The MRCOG (Membership of the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynecology) exam is a critical assessment for professionals in the field. Understanding the regulations regarding exam currency and the number of attempts is essential for candidates. These regulations are a result of a General Medical Council (GMC)-led consultation in the UK, agreed upon by all medical royal colleges and faculties.

Exam Currency

For Candidates Wishing to Enter the UK Specialist Register via CCT

1. Post-March 2013 Part 1 MRCOG Pass: Candidates must attempt the Part 2 MRCOG within 7 years of their exam date. This 7-year period is extended pro rata, up to a maximum of 10 years, for those in less-than-full-time training or who take a break from training.
2. Pre-March 2013 Part 1 MRCOG Pass: Candidates need to attempt the Part 2 MRCOG within 10 years of their exam.
3. For Trainees Out of Programme: If the Part 1 MRCOG was passed while out of the programme, it remains valid as long as the trainee re-enters the programme within 7 years of passing.
4. Time Between Part 2 and Part 3 Attempts: There are no restrictions on the time between attempts for Part 2 or Part 3 of the MRCOG.
5. Part 1 Prior to Specialty Training: The Part 1 MRCOG can be attempted before entry into UK specialty training.

For Candidates NOT Wishing to Enter the UK Specialist Register

1. After Part 1 MRCOG: Candidates need to attempt the Part 2 MRCOG within 10 years of their exam date.
2. After Part 2 MRCOG: Candidates must attempt the Part 3 MRCOG within 7 years (pro rata) of their exam date.
3. Time Between Attempts: No restrictions on the length of time between attempts of Part 2 or Part 3 MRCOG.

Number of Attempts

For All Candidates

1. Part 1 and Part 2 MRCOG Attempts: Candidates are allowed a maximum of 6 attempts for each of the Part 1 and Part 2 MRCOG exams, irrespective of the first attempt date.
2. Part 3 MRCOG Attempts for UK-Based and Non-UK-Based Candidates: A maximum of 4 attempts is permitted. Failing to pass within these attempts necessitates retaking and passing the Part 2 MRCOG before reattempting Part 3.
3. Post 6 Fails in Part 1 or Part 2: Candidates seeking to attempt either the Part 1 or Part 2 MRCOG after 6 previous failures must present supporting documentation from their Head of School (or equivalent), detailing exceptional reasons for permitting another attempt.

For Candidates NOT Wishing to Enter the UK Specialist Register

1. Attempt Limit: There is no limit on the number of attempts for these candidates.
2. Failure in Part 3 MRCOG: If a candidate does not pass the Part 3 MRCOG within 4 attempts, they are required to retake and pass the Part 2 MRCOG before reattempting Part 3.

These regulations reflect a balance between maintaining high standards in the specialty and providing fair opportunities for candidates. It’s crucial for candidates to stay informed about these regulations to plan their career pathway effectively.

For more information please , Visit RCOG website here