The Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) is an esteemed qualification that evaluates a candidate’s expertise in obstetrics and gynecology. The MRCOG Part 1 exam is the gateway to achieving this prestigious certification. In this comprehensive guide, we cover the MRCOG Part 1 exam dates for 2025, the syllabus, eligibility, fees, preparation tips, and the best resources to help you pass.
What Is the MRCOG Part 1 Exam?
The MRCOG Part 1 exam is the first step in the journey toward becoming a member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. It is designed to test the candidate’s understanding of basic sciences and clinical knowledge relevant to the field.
The exam assesses:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Biochemistry and pharmacology
- Pathology and microbiology
- Evidence-based medicine and statistics
Successfully passing this exam is mandatory to move forward to MRCOG Part 2 and eventually MRCOG Part 3.
MRCOG Part 1 Exam Dates for 2025
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) has announced the following exam schedule for MRCOG Part 1 in 2025:
January 2025 Exam Session
- Exam Date: January 15, 2025
- Application Window: November 1, 2024 – November 15, 2024
- Results Announcement: February 10, 2025
July 2025 Exam Session
- Exam Date: July 10, 2025
- Application Window: May 1, 2025 – May 15, 2025
- Results Announcement: August 5, 2025
September 2025 Exam Session
- Exam Date: September 16, 2025
- Application Window: July 1, 2025 – July 15, 2025
- Results Announcement: October 12, 2025
Make sure to mark these dates and register during the appropriate application window.
MRCOG Part 1 Eligibility
To apply for the MRCOG Part 1 exam, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Possess a recognized medical degree (MBBS or equivalent).
- Provide proof of graduation from an accredited medical institution.
- Register on the RCOG official portal.
Ensure that your documents are in order to avoid delays during the application process.
MRCOG Part 1 Exam Fees
The MRCOG Part 1 fees depend on the candidate’s country of residence. As of 2025, the fees are as follows:
- UK and Republic of Ireland Candidates: £470
- Overseas Candidates: £580
The examination fees can be paid online through the RCOG portal during the registration process.
MRCOG Part 1 Exam Format
The MRCOG Part 1 exam consists of two computer-based papers, each designed to assess different areas of basic science and clinical application.
Exam Structure
-
Paper 1:
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Number of Questions: 100 Single Best Answer (SBA) questions -
Paper 2:
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Number of Questions: 100 Single Best Answer (SBA) questions
The questions are based on the MRCOG Part 1 syllabus, covering topics like anatomy, embryology, genetics, pharmacology, and clinical epidemiology.
MRCOG Part 1 Syllabus
The MRCOG Part 1 syllabus includes the following key areas:
-
Basic Anatomy and Embryology
- Human development stages
- Pelvic anatomy
- Fetal physiology
-
Reproductive Physiology
- Hormonal regulation
- Ovarian and uterine cycles
-
Biochemistry and Pharmacology
- Enzyme mechanisms
- Drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics
-
Pathology and Microbiology
- Immunological principles
- Microbial infections in obstetrics
-
Evidence-Based Medicine and Biostatistics
- Critical appraisal techniques
- Statistical analysis
Review the official RCOG syllabus for more details and ensure all topics are covered during your preparation.
Best Books for MRCOG Part 1 Preparation
Choosing the right study materials is critical for success. Below is a list of the most recommended MRCOG Part 1 books:
- “MRCOG Part 1: Your Essential Revision Guide” by Alison Fiander and Basky Thilaganathan
- “Get Through MRCOG Part 1: MCQs and EMQs” by Rekha Wuntakal and Tony Hollingworth
- “SBAs for the MRCOG Part 1” by Andrew Sizer and Philip N Baker
- “Basic Sciences for Obstetrics and Gynaecology” by Tim Chard and Richard Lilford
These books cover the syllabus comprehensively and include practice questions to enhance your preparation.
Tips to Pass the MRCOG Part 1 Exam
1. Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly
Review the MRCOG Part 1 syllabus and create a study plan that covers all topics systematically.
2. Practice SBA Questions
Answering Single Best Answer (SBA) questions is crucial for mastering the exam format. Use question banks and past papers to familiarize yourself with the style of questions.
3. Join Study Groups
Collaborate with peers to share insights, discuss challenging topics, and stay motivated.
4. Attend RCOG Preparation Courses
The RCOG offers official preparation courses that provide expert guidance and tips.
5. Revise Regularly
Revisit difficult topics and focus on areas where you feel less confident. Spaced repetition can help reinforce learning.
What to Do After the Exam?
Check the Results
The MRCOG Part 1 results are typically released four weeks after the exam. You can check your result by logging into your RCOG account.
Plan for the Next Step
If you pass, you can begin preparing for MRCOG Part 2. If not, evaluate your performance, identify weaknesses, and register for the next exam session.
Conclusion
The MRCOG Part 1 exam is a crucial milestone for medical professionals specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. By staying informed about the exam dates, understanding the syllabus, and utilizing the best resources, you can significantly enhance your chances of success.
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