What is the MRCS Part A 1 & A2 ?
MRCS stands for the Member of the Royal College of Surgeons. It is an examination to be taken by Junior Doctors wishing to practice in the field of medicine. It is a professional qualification for surgeons in both the UK and Ireland.
To be eligible for MRCS A, you must hold a primary medical degree recognised to the four Royal Surgical Colleges:
- The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
- The Royal College of Surgeons of England
- The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
- The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
Each college used to hold examinations independently, but to a common syllabus. However, in January 2004, the four colleges switched over to a common examination, known as the Intercollegiate MRCS.
| Examination Dates from MRCS Part A1 & A2 | |
|---|---|
Intercollegiate MRCS MCQ |
9 September 2008 |
Cost for the MRCS A1
The Royal College of Surgeons charges £395 for each section of the examination. As such, it is best to ensure you have revised thoroughly. Many junior doctors undertake the MRCS Part 1 and 2 exam separately to ensure they have enough time to concentrate on specific topics.
Composition of the MRCS Part A and MRCS Part Intercollegiate Exam
The Intercollegiate MRCS examination contains 2 papers: MRCS Part A1&2 and MRCS Part B. The MRCS Paper A1 and A2 consist of Single Best Answer (SBA) questions whilst the MRCS Paper B is based on communication skills and structured interviews.
How to Register for the MRCS Part A & MRCS Part B
Application forms, along with exam regulations and a recent exam calendar can be found on any of the four Royal College’s websites.
England: 44 (0) 207 869 6281, www.rcseng.ac.uk
Edinburgh: 44 (0) 131 668 9222, www.rcsed.ac.uk/content/
Ireland: 00 353 1402 2232, www.rcsi.ie
Glasgow: 44 (0) 141 221 6072, www.rcpsg.ac.uk
Where to take the Intercollegiate MRCS A1 and MRCS A2 Exam
| The Intercollegiate MRCS exam centres are: | |
|---|---|
England: |
London, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Leeds, Bristol, Sheffield, Liverpool |
Wales: |
Cardiff |
Ireland: |
Dublin |
Scotland: |
Edinburgh, Glasgow |
Malta |
Msida |
Middle East: |
Oman, Abu Dhabi, Syria, New Delhi, Riyadh |
Africa: |
Malawi |
India: |
Chennai, Mumbai |
Nepal |
Kathmandu |
Malaysia: |
Kuala Lumpur |
Myanmar |
Yangon |
Kuwait |
Safat |
Hong Kong |
Kowloon |
Singapore |
Kowloon |
Getting your MRSC exam results
Once you have sat for the MRCS Part A1 and/or MRCS Part A2 exam you will be notified of the results by letter within four weeks. Results are also accessible on the exam department website. Notification is not given by email, telephone or fax.