How to Register for the MRCS Exam: Step-by-Step Guide for IMGs and UK Candidates

Confused about the MRCS exam registration process? This step-by-step guide explains how to register for MRCS Part A (or Part B) online, from creating your Royal College account to final payment—perfect for international medical graduates (IMGs) and UK doctors.

Introduction

For many aspiring surgeons—especially International Medical Graduates (IMGs)—the MRCS exam registration process can feel confusing. With scattered information and multiple steps, it’s easy to feel lost.

This guide provides a clear, step-by-step walkthrough on how to book the MRCS Part A exam. By following these four key stages—account creation, exam selection, application, and payment—you can complete the process smoothly and focus your energy where it matters most: exam preparation.

Step 1: Create Your Royal College Account

Before booking the MRCS exam, you must create an official profile with one of the Royal Colleges (e.g., Royal College of Surgeons of England).

When registering:

• Title: Select “Mr.”, “Miss”, or “Mrs.”—UK surgical tradition avoids “Dr.”

• Name: Enter your name exactly as it should appear on your MRCS certificate.

• Date of Birth: Match your passport details precisely.

• Email Address: Use a professional email—this is where all MRCS updates will arrive.

• Password: Choose something secure and store it safely.

Step 2: Locate and Select the MRCS Exam

Once logged in, go to the Education & Exams section, then select MRCS Part A.

Confirm Eligibility

You must hold a primary medical qualification recognized by the UK GMC. IMGs should verify their degree’s status before applying.

Important for IMGs vs UK Candidates

• UK-based candidates: Select the UK exam tab.

• International candidates (IMGs): Select International exams → Multiple locations (not your country). This ensures you’re booking the global online sitting, not a single test centre.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

This is the most detailed stage of the MRCS exam registration process. Have your passport and medical degree certificate ready.

Filling the Application as an IMG

• Primary Medical Degree: Select “Overseas medical school” and enter your medical school details.

• Career Grade: Choose “Overseas grade.”

• Deanery: Select “Non-uk resident.”

• Training Level: Select “Out of programme training.”

Other Key Fields

• Special Adjustments: Request exam accommodations if needed.

• Preferred Location: Choose your exam city.

• Equal Opportunities Section: Optional survey for statistical purposes.

✅ Double-check all details—errors can delay or invalidate your booking.

Step 4: Final Review and Payment

The last stage is securing your seat:

1. Review your booking summary (exam type, date, fee).

2. Click Pay Now and enter your card details.

3. Wait for the official confirmation email—this completes your registration.

Without this confirmation, your booking is incomplete.

Conclusion

Registering for the MRCS Part A exam doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these four steps—create your account, select the exam, complete the application, and finalize payment—you can complete the process confidently.

For IMGs, paying attention to eligibility and application details is especially important, but once you understand the system, it’s straightforward.

Think of this as your first successful procedure: methodical, precise, and rewarding. With registration done, you can now focus fully on MRCS exam preparation and achieving the next milestone in your surgical career.

If you want to watch a step-by-step tutorial on how to do it, then below is a recorded one made by us