A Guide to
MRCPCH Theory Exams
How many theory exams are there?
01. Foundation of Practice (FOP)
Previously MRCPCH Part 1A: FOP assesses a candidate's knowledge, understanding and clinical decision-making abilities. It aims to ensure you have reached the standard of someone entering core specialist training. It lasts 2 hours 30 minutes and consists of 79 SBAs and 6 EMQs.
02. Theory and Science (TAS)
Previously MRCPCH Part 1B: TAS tests basic scientific, physiological and pharmacological principles of clinical practice, and of evidence-based practice. It lasts 2 hours 30 minutes and comprises 70 SBAs and 10 EMQs. Most people find the TAS more difficult as it is much heavier on basic medical sciences than clinical questions.
03. Applied Knowledge in Practice (AKP)
Previously MRCPCH Part 2: AKP tests a candidate's knowledge, understanding and clinical decision-making abilities based on a standard of someone entering their core specialist training. It comprises two exams, each of which is 2 hours 30 minutes and taken on the same day. It uses an “N from Many” style, where you are asked to pick more than one answer for each question.
How to apply for the exam?
​You can only apply for the exams online. To do this, you will need to create an exam account (through the RCPCH site), choose the method of delivery from your account dashboard, completely fill out the application form, and then pay to secure your place.
Where can i take the exams?
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At home – with online invigilation
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Test centre – various locations across the UK
You are expected to pass all 3 theory exams by the end of ST3
What RESOURCES are
recommended to prepare
for the theory exams?
Everyone has a different learning style and there is no one size that fits all when it comes to preparation for your exams. However, we have completed a list of common and recommended resources used by trainees to ace the exams
Question Banks
The commonest online question banks used by most candidates are
Textbooks
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MRCPCH Theory Exam Syllabus: These detail the syllabus from which questions will be set. It is useful as a study guide.
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MRCPCH Mastercourse (“The Science of Paediatrics” and “Applied Knowledge in Paediatrics”): Developed by the RCPCH, and closely aligned with the exam syllabus.
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Essential revision notes in paediatrics for the MRCPCH, Pastest
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RCPCH clinical cases books
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Paediatric exams: A survival guide, Paul Gaon
Sample papers
The RCPCH website has sample papers which help you understand the functionality of CBT exams and how these will run.
Podcasts
DragonBytes Paediatrics Podcasts: These podcasts are created by paediatrians in Wales and aimed at trainee paediatricians or anyone interested in child health. These are available at several platforms including Google podcasts
When do i get the results for the exams?
Results are available 6-7 weeks following the exam. You have 6 attempts to pass each of the MRCHPCH exams, following which you will need to provide evidence of additional educational experience to be allowed to sit the exam.
And finally you just need to believe in yourself...!
Our team is rooting for you!