The Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) is a globally recognised benchmark of excellence in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology. The coveted RCOG certification consists of MRCOG Part 1 & Part 2, as well as a clinical MRCOG Part 3 exam. Before applying for MRCOG, candidates should be aware of the eligibility criteria, structure and schedule of the exam. 

The RCOG conducts the exams in two diets or cycles every year, usually in the months of January, June, and July. By clearing this three-part examination, aspirants receive an endorsement of their knowledge and skills as expert obstetricians and gynaecologists.

Eligibility Requirements for MRCOG Part 1

• You must hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) to qualify for the MRCOG Part 1 exam.
• Postgraduate Training: Postgraduate training is not required to sit for the Part 1 exam.
• Expression of Interest: First-time candidates must submit the Expression of interest form before the outcome of their MRCOG Part 1 Eligibility application
• Attempt Limit: You may attempt MRCOG Part 1 a maximum of six times.

MRCOG Part 1 Exam Structure

The MRCOG Part 1 exam tests your knowledge of the basic sciences underpinning obstetrics and gynaecology. It is a written examination consisting of two papers, each containing 100 single best answer (SBA) questions — 200 questions in total.

Both papers are sat on the same day. Each paper is two hours long. Questions cover core science disciplines including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, endocrinology, pharmacology, microbiology, pathology, and genetics — all applied within an obstetrics and gynaecology context.

There is no negative marking. All questions carry equal marks.

Eligibility Requirements for MRCOG Part 2

• You must have successfully passed MRCOG Part 1.
• Postgraduate Training: Postgraduate training is not required to sit for the Part 2 exam.
• Expression of Interest (EOI): You must submit your EOI form within the specified deadline.
• Attempt Limit: You may attempt Parts 2 a maximum of six times.

MRCOG Part 2 Exam Structure

The MRCOG Part 2 exam assesses clinical knowledge and its application to obstetrics and gynaecology practice. It consists of two written papers sat on the same day.

Paper 1 contains 50 SBA questions. Each question presents a clinical scenario with five options — you select the single best answer.

Paper 2 contains 50 extended matching questions (EMQs). Each EMQ provides a list of options and a series of clinical scenarios. You match each scenario to the most appropriate answer from the list.

Each paper is two hours long. Questions are drawn from across the MRCOG Part 2 curriculum, covering obstetrics, gynaecology, reproductive medicine, and related clinical sciences. Candidates who pass the written papers proceed to the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), which forms the Part 3 assessment.

Why Choose StudyMRCOG for Your Preparation?

At StudyMRCOG, we offer top-notch short-term MRCOG preparation courses to help you clear the exam on your first attempt. Our MRCOG-qualified experts will guide you with essential tips, strategies, and insights for success.

Connect with our team and step into the exam hall with confidence.

Written by: StudyMEDIC Editorial Team

Reviewed by: Dr. Sowmya N S, MRCOG, MRCPI, MCCG, EFOG, IBCLC, APLI, DGO DMAS, FMAS, PGDUS.

COO, and Co-Founder of StudyMEDIC.