Exam preparation
MRCP Part 1 Preparation Guide
The first major postgraduate milestone for physicians in the UK. Required before ST3 specialty training.
- Exam format
- 200 best-of-five MCQs across 2 papers
- Pass / selection standard
- Approximately 60-65%
- Frequency
- 3 times yearly (Mar, Jun, Oct)
- Eligibility
- MBBS or equivalent + 12 months post-graduation
Preparing for MRCP Part 1
This is a preparation guide for MRCP Part 1, the first major postgraduate milestone for physicians in the UK. Required before ST3 specialty training. The examination is set by Royal College of Physicians (UK).
The paper is delivered as 200 best-of-five multiple-choice questions across 2 papers, and candidates are measured against a approximately 60-65%. Knowing the exact structure early lets you rehearse pacing well before the sitting.
The preparation workflow
Learn
Use structured notes to establish the core concept for each topic before testing it.
Recall
Convert understanding into durable memory with active recall and spaced repetition.
Practise
Apply it under timed, exam-format MCQs and review every wrong answer.
Building your study plan
A workable plan for MRCP Part 1 runs in three repeating phases. Learn the concept for each topic once, from structured notes, so the framework is genuinely understood before you test it. Recall it with active retrieval and spaced repetition instead of passive re-reading, which is where most durable memory is actually formed. Practise under timed, exam-format conditions with question banks, then review every wrong answer until you can explain why the right option wins.
Weight the plan towards the areas that carry the most marks. For MRCP Part 1 those repeatedly include ecg interpretation (10-12%), cardiology, respiratory, pharmacology. Master these first, then broaden - a blueprint-led allocation of hours beats an even, linear read of the whole syllabus.
Sit full-length, timed mocks in the exam's own format from early on. They build pacing and stamina, and, most importantly, surface which subjects and question-types are dragging your score so you can target the next study block precisely.
High-yield areas to prioritise
Study priorities
- ECG Interpretation (10-12%)
- Cardiology: ACS, Heart Failure, Arrhythmias
- Respiratory: COPD, Asthma, ILD, PE
- Pharmacology: Side Effects & Interactions
Frequently asked questions
How long should I prepare for MRCP Part 1?
There is no single correct answer - it depends on your baseline, your daily study hours and how much of the syllabus is fresh. Plan backwards from the sitting date, protect time for at least two full revision passes and a block of timed mocks, and adjust as your mock analysis reveals weak areas.
What is the passing or selection standard for MRCP Part 1?
It is approximately 60-65%. Confirm the exact current standard on the official notification, as it can be revised between cycles.
Where should I confirm the official MRCP Part 1 details?
Always verify the current pattern, eligibility, dates and fees on the Royal College of Physicians (UK) official notification. The figures here are a study-planning aid, not the authority.
Sources and currency
Sources: official examination-body notifications and information bulletins (NBEMS, NMC, GMC, the relevant UK Royal College, USMLE/NBME, AMC, MCC and the Gulf health authorities as applicable). Exam patterns and eligibility change between cycles - always confirm the current sitting's rules, dates and fees on the official body's own notification before you apply. Last verified July 2026.
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