas
The stations are broken down in more detail below.
Reporting Station
This component is built on the fact that A&E department is a large part a radiologist’s workload.
The station tests candidates’ ability to rapidly decide if an image is normal or abnormal and the provision of a diagnosis for the abnormality.
The images are all radiographs with the balance of normals within the images about 45-50%. Trauma cases are the majority, but some chest and abdominal radiographs are included as they would be in a typical session of A&E reporting in the workplace. Each abnormal case shows one significant diagnosable abnormality.
This part of the examination reproduces the situation of plain film reporting as a safe radiologist needs to be able to identify abnormalities when present and confidently exclude them when they aren’t.
Rapid Reporting Station
The reporting component centres around the understanding that radiologists largely communicate their findings through written reports.
This element tests the ability of the candidate to make observations, distinguish the relevance of these findings, deduce a list of differential diagnoses, suggest the most likely diagnosis and discuss further management including further imaging where appropriate.
This part of the examination mirrors a mixed list of cross-sectional and fluoroscopic imaging, and a short, structured reporting sheet is provided. Each case can include any type of radiological imaging and often involves more than one e.g. plain film, CT and isotope study.
This written element of the examination aims to test the candidate’s ability to assess and interpret a variety of clinical cases across all modalities safely, and to accurately communicate their findings, conclusions and recommendations.
Oral Examination
This mirrors the day-to-day clinical discussions and MDT meetings, which form an integral part of a radiologist’s workload.
The oral component further assesses the candidate’s powers of observation and interpretation, but in addition allows assessment of the candidate’s ability to discuss wide-ranging aspects of patient care as influenced by the radiological findings.
Candidates are expected to be able to integrate their observations with emerging clinical information to help refine their differential diagnosis. It also tests their ability to communicate effectively, their analytical and decision-making skills, and allows searching questions to explore their depth of knowledge and ensure that their practice supports patient safety.
This oral element aims to explore the candidates’ depth of knowledge and to test higher cognitive skills. The format allows for flexibility and for complexity to be built into the examiner’s questioning.
In total, the Final FRCR exam lasts 2 hours and 50 minutes.
Scoring
Final FRCR Part A
The examination is marked by the examination software Speedwell and the marking system shown below is used:
For each item correctly answered: +1 mark
For each item incorrectly answered: 0 marks
The examination is not negatively marked and therefore you are encouraged to provide an answer to all the questions.
You can find full information on the scoring system for the CR2A exam here.
Final FRCR Part B
Reporting
Eight marks are available for each case, with a maximum of 48 marks available.
Candidate response
Mark
Excellent: a perfect answer, clear and confident
8
Good Pass: additional relevant material included in a "pass" grade answer
7
Pass: most observations made correctly; principal diagnoses correct
6
Borderline: appropriate for cases with two main diagnoses, but only one is mentioned; some observations missed
5
Fail: significant observations missed; correct diagnosis not made
4
No answer offered
3
Half marks may also be awarded.
Following the marking exercise each candidate will have a score between 18-48. An overall reporting mark is then awarded on the basis of total marks achieved using the scale below:
Total marks
Overall mark
18 - 25
4
25½ - 28
4½
28½ - 31
5
31½ - 34
5½
34½ - 37
6
37½ - 40
6½
40½ - 43
7
43½ - 46
7½
46½ - 48
8
Rapid reporting
One mark is available per image, with a maximum of 30 marks available.
Image type
Candidate response
Mark
Normal Image
Correctly classified
+1
Incorrectly classified (appropriate false positive)
+½
No answer given
0
Abnormal Image
Correctly classified and correctly identified
+1
Correctly classified but incorrectly identified
0
Incorrectly classified (false negative)
0
No answer given
0
Following this, each candidate will have a score between 0-30. An overall rapid reporting mark is then awarded on the basis of total marks achieved using the scale below:
Total marks
Overall mark
0 - 24
4
24½
4½
25 - 25½
5
26 - 26½
5½
27
6
27½ - 28
6½
28½ - 29
7
29½
7½
30
8
Oral
Candidates are shown images by two pairs of examiners and can score a maximum of eight marks from each pair.
Performance description
Comments
Score
Very Poor Answer
Key findings missed even with help
Wrong or dangerous diagnosis
4
Poor Answer
Slow to spot abnormality
Poor differential diagnosis
Needed help to get correct answer
5
Principal findings seen
Some abnormalities seen with help
Principal diagnosis correct
Limited differential
6
Good Answer
Key findings spotted quickly
Correct deductions made and correct diagnosis
Good differential offered
7
Excellent answer – all findings seen
Correct diagnosis and deductions
No errors
Succinct/accurate report
Excellent differential
8
Overall Pass Mark
Once the marks have been combined, each candidate will have a score of 4-8 in each component of the examination (two orals, the reporting session and the rapid reporting session).
