MRCOG Exam Dates 2026: Complete Schedule for Part 1, 2 & 3

Planning your MRCOG preparation starts with knowing when the exams are. Here is the complete schedule for all three parts of the MRCOG examination in 2026, including registration deadlines and preparation timelines.

MRCOG Part 1: 2026 Dates

January sitting: typically mid-January. Registration opens approximately 3 months before.
June sitting: typically mid-June. Registration opens approximately 3 months before.

Part 1 consists of 200 SBAs across 2 papers. Pass rate is historically 30-40%. Fee: £580 (UK) / £635 (international).

MRCOG Part 2: 2026 Dates

March sitting: typically mid-March.
September sitting: typically mid-September.

Part 2 consists of 100 SBAs + 100 EMQs across 2 papers. Pass rate is historically 40-50%. The EMQ component carries 60% of the marks.

MRCOG Part 3 (OSCE): 2026 Dates

May sitting: typically mid-May.
November sitting: typically mid-November.

Part 3 consists of 14 OSCE stations, each 10 minutes. Stations include patient tasks, colleague tasks, and structured discussions.

How to Plan Your Preparation Timeline

Most successful candidates recommend 6 months of dedicated preparation for Part 1, 4-6 months for Part 2, and 3-4 months for Part 3. Working backwards from your chosen exam date:

Months 1-3: systematic coverage of all knowledge areas, building your question bank
Months 4-5: focused revision of weak topics, intensive question practice with spaced repetition
Month 6: mock exams, timed practice, final review of high-yield topics

Registration Tips

Register early, as popular centres fill up quickly, especially international centres
Check the RCOG website for the exact registration opening and closing dates each year
Ensure your GMC/medical registration documents are up to date before applying
International candidates: allow extra time for document verification

Start your preparation today with MRCOG AI: 50 free questions to get you started, with AI-powered explanations and spaced repetition.