MRCP stands for Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians. MRCP(UK) is the postgraduate diploma awarded through the United Kingdom’s intercollegiate physician examinations.
What does MRCP(UK) refer to?
The qualification is associated with the Royal College of Physicians of London, the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. It assesses medical knowledge and clinical skills through a combination of written and clinical examinations.
Which examinations form the pathway?
The three components are Part 1, Part 2 Written and PACES. Candidates must pass Part 1 before applying for the other components. Part 2 Written and PACES can then be taken in either order.
Part 1 and Part 2 Written use best-of-five questions. PACES assesses practical clinical skills. Read our MRCP exam overview for a fuller explanation, or the Part 1 versus Part 2 comparison for preparation differences.
What does this mean for a candidate starting preparation?
First identify your next examination and check its entry requirements. Then look at the syllabus, format and application dates. A useful study routine connects learning a topic with question practice and review, rather than treating reading and questions as unrelated tasks.
You can prepare independently or choose a course. If you prefer teaching, consider whether the course gives you a clear sequence, accessible explanations and a way to ask questions.
Where should you start?
For the first written examination, read our Part 1 preparation guide. If you have already passed it, the Part 2 preparation guide explains how to build clinical reasoning into your revision.
MRCP Back Benchers offers Part 1 and Part 2 courses built around high-yield lectures, clinical theory, question practice, revision and mocks. Each course page provides batch details and a link to a free trial.
Official sources
Exam information checked on 28 September 2026. Confirm current arrangements before applying.