The pass mark in each component is 6, making the overall pass mark 24.
In addition, candidates must obtain a mark of 6 or above in a minimum of two of the four components. If a candidate scores less than 6 in three or more components, they fail the examination even if they have achieved a score of at least 24 overall.
You can find full information on the scoring system for the CR2B exam here.
Eligibility for Final FRCR
Final FRCR Part A - to be eligible you must:
have passed FRCR Part 1
Final FRCR Part B - to be eligible you must:
have passed FRCR Part 1
have passed FRCR Part 2A
have acquired 34 months in a formal clinical radiology training post by the month of the examination (your training supervisor must provide confirmation that you have completed the required duration of training and received instruction covering the examination syllabus)
Exam Fees & Venues
Part 2A
The Part 2A exam is held twice a year, normally in spring and autumn.
You can see a breakdown of the fees for all UK and overseas centres below:
UK
Venues
Member fee
Non-member fee
Belfast, Bridgend Wales, Crewe, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Plymouth
£427
£545
Global
Venues
Member fee
Non-member fee
Egypt
£427
£545
Hong Kong
£427
£545
India
£505
£643
Pakistan
£427
£545
Singapore
£493
£628
Part 2B
The Part 2B exam is now held four times a year.
You can see a breakdown of the fees for all UK and overseas centres below:
UK
Venues
Member fee
Non-member fee
Belfast, Bridgend Wales, Crewe, Edinburgh, Leeds, London, Plymouth
£597
£759
Global
Venues
Member fee
Non-member fee
Egypt
£427
£545
India
£505
£643
Applications
Applications are normally open for a few weeks, several months before the exam. Please refer to the examinations page for up-to-date information on application dates.
UK trainees (members) are given priority for examination places, followed by other member bookings and finally non-members. The window for each group is usually open for around a week before it opens to the next group.
All candidates should apply for the exams through the Royal College website here for Part 2A and here for Part 2B. More detailed information can also be found here in relation to preparation for the application.
Preparation
There are many resources available online to aid in preparation for the FRCR Part 2A and 2B exams. We always recommend that the best place to start your preparation is the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Radiology.
Using this as a blueprint for your preparation is the best way to ensure your study is focused on the most relevant and useful information as prescribed directly from teaching materials.
Other useful resources to aid your studies include:
Instructional video: demonstrations of both parts of FRCR Part 2, providing insight into both elements of the exam and what candidates can expect on the day. These are on the RCR website here.
Guidance notes for Part 2A: a guidance document on key elements of the exam, found here.
Guidance notes for Part 2B: important information on the three sections of the exam, available here.
Sample questions: sample SBA and oral questions for the exams have been provided with answers on the RCR website, here for Part A and here for Part B.
Candidate reference sheet: a reference list of abbreviations and normal ranges for use during Part 2A, found here.
Examiners’ reports for Part 2B: this is a collection of generic reports written by examiners on the overall performance of candidates and individual questions as a guide for applicants for future sittings. These are available here.
Understand the SBA format and how to approach questions: this document also provides questions that have been used previously in the Final FRCR (Part A) Examination. You can find this here.
TNM Staging guidance - this document explains the knowledge required to answer questions related to this topic, available here.
Demonstration films: demonstrations of both parts of FRCR Part 2, providing insight into both elements of the exam and what candidates can expect on the day. These are on the RCR website here.
Scoring system for Part 2B: key information on how each part of the exam is marked, found here.
For a detailed guide to the best guidance preparation and courses for the exams, see our blog here.
Sources
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/clinical-radiology/examinations/frcr-part-2a-radiology-cr2a
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/cr2a_purpose_of_assessment_statement_jan_22.pdf
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/clinical-radiology/examinations/frcr-part-2b-radiology-cr2b
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/cr2b_purpose_of_assessment_statement.pdf
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/cr2a_guidance_notes._jan_22.pdf
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/docs/radiology/pdf/CR2B_scoring_system.pdf
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/clinical-radiology/exams/5faf80dd-7d45-e911-a977-002248072781/dates-fees
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/clinical-radiology/exams/a91e7f01-7e45-e911-a977-002248072781/dates-fees
I’ve passed the FRCR exams! What’s next?
Firstly, congratulations – attaining full FRCR is a massive achievement!
