The Federation of Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK was established to support the education and training of physicians. We know that at this current time the uncertainties about what will happen around exams and training are causing considerable anxiety. We are working to provide clear positions on all aspects between ourselves and the training systems in the UK. Trainee welfare is very important to us and we hope that the following document provides clarity at an uncertain time and will allow trainees to plan for the coming months. Given the rapidly changing nature of things, though, even this advice may need to change.
Examinations affected:
PACES: All MRCP(UK) clinical examinations (PACES) at UK and international centres that were due to run from today Monday 16 March onwards have been cancelled until September 2020. We are aiming to restart PACES in September and Fast Track candidates will be treated as a priority.
As a consequence of these cancellations, introduction of the new PACES 2020 examination will be delayed until 2021.
Part 1: The 2020/2 diet of the Part 1 written examination due to take place on 12 May 2020 in the UK and internationally has been cancelled.
Part 2: The 2020/1 diet of the Part 2 written examination due to take place on 24 March 2020 in the UK and internationally has been cancelled.
The 2020/2 diet of the Part 2 written examination due to take place on 14 July 2020 has also been cancelled
Specialty Certificate Examinations (SCEs): The SCEs due to take place between now and the beginning of September 2020 have been cancelled.
The Federation recognises the impact these cancellations will have for the many candidates who sit the MRCP(UK) examinations around the world. We find ourselves in extraordinary times and have had to make this decision in the interests of safety for all involved – patients, surrogates, centre administrators, candidates and examiners.
All UK PACES candidates due a refund have either been refunded or are in the process of being refunded.
We will transfer all other affected candidates into the next available examination diet. However, if you would prefer to receive a refund and then reapply please contact us. Unfortunately, travel expenses incurred by candidates cannot be reimbursed.
Candidates who have applied for and/or received reasonable adjustments will be need to re-apply for those adjustments prior to sitting their next exam. Please visit reasonable adjustments for more information
We would strongly recommend that candidates keep monitoring the website for further updates as the situation continues to develop.
For candidates who are currently in UK training programmes and are required to pass MRCP(UK) examinations in order to progress please see the latest guidance on the JRCPTB website