How many attempts are allowed for MRCP?

TL;DR

Candidates often ask “how many attempts are allowed for MRCP?” The official answer is that MRCP(UK) does not set a lifetime cap on attempts for Part 1, Part 2 Written, or PACES. However, national training schemes (e.g., NHS deaneries or GCC programmes) may impose their own limits, usually 4–6 tries. Preparing thoroughly and passing within the first 2–3 sittings is strongly recommended.

Why this matters

MRCP Part 1 is the gateway exam for physicians aiming to train in internal medicine and specialties across the UK and abroad. Attempt limits are a practical concern: repeated failures can affect confidence, finances, and eligibility for postgraduate training. Knowing both the official MRCP(UK) regulations and local training body requirements helps you plan sensibly and avoid unnecessary delays.

Attempt rules explained

According to MRCP(UK) official regulations:

1. No lifetime cap by MRCP(UK) – There is no central restriction on the number of times you may sit Part 1, Part 2 Written, or PACES.

2. Local training bodies may impose limits – Deaneries and employers often set caps (commonly 4–6 attempts) to ensure candidates demonstrate progress.

3. Application review after multiple failures – Some schemes require remedial training plans or supervisor approval after repeated unsuccessful sittings.

4. Eligibility continuity – You must continue to hold a recognised primary medical qualification and remain in good professional standing.

5. Frequency of sittings – MRCP Part 1 runs three times a year (January, May, September).

6. Financial costs – Each attempt carries significant fees and associated costs, highlighting the importance of effective preparation.

7. Career progression – Excessive failures may impact applications for training posts or sponsorships, even if not directly barring progression.

   
   

Attempt policy in context

Section	Policy	Implication
MRCP(UK) central rules	No cap on attempts	Candidates can reapply indefinitely
Training bodies	Often 4–6 attempts maximum	May require remediation or approval
Exam frequency	Three diets per year	Practical limit to resits
Financial aspect	Fee per sitting (£616 for Part 1, 2025 rate)	Incentive to prepare thoroughly
Career impact	Excessive failures noted on CV	May affect recruitment to training posts

Practical example / mini-case

Case: A UK trainee fails MRCP Part 1 four times.

• Under MRCP(UK) rules, the candidate remains eligible to apply again.

• Their deanery, however, allows a maximum of six attempts during IMT.

• They are advised to:

  • Enroll in structured revision courses.

  • Use a Free MRCP QBank with timed blocks.

  • Attempt at least two mock tests before sitting again.

Lesson: Always check central MRCP(UK) regulations and your training body’s rules.

Study-tip checklist

To minimise the number of attempts:

1. Build a 10–12 week timetable for each diet.

2. Use a structured QBank for active recall.

3. Schedule 2–3 full-length mocks before each exam.

4. Focus on weakest systems (cardiology, neurology, endocrinology).

5. Balance textbook review with spaced repetition and MCQs.

6. Track progress via performance analytics.

7. Use the MRCP Part 1 overview to guide your revision.

   
   

Common pitfalls

• Relying only on passive textbook reading.

• Ignoring exam technique and stamina practice.

• Over-focusing on favourite topics while weak areas remain neglected.

• Sitting diets when underprepared, accumulating unnecessary failures.

• Failing to review errors systematically.

  
  

FAQs

1. Is there a maximum number of attempts for MRCP Part 1?

No. MRCP(UK) does not set a lifetime limit, though training schemes often cap attempts at 4–6.

2. How many times per year can I sit MRCP Part 1?

Three diets are available annually — usually January, May, and September.

3. Does failing multiple times affect GMC registration?

No, GMC registration depends on eventual success, not the number of attempts.

4. Are the attempt rules the same for Part 2 and PACES?

Yes, MRCP(UK) has no central cap, but local limits may apply.

5. Should I resit immediately after failing?

Not always. Skipping a diet to consolidate knowledge is better than repeating without adequate preparation.

Ready to start?

While MRCP(UK) imposes no lifetime attempt limit, repeated failures can delay your medical career. Preparing strategically is the key difference between passing in two sittings versus struggling for years.

Start today with:

• MRCP Part 1 overview for exam structure.

• Free MRCP MCQs to practise high-yield questions.

• Start a mock test to benchmark your readiness.

Sources

• MRCP(UK) regulations

• Joint Royal Colleges of Physicians Training Board

• GMC: Registration routes