With all parts of the FRCR complete, you have completed the biggest component of the requirements for GMC registration. Once you have completed the English language component, you will be eligible for full GMC registration with a license to practice in the UK.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team to learn more about the opportunities available to you once you’ve passed FRCR.
For the latest news and updates on all things radiology, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
Are you an overseas emergency medicine doctor taking the postgraduate route to GMC registration through the MRCEM exams? Are you interested in sitting the exams in the future?
As part of IMG Stories, we introduce to you Dr Behzad Rashid, an emergency medicine doctor who has recently sat and passed the MRCEM Primary exam. Dr Rashid will be sharing with you his experiences of the first of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine exams, taking you through his preparation, experience of sitting the exam and sharing some hot tips for international MRCEM aspirants.
Tell us about yourself... what should the IMG Community know about Behzad Rashid?
I am a Resident Emergency Medicine Physician, currently working in Pakistan and have worked in A&E since completing my internship. I started off as a medical officer, and then began an A&E residency programme in my country. I would say a combination of hard work and fate are the reason why I am where I am today.
What motivated you to sit the MRCEM exams?
I had booked a space on the PLAB 1 exam, however, due to COVID, it was unfortunately cancelled (three times in fact). By the third time, I’d had enough. I decided to progress my career in Pakistan because I felt I wasn’t getting anywhere with the exam bookings, and everything was very uncertain at that time.
Even though time felt like it had stopped, it was actually flying by. I therefore decided to sit the residency exam in Pakistan. I worked in A&E at the time and had heard about the MRCEM exams from my colleagues. Due to the lockdown, they had just announced that the exam could now be taken online, even within the comfort of your own home. I was ready to go all in and grind my way through both exams, so I studied and succeeded in clearing both PLAB 1 and MRCEM Primary.
At what point in your career and training did you sit the MRCEM Primary exam?
There wasn’t anything in particular that made me realise that I was ready to sit this exam, besides the fact that COVID had been ruining my plans. I was going through a difficult time, and A&E was something I dearly wanted to pursue. I saw an opportunity, and I took it.
Applications can be frustrating… how did you find the application process for the exam?
The whole process took me about 30-45 minutes to complete. The details of application and exam are available on the website, and whilst a bit tedious, it is a straightforward process. Based on the RCEM’s eligibility criteria for the first exam, you only need to have graduated with an approved medical degree in order to sit the exam.
Since I was planning to sit the exam in my own country, I was provided with some options for exam centres. There were multiple private exam centres nearby, and I did not want to sit the exam at home and risk the internet issues others had experienced. I booked my exam for 8 am, because that's when I function best, and I would recommend that everyone books whatever time of day you think you would perform best.
How far in advance did you start preparing for the MRCEM Primary?
I booked the exam 4 months in advance (around the end of October, with the exam in Dec). Everyone has their own method of studying, and for some, this may not be enough time, so whatever schedule has worked for you in the past - stick to it. In my opinion this exam requires about 3-4 months of studying if you are unemployed or have any daily commitments, and about 5-6 months if you are working or have a very busy schedule.
Often IMGs are a bit at a loss to get support... did you benefit from speaking to senior colleagues or peers about the exam? Did you study with other candidates?
I was in touch with a few individuals who had already sat the exam. They guided me through the application process and resources I could use to prepare. They were also the ones who entertained my idea in preparing for both exams at once, and they believed that I could succeed in both.
You don’t need a lot of friends, just the right ones who will push and support you in your journey.
You were preparing for PLAB at the same time as the Royal College exams...how do you feel studying for PLAB 1 compares to your experience of MRCEM Primary?
PLAB 1 and MRCEM Primary are completely different exams.
PLAB 1 focuses on the application of medical knowledge in common day-to-day scenarios that a doctor would encounter in the UK. MRCEM Primary is more of a theoretical assessment of the basics i.e. anatomy and physiology of emergency related scenarios. This became even more apparent after I’d gone over the curriculum provided by the GMC and RCEM, which is honestly the best part of the exams. I would not say that one is easier than the other – they assess different things.
I focused on the blueprint/curriculum for each exam and made sure to get in as many MCQs as possible. That gave me a better overview of what I would actually be tested on.
Emergency medicine doctors are notoriously busy...in the months leading up to the exam, how much time did you spend a week on preparation?
In my case, I had to appear for the MRCEM Primary first, and then a week later for the Pakistan Residency (FCPS I) exam. Since work was extremely hectic, and I felt that I was not able to set aside much time to prepare for both, I quit my job to study for the exams and managed my time throughout the day to study and prepare for both (around 12 hours each day).
