Ophthalmology

Royal College of Ophthalmologists

FRCOphth Refraction Certificate: sittings, booking and prep

Next sitting to book 11–12 Jan 2027 · 3 sittings listed

About

The Refraction Certificate is a 10-station OSCE testing practical retinoscopy and subjective refraction, and is part of the FRCOphth route or a standalone qualification.

Who can sit

Open to holders of a GMC, Irish Medical Council or World Directory-listed attested medical degree, or optometrists with a medical degree, MCOptom or equivalent.

Next sitting to bookSingapore, 11–12 Jan 2027 · Booking open · closes 6 Nov

Every sitting

  • Cairo
  • 21–23 Nov 2026
    Booking closed · results from 18 Dec
  • Birmingham
  • 7–11 Dec 2026
    Booking closed · results from 15 Jan 2027
    £900
  • Singapore
  • 11–12 Jan 2027 · Next sitting
    Booking open · closes 6 Nov · results from 12 Feb 2027

Before you book

  • What is the format?

    A 10-station OSCE using real patients and retinoscopy simulators under timed conditions.

  • How many attempts do I get?

    You are allowed six attempts at the Refraction Certificate, after which you must provide evidence of additional educational experience.

  • What comes after FRCOphth Refraction Certificate?

    Trainees in OST must pass it before entering year four; it is also required before the Part 2 Oral.

Prepare for FRCOphth Refraction Certificate.

More from RCOphth.

Reviewed byDr Robert BaxterDr Robert Baxter· Junior Clinical Fellow, Acute Medical Unit· Updated 16 Oct 2026

11–12 Jan 2027

Book

Booking closes 6 Nov · Email me before FRCOphth Refraction Certificate booking closes

Checked against RCOphth’s pages · updated 16 Oct 2026

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