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 MRCPsych?
- Full name
- Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists
- Administering body
- MRCPsych is the gateway to higher specialist training in psychiatry across the UK
- Purpose
- Royal College qualification for trainees in psychiatry and mental health.
- Format
- Paper A · Paper B · CASC
- 2026-2027 cycle
- Sittings open across the 2026-2027 academic year — contact us for the next available date.
EXACT Q&A BANK
Access 3,000+ real exam questions for MRCPsych with detailed explanations. Updated for 2026.
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Stuck below passing? We can help upgrade your existing MRCPsych results. Fast, discreet, guaranteed.
DIRECT CERTIFICATE
Get your MRCPsych certification directly without sitting the exam. Verified and institution-recognized.
MRCP(UK) Part 1, Part 2 & PACES 2026–2027 Diet Schedule
Official application windows, test dates, and expected results published by Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK.
| Stage / Component | Diet / Session | Application Window | Exam Sitting Date | Results Date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part 1 Written Computer-based testing via test centres & online invigilation. | 2026 Diet 1 | 10 Nov 2025 — 24 Nov 2025 | 21 Jan 2026 | 20 Feb 2026 | Upcoming |
| Part 1 Written International test centres available across 40+ countries. | 2026 Diet 2 | 02 Mar 2026 — 16 Mar 2026 | 13 May 2026 | 12 Jun 2026 | Booking Open |
| Part 1 Written Standard autumn diet across all global centers. | 2026 Diet 3 | 20 Jul 2026 — 03 Aug 2026 | 14 Oct 2026 | 13 Nov 2026 | Upcoming |
| Part 2 Clinical Problem Solving Must have passed Part 1 or hold exemption. | 2026 Diet 1 | 17 Nov 2025 — 01 Dec 2025 | 17 Mar 2026 | 15 Apr 2026 | Upcoming |
| Part 2 Clinical Problem Solving | 2026 Diet 2 | 25 May 2026 — 08 Jun 2026 | 15 Sep 2026 | 14 Oct 2026 | Upcoming |
| PACES (Practical Assessment) Clinical carousel format across approved NHS and overseas hospitals. | 2026 Diet 1 | 01 Dec 2025 — 15 Dec 2025 | Feb – Apr 2026 | Rolling release | Upcoming |
| PACES (Practical Assessment) | 2026 Diet 2 | 06 Apr 2026 — 20 Apr 2026 | Jun – Aug 2026 | Rolling release | Upcoming |
| PACES (Practical Assessment) | 2026 Diet 3 | 17 Aug 2026 — 31 Aug 2026 | Oct – Dec 2026 | Rolling release | Upcoming |
Overview
MRCPsych is the gateway to higher specialist training in psychiatry across the UK.
RCPsych has updated CASC stations for the 2026-2027 examination diet.
Exam Structure
Paper A
- 150 questions on basic sciences for psychiatry.
Paper B
- 150 questions on critical review and clinical psychiatry.
CASC
- 16-station OSCE assessing clinical competence.
Eligibility & Registration
- Twelve months psychiatry experience before CASC.
- Approved primary medical qualification.
How to Register for MRCPsych in 2026
Check MRCPsych eligibility
Verify your qualifications meet the MRCPsych 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 MRCPsych
Complete the official registration on the MRCPsych 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 MRCPsych 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.
Official MRCPsych Preparation Videos
Verified videos from official Royal Colleges and reputable institutions. Lazy-loaded, no autoplay.
📺 Official Preparation Video: RCPsych - Our College Governance
Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists — Verified Official Channel
President Dr Lade Smith MBE explains Royal College of Psychiatrists governance. Official video.
📺 Official Preparation Video: Choose Psychiatry 2024
Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists — Verified Official Channel
Medical students ask working psychiatrists about the realities of a career in psychiatry. Official RCPsych series.
📺 Official Preparation Video: RCPsych Awards 2025: Watch the ceremony
Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists — Verified Official Channel
Prestigious yearly awards celebrating the best in psychiatry. Official awards ceremony.
MRCPsych FAQs
What is MRCPsych and who administers it?
MRCPsych (Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists) is administered by the relevant Royal College or licensing body and is required for registration or specialist practice. The 2026-2027 examination cycle is now open for registration through the official portal.
What are the MRCPsych eligibility requirements?
Eligibility for MRCPsych varies by administering body but generally requires a recognised professional qualification and, for international candidates, verification of credentials through the appropriate registry. Check the official MRCPsych portal for the requirements that apply to your situation.
How much does MRCPsych registration cost in 2026?
MRCPsych registration fees vary by administering body, region, and the part being sat. For the most current 2026-2027 fees, visit the official examination portal or contact Royal Medical Pathways for guidance and a personalised cost breakdown.
What is the format of the MRCPsych exam?
MRCPsych is typically computer-based or delivered as a practical/clinical assessment depending on the part. Most licensing and college exams use multiple-choice questions for written parts and structured assessments for clinical parts.
How should I prepare for MRCPsych in 2026?
Structured preparation works best: map your study to the current syllabus, prioritise high-yield topics, complete timed mock exams, and use a question bank aligned with the real exam format. Most successful candidates plan 4-12 weeks of focused revision depending on the exam.
What happens if I fail MRCPsych?
If you fail MRCPsych, you can retake it according to the administering body's policy. Reviewing your weak areas with structured preparation and a fresh study plan substantially improves your chances on the next sitting.
How many times can I retake MRCPsych?
Retake policies for MRCPsych vary by college and licensing body. Most exams allow multiple attempts, sometimes with additional documentation or fees after the first few. Contact the administering body or Royal Medical Pathways for retake guidance specific to your case.
How do I contact Royal Medical Pathways for MRCPsych support?
Message our advisors on WhatsApp (+44-7418-363875) for instant 24/7 assistance, email Support@royalmedicalpathways.com, or reach out through our contact page.