It goes without saying that any goal without a plan is just a wish. I divided my day into 2 halves where I would wake up at 5am, and study till 12pm, take a break (which included sleeping, eating or working out), then start off again at 5pm and go at it till 10pm. The first half would be MCQS and making Anki flash cards, second half would be to review the cards I had pending for that day. I would throw in a mock exam every week to see where I stood at that point, correct my mistakes and make cards on those as well. I stuck to this routine for 3 months and by the end of the 3 months, I had a deck of about 2000 Anki flash cards, divided into two groups for the 2 exams, and that is all I would review because I was confident that is all they would test me on.
How did you manage to juggle other commitments whilst studying for the exam (without panicking)?
During COVID, I was pretty much stranded by myself in Pakistan. My family lived in a different country, and I had limited interactions with the family I did have around me. This bizarre period of isolation and confusion gave me ample time to prepare for my exams. Being alone did get frustrating at times, and anxiety would creep up on me, but the hunger to clear my exams and progress my career gave me tunnel vision and cancelled out all the other noise.
The preparation for 2 examinations was an enlightening and humbling experience. My goal is to reach out to students and help them understand what works best for them. I’d be more than happy to provide students with any resources (Including my Anki flash cards) they need. However, there isn’t a cookie cutter plan that will suit everyone - I did what was best for me in my circumstances, and you must do the same.
What resources did you use to prepare and practice for the MRCEM Primary exam?
I used the curriculum provided by the MRCEM on their website which you will find here.
Along with that I was using the MRCEM Success question bank, which I have to say is an excellent resource. The actual exam was very close to the MCQs provided, which is why I would highly recommend it.
I am also an avid user of Anki. It has helped me ace exams in med school, the MRCEM primary, FCPS I and even the PLAB 1. I have never made any notes from any textbooks, and I honestly think hardcovers will eventually become obsolete. I would highly recommend making your own cards since that allows you to work at your own pace and address any weak points. I would love to share my own deck of Anki cards as well, which covers everything provided in the MRCEM curriculum. Feel free to add more to this deck and pay it forward.
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?
I woke up early and decided not to go over any cards. I’m the type of exam-taker who enjoys working out and listening to music before an exam. At that point, I know what I know, and that is all I know. So I drank a nice cup of coffee and got some cardio done while listening to music.
What was your experience like on the day?
My exam was around 8:30am, so the drive was about 5 minutes to the exam hall and I got there around 30 minutes before it started. The invigilator was friendly and after leaving my personal belongings in a small locker, they provided a sheet of paper and stationary at the centre. The computer prompted me to start once the invigilator asked me to, and everything after that went smoothly. The invigilators are ready to help you with your queries if you experience any problems during the exam as well.
What was the most challenging part of the exam?
In my honest opinion, I did not come across anything that would throw me off. After going over the curriculum, and having a plan, I just stuck to that plan and followed it till the end.
In hindsight, would you have done anything differently?
I was already taking the most extreme measures by preparing for multiple exams and taking time off work, given everything was shut down during COVID. I have no regrets and cannot think of anything I’d have done differently.
What nuggets of advice would you give to any MRCEM Primary aspirants?
The best thing about the Royal College exams is that they provide a curriculum of what you should know, and they would never ask anything more than that. I would highly recommend you go over that and familiarise yourself with the content you will be tested on. Question banks might provide extra information to give you a different perspective of the subject, however the real exam sticks to its curriculum. If you know what you are required to know, preparation for the exam becomes easier.
What are your plans going forward?
I'm planning on appearing for the PLAB 2 and the MRCEM Intermediate soon. I have already started preparing my Anki deck for the intermediate as well, so wish me luck and stay tuned for that as well.
To learn more about the RCEM exams, see our IMG Resources library.
For news and updates on all things emergency medicine, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
Overseas radiologists often ask us how to best prepare for the Final FRCR Part 2A and 2B exams. With so much online content geared towards UK trainees, it can be difficult to know what is best suited to you as an international candidate.
Here we have compiled some of the best advice and resources available to help overseas radiologists prepare for their Royal College (RCR) exams. We’ll also address some of the changes to the exam, both the format, administration and availability of the exam for IMGs.
The topics we’ll cover are as follows:
A recap of FRCR CR2A and CR2B
What resources are available for IMGs?
Royal College Resources
Courses
Books
#IMG Tips
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
An Overview of FRCR CR2A and CR2B
As a quick reminder, Final FRCR refers to the final two exams in the Royal College of Radiologists examination suite for clinical and diagnostic radiologists. The full series - Part 1, Part 2A and 2B – is required by overseas radiologists when applying for GMC registration through the postgraduate route.
