MRCS Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to the questions candidates search for most, checked against the official MRCS regulations (January 2025). Always confirm current details with the official Intercollegiate MRCS website.
Looking for something specific? Go straight to the MRCS exam guide, the Part A study plan, the Part A question bank or Part B OSCE practice. Official rules and calendar: Intercollegiate MRCS.
Frequently asked questions
What does MRCS stand for?
MRCS stands for Membership of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons. It is the Intercollegiate examination run jointly by the Royal Colleges of Surgeons in the UK and Ireland and tests the knowledge, experience and clinical competence expected at the end of core surgical training.
What is the format of MRCS Part A?
Part A is a five-hour exam sat on one day: a three-hour Applied Basic Science paper followed by a two-hour Principles of Surgery in General paper (MRCS regulations, January 2025). It assesses the knowledge expected of a surgical trainee two to three years after qualification.
What is the MRCS Part A pass mark?
There is no fixed percentage. A panel sets the pass mark after each exam using an Angoff benchmark, marker questions carried over from earlier exams (about 20% of each paper) and a post-exam review. The pass mark and pass rate vary between sittings but the standard stays the same.
What is the format of MRCS Part B (OSCE)?
Part B normally has 17 examined stations, each nine minutes long. Preparation and pre-test stations may also appear but do not count towards your mark. Stations reflect day-to-day clinical practice and test basic surgical science and its application to clinical surgery.
How many attempts do I get at MRCS Part A and Part B?
Up to six attempts at Part A and up to four at Part B. Candidates who reach the limit may apply for one additional attempt under the Additional Attempts Policy if they meet its conditions.
How long do I have to pass Part B after passing Part A?
Seven years. If Part B is not passed within seven years of passing Part A, you must take and pass Part A again.
Who is eligible to sit the MRCS?
You need a primary medical qualification acceptable to the UK GMC (or the Medical Council in Ireland). Overseas candidates need a qualification acceptable to the Colleges. Confirm the current rules in the official MRCS regulations.
How much does MRCS Part A cost?
The Royal College of Surgeons of England lists the January 2027 Part A fee as 670 pounds sterling (the same price for UK and overseas candidates). The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow lists 790 pounds for India because 18% tax is added there. Fees change, so confirm on the booking page. Last checked 24 October 2026.
How much does MRCS Part B cost?
The Royal College of Surgeons of England lists the Part B (OSCE) fee for 2027 sittings in London, Glasgow, Manchester, Lahore, Colombo and Abu Dhabi as 1,212 pounds sterling. Glasgow listed 1,177 pounds for its 2026 sittings. Confirm the fee for your sitting before applying. Last checked 24 October 2026.
When is the next MRCS Part A exam?
Listed Part A dates are 13 January 2027 (apply by 29 October 2026), 29 April 2027 (apply by 25 February 2027) and 1 September 2027 (apply by 1 July 2027). Applications must reach the College by 5pm on the closing date. See our MRCS exam dates and fees page for the full table.
When is the next MRCS Part B exam?
UK sittings listed for 2027 are 30 January to 14 February (apply by 19 November 2026), 8 to 23 May (apply by 25 March 2027) and 2 to 17 October (apply by 22 July 2027). Overseas centres have their own dates, including Lahore (6 to 8 April 2027) and Karachi (5 to 10 December 2026). See our dates and fees page.
Where can I sit MRCS Part A?
Part A is a computer-based test delivered online at Pearson test centres in the UK and internationally. You choose a centre that suits you after your application is processed.
Can I sit MRCS Part B in Pakistan?
The Royal College of Surgeons of England lists Part B sittings in Karachi (5 to 10 December 2026, applications closed 3 September 2026) and Lahore (6 to 8 April 2027, apply by 7 January 2027). Check the booking page for current availability.
When are MRCS results released?
Results are published by the College after each sitting. For example, the College listed 21 October 2026 for the September 2026 Part A sitting and 25 November 2026 for the October 2026 UK Part B sitting.
How long should I study for MRCS Part A?
There is no official figure. Many candidates plan roughly 3 to 6 months around clinical work. A better test than the calendar is your question-bank performance: when timed, mixed-topic blocks are consistently strong and your error log is short, you are close. See our 12-week study plan.
What is the best way to prepare for MRCS Part A?
Do plenty of single best answer questions, read every explanation, keep an error log, revisit wrong questions after about a week, and sit timed mock exams. Use the PassMRCS Part A question bank for practice with explanations.
How do I prepare for MRCS Part B?
Practise speaking your answers aloud against the clock, because Part B rewards structured, clear spoken answers as well as knowledge. The PassMRCS OSCE simulator reads the scenario, times you and marks your answer against model keywords.
Are there free MRCS sample questions?
Yes. Our page of free MRCS sample questions has six original single best answer questions with answers and explanations.
Can I practise MRCS on my phone?
Yes. PassMRCS works in any modern browser on phones, tablets and computers, and your progress is saved to your account.
How do I pay for PassMRCS from Pakistan?
PassMRCS accepts mobile payments through SadaPay and Easypaisa. Choose a plan on the Join page, send the payment, upload your receipt and your subscription is activated after it is approved.
Is PassMRCS affiliated with the Royal Colleges?
No. PassMRCS is an independent revision resource. It is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, the Royal Colleges of Surgeons or the Intercollegiate MRCS examination board.
Where can I find the official MRCS rules?
On the Intercollegiate MRCS website, which publishes the regulations, candidate guidance, additional attempts policy and appeal procedures.