The MRCP (Membership of the Royal College of Physicians) is a globally recognised UK postgraduate medical qualification that demonstrates advanced medical knowledge and strong clinical skills. Before beginning your MRCP UK preparation, it is essential to understand the MRCP eligibility criteria, required qualifications, documents, and clinical experience needed for MRCP Part 1, Part 2, and PACES.
To apply for MRCP UK, you must have an MBBS (or equivalent), a recognised primary medical qualification, and at least 12 months of clinical internship.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn all the MRCP UK eligibility requirements, required documents, exam structure, and step-by-step criteria for both Indian and international doctors.
What Is MRCP? - Detailed Overview
✦ The MRCP (UK) Examination assesses a candidate's medical knowledge, diagnostic reasoning, and clinical judgment.
✦ The Royal Colleges of Physicians conduct the exam.
✦ The exam is taken in three parts:-
➤ MRCP PART I – It’s a written examination that tests the basic sciences and clinical knowledge.
➤ MRCP PART II - The Part II assesses the clinical understanding and application.
➤ MRCP PACES – The final and Practical part of the exam that assesses the clinical skills involving real patients.
MRCP Exam Eligibility Criteria (General Requirements)
For the MRCP PART I exam, the candidate must:
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Hold a primary medical qualification that is recognised by the General Medical Council.
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Have completed at least 12 months of internship after their medical degree.
MRCP Eligibility Criteria for Indian Doctors
Indian medical graduates must meet these MRCP requirements:
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Hold an MBBS degree from an MCI/NMC-recognised medical college.
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Must have completed a one-year compulsory internship.
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Postgraduate training, such as an MD or DNB, is not required to attempt the MRCP Part 1.
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Even if the doctor has an MD/DNB, they are still eligible for the MRCP at any stage.
MRCP Eligibility Criteria for International Medical Graduates (IMGs)
International candidates must:
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Hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ)
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Have 12 months of postgraduate clinical experience
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Be proficient in English communication (IELTS/TOEFL not required for MRCP)
MRCP Requirement at a Glance
|
Category |
Eligibility Requirement |
Details |
|
Basic Qualification |
Recognised primary medical degree |
Approved by GMC UK or national medical authority (NMC/MCI for India) |
|
Internship |
Minimum 12-month internship |
Must include direct patient care |
|
Clinical Experience |
Recommended 2 years total before PACES |
1 year is mandatory for Part 1 |
|
Language Skills |
Good English communication |
IELTS/TOEFL not required for MRCP |
|
Documents |
MBBS certificate, Internship proof, Valid ID |
Required during MRCP UK online registration |
|
Exam Stages |
Part 1 → Part 2 → PACES |
Must pass sequentially |
The MRCP eligibility criteria are designed to ensure that the candidates planning to appear for the MRCP degree examination have the necessary medical qualification and clinical experience to progress toward becoming specialists in internal medicine.
Documents Required for MRCP Registration
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MBBS or Primary Medical Qualification Certificate
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Internship completion certificate
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Valid passport or government ID
These must be uploaded during MRCP UK online registration.
The MRCP eligibility criteria ensure that doctors from India and across the world meet the essential medical and clinical requirements to begin the MRCP UK journey. If you hold a recognised MBBS or equivalent degree, have completed a one-year internship, and can communicate effectively in English, you are ready to appear for MRCP Part 1.
Meeting the MRCP requirements is the first step toward building a strong career in internal medicine, gaining international exposure, and opening doors to global specialist training opportunities.
Ready to start your MRCP journey?
Begin your preparation today, follow the official guidelines, and take your first step toward becoming a globally recognised physician.
Start preparing for MRCP Part 1 now and move closer to your dream medical career.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I take the MRCP PART I right after the MBBS?
Yes, the candidate is eligible to pursue the MRCP as long as they have completed 12 months of clinical internship.
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Is MRCP equivalent to MD?
MRCP is a postgraduate medical qualification; it is considered equivalent to or higher than an MD.
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How Many parts are there in the MRCP?
MRCP has three parts:-
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Part I – Focuses on foundational knowledge
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Part II – Focuses on advanced clinical knowledge
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MRCP PACES – Clinical exam with real patients
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Is MRCP difficult?
MRCP is challenging due to its high level of clinical knowledge and analytical skills required.
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What are the benefits of MRCP in the career aspect?
MRCP helps you in:
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Applying for specialist training abroad (including the UK, Gulf countries, and more)
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Gaining internationally recognised medical credentials that strengthen your profile for hospital jobs and higher clinical roles.
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Are MRCP exams conducted online or offline?
MRCP Part 1 and Part 2 are conducted as computer-based (online) written exams, whereas PACES is held offline as an in-person clinical exam with real patients.