FRCR CR2A assesses knowledge of the pathology, imaging techniques, congenital abnormalities and radiological findings that underpin clinical radiology practice.
The FRCR 2A exam consists of 2 papers sat on the same day; each paper containing 120 single-best-answer questions (240 questions in total). Each paper lasts 3 hours.
CR2B is not an exit exam but is a key step in a trainee's progress towards independent reporting. The exam assesses several aspects of the candidate's radiological skills, all of which are considered necessary for safe and effective radiological practise.
Part 2B has 3 separate sections as below:
Rapid reporting - 30 plain radiographs in 35 minutes
Reporting (long cases) - 6 cases in 75 minutes
Oral (viva) - 2 x 30-minute vivas
In total, the exam lasts 2 hours and 50 minutes.
For a full overview of the FRCR exam series, see our blog here.
Preparation & Revision Resources
After discussing with IMGs the best way to approach preparing for the Final FRCR exams, most recommended beginning with the Royal College website and resources, which they have put together to aid in your preparation.
Curriculum: The FRCR exams are based on the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Radiology. 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
Instructional video: demonstrations of both parts of FRCR Part 2, providing insight into both elements of the exam and what candidates can expect on the day. These are on the RCR website here.
Guidance notes for Part 2A: a guidance document on key elements of the exam, found here.
Guidance notes for Part 2B: important information on the three sections of the exam, available here.
Sample questions: sample SBA and oral questions for the exams have been provided with answers on the RCR website, here for Part A and here for Part B.
Candidate reference sheet: a reference list of abbreviations and normal ranges for use during Part 2A, found here.
Examiners’ reports for Part 2B: this is a collection of generic reports written by examiners on the overall performance of candidates and individual questions as a guide for applicants for future sittings. These are available here.
Understand the SBA format and how to approach questions: this document also provides questions that have been used previously in the Final FRCR (Part A) Examination. You can find this here.
TNM Staging guidance - this document explains the knowledge required to answer questions related to this topic, available here.
Demonstration films: demonstrations of both parts of FRCR Part 2, providing insight into both elements of the exam and what candidates can expect on the day. These are on the RCR website here.
Scoring system for Part 2B: key information on how each part of the exam is marked, found here.
Courses
There are several online courses which provide preparation for the exams, including mock exams and insight into exam technique. As with all courses, we advise that you register your interest as soon as possible to avoid disappointment as they are in very high demand.
Please note these courses are subject to change and candidates are advised to book early (up to one year in advance in some cases), as spaces are often limited. Places may become available at the last minute, so make sure you add your name to a waiting list if possible.
Midlands FRCR 2A Review Course
This is an in-person revision course for the FRCR Part 2A exam held in Leicester. The course provides a refresher course covering a range of important topics, an interactive lecture-based course delivered in a ‘single best answer format’ and tips and tricks from trainees with recent experience of the exam.
Duration - 3 days
Cost - £350
London Heathrow FRCR 2B Preparation Course
This is a two-day course aimed at clinical trainees who are preparing for their FRCR CR2B. The course offers a minimum of 4 viva sets, 4 long case sets along with 4 rapid reporting packets. A further 2 lectures would also be included during the 2 days.
The course is delivered live virtually.
Duration - 2 days
Cost - £500
Red Dot Radiology Courses
These are in-person revision courses for Part 2B which cover rapid reporting as well as focused days on chest x-rays. The courses are live online via an interactive video and are led by FRCR qualified UK-based radiologists.
Duration - 1 day
Cost - £165
Aunt Minnie Courses
This is an online two-day course that runs twice a year and concentrates on Aunt Minnie cases that you may encounter in your FRCR 2B exam. The course is split into mini tests, workshops and exam tips to ensure candidates remain refreshed and stimulated.
