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The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health has officially released the schedule for upcoming MRCPCH FOP/TAS exams in 2026. Just like the previous years, the RCPCH has decided to conduct the Foundation of Practice (FOP) and Theory and Science (TAS) exams in February, June, and October.

If you are an MBBS graduate aiming to level up in the field of paediatrics, the MRCPCH is a globally recognised qualification that can take your paediatric career to new heights. It demonstrates your knowledge, expertise and dedication to delivering high-standard care in the field of child health.

However, you need to clear four stages of assessment, three theory exams (FOP/TAS, AKP) and one practical exam (clinical) to achieve this ‘MRCPCH’ postnominal.

MRCPCH FOP/TAS

There is no sequential order in attempting the MRCPCH theory exams. So, the FOP/TAS and AKP can be taken in any order. The eligibility criteria for both exams are also the same. However, the FOP/TAS used to be called MRCPCH Part 1A and Part 1B, respectively. While MRCPCH FOP assesses your knowledge of clinical care for children by covering common conditions, MRCPCH TAS tests the scientific, physiological and pharmacological principles underlying clinical practice.

MRCPCH FOP/TAS: Upcoming exam dates in 2026

Let’s have a look at all the important dates regarding the upcoming MRCPCH FOP/TAS exam dates in 2026.

FOP/TAS: Diet 1- 2026 (February exam)

• Exam date: 18 February 2026
• Applications open: 1 December 2025
• Applications close (online): 5 December 2025
• Applications close (test centres): 8 December 2025

FOP/TAS: Diet 2- 2026 (June exam)

• Exam date: 24 June 2026
• Applications open: 30 March 2026
• Applications close (online): 3 April 2026
• Applications close (test centres): 6 April 2026

FOP/TAS: Diet 3- 2026 (October exam)

• Exam date: 14 October 2026
• Applications open: 27 July 2026
• Applications close (online): 31 July 2026
• Applications close (test centres): 3 August 2026

MRCPCH FOP/TAS 2026 exam: Eligibility criteria

• Candidates must hold a valid primary medical qualification accepted by the General Medical Council.
• PMQ must be eligible for GMC registration or recognised by GMC if awarded overseas.

We hope this information will be helpful to you. If you have any questions regarding the exam dates or need assistance with the booking process, don’t hesitate to contact the StudyMRCPCH team.

In addition, if you need assistance with exam preparation, you can consider enrolling in our expert-led MRCPCH courses that have a strong track record of a 93% pass rate. We offer concept-focused live interactive classes, guidance from 10+ MRCPCH-qualified mentors, high-quality study materials, daily study group activities, regular mocks, and much more through our short and long-term courses.

You can even go through our expert-curated study materials for free through the StudyMEDIC LMS 3.0 before enrolling in the course. Feel free to contact us for more information.

You are welcome to know more about our offerings.

Authored By: Sarath