FRCPath Part 1: sittings, booking and prep

Next sitting to book 22–26 Mar 2027 · 1 sitting listed

About

FRCPath Part 1 is the first written examination of the Royal College of Pathologists’ Fellowship pathway, sat in a pathology specialty such as histopathology, haematology or medical microbiology, and passing it allows candidates to become Diplomates of the College.

Who can sit

Medical trainees are generally advised to attempt Part 1 after at least one year of specialty training; entry and training requirements are set in each specialty’s regulations.

Next booking22–26 Mar 2027 · Booking opens 27 Nov · closes 4 Jan 2027

Every sitting

22–26 Mar 2027 · Next sitting
Booking opens 27 Nov · closes 4 Jan 2027 · results from 21 May 2027

Before you book

How do I get a place on FRCPath Part 1?
Apply and pay online on the RCPath website during the application window, with a sponsor form signed by your educational supervisor or similar uploaded; late applications are not accepted.
What is the format?
From autumn 2026 the Part 1 written papers are delivered online on the Risr software in British Council test centres, with in-person invigilation and equipment provided.
How many attempts do I get?
Each part can be attempted four times, and further attempts need an application to the College Council’s Mitigating Circumstances Panel.
Where is it sat?
Autumn 2026 centres are London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Dublin in the UK and Ireland, plus several international centres; from spring 2027 candidates are meant to choose a preferred centre when applying.
When are results?
Part 1 results are emailed to candidates rather than published on the website, on the results date for the session (Friday 21 May 2027 for spring 2027).
What comes after FRCPath Part 1?
Passing Part 1 lets you become a Diplomate of the College, and Part 1 is required in the relevant specialty before sitting FRCPath Part 2.