Duration - 2 days
Cost - £350
Books
FRCR CR2A
Grainger & Allison’s Diagnostic Radiology
Fundamentals of Diagnostic Radiology - Brant & Helms
Primer of Diagnostic Imaging - Weissleder
Radiology Review Manual - Wolfgang Dahnert
Crack the Core Exam – Prometheus Lionhart
Fundamentals of Skeletal Radiology – Clyde A. Helms
Get Through Final FRCR 2A: SBAs - Teck Yew Chin, Susan Cheng Shelmerdine
RSBAs for the FRCR Part 2A - Richard Lindsay
FRCR CR2B
Rapid Review of Radiology - Shahid Hussain, Sherif Latif, Adrian Hall
Top 3 Differentials in Radiology - William O'Brien
Long Cases for the Final FRCR 2B - Rebecca Hanlon
Aunt Minnie's Atlas and Imaging-specific Diagnosis - Thomas Pope
Final FRCR Part B Viva: 100 Cases - Richard White, Robin Proctor, Ian Zealley
Chapman & Nakielny's Aids to Radiological Differential Diagnosis – Stephen Davies
#IMG Tips
Familiarise yourself with the exam content – the best way to do this is through the syllabus and curriculum
Prepare early – the earlier you begin your revision, the more structured and relaxed the entire process can be and the more likely you are to pass!
Invest in the right resources and courses – many resources from books to courses come at a cost – think about your own preferred style of learning and choose the resources that best suit you! Have any colleagues going through the exams or already passed? See if you can borrow or split the cost of resources.
Practise, practise, practise – this is of course a given...practise makes perfect and getting used to the format and being able to go through many sample questions will set you up well for the exam!
Sources
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/clinical-radiology/examinations/frcr-part-2a-radiology-cr2a
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/clinical-radiology/examinations/frcr-part-2b-radiology-cr2b
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/clinical_radiology_curriculum_2020.pdf
Getting started
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!
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal College, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS.
As there is no hard and fast rule for what position you will have after gaining a UK qualification, it is important for IMGs to understand the posts that are available to you after completing FRCR (Oncology).
FRCR (Oncology) is a highly beneficial qualification to achieve, but it does not guarantee you a consultant position in the NHS.
This can be a confusing area for overseas clinical and radiation oncologists, but this blog aims to de-mystify the subject. This article will explain the following topics:
What is FRCR (Oncology) and how does it fit into the UK training programme?
What grade will IMGs, new to the NHS, be offered with FRCR (Oncology)?
Can I take a permanent consultant post if I have FRCR (Oncology)?
CESR opportunities for clinical oncologists in the NHS
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
FRCR (Oncology) within the UK Oncology Training Programme
Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (Oncology) or FRCR (Oncology) is the postgraduate qualification awarded by the Royal College of Radiologists, the body responsible for the specialties of clinical oncology and clinical radiology throughout the UK.
FRCR (Oncology) is a three-part exam which is a necessary part of the training programme of clinical oncologists in the UK.
For trainees who have chosen to pursue clinical oncology, FRCR (Oncology) Part 1 or CO1 must be passed by the end of ST4.
Clinical oncology trainees will then sit Final FRCR (Oncology), also known as Part 2A and 2B or CO2A and CO2B, usually from ST6 to ST7.
These final exams are important in that they assess a trainee’s knowledge and skills related to the investigation of malignant disease and the care and management of patients with cancer.
Any UK-trained clinical oncologist applying for a CCT in order to work as a substantive consultant must have completed full FRCR (Oncology).
As shown above, UK trainees will also have completed MRCP (UK), although this is not required for overseas clinical oncologists.
Positions for Doctors new to the NHS with FRCR (Oncology)
As an IMG with full FRCR (Oncology), you will be eligible for consultant grade positions in the UK.
You are not guaranteed a consultant position, particularly if you do not have previous consultant position in your home country, but you will certainly be able to attain more senior positions in the NHS, such as a specialty doctor (SAS) or specialist grade.
Consultant positions are the most senior in the UK, and thus the highest paid position for doctors within the NHS pay system.
For further information on how NHS pay scales work for consultants, please see our detailed article here.
Of course, this is assuming that you have also completed the other necessary components to make you eligible for GMC registration.
Alongside your postgraduate qualification, you will need to have passed an English Language Test (either IELTS or OET).
Additionally, you must obtain a Certificate of Good Standing, and submit this to the GMC. Upon the receipt of these three components, you will receive full GMC registration.
Permanent Consultant Posts with FRCR (Oncology)
To take up a permanent consultant position in the NHS, you would need to have Specialist Registration. Specialist Registration (more specifically CESR for most overseas doctors) allows you to take up permanent or substantive consultant roles in the NHS.
The type of consultant position you would be eligible for with FRCR (Oncology) is a locum consultant post.
Firstly, we should clarify the meaning of the term ‘locum consultant’ in the UK. The NHS has two types of locums - Trust locums and Agency locums.
If you are an IMG with full registration, but you are not on the Specialist Register, you are only able to take on consultant positions as a trust locum, but no permanent positions.
Trust locums are hired on a fixed-term contract and are able to better acclimatize themselves to the NHS system, whilst receiving the support and guidance to work towards consultant positions and CESR.
