MRCOG Part 1: The Complete Guide to Format, Syllabus and How to Pass

MRCOG, Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, is the qualification that marks progression through obstetrics and gynaecology training in the UK, and it is sat by O&G trainees worldwide. Part 1 is the basic-science examination that candidates take early in their training, and its breadth of applied science makes it a demanding first hurdle. This guide explains the format, the content, who can sit it, and how to prepare for a first-time pass.

What is the MRCOG Part 1 exam?

MRCOG Part 1 is a written examination that tests the basic and applied sciences underpinning safe practice in obstetrics and gynaecology. It confirms that a trainee has the scientific foundation, spanning anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, pathology and related sciences, needed before progressing to the more clinical Part 2 and Part 3 examinations. Passing Part 1 is an early and essential milestone for O&G trainees.

MRCOG Part 1 format and structure

Part 1 consists of two papers, each with 100 single best answer questions, for a total of 200 questions. Each paper lasts two and a half hours, and the two papers contribute equally to the final score, usually with a lunch break between them.

• Two papers, each with 100 single best answer questions (200 in total).
• Two and a half hours per paper.
• Both papers contribute equally to the final score.
• Set and administered by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

The single best answer format tests applied understanding, asking you to apply a scientific principle to a clinical situation relevant to obstetrics and gynaecology rather than simply recall a fact. Because the College updates its regulations over time, confirm the current specification when you apply.

Who can sit MRCOG Part 1?

Part 1 is open to doctors with a recognised primary medical qualification, and candidates typically sit it early in their O&G training, since it is the gateway to the later examinations. There is no requirement to be in a UK training post to sit it, which is why it is popular with international trainees building toward MRCOG. Because eligibility and any documentary requirements are set by the RCOG and can change, confirm the current criteria before you apply.

MRCOG is achieved through three examinations: Part 1 (basic and applied sciences), Part 2 (a written examination applying that knowledge clinically) and Part 3 (a clinical assessment). Part 1 is the scientific foundation on which the later stages are built, so the anatomy, physiology and applied science you master for it will serve you throughout the membership and your career. Clearing Part 1 early keeps your specialist training on track and lets you focus later on the clinical examinations.

MRCOG Part 1 syllabus: where to focus

The exam draws on the basic and applied sciences relevant to obstetrics and gynaecology. High-yield areas typically include:

• Applied anatomy of the pelvis, reproductive tract and related structures.
• Reproductive, maternal and fetal physiology, and the physiology of pregnancy.
• Endocrinology relevant to the menstrual cycle, fertility and pregnancy.
• Pharmacology, biochemistry, pathology, microbiology and genetics as applied to the specialty.

A realistic MRCOG Part 1 study plan

Most candidates prepare over roughly three to four months alongside clinical work.

• Weeks 1 to 6: build coverage across the basic and applied sciences, front-loading applied anatomy given its weight, answering questions as you go and reading every explanation.
• Weeks 7 to 10: consolidate through a question bank, logging weak areas and returning to them, and making sure the whole breadth of sciences is progressing together.
• Final weeks: sit timed, two-paper practice of 100 questions each to build pacing and stamina, review your analytics, and taper before the exam.

Common mistakes candidates make

• Under-preparing applied anatomy, a reliably high-yield area.
• Failing to cover the full breadth of basic and applied sciences.
• Treating questions as fact-recall instead of practising the apply-the-principle single best answer style.
• Reading passively rather than starting question practice early.
• Skipping timed two-paper mocks that build pacing and stamina.

What to expect on exam day

With 100 questions in two and a half hours per paper, the pacing is comfortable if you keep moving. Read each stem fully before the options and commit to the single best answer for the scenario described. In anatomy questions especially, visualise the structure or relationship being asked about, since a mental picture often resolves what prose cannot. Flag anything slow and return to it, treat the break between papers as a reset, and answer every question. Practising under timed conditions builds the pacing and stamina the two papers demand.

The best way to revise for MRCOG Part 1

Because MRCOG Part 1 is entirely single best answer, a question bank mapped to the RCOG basic-science syllabus is the most efficient way to prepare. Work in tutor mode, read the reasoning behind every option, and track your performance so you can keep the whole breadth of sciences moving and shore up your weakest areas. Working through a large volume of well-explained questions across both papers, to genuine understanding, is the most reliable route to a first-time pass.

Passmed's