Examinations

We offer two qualifications: Membership (MRCPCH) and the Diploma of Child Health (DCH). We support candidates to register, apply for and sit their exams - whether in the UK and Ireland, or in a growing number of countries internationally.
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MRCPCH Clinical in UK includes real patients

As of February 2023, the MRCPCH Clinical exam in UK centres is including real patients in the four short clinical stations. The development station remains scenario-based.

Working with our partners on the safe delivery of exams in UK and internationally

We've made modifications to the method of delivery of most RCPCH exams, and you can find out more on our guidance pages:

  • Theory exams have two options: at a test centre with social distancing, or online invigilation at home
  • MRCPCH Clinical has returned to a face-to-face format
  • DCH Clinical has been run virtually
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Before you can apply, you need to register for exams via your RCPCH online account. You'll need to provide your GMC number or evidence of your primary medical qualification.
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Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (MRCPCH) is achieved by passing three theory exams and one clinical exam. It's an essential part of training and mapped to our curriculum.
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Our Diploma of Child Health recognises competence in the care of children. With one theory exam and one clinical exam, it's especially for those working in specialties allied to paediatrics such as general practice.

News about exams

Announcement

Celebrating a landmark for our membership clinical exam

Last month, our exam lead in Saudi Arabia, Professor Abdulmoein Al-Agha and his colleagues ran their 30th MRCPCH Clinical event in Jeddah. More than 1,500 candidates have sat this exam in just over a decade in the centre - a phenomenal contribution by a hard-working team!
Announcement

AKP exam issue on 21 September - update on our investigations

This is an update on the Applied Knowledge in Practice exam technical issue that affected test centre candidates on 21 September 2022. We apologise once again to those candidates who were affected by this technical issue during their AKP exam last month. We are aware this has been a difficult exp...
Announcement

AKP exam issue on 21 September and FAQs

We would like to apologise to those candidates affected by the system build and technical issue with navigating the software in the Part 2 of the AKP exam on 21 September 2022.  
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Check our resources to support you - from preparation material to textbooks and sample papers.