This certification preparation program is reviewed by Dr. Ran Wilkosin, MD, FACP, FRCP, Chief Advisor at Royal Medical Pathways, for alignment with current sittings and registry requirements.
What is MRCP?
- Full name
- Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians
- Administering body
- The MRCP(UK) is jointly administered by the Royal Colleges of Physicians of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and London
- Purpose
- Postgraduate medical qualification for physicians training in internal medicine across the UK.
- Format
- Part 1 — Written · Part 2 — Written · Part 3 — PACES
- 2026-2027 cycle
- Sittings open across the 2026-2027 academic year — contact us for the next available date.
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Overview
The MRCP(UK) is jointly administered by the Royal Colleges of Physicians of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and London. It is the entry standard into higher specialist training in internal medicine and the gateway to a wide range of UK medical careers.
Recognised globally, MRCP demonstrates clinical competence, sound judgement, and breadth of knowledge across general medicine for the 2026-2027 training cycle.
Exam Structure
Part 1 — Written
- Two 3-hour papers, 100 best-of-five MCQs each.
- Tests basic sciences and clinical knowledge.
Part 2 — Written
- Two 3-hour papers covering complex clinical scenarios.
- Diagnosis, investigation and management focus.
Part 3 — PACES
- Practical Assessment of Clinical Examination Skills.
- Five-station OSCE with real patients and actors.
Eligibility & Registration
- Primary medical qualification recognised by GMC.
- 12 months postgraduate experience before Part 2.
- Registration via MyMRCP portal for the 2026-2027 cycle.
- Fees vary per part and per centre.
How to Register for MRCP in 2026
Check MRCP eligibility
Verify your qualifications meet the MRCP requirements for the 2026-2027 cycle.
Speak with a Royal Medical Pathways advisor
Book a free consultation to map your prep plan and decide which study package suits your timeline and budget.
Register for MRCP
Complete the official registration on the MRCP portal and confirm your sitting window.
Receive your tailored study plan
Get a structured study schedule, syllabus-aligned materials and mentor calls scheduled around your test date.
Sit the exam
Attend your MRCP sitting with confidence, supported by structured preparation aligned to the real exam format.
Collect and verify your certificate
We assist with certificate collection, verification and onward registration with your regulator.
MRCP vs PLAB
| Feature | MRCP | PLAB |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Specialty entry — internal medicine | GMC registration for IMGs |
| Format | 3 parts (written + PACES OSCE) | 2 parts (MCQ + OSCE) |
| Eligibility | Doctors entering UK higher training | International medical graduates |
| Outcome | MRCP(UK) postgraduate qualification | Licence to practise in the UK |
| Typical timeline | 12-24 months | 6-12 months |
Official MRCP Preparation Videos
Verified videos from official Royal Colleges and reputable institutions. Lazy-loaded, no autoplay.
📺 Official Preparation Video: My MRCP London Graduation Ceremony at Royal College of Physicians
Source: Royal College of Physicians — Verified Official Channel
Watch the official MRCP graduation ceremony at the Royal College of Physicians, London. See what awaits successful MRCP candidates.
📺 Official Preparation Video: Royal College of Physicians Exam DISASTER | MRCP Part 2
Source: Dr Ollie Burton (licensed UK doctor)
Important insights about MRCP Part 2 examination from a practicing UK physician.
📺 Official Preparation Video: Stories of Medicine and Migration — Royal College of Physicians
Source: Royal College of Physicians — Verified Official Channel
Three UK Royal Colleges share research on South Asian doctors migrating to the UK since the 1840s.
MRCP FAQs
What is the MRCP?
The MRCP (Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians) is the postgraduate qualification in internal medicine awarded jointly by the three UK Royal Colleges of Physicians. It is a three-part assessment taken by doctors pursuing specialty training in medicine.
What are the three parts of the MRCP?
Part 1 is a written exam of best-of-five questions covering the sciences basic to medicine. Part 2 is a written exam of clinical scenarios. Part 3, known as PACES, is a practical clinical exam with live stations testing history, examination and communication skills.
How hard is the MRCP?
Pass rates are moderate: Part 1 is roughly 50-60%, Part 2 around 60-70%, and PACES about 55-60%. Many candidates find PACES the hardest because it tests communication and bedside manner under examiner observation, not just knowledge.
Can international doctors take the MRCP?
Yes. Parts 1 and 2 can be sat at centres worldwide, and PACES is available at UK and selected international centres. The MRCP is a popular route for international graduates aiming for UK specialty training or consultant-level roles.
How much does MRCP cost in 2026?
Fees are set by the three Royal Colleges and roughly: Part 1 around £460, Part 2 around £500, and PACES around £1,000+. Check the MRCP(UK) website for the current fee schedule.
How long does it take to complete the MRCP?
Most doctors complete all three parts within 12-24 months, depending on sitting availability and work commitments. Part 1 and Part 2 must be passed before booking PACES.
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