MRCPsych: Composition of the exam

Composition of the MRCPsych Paper I Written Examination

The MRCPsych Paper I will comprise of 200 questions with candidates given 3 hours to complete the examination. Approximately two thirds of the paper will be focused on the best answer 1 of 5 style MCQs with the remainder as EMIs.

Composition of the MRCPsych Paper II Written Examination

The MRCPsych Paper II will comprise of 200 questions with candidates given 3 hours to complete the examination. The question format will be best answer 1 of 5 style MCQs and EMIs. Approximately two thirds of the paper will be focused on the best answer 1 of 5 style MCQs with the remainder as EMIs.

Composition of the MRCPsych Paper III Written Examination

The MRCPsych Paper III will comprise of 200 questions with candidates given 3 hours to complete the examination. Approximately two thirds of the questions will be based on Clinical Topics with the remainder focusing on the Clinical Review Component. The question format are structured according to MCQs and EMIs.

Sample of an MRCPsych Part 1 'Extended Matching' item (EMI)

  1. Thought blocking
  2. Hypochondriasis
  3. Delusions of reference
  4. Thought insertion
  5. Thought broadcasting
  6. Thought withdrawal
  7. Delusions of persecution
  8. Autoscpy

Instructions: Which of the above psychopathologies best describes the following experience:

  1. I am sure that my friends are talking about me even when I cannot hear what they are saying.
  2. Patient is preoccupied and convinced that he has a brain tumour despite all investigations being negative.
  3. Patient is experiencing an external power removing his thoughts from his mind.
  4. I can see myself in front of me, I am sure it is I.