MRCP(UK) Exam Preparation | MDster You are offline Back online! [ ](/) Specialities [ Anesthesiology ](https://mdster.com/speciality/anesthesiology) [ Emergency Medicine ](https://mdster.com/speciality/emergency-medicine) [ Family Medicine ](https://mdster.com/speciality/family-medicine) [ Internal Medicine ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine) [ Obstetrics & Gynecology ](https://mdster.com/speciality/obstetrics-gynecology) [ Pediatrics ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics) [ Psychiatry ](https://mdster.com/speciality/psychiatry) [ Features ](https://mdster.com/features) [ Pricing ](https://mdster.com/pricing) [ Blog ](https://mdster.com/blog) Menu Specialities [ Anesthesiology ](https://mdster.com/speciality/anesthesiology) [ Emergency Medicine ](https://mdster.com/speciality/emergency-medicine) [ Family Medicine ](https://mdster.com/speciality/family-medicine) [ Internal Medicine ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine) [ Obstetrics & Gynecology ](https://mdster.com/speciality/obstetrics-gynecology) [ Pediatrics ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics) [ Psychiatry ](https://mdster.com/speciality/psychiatry) [ Features ](https://mdster.com/features) [ Pricing ](https://mdster.com/pricing) [ Blog ](https://mdster.com/blog) [ Login ](https://mdster.com/auth/login) 1. [ Home ](https://mdster.com) 2. [ Internal Medicine ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine) 3. MRCP(UK) MRCP(UK) Exam Preparation =========================== Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the United Kingdom The Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK UK MRCP(UK) is a globally recognized postgraduate physician qualification administered by The Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK. It is a key milestone for doctors pursuing Internal Medicine training and is offered both in the UK and internationally. The MRCP(UK) Diploma has three components—Part 1, Part 2 Written, and Part 2 Clinical (PACES)—and successful completion of all three is required to obtain the qualification. MRCP(UK) Part 1 MRCP(UK) Part 2 Written MRCP(UK) Part 2 Clinical (PACES) 3,853+ Questions 3,627+ Flashcards 68+ Podcasts About the MRCP(UK) Exam ------------------------- The Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the United Kingdom (MRCP(UK)) is a globally recognized postgraduate qualification essential for doctors pursuing Internal Medicine training. Administered by The Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK, the diploma consists of three rigorous components: Part 1, Part 2 Written, and Part 2 Clinical (PACES). Successful completion demonstrates high clinical standards and readiness for higher specialist training. ### Eligibility Candidates must have a minimum of 12 months of postgraduate medical employment to sit for Part 1. Passing Part 1 is a strict prerequisite for both Part 2 Written and PACES. Candidates typically must complete all parts within seven years of passing Part 1. ### Exam Format The MRCP(UK) is a three-part diploma. Part 1 and Part 2 Written each consist of two papers featuring 100 'best of five' multiple-choice questions delivered via computer-based testing. Part 2 Clinical (PACES) is a practical, half-day bedside assessment comprising five clinical stations that test examination, communication, and management skills. ### Duration Part 1 and Part 2 Written each require six hours of testing time, split into two three-hour papers. The PACES clinical exam lasts approximately half a day, with about two hours of direct patient interaction and assessment time. ### Passing Criteria Written exams are scaled using Item Response Theory, with pass marks typically hovering around 540 for Part 1 and 454 for Part 2 Written. PACES requires passing both an overall minimum score and a minimum standard in all seven assessed clinical skills. ### Exam Fees Approximate fees are 460 GBP for UK test centers and 616 GBP for international centers for written exams. PACES costs around 657 GBP in the UK and can exceed 1200 GBP internationally. Candidates should verify current fees on the official MRCP(UK) website. ### Exam Frequency Part 1 and Part 2 Written are typically held four times a year (diets). The PACES examination is generally conducted across three testing windows annually. ### Registration Process Candidates must create an online MyMRCP(UK) account to register. The process requires primary medical qualification verification through EPIC (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) before booking an exam. MRCP(UK) Key Syllabus Topics ------------------------------ Core topics and subject areas covered in the MRCP(UK) examination ### Cardiology Covers ischemic heart disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, valvular disease, and cardiovascular pharmacology. ~10-15% ### Respiratory Medicine Focuses on asthma, COPD, interstitial lung diseases, respiratory infections, and interpretation of chest imaging. ~10-15% ### Gastroenterology and Hepatology Includes inflammatory bowel disease, liver failure, viral hepatitis, gastrointestinal bleeding, and malabsorption syndromes. ~10% ### Neurology Tests knowledge on stroke medicine, neurodegenerative disorders, epilepsy, peripheral neuropathies, and neuroanatomy. ~10% ### Infectious Diseases and GUM Covers tropical medicine, HIV management, sepsis, tuberculosis, and antibiotic stewardship. ~10% ### Endocrinology Focuses on diabetes management, thyroid disorders, adrenal and pituitary pathology, and dynamic function testing. ~8-10% ### Nephrology Includes acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, and acid-base disturbances. ~8-10% ### Rheumatology Tests knowledge on connective tissue diseases, inflammatory