The MRCS (Membership of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons) is an intercollegiate postgraduate diploma required for pursuing higher surgical training (ST3+) in the UK and Ireland. Part A is the written segment, assessing crucial scientific and surgical principles needed for safe practice

It’s a five-hour written exam split into two computer-based MCQ papers taken on the same day: Paper 1 (Applied Basic Sciences): 3 hours. Paper 2 (Principles of Surgery in General): 2 hours.

The exam is held three times a year—in January, April, and September. Candidates have up to six attempts to pass Part A.

Candidates must possess a primary medical qualification acceptable to the UK General Medical Council (GMC) or the Medical Council in Ireland (IMC).

MRCS Part A is conducted electronically at Pearson VUE testing centres worldwide Royal College of Surgeons of England. Once you apply, the relevant college will notify you when the scheduling window opens so you can book your centre.

Bring valid photo ID as specified in your booking confirmation email. Arrive at least 30 minutes before the exam. No personal items—including pens, paper, electronics, food, or water—are allowed in the exam room, except for medically approved devices.

Focus on the ten syllabus modules, covering areas like basic sciences, surgical care, trauma, pediatrics, and professional behavior. Use high-quality question banks (like Pastest, eMRCS, Medibuddy) for exam practice. Include full-length mock exams under timed conditions to build stamina and pace.

Marks from both papers are combined. You must pass each paper and meet or exceed the overall pass mark, which is typically around 70–72%. Results are published by your college’s website, usually a few weeks after the exam, and formal confirmation follows.

No—you must first pass MRCS Part A and provide a formal confirmation before applying for Part B (OSCE).

Pass rates for Part A vary year to year but are often in the 30–40% range, with pass marks hovering around 69–75%. It is a challenging exam, so consistent revision and practice are key.