What Happens After Passing MRCP Part 1?
- Crack Medicine
- Oct 12
- 4 min read
TL;DR
After passing MRCP Part 1, you’re eligible to sit for MRCP Part 2 Written — the next step toward the full MRCP (UK) Diploma. You’ll receive your results within six weeks, gain recognition for postgraduate-level knowledge, and can start preparing for Part 2 or PACES. This article explains exactly what happens next, timelines, and practical preparation tips to keep your momentum going.
Why this milestone matters
Passing MRCP Part 1 is more than just clearing an exam — it marks the start of your journey through the Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians (UK) pathway. It demonstrates that you’ve mastered core medical knowledge and are ready for higher-level clinical application. Understanding the next steps helps you stay organised, plan finances, and make strategic progress towards your UK or international medical goals.
For an overview of eligibility, exam format, and topics, revisit the MRCP Part 1 overview.
The official sequence after MRCP Part 1
Once you pass Part 1, your progress follows a structured pathway set by the MRCP(UK) governing body.
Stage | What Happens | Typical Timeline |
1 | Receive official result via your MRCP(UK) online account | ~6 weeks post-exam |
2 | Apply for MRCP Part 2 Written (held thrice yearly) | Within 6–12 months |
3 | Attempt PACES (Practical Assessment of Clinical Examination Skills)** after passing Part 2 | 12–24 months post-Part 1 |
4 | Earn Full MRCP (UK) Diploma after passing all parts | Recognised internationally |
5 | Use MRCP(UK) credential for GMC registration or overseas recognition | Variable per country |
You can view the full examination sequence on the official MRCP(UK) examination structure page.
What to expect immediately after you pass
1. Your result and feedback
Results are released online via your MRCP(UK) candidate account, typically within six weeks. You’ll see a numerical score and pass mark (which varies slightly each diet). The pass is valid indefinitely — no expiry.
2. Eligibility for MRCP Part 2 Written
Once you’ve passed Part 1, you can apply directly for Part 2. The exam focuses on data interpretation, imaging, ECGs, and clinical decision-making rather than recall. You can learn more about registration and key dates on the official MRCP(UK) Part 2 Written exam page.
3. Preparation strategy shift
Unlike Part 1, where factual recall dominates, Part 2 tests applied reasoning. Candidates often take 6–9 months to prepare, using timed question banks and past papers.
4. Start structured practice early
You can practise integrated clinical reasoning using Crack Medicine’s Free MRCP MCQs or simulate full papers with Start a mock test. Mock-based study helps replicate exam fatigue and improves recall consolidation.
High-yield transition tips for Part 2
Here’s how to make the most of your post–Part 1 phase:
Apply early – MRCP(UK) exam centres fill quickly, especially international ones.
Reframe your revision – focus on why answers are correct, not just memorisation.
Integrate clinical learning – review NICE and SIGN guidelines regularly.
Use dual-mode study – combine QBank questions with short teaching videos from Crack Medicine’s /lectures/.
Keep up hospital experience – it boosts your clinical intuition for PACES.
Review weak systems weekly – renal, respiratory, and neurology often lag behind.
Schedule at least two full mocks monthly to build exam stamina.
Example: Mini-case (MRCP Part 2 format)
Case: A 55-year-old man presents with exertional dyspnoea. ECG shows left ventricular hypertrophy. Echo reveals asymmetric septal hypertrophy.
Question: What is the likely diagnosis? Answer: Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM).
Explanation: This reflects Part 2’s focus on interpretation and integration of investigations — ECG, echo, imaging, and management guidelines — rather than single best facts.
Study-tip checklist for the next stage
✅ Transition to system-wise study blocks (Cardiology → Respiratory → Neurology).✅ Practise timed papers (125 questions / 3 hours).✅ Read NICE summaries weekly for evidence-based management.✅ Keep a mistake log for weak areas.✅ Start early exposure to PACES video tutorials.✅ Combine Crack Medicine’s QBank, mock tests, and analytics tools for feedback loops.
Common pitfalls after MRCP Part 1
Waiting too long before attempting Part 2 — momentum is easily lost.
Over-reliance on recall notes rather than interpretive reasoning.
Skipping guideline updates, leading to outdated answers.
Neglecting timed practice — real exam pressure matters.
Focusing only on medicine and ignoring allied subjects (Dermatology, Ophthalmology, Psychiatry).
Career impact and next steps
Passing MRCP Part 1 opens significant opportunities:
Eligibility for higher postgraduate exams (MRCP(UK) Part 2, PACES).
International recognition, particularly in the UK, GCC, and Commonwealth.
Enhanced CV strength — employers value progression in MRCP(UK) exams.
Foundation for UK GMC registration, especially when combined with clinical experience.
Career pathways toward UK specialty training (ST3 level) post full diploma.
For country-specific acceptance, see:
General Medical Council – Join the Register
Health Education England – Specialty Training
FAQs
1. How long is my MRCP Part 1 pass valid?
Indefinitely. Once passed, you can take MRCP Part 2 Written and PACES at any time in the future.
2. Can I take MRCP Part 2 immediately after Part 1?
Yes, provided you feel ready. Most candidates prefer 3–6 months of focused preparation.
3. What is the total number of MRCP(UK) parts?
Three — Part 1, Part 2 Written, and PACES (clinical). You need all three for the diploma.
4. Does MRCP(UK) Part 1 help in getting UK jobs?
Yes. It signals postgraduate competency and strengthens applications for clinical fellow or trust-grade posts.
5. Do I need hospital experience before Part 2?
At least 12 months of clinical exposure is recommended to handle applied case questions effectively.
Ready to start?
You’ve cleared the toughest conceptual hurdle — now build momentum. Start integrating applied learning with timed mocks, analytics, and concept videos from Crack Medicine:
Practise on Free MRCP MCQs.
Challenge yourself with Start a mock test.
Explore system-based lectures to reinforce reasoning.
Stay consistent — each mock and note brings you closer to your MRCP Diploma success.
Sources
MRCP(UK) Official Examinations Overview
NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries
General Medical Council – Registration Guidance
Health Education England – Medical Specialty Training
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