arthritides, vasculitis, and immunosuppressive therapies. ~8-10% ### Hematology and Oncology Covers leukemias, lymphomas, anemias, coagulation disorders, and oncological emergencies. ~8-10% ### Clinical Sciences and Pharmacology Heavily featured in Part 1, covering cell biology, genetics, immunology, anatomy, and mechanisms of drug action. ~15-20% for Part 1 ### Psychiatry Includes organic brain syndromes, eating disorders, mood disorders, and psychopharmacology. ~4-5% ### PACES Clinical Stations Practical assessment of respiratory, abdominal, cardiovascular, and nervous system examinations, along with communication skills and brief clinical consultations. ~100% of PACES **12** key topics covered Start Your MRCP(UK) Preparation Today --------------------------------------- Comprehensive study materials designed to help you pass the MRCP(UK) with confidence [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • 5-day free trial Everything You Need to Pass the MRCP(UK) ------------------------------------------ A complete preparation platform with tools designed for Internal Medicine professionals ### Practice Questions 3,853+ questions across MCQ, SAQ, SOE formats with detailed explanations and references ### Flashcards 3,627+ flashcards for active recall — mark known and unknown cards to focus on weak areas ### Audio Podcasts 68+ audio episodes — learn on the go during commutes, workouts, or ward breaks ### Timed Mock Exams Simulate real exam conditions with timed sessions, customisable question counts, and topic filters ### AI-Powered Q&A Ask follow-up questions on any topic and get instant, contextual answers with references ### Performance Analytics Track your progress, identify weak areas, and monitor your exam readiness with detailed analytics MRCP(UK) Exam Structure ------------------------- Our materials cover all parts of the MRCP(UK) examination ### MRCP(UK) Part 1 MRCP(UK) Part 1 is the entry-level written examination designed to assess a candidate's foundational medical knowledge and clinical science. It tests the essential understanding required to diagnose and manage common medical conditions during early postgraduate physician training. Computer-based examination consisting of 200 'best of five' multiple-choice questions across two papers 6 hours total (divided into two 3-hour papers) Pass: A scaled score of 540 Key Topics Cardiology Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Medicine Gastroenterology and Hepatology Infectious Diseases Neurology +2 more ### MRCP(UK) Part 2 Written The MRCP(UK) Part 2 Written exam builds upon the foundational knowledge of Part 1 by assessing a candidate's ability to apply clinical understanding to realistic patient scenarios. It evaluates higher-order clinical judgments, including prioritizing diagnostic lists, planning investigations, selecting immediate and long-term management strategies, and assessing prognoses. Passing this component is a crucial step for doctors progressing toward specialty internal medicine training in the UK. Two papers completed on the same day, each containing 100 'best of five' multiple-choice questions. The format heavily features illustrated clinical scenarios, including clinical photographs, ECGs, X-rays, scans, and pathology slides, delivered via computer-based testing. Six hours in total, divided into two three-hour papers taken on a single day. Pass: The pass mark is a scaled score of 454 (equated scoring), which historically requires correctly answering approximately 121 out of 200 questions. There is no negative marking. Key Topics Cardiology Respiratory Medicine Gastroenterology and Hepatology Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Medicine Infectious Diseases Neurology +2 more ### MRCP(UK) Part 2 Clinical (PACES) The MRCP(UK) Part 2 Clinical Examination (PACES) is a rigorous half-day clinical assessment designed to evaluate a candidate's readiness for higher specialist training. It tests practical bedside skills, including history taking, physical examination, communication, and ethical decision-making, using real patients and trained surrogates. Five-station clinical carousel (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) featuring eight patient encounters Approximately 125 minutes of active examination time (delivered as a half-day assessment) Pass: Candidates must achieve a total score of at least 130 out of 172 and meet the minimum pass mark across all seven core clinical skills. Key Topics Respiratory System Examination Cardiovascular System Examination Nervous System Examination Abdominal System Examination Communication Skills and Ethics Clinical Consultations How to Prepare for the MRCP(UK) --------------------------------- A practical guide to help you plan your MRCP(UK) preparation effectively ### Recommended Timeline 4-6 months of structured study per written part, and 3-6 months of dedicated clinical practice for PACES. ### Study Tips - Complete at least 3000 to 4000 practice questions for each written part to build stamina and pattern recognition. - Read the detailed explanations for both correct and incorrect answers in your question banks. - For PACES, practice bedside examinations under strictly timed conditions with peers or senior colleagues. - Familiarize yourself heavily with UK specific guidelines, including NICE, BTS, BSH, and BSG. - Join a study group for PACES to simulate the surrogate and patient encounter stations accurately. - Focus heavily on basic clinical sciences and pharmacology during your MRCP Part 1 preparation. ### High-Yield Topics - ECG interpretation and management of complex arrhythmias - Acute medical emergency management and resuscitation guidelines - Interpretation of complex respiratory function tests and chest X-rays - Electrolyte abnormalities