Launch of the new FFPMRCA examination - helping you plan ahead
We are happy to be able to update you on the agreed timetable for improvements to our exams.
The new examinations are being developed to more closely reflect the realities of day-to-day clinical practice. They will be delivered in a format designed to enhance the candidate experience and create greater standardisation across our exams. Many of these changes are in response to the Independent Review of RCoA examination processes published in February 2023 and bring the exams in line with modern assessment practices.
These changes will support your learning and development within your training programmes, ensuring that examination outcomes accurately reflect your performance in the clinical workplace. I hope the information shared in this email and on our website answers your initial questions and helps you to plan for these changes.
Planning and resources
The new exam formats will be introduced at the beginning of the 27/28 Academic Year, from July 2027 onwards. All FFPMRCA candidates who have not yet sat a clinical oral exam or have failed a clinical exam will need to sit the new exam from this date.
We are supporting candidates and examiners throughout this period. Candidate guides and resources on the new format exams, including webinars, will be available from June 2026 to assist with preparation and planning ahead of the new format being introduced.
There is a new exams information section on our website that will be added to over the coming months. Alongside the FAQs, we’ve also created a decision tree to help with your planning.
We will continue to provide you with regular updates to help you feel prepared and informed ahead of these changes. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us at facultyexams@rcoa.ac.uk