FRCOphth Part 1: sittings, booking and prep

Next sitting to book 20 Jan 2027 · 1 sitting listed

About

The Part 1 FRCOphth is an online theoretical written exam on basic and clinical sciences, based on the first two years of the Ophthalmic Specialist Training curriculum.

Who can sit

Any medically qualified candidate (GMC or Irish Medical Council approved qualification) can sit it, with no previous ophthalmology experience needed.

Next sitting to book£725
20 Jan 2027 · Booking open · closes 13 Nov

Every sitting

20 Jan 2027 · Next sitting
Booking open · closes 13 Nov · results from 19 Feb 2027£725

Before you book

How do I get a place on FRCOphth Part 1?
First-time applicants complete the Part 1 first-time application form by 5pm on the Wednesday before the closing date, then pay before bookings close.
What is the format?
A theoretical written exam with no clinical component, delivered online.
How is it marked?
The pass mark is set in advance using the Ebel method.
How many attempts do I get?
You can sit Part 1 FRCOphth a maximum of six times; attempts before August 2013 do not count.
What comes after FRCOphth Part 1?
You must pass Part 1 before entering year three of ophthalmic specialist training, and it is required before Part 2 Written.