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If you are a medical professional passionate about advancing your career in child care, you might have heard of the prestigious MRCPCH qualification offered by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health. In order to achieve this qualification, you must pass three theory exams and one clinical exam. The theory exams are non-sequential, so you can take them in any order as you wish.

The three theory examinations include Foundation of Practice (FOP), Theory and Science (TAS) and Applied Knowledge in Practice (AKP). If you are planning to take the FOP/TAS exam in the upcoming sessions in June 2025 or October 2025, here we will help you plan your preparation with expert strategies.

MRCPCH FOP/TAS exam: A quick overview

The MRCPCH FOP and TAS exams are held on the same day, with FOP in the morning and TAS in the afternoon. While the FOP tests your knowledge of clinical care for children, covering common conditions, the TAS exam tests the scientific, physiological and pharmacological principles that underlie clinical practice. Both exams are computer-based, consisting of 100 single best answer questions. You will get 2 hours to complete each exam.

Preparation tips

Here are some must-know strategies to help you prepare effectively for the MRCPCH FOP/TAS exams.

• Create a study plan

Organise your study sessions well in advance of the exam date. Break down topics into small sections and stick to a clear timetable.

• Use high yield resources

With a wide range of study materials available, it is important to focus on high-yield resources. Seek guidance from colleagues, seniors or mentors to identify the best ones.

• Practice with past papers and mock exams

Regularly practicing past papers will familiarise you with the exam format and improve your time management. Mock exams will also help you track your progress and identify areas that need improvement.

• Stay updated with guidelines and protocols

Make sure that you stay up to date with the latest protocols and clinical practices. This will help you in the exam as well as in providing evidence-based care.

• Join study groups or expert-led online courses

Collaborative learning can improve your understanding and retention of important concepts. Consider joining online courses or study groups led by experts in the field.

While planning your preparation, try to incorporate these proven strategies to ensure success in the first attempt. If you think you need additional support, consider joining StudyMRCPCH courses, which have a 92% success rate over the last years. Connect with us to learn more.

Authored By: Sarath