MRCEM
The MRCEM exams are changing. Please go to the RCEM website or read the following document to see how the changes apply to you.
The MRCEM exams are the first post graduate exams that you need to sit in your Emergency Medicine career. The exam used to be run by the Royal College of Surgeons and called the FRCS (A&E) Ed (this was the exam I took!!). It took place until about 2007 and then became the MFAEM after the formation of the Faculty of Accident and Emergency Medicine. The FAEM then achieved college status to become the College of Emergency Medicine and the exam became the MCEM. It is gaining popularity across the world and is now available for doctors in Hong Kong, Singapore, India, Australasia and other non-uk countries. The exams became MRCEM when the college gained Royal status in 2015.
Please go to the new exam structure page to see how the MRCEM and FRCEM will be changing.
About the MRCEM exam (pre August 2016)
The MRCEM comes in 3 sections. Each component is taken sequentially and must be successfully completed before moving on to the next. Follow our tips on How to Pass the exam and use the extensive resources on this site to maximise your chances. Check the Exam Timetable for more info.
MRCEM PartA (MCQs) - 50 questions with 4 stems each. 2 hours allowed. The objective of this paper is for candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the application of basic sciences in Emergency Medicine.
MRCEM Part B (SAQs) - This exam can be taken 36 months after qualifying as a doctor (usually 2nd year of ACCS). It comprises of a short answer paper that examines your ability to interpret investigations and how to apply that knowledge. e.g. an x-ray, an ECG etc. It consists of 16 questions and lasts 2 hours. We have a lot of passed papers on the SAQ page. Remember that the MRCEM used to be the MCEM/MFAEM so these papers are relevant too. It is also worth looking at the FCEM/FRCEM SAQs which cover similar topics.
MRCEM Part C (OSCEs) - This exam is made up of a series of OSCE stations. Usually between 15-20. They are designed to assess your knowledge, psycho-motor ability, interpersonal skills (including communication and conflict resolution), professional behaviour and clinical decision-making skills. You rotate around the stations spending about 8-10 minutes one each. We have a collection of past OSCE papers and questions here.
How to apply
We strongly recommend that you read the College MRCEM Regulations (effective from Spring 2015), which details the eligibility criteria, before you apply.
Follow the link to the College dates and fees page to plan your application.
Application forms and up to date information (including regulations for international trainees) are available via the College MRCEM page.
