Any candidate who passes all three of the MRCPCH Theory examinations (FOP, TAS and AKP) will be eligible to use the new term of Theory Diploma of the RCPCH (TDRCPCH) as a recognition of their achievement in passing these exams. No changes have been made to the structure or content of any of the Theory exams.
The term has been introduced following discussions by the RCPCH Examinations Board. They considered there would be significant benefit, most notably for our overseas candidates, if there was clear nomenclature that could be understood internationally for the three Theory exams.
TDRCPCH will indicate that a candidate has the knowledge required of UK paediatric trainees in order that they can progress to Tier 2 of training. This knowledge is detailed in the Theory examination syllabi.
The TDRCPCH was approved by the Examinations Board and at RCPCH Council in spring 2025. So, from June 2025, candidates will see the TDRCPCH qualification mentioned in their result letters and be provided with an explanation of what passing the TDRCPCH means for them.
Frequently asked questions
- What do I have to do to attain the TDRCPCH once I have passed all three Theory exams?
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Candidates who pass all three Theory exams will not need to do anything in addition to passing the exams; TDRCPCH is the recognised full qualification name for the Theory component of the Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (MRCPCH).
- How much does this cost?
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There is no additional cost for this.
- Will I receive a diploma certificate or letter confirming that I have completed the TDRCPCH?
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No. By having passed all three Theory examinations you will be able to refer to having the TDRCPCH. But you will not receive an additional letter beyond the results letters you receive after passing the three Theory exams.
- Can I use TDRCPCH as a post-nominal?
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No. TDRCPCH is a diploma and, as such, cannot be used as a post-nominal by those who have completed it. However, you can refer to it on your curriculum vitae (CV) and other documents where you refer to your qualifications.
- Is the TDRCPCH equivalent to the MRCPCH?
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No, the TDRCPCH is the qualification term for the three Theory exams of the MRCPCH. Candidates need to successfully pass the Clinical exam in order to obtain the full MRCPCH
- Will I still have the TDRCPCH if I go onto to pass the MRCPCH Clinical examination?
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Yes. While the MRCPCH supersedes the TDRCPCH, you will still have completed the TDRCPCH by passing all three Theory examinations before passing the Clinical examination and attaining the MRCPCH.
As such, you can continue to refer to the TDRCPCH on your CV and other documents where you refer to your qualifications even after you have completed the MRCPCH.
- What happens to my TDRCPCH if I do not go on to pass the MRCPCH Clinical examination within 7 years of passing my final Theory examination?
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Nothing. The TDRCPCH is a standalone diploma and, as such, is not subject to the 7-year currency rule for the MRCPCH.
Candidates who wish to attain the MRCPCH will still need to pass the Clinical examination within 7 years of passing their final Theory examination. If they do not, they will need to re-take and pass the AKP exam in order to be eligible to attempt the clinical exam again.
- I passed the three Theory exams a few years ago. Can I still use the terminology TDRPCH?
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Yes. The TDRCPCH term is the qualification name for the Theory component of the Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (MRCPCH). Any candidate (UK and overseas) who has passed the exams in their current format i.e. since June 2013, can use the terminology. However, only candidates who take and pass the Theory exams from June 2025 will have the TDRCPCH mentioned in their results letter.