MRCS Events for UK Doctors

The MRCS Part A is a five-hour multiple-choice exam split into two papers taken on the same day via computer-based test centres: Paper 1 (Applied Basic Sciences, 3 hours, 180 questions) and Paper 2 (Principles of Surgery in General, 2 hours, 120 questions). Both papers use single-best-answer formats.

The Part B OSCE consists of 17 active examined stations lasting 9 minutes each, split between Clinical Knowledge (8 stations) and Clinical Skills (9 stations). You must pass both domains separately to pass the overall exam. Combining online question banks for anatomy and pathology with in-person clinical courses for hands-on feedback on physical examination and procedures provides the most effective preparation.

The MRCS is a generalist exam — courses cover core surgical knowledge across specialties. Some courses focus on specific weak areas like anatomy vivas or clinical stations. Choose based on your weakest areas rather than your target specialty.