Please note, you can only work as an agency locum if you have a British passport.
CESR Opportunities in the NHS
CESR or the Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration is a route of entry to the Specialist Register for those doctors who have not followed a GMC-approved training programme.
You can read more about CESR in Clinical Oncology through our IMG Resources library here.
IMG Connect are able to help you to secure senior roles such as specialty doctor (SAS), specialist grade or locum consultant in Trusts that offer CESR support.
In these roles, you will have better pay and responsibilities that are more appropriate to your level of experience compared to a trainee. These Trusts have a lot of experience in supporting overseas doctors to progress their careers through CESR.
You can collect evidence of your competences, particularly those specific to the UK Clinical Oncology curriculum and those you may not be able to achieve outside the UK.
These positions also facilitate a faster route to the UK than applying directly through the CESR route, which can take a substantial amount of time.
Get in touch with us to find out more about senior positions in the NHS with CESR support.
Getting started
We hope this blog has been helpful in clarifying your questions about securing senior posts in the NHS with FRCR (Oncology). If you have any further questions regarding the postgraduate exams, CESR or Oncology in the NHS - feel free to contact us directly.
Join the IMG Oncologists Facebook group for access to a community of like-minded clinical and radiation oncologists and dedicated oncology recruiters.
In this group you will find tailored support for oncology IMGs, including access to our NHS and CESR webinars, completely free to all doctors.
You can access our IMG Oncologists community here.
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal College, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS.
Overseas doctors often have questions about the best ways to prepare for MRCPsych Paper A, particularly with the changes to the exam format and so many online materials geared towards UK applicants and trainees.
So, what study preparation, materials, courses and support are available for international psychiatrists? We have compiled some of the best guidance and resources to help you in your preparation for the Paper A exam. We will also address some changes to the availability of test centres and exam delivery as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The topics we’ll cover are as follows:
What is MRCPsych Paper A?
How do I get started with my preparation?
What other resources are available?
How has the exam been affected by COVID-19?
#IMGTips
Passed? What’s next?
If you know what you’re looking for, skip ahead to the relevant section.
For an overview of the entire examination series, have a look at our article in the IMG Resources library here.
What is MRCPsych Paper A?
Let’s begin with a quick recap of the first exam in the MRCPsych examination suite.
MRCPsych Paper A is a three-hour written exam which covers the scientific and theoretical basis of psychiatry
The paper comprises 150 questions and is worth 150 marks, with two thirds being multiple choice questions (MCQ) and the other third, extended matching item questions (EMI).
The breakdown of the sections is as follows:
For full guidance on the structure of the exam, see our detailed blog on the MRCPsych Paper A exam here.
Preparation
It can be tough to know the best place to start, so we’ve spoken to some IMG psychiatrists and the consensus was that the Royal College website is the best place to begin. There are some great resources on their website to help candidates in their preparation for the exam. These include:
Syllabus: We always recommend this as the best place to start – plan your study around the curriculum topics for a road map to your success in the exam. You can find this here.
Sample papers: These will help you perfect your exam techniques and are an effective way to benchmark your knowledge against the syllabus. They will also help you work quickly on the day as you will already know what to expect. The sample papers can be found here.
Marking schemes: It’s always a good idea to understand how exams are marked so you can structure your revision accordingly, giving you the best chance of a pass. These are available here.
Sample exam: Samples of the exam are also helpful in fully understanding the format and to familiarise yourself with the online exam environment, particularly as this is a more recent change to the exam. This is available here.
Online exam guidance: This guidance has been written specifically to help candidates to prepare for sitting an online exam, including technology checks and timings that will be in place on the day. This will be more useful closer to the exam date. The guidance can be accessed here.
Passing the MRCPsych - an insider’s guide: the Royal College suggest having a look through this guide, which is a helpful resource to help you to get over the first steps, available here.
What other resources are available?
IMG Connect has a library of written resources geared towards preparation for the Paper A exam. If you’re interested in any of these, please get in touch here and we would be delighted to share these with you.
The most highly recommended resources are the SPMM and MRCPsychMentor resources. They are available in different formats depending on your revision needs:
SPMM Starter Study Materials: A range of comprehensive study materials and subject-based question banks with evidence-based answers and explanations (SPMM HiYield and SmartRevise). These are available for 6 months from the date of purchase for the price of £299 and can be found here.
