TRAINEES looking to sit the first part of the UK exam for membership of the Royal College of Physicians will have more chance of passing if they attempt it within 12 to 24 months of graduating.
That’s according to new guidance from the college designed to help junior doctors maximise their chances of success.
Research also revealed that trainees who sat the part two written exam within three years of graduating were most likely to succeed. The RCP analysed previous candidates’ attempts at the three-part exam, all of whom graduated between 2005 and 2009.
Their guidance also recommends delaying a first attempt at the clinical exam, known as PACES, until three years after graduating and until a pass has been secured in the part two written exam.
Success in all three parts represents the gateway to specialist training, and preparation is vital for these “challenging” exams, says the guidance. But timing is only one factor to be taken into consideration, it adds. And trainees would be well advised to discuss the whole process with their clinical supervisor.
Link: Choosing the right time to take your MRCP(UK) examinations
This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.
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