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The first hurdle of being an MRCOG-certified doctor is going to take place on January 14, 2026. This exam sets the foundation for clinical excellence. With the next sitting scheduled for January 2026, it’s time you align your preparation with the high standards of the Royal College. Therefore, here’s everything you need to know to ace the MRCOG Part 1 exam.

What is MRCOG Part 1?

The MRCOG Part 1 exam focuses on the basic and clinical sciences relevant to the practice of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Although Part 2 and Part 3 assess clinical application and OSCE skills, Part 1 makes sure you have the fundamental medical knowledge.

Exam Format & Structure

This exam is conducted twice annually in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. It includes two papers, each lasting 2.5 hours, with a 1-hour break in between.

• Paper 1 & 2: Both papers contain 100 Single Best Answer (SBA)
• No Negative Marking: Every question should be answered.
• Weightage: The two papers are weighted equally.

The MRCOG Part 1 Syllabus

The RCOG syllabus is vast, but it is divided into several core modules, which include:

• Anatomy: Pelvic anatomy, embryology, and blood supply.
• Physiology: Maternal and fetal physiology, endocrinology, and renal function.
• Biochemistry & Genetics: Molecular biology and inheritance patterns.
• Pharmacology: Drug metabolism and specific O&G medications.
• Microbiology & Immunology: Infections in pregnancy and the immune response.
• Data Interpretation & Statistics: Essential for understanding research and EBM (Evidence-Based Medicine).

How to Prepare for the January 2026 Exam

• Start Early: It is better to start your preparation early, at least 4-6 months before the exam.
• Master SBAs: The SBA questions are usually tricky because most of the options may look like they are correct, but you have to choose the best answer.
• Use Official Resource: Ensure you are preparing with the updated RCOG guidelines, such as the Green-top Guidelines and Scientific Impact Papers (SIPs).
• Practice Mock Exams: Time management is very necessary during the exam. To perfect it, make sure you practice daily with mock exams, simulating the real exam with a timer.

How to Avoid Last Minute Panic

• Perfect Your Exam Method: Studying for the exam is not enough; you have to simulate the exam with a timer for the full 2.5-hour exam. This helps you to reduce the pressure you face during the timed exam and attend to all the exam questions.
• Don’t Keep on Guessing: Getting stuck in a question is very normal. However, ensure you don’t waste too much time on that question. If you don’t know the exact question, mark the one you feel and proceed to the next question.
• No Time to Freeze: If you happen to freeze during the exam due to stress, close your eyes and take 3 deep breaths, which helps to reset your focus and allows your prefrontal cortex to actively function again.

Get all the latest updates about the exam through our Instagram. If you have any questions about the course, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

Written By: Muhammed Farzeen