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Medical graduates who wish to specialise in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (O&G) typically choose a local postgraduate degree program as their first step to advance their career. However, to unlock a global career with higher earning potential, you have to choose a postgraduate qualification that is internationally recognised.

But which one to choose from a long list of O&G postgraduate qualifications? You can select ABOG, EBCOG, MRCPI, or MRCOG, but which one is the best that can enhance your career? This blog serves as a comprehensive guide, discussing the differences between MRCOG and other overseas exams.

MRCOG UK VS Other Overseas Exams

In this section, we will discuss MRCOG and other O&G overseas exams, as well as their differences from one another.

1. The American Route: The American Board (ABOG): This exam is conducted by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ABOG).

The Process: There are certain steps to follow before you try to become Board Certified in the US:

• USMLE: You must clear all the steps of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) prior to attending the exam.
• Match: The next necessary step is to apply and match into a US Residency program.
• Residency: You must complete a 4-year residency in a US hospital, as your foreign residency (MD/MS) is usually not recognised.
• Board Exams: You can only attend the ABOG written and oral exams after completing your US residency.

The Verdict:

• Pros: Highest earning potential and excellent training.
• Cons: The entry barrier is extremely high. The “Match” is very hard for International Medical Graduates (IMGs), as it requires a lot of time, high financial investment, and repetition of the residency you did in your locality.
• Why MRCOG is Better: If you have prior training, MRCOG values it and doesn’t require a repetition of it. What MRCOG requires is your competence.

2. The European Route: EBCOG (European Boards): The European Fellowship in Obstetrics and Gynaecology is awarded by the European Board & College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

The Process: The EFOG exam has two parts (clinical knowledge assessment and practice assessment). It mainly focuses on appointing specialists within the European Union/ European Economic Area.

The Verdict:

• Pros: Good for medical career development within Europe.
• Cons: EFOG is not as widely recognised as the Royal College of the UK. Additionally, you have to learn languages, such as German, French, or Spanish, even with an EBCOG qualification, due to the language barrier in Europe.
• Why MRCOG is Better: MRCOG is internationally recognised both in the English-speaking region and the Commonwealth. This postgraduate qualification is recognised in countries like the Middle East (UAE, SaudiArabia, Qatar) and Asia (Singapore, India).

3. The Irish Route: MRCPI (Ireland): The Membership of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (MRCPI) in O&G is similar to MRCOG UK.

The Process: This exam consists of two parts (written and OSCE).

The Verdict:

• Pros: Widely recognised in Ireland, the UK (via reciprocity/GMC registration), and the Middle East.
• Cons: As mentioned above, MRCPI OBG is similar to MRCOG UK; however, it is not as globally influential as MRCOG is.
• Why MRCOG is Better: The London-based Royal College (RCOG) carries slightly more weight on a CV globally and has a vast network of international exam centres.

Why MRCOG Stands Above All?

For doctors who prioritise accessibility, cost, recognition, and career impact, the Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) provides them all. Here is why the MRCOG exam is the undisputed champion:

• No Residency Repetition Required: Unlike the American system, candidates do not have to redo their residency training. The RCOG values the training you received in your home country, as long as it is recognised and you have gained the required competencies.
• Suitable for both International and Local Candidates: The RCOG values its international audience. Candidates don’t need to travel to London for every part of the exam. They conduct their exams in centres worldwide.
• Portable Degree: The MRCOG degree is more widely recognised than any other degree. It is the standard for Consultant posts in countries such as the UK, the Middle East, and Asian countries.
• EBM Training: The MRCOG qualification forces you to change the way you practice. It shifts your mindset from textbook medicine to Evidence -Based Medicine (EBM).

Smart Prep for MRCOG: StudyMRCOG

StudyMRCOG is the sister concern of StudyMEDIC, which is the perfect study partner for MRCOG aspirants. Top MRCOG-certified doctors lead this medical online course, providing you with syllabus-aligned programs through live interactive classes, recorded sessions, podcasts, recall flashcards, and high-yield question banks.

By joining our MRCOG online courses, you get unlimited access to a vast library of resources, including personalised mentoring, mock exams, performance tracking, and our LMS 3.0. You can stay up-to-date with the latest exam updates through our Instagram. If you have any queries about the course, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

Written By: Muhammed Farzeen