SPMM Booster Mock Exams
These practice tests are simulations of the real exam prepared to the exam blueprint, allowing you to identify your weakest areas before the actual exam. This package includes access to 6 individual practice papers, comprising reconstructed questions from the most recent exams. Subscriptions can be purchased only 10 weeks before the College exam date.
Duration
N/A
Cost
£249
Next start date
On demand
Website
spmmcourse.com/local/coursepackages.php
MRCPsychMentor Revision Course: unlimited access to a bank of over 2000 questions, including some from previous exams. These are delivered in the same format as will be in the exam (MCQs and EMIs), with practice timed tests you can complete as many times as you like. You can access the course here.
MRCPsychMentor Mock Exam
There are two three-hour long exams available here which simulates exam conditions with mock exam papers of questions not available in the question bank. They include a revision mode, timed tests, extensive performance analysis and powerful question review functions.
Duration
6 weeks
Cost
£15 each
Next start date
On demand
Website
www.mrcpsychmentor.com/mocka/index.php
IMG Psychiatrists MRCPsych Paper A Crash Course
This is a tailored MRCPsych Paper A course for overseas psychiatrists. This course offers weekly sessions covering the exam and its various domains. This is accompanied by practice MCQs and EMQs for exam-style practice, delivered by an experienced NHS psychiatrist and specialist psychiatry recruiters. These sessions are completely free to all doctors.
The course is supplemented by additional advice and guidance on MRCPsych as a whole, GMC registration support, as well as guidance and webinars on other topics such as finding work in the NHS, relocation support and specialist registration.
You can access our IMG Psychiatrists Paper A Study Course by joining the Facebook group here.
Other online resources available for the exam include a mixture of paid and free resources:
BMJ Revision Questions: The BMJ has created an app-based revision resource with over 270 core questions, including the SBA and EMQ formats that will be seen in the exam. They are available at several price points dependent on the duration of access, from £29.99 for one month to £129.99 for 12 months. These are available here.
TrickCyclists Exam Notes: A series of psychiatry notes specifically tailored to the MRCPsych Paper A exam, including the nine topics covered by the exam and more. They are available in word and PDF format and are free to be used, distributed and modified. They are available here.
How have the exams been affected by COVID-19?
As a result of the pandemic, all MRCPsych exams have moved online. You can learn more about the online exams for MRCPsych here.
The application process for the exam takes 15 – 20 minutes where candidates will need a valid debit/ credit card, as well as the email address and full details of your sponsor. Further details on the application process can be found here.
#IMGTips
Start your revision early – starting in advance allows you to pace yourself and get ahead of the stresses of last-minute revision and anxiety.
Divide your study time according to the marks percentage for each section – dividing your time in this way will ensure you’re putting most of your time towards what will gain you the most marks.
Think about your personal learning style and use this to plan effective revision - consider the ways you study best and use them to your advantage.
Try to take some time off work before the exam – you’ll likely be preparing for the exam alongside full-time work, so, if possible, take around 5-7 days somewhere in the run-up to the exam for some intense revision.
Join the online psychiatry community - for news and updates about all things psychiatry for IMGs, follow IMG Connect on social media and join the conversation here.
Passed? What next?
Great stuff, this is a fantastic achievement and you should take a well-deserved break!
Once you’re ready, you can apply to sit the Paper B exam (or CASC if you started with Paper B). For more information, take a look at our blog, where we explore MRCPsych Paper B and everything you need to know about sitting the exam, including dates, results, fees and structure.
For more useful blogs & articles on exams, registrations & qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG Resources library.
To receive the latest news and updates on all things psychiatry, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
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.
Specialty
Number of questions
Cardiology
14
Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics
15
Clinical sciences
25
Dermatology
8
Endocrinology, diabetes and metabolic medicine
14
Gastroenterology and Hepatology
14
Geriatric medicine
8
Haematology
14
Infectious diseases
14
Neurology
14
Oncology
5
Medical ophthalmology
4
Palliative medicine and end of life care
4
Psychiatry
9
Renal medicine
14
Respiratory medicine
14
Rheumatology
14
Total
200
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.
Specialty
Number of questions
Cardiology
19
Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics
18
Dermatology
9
Endocrinology, diabetes and metabolic medicine
19
Gastroenterology and Hepatology
19
Geriatric medicine
9
Haematology
9
Infectious diseases
19
Medical ophthalmology
3
Neurology
17
Oncology, Palliative medicine & end-of-life care
9
Psychiatry
3
Renal medicine
19
Respiratory medicine
19
Rheumatology
9
Total
200
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:
Candidate
Part 1
Part 2
PACES
UK
£460
£460
£657
International
£616
£616
£1,202
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: