MRCP PACES Exam Dates and Study Guide 2026: Everything You Need To Know

MRCP PACES23 Exam Dates and Ideal Preparation Time – PACES Exam Diets 2026

The MRCP (Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians) is among the most sought-after medical qualifications in the UK and beyond. Aspiring doctors aiming to enhance their credentials and advance their careers in internal medicine must complete the MRCP exams. Whether preparing to sit the exam in 2025 or planning for future dates, understanding the exam schedule and preparation time needed will help you plan your study and application process effectively.

The Importance of the MRCP Exam

As we dive into the details of the MRCP schedule, it’s crucial to understand what these exams entail. The MRCP consists of three parts:

1. 1. Part 1: Focuses on the basic medical sciences.
   2. Part 2: Assesses the clinical knowledge and skills of candidates.
   3. PACES: Practical Assessment of Clinical Examination Skills – tests clinical examination and communication skills.

Moreover, each part is a stepping stone to becoming a fully qualified physician, and success in these exams is a key milestone toward gaining GMC registration and enhancing your professional profile.

MRCP PACES Schedule 2026

The MRCP PACES23 schedule for 2026 includes several key exam dates spread across the year. Here is a breakdown of the MRCP PACES exam schedule for 2025:

Upcoming MRCP PACES 2025 Dates

Diet 1 – January – March 2025

Diet 2 – July 2025

Diet 3 – September 2025

Key Dates and Deadlines to Keep in Mind

Application Deadlines: Ensure you submit your application within the designated time frame to avoid any late fees or missed opportunities.

Exam Dates: Stay informed about the exact exam dates so you can plan your study schedule effectively.

Reasonable Adjustment Deadlines: If you require any special accommodations for the exam (e.g., extra time), make sure to submit the necessary documentation by the stated deadline.

Results Date: It’s important to know when you will receive your results so you can plan your next steps accordingly.

Additional Details on Fees and Adjustments

• • The exam fees vary depending on your location. In the UK, each diet costs £716, while international candidates must pay £1278.

However, for a complete guide to mastering the MRCP PACES exam, including targeted resources and expert preparation tips, check out our article on Comprehensive MRCP PACES Exam Preparation

Preparing for the MRCP Exam in 2026

The MRCP exams are known for their rigorous and challenging nature. Here are a few tips to help you prepare effectively for the MRCP exam schedule 2026:

• • Use a Structured Study Plan: Start early, focusing on high-yield topics frequently appearing on the exam. Divide your time across clinical knowledge, practical skills, and communication domains.

• • Utilise Clinical Resources: Make the most of the learning platforms available, such as PACESAid, which offers simulated auscultation recordings and clinical images to familiarise yourself with real patient cases.

• • Join a Study Group: Connect with peers preparing for the MRCP exams. Discussing cases and reviewing topics together can significantly enhance your understanding. Join the PACESAid Whatsapp at: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KeKHh3he1fn8xx2THDRTNx

Useful Resources for MRCP Preparation

MRCP UK:
The MRCP UK site contains the definitive information on eligibility, booking processes, fees, and the structure of each part of the exam. It also publishes examiner guidance and sample scenarios that reflect the current PACES blueprint.

PACES Aid:
PACES Aid offers a structured, station-by-station approach to the new PACES format, with high-yield cases, model presentations, and communication scripts aligned to what examiners expect. The resource focuses on exam-focussed preparation, differential lists and exam-ready strategies that can be used immediately in revision and practice.

Pre-PACES Podcast:
The Pre-PACES Podcast provides focused discussions on common PACES presentations, examiner expectations, and communication skills. It is particularly useful for learning how experienced clinicians think through cases and for reinforcing structure while commuting or between study sessions.

Medical Education Leeds PACES Course:
Medical Education Leeds delivers revision notes covering frequently encountered exam cases. Structured notes covering physical signs, examination findings, differentials, investigation and management of common exam cases.
https://www.medicaleducationleeds.com/paces

Pastest PACES Videos:

Pastest offers an extensive library of PACES-style videos demonstrating real clinical signs, model examinations, and communication scenarios. These are useful for learning the visual recognition of signs but should complement, not replace, focused high-yield study and independent development of core clinical knowledge.

“The key to success in the MRCP exams lies in a structured approach, understanding key clinical signs, and consistent practice. Don’t rush, and ensure that each study session adds value to your preparation.”

Conclusion: Get Ready for the MRCP Exam in 2026

With the MRCP schedule 2026 now available, it’s the perfect time to plan your study sessions and ensure you’re fully prepared. The exam is an essential milestone for any aspiring physician, and with the right preparation, you can clear it successfully. Take advantage of the tools and resources available, including PACESAID (www.pacesaid.com), which offers over 200 clinical images and videos to help you visualize key signs and symptoms commonly seen in exams.

First, prepare early, stick to a study plan, and ensure you’re up to date with all exam dates and requirements. For further assistance, consider using additional preparation tools and connecting with fellow candidates through forums or study groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should I start preparing for MRCP PACES Exams?

It is ideal to start preparing around 3-6 months before the exam. This will give you ample time to cover all exam domains, including clinical knowledge, identifying and familiarising with physical signs, differential diagnoses, investigations, and management strategies. Regularly revising key content and practising examinations and presentations will boost your confidence.

2. When do PACES results come out?

MRCP PACES 23 results are now released 2-3 weeks following your exam date. Results will be communicated through the MRCP portal and an email will be sent to your registered email account.

3. How much does taking the MRCP PACES exam cost?

For candidates in the UK, the MRCP PACES exam fee is £716, while international candidate rates are around £1278. Be sure to check for any additional fees for late registration or rescheduling.

4. Where can I find the official MRCP exam schedule?

You can find more details on exam dates and fees here, www.mrcpuk.org, make sure you check the official MRCP website for the most up-to-date information on MRCP exam dates and fees.