and management of acute kidney injury - Neurological localization and cranial nerve palsies - Endocrine dynamic function tests and interpretation of results - Ethics, communication, and breaking bad news (PACES) ### Common Pitfalls - Relying solely on reading textbooks instead of actively using question banks for Part 1 and 2. - Underestimating the heavy basic sciences and pharmacology component in Part 1. - In PACES, failing to elicit the patient's concerns or missing non-verbal cues during the communication stations. - Poor time management leading to unanswered questions at the end of the written papers. - Not practicing bedside examination routines enough to make them smooth, automatic, and respectful for PACES. ### Recommended Resources - Pastest or Passmedicine question banks for written exams - OnExamination question bank - Cases for PACES by Stephen Hoole - The official MRCP(UK) website mock exams and sample questions - Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine - NICE Guidelines (UK) website Study Pathways ---------------- Choose the pathway that matches your MRCP(UK) preparation stage ### Internal Medicine Core Pathway Core pathway for Internal Medicine covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### What's Included 1,174 MCQ Questions 686 SAQ Questions 2,266 Flashcards 35 Podcasts 4,161 total study resources #### Exam Coverage MRCP(UK) MRCP(UK) Part 1 MRCP(UK) MRCP(UK) Part 2 Written [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) ### Internal Medicine Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Internal Medicine covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### What's Included 1,083 MCQ Questions 810 SAQ Questions 100 SOE Questions 1,361 Flashcards 33 Podcasts 3,387 total study resources #### Exam Coverage MRCP(UK) MRCP(UK) Part 2 Clinical (PACES) [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) Last refreshed: April 2026 Flexible Pricing Plans ------------------------ Choose the plan that fits your MRCP(UK) study schedule ### Try Risk-Free for 5 Days Start your free trial today and get full access to all MRCP(UK) features. **No credit card required**. Cancel anytime. No Commitment! Full platform access All study materials Analytics & tracking Cancel anytime ### Internal Medicine Core Pathway Core pathway for Internal Medicine covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $12.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 8% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $11.00 /month Billed $33.00 every 3 months Save 8% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 17% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $10.00 /month Billed $60.00 every 6 months Save 17% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Internal Medicine Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Internal Medicine covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $15.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 13% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $13.00 /month Billed $39.00 every 3 months Save 13% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 20% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $12.00 /month Billed $72.00 every 6 months Save 20% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Internal Medicine Bundle (Core + Advanced) Bundle subscription for Internal Medicine: Core + Advanced pathways with all features included. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $20.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 15% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $17.00 /month Billed $51.00 every 3 months Save 15% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 25% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $15.00 /month Billed $90.00 every 6 months Save 25% vs monthly Best value for serious learners Latest MRCP(UK) Updates ------------------------- Recent changes and developments for the MRCP(UK) examination 2023-2024 ### PACES23 Format Implementation The PACES examination transitioned to the PACES23 format, introducing modified station timings and brief clinical consultations. Candidates should verify exact station structures with The Federation. 2024 ### Online Proctoring Adjustments The MRCP(UK) adjusted its online proctoring policies, returning primarily to test center delivery for written exams in many regions while reserving online options as a contingency. Candidates should verify availability with the examining body. 2024-2025 ### Updates to Written Syllabus Weighting Minor adjustments are periodically made to the specialty representation in written exams to reflect modern medical practice guidelines. Candidates should verify the current syllabus blueprint with The Federation. Updates are based on publicly available information and may not reflect the very latest changes. Always verify with the official The Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK website. Related Internal Medicine Exams --------------------------------- Other examinations in Internal Medicine you may be interested in [ ### ABIM American Board of Internal Medicine USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/abim) [ ### AIM Facharztprüfung Allgemeine Innere Medizin Europe ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/aim) [ ### AOBIM American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/aobim) [ ### DNB/DrNB Diplomate of National Board India ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/dnb-drnb) [ ### FCP(SA) Fellowship of the College of Physicians of South Africa South Africa ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/fcp-sa) [ ### FCPS Fellowship of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan Pakistan ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/fcps-internal-medicine) Frequently Asked Questions ---------------------------- Everything you need to know about MRCP(UK) preparation Can I take MRCP(UK) Part 1 right after graduating from medical school? No, candidates must have successfully completed a minimum of 12 months of postgraduate medical employment. This is a strict prerequisite before sitting for the Part 1 examination. How hard is the MRCP(UK) diploma? The MRCP(UK) is considered highly rigorous and is a demanding qualification. Historically, pass rates for Part 1 range from 40% to 50%, reflecting its challenging standard. Consistent, dedicated preparation using active recall is essential for success. What is the pass rate for PACES? The pass rate for PACES typically fluctuates between 45% and 55% for UK trainees. International pass rates can vary by region. It is widely regarded as one of the most challenging postgraduate clinical examinations globally. How much time is required to prepare for the MRCP(UK) written exams? Most successful candidates recommend dedicating 4 to 6 months of consistent study per written exam. This translates to roughly 15 to 20 hours of study per week, primarily focused on completing and reviewing question banks. How many times can I attempt each part of the MRCP(UK)? Candidates are generally permitted a maximum of six attempts for each part of the MRCP(UK) diploma. If a candidate fails six times, they may need to provide evidence of additional educational progress or undergo further training to attempt the exam again. Does the exam registration fee cover study materials? No, the exam registration fees strictly cover the assessment process and administration. Candidates must budget separately for question bank subscriptions, preparatory textbooks, and PACES preparatory clinical courses. Are the written exams paper-based? No, both MRCP(UK) Part 1 and Part 2 Written are fully computer-based examinations. They are typically administered at designated Pearson VUE test centers worldwide. Is there negative marking in the MRCP(UK) written exams? There is no negative marking in either Part 1 or Part 2 Written. Candidates receive one mark for every correct 'best of five' answer, so it is highly advantageous to attempt every question even if unsure. Specialty reading hub Related Internal Medicine Articles ------------------------------------ Reinforce your MRCP(UK) preparation with specialty-specific guides, exam strategy articles, and clinical revision insights from the MDster blog. [ Browse all Internal Medicine articles ](https://mdster.com/blog?speciality=internal-medicine) [ ![IBS Subtypes and Diagnosis: Rome IV, IBS-C/D, and Colonoscopy](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/ibs-subtypes-and-diagnosis-rome-iv-ibs-cd-and-colonoscopy.jpg) Medical Education / 7 min read ### IBS Subtypes and Diagnosis: Rome IV, IBS-C/D, and Colonoscopy A focused Internal Medicine review of IBS diagnosis: how to use Rome IV concepts, separate IBS-C from IBS-D and mixed IBS, and decide when colonoscopy is truly indicated. Apr 05, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/ibs-subtypes-and-diagnosis-rome-iv-ibs-cd-and-colonoscopy) [ ![Cavitary Lung Lesion Case Discussion: TB, Abscess, Hemoptysis](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/cavitary-lung-lesion-case-discussion-tb-abscess-hemoptysis.jpg) Case Discussion / 5 min read ### Cavitary Lung Lesion Case Discussion: TB, Abscess, Hemoptysis A board-focused case discussion on cavitary lung lesions: separating TB from lung abscess, spotting septic emboli, and managing hemoptysis without missing the first lifesaving step. Apr 01, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/cavitary-lung-lesion-case-discussion-tb-abscess-hemoptysis) [ ![Colorectal Cancer Treatment Concepts: Surgery to Surveillance](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/colorectal-cancer-treatment-concepts-surgery-to-surveillance.jpg) Medical Education / 6 min read ### Colorectal Cancer Treatment Concepts: Surgery to Surveillance A practical, board-focused guide to colorectal cancer treatment: when surgery cures, when adjuvant therapy helps, how to frame metastatic palliation, and how to surveil after resection. Mar 29, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/colorectal-cancer-treatment-concepts-surgery-to-surveillance) Ready to Pass the MRCP(UK)? ----------------------------- Join medical professionals who are preparing for the Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the United Kingdom with MDster [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • Cancel anytime [ ](/) Master your medical exams with evidence-based learning. [ GET IT ON Google Play ](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mdster.app) ### Platform - [Home](https://mdster.com) - [Features](https://mdster.com/features) - [Pricing](https://mdster.com/pricing) - [About](https://mdster.com/about) ### Resources - [Blog](https://mdster.com/blog) - [Dashboard](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) ### Support - [Contact](https://mdster.com/contact) - [Legal & Policies](https://mdster.com/legal) - [Medical Reviewers](https://mdster.com/medical-reviewers) © 2026 MDster [ ](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mdster.app) [Terms](https://mdster.com/terms) [Privacy](https://mdster.com/privacy) [Editorial](https://mdster.com/editorial-policy) reCAPTCHA Protected by reCAPTCHA. Google [Privacy Policy](https://policies.google.com/privacy) and [Terms of Service](https://policies.google.com/terms) apply. Cookie Consent -------------- We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing to visit this site you agree to our use of cookies. [ Terms of Use ](https://mdster.com/terms) & [ Privacy Policy ](https://mdster.com/privacy) Accept