Exams

MRCP(UK)

The RCPE, in conjunction with its sister UK Colleges of Physicians in Glasgow and London, is responsible for developing, delivering and overseeing the Member of the Royal Colleges of Physicians (MRCP) (UK) examination, an internationally recognised standard of clinical excellence. This exam contains two written components (Parts 1 and 2) and a practical component, the Practical Assessment of Clinical Examination Skills (PACES).

The RCPE and its sister Colleges, through MRCP(UK), are also actively involved in developing Specialty Certificate Examinations.

Examination candidates can choose to apply to sit all 3 parts of the MRCP(UK) examination through the Edinburgh, Glasgow or London Colleges.

World-Class Credentials, a Guide to MRCP(UK) and Specialty Certificate Examinations for Consultant Physicians in Training

Download the brochure here

MRCP(UK) guidance on time of taking examinations

Medical students and Foundation Doctors may be interested to learn that MRCP(UK) has produced some useful guidance on when candidates should make their first attempts at each part of the MRCP(UK) examination. This is particularly important now that successful completion of MRCP(UK) is a mandatory requirement for entry into ST3 in the UK. The guidance also summarises pass rates based upon different times of sitting the exam.

Further information

Why choose RCPE as your College of entry?

For doctors-in-training a visit to the RCPE should combine the experience of this remarkable city with a sense of our heritage of excellence in medicine. Experience for yourself, as many generations of doctors before you have done, the warm reception at the RCPE which uniquely retains the welcoming feel of a ‘local’ College, but on a truly international basis.

The qualities of the city are reflected in this College. Edinburgh is an exceptional city in which you will see key elements of Scottish history and architecture. It is an excellent base for shopping, eating out and sight-seeing. A visit to Edinburgh is a memorable experience for all who visit the city whether for business or as a tourist.

The College is located in the centre of the city. It is within five minutes walk from train and bus stations and there is easy access from the airport, which is only a short drive away. There is a variety of accommodation available in Edinburgh. It is possible to stay close to the College at a reasonable cost and have acceptable travelling times to the examination centres.

Our experienced examination team are acutely aware of how stressful sitting an examination can be. We aim to help candidates through the application process and to take as much stress out of sitting the examination as is possible.

Diploma Ceremonies

Candidates who pass the MRCP(UK) examination are encouraged to attend the MRCP(UK)Diploma Ceremonies.

Dates for forthcoming MRCP(UK) Diploma ceremonies organised by the RCPE are provided below –

20th September 2013
Candidates can apply for a place in the September Diploma Ceremony by following this link, and booking your place for the Edinburgh Ceremony online.
If you have any queries, please contact Gilly Marshall g.marshall@rcpe.ac.uk
13th December 2013

Passed the MRCP(UK)? Join the RCPE today

Upon passing the MRCP(UK) exam, candidates are encouraged to join the RCPE as Collegiate Members and to access a wide range of membership benefits at reduced rates. Pre-MRCP(UK) candidates are also eligible to join the RCPE as Associates or e-Associates and can similarly access a range of reduced rate services. Access our How to join section for further details.

Contact details

If you have a specific enquiry relating to the application process for sitting MRCP(UK) Part 1, 2 or PACES through the Edinburgh College or with regard to the Admissions Ceremony please access the links below to e-mail the relevant members of staff –

For further information, regulations, advice and assistance please contact:

Mrs Lindy Tedford,
Head of Examinations,
Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh,
9 - 11 Queen Street,
Edinburgh
EH2 1JQ.
Tel: +44 (0) 131-225-7324 :
Fax: +44 (0) 131-225-2053

Become an Examiner

The MRCP(UK) is a highly regarded international benchmark of clinical excellence and relies heavily upon the voluntary support of Fellows of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK (Edinburgh, Glasgow and London) in acting as examiners to ensure its delivery. Examining is recognised by participating examiners as an excellent source of CPD and is recognised for external CPD points. It is also recognised by most Health Boards and NHS Trusts as a supporting professional activity for consultant staff.

Further details about the MRCP(UK) exam

Full details and information on all aspects of the MRCP(UK) and Specialty Certificate exams can be accessed on the MRCP (UK) website.

Examination Dates:

MRCP(UK) Annual Review 2011/12

The MRCP (UK) Annual Review 2011/12 has just been published

Certificates for Doctors Involved in Supporting MRCP (UK) Exams

The RCPE Trainees & Members’ Committee has initiated the provision of certificates for doctors involved in supporting the MRCP(UK) examination. The certificates can be awarded to MRCP(UK) PACES Co-ordinators (those taking a lead role in the preparation and organisation of a PACES examination) and MRCP(UK) Teaching Co-ordinators (those delivering detailed and structured programmes of teaching specifically for the MRCP(UK).

The certificates recognise a commitment in the workplace that is otherwise difficult to capture on a CV and should be a boost to anyone currently involved in MRCP (UK) examination support or teaching, and who may wish to strengthen the educational/management elements of their CV.