Doctors! If you’re preparing for the MRCP PACES exam 2026, you’re probably looking for practical, trustworthy guidance that actually helps you perform well on exam day—not just theory. Passing on the first attempt means knowing exactly what examiners expect and how to approach each station with confidence.
This guide walks you through the PACES stations, timing, recommended study resources, and high-yield preparation tips, all based on current exam patterns. The aim is straightforward: to help you prepare effectively, stay focused, and enter the exam feeling calm and well-prepared. Let’s focus on what truly matters.
MRCP PACES 2026 - Stations & Timing Breakdown
The MRCP PACES (Practical Assessment of Clinical Examination Skills) exam is the final hurdle in the MRCP (UK) degree. It's a clinical exam that tests your skills in history-taking, physical examination, communication, and professionalism.
MRCP PACES Stations Explained
The exam consists of 5 stations, each focusing on different aspects of clinical practice:
Station 1: Communication (10 minutes) & Respiratory (10 minutes)
Station 2: Consultation (20 minutes)
Station 3: Cardiovascular (10 minutes) & Neurology (10 minutes)
Station 4: Abdominal (10 minutes) & Communication (10 minutes)
Station 5: Consultation (20 minutes)
Best MRCP PACES Study Materials for 2026 Preparation
So, what should you be studying? Here are some top picks:
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MRCP PACES Manual by MRCP Notes (covers exam format, cases, and tips)
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Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine (the bible for clinical exams)
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MacMaster's Textbook of Internal Medicine (detailed explanations)
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Pastest (online question bank and mock exams)
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PACES Cases by Royal College of Physicians (official resource)
MRCP PACES Preparation Tips to Pass in First Attempt
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Practice, practice, practice: Find a study buddy or join a prep course to practice cases and get feedback.
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Master the basics: Brush up on common medical conditions, examination techniques, and communication skills.
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Familiarize yourself with the exam format: Understand the PACES exam pattern and practice with mock exams.
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Focus on high-yield topics: Prioritize common cases like respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological conditions.
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Develop a systematic approach: Use a structured framework for history taking and examinations.
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Work on your time management: Practice managing your time effectively during the exam.
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Enroll in a hands-on training program: Enroll in a hands-on training program for better preparation and clarity on the topic to ace the paces exam easily.
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Get feedback: Join a preparation group or work with a mentor to get constructive feedback.
The key to success lies in consistent practice and staying calm under pressure. Believe in yourself, and you'll be rocking that MRCP clinical exam in no time.
Final Tips for MRCP PACES Exam 2026
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Stay updated with the latest guidelines and exam changes.
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Practice with different examiners to get varied feedback.
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Take care of your physical and mental health during preparation.
Good luck with your MRCP PACES exam 2026 - you’ve got this.
Before you finalize your preparation plan, make sure you’re aware of the latest MRCP PACES exam dates and application deadlines, so you can plan your revision, mock exams, and clinical practice more effectively.
Looking to pass the MRCP PACES exam 2026 without stress? Farz Academy is here to guide you with hands-on courses, live exam simulations, and complete study programs, so you can walk into the exam fully prepared and confident.
Connect with our team today and start your preparation journey with Farz Academy !
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the structure of the MRCP PACES 2026 exam?
Ans: MRCP PACES 2026 uses a 5-station carousel format assessing communication, clinical examination, and consultation skills. Stations 1, 3, and 4 have two 10-minute encounters, while stations 2 and 5 have one 20-minute consultation.
Q2. How long is each MRCP PACES station?
Ans: Examination and communication encounters last 10 minutes each. Consultation encounters last 20 minutes. The full PACES exam takes about 125 minutes, including station changeovers.
Q3. What are the best resources for MRCP PACES 2026 preparation?
Ans: Recommended resources include the MRCP PACES Manual (MRCP Notes), Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine, MacMaster’s Textbook of Internal Medicine, Pastest PACES, official RCP PACES cases, and hands-on PACES training programs like those offered by Farz Academy.
Q4. How can I pass MRCP PACES on the first attempt?
Ans: First-attempt success depends on regular case practice, a structured examination approach, strong communication skills, and mock exams with expert feedback.
Q5. When should I book MRCP PACES 2026 and start preparing?
Ans: Candidates should book early through the official MRCP(UK) website. A 3–6 month focused preparation period before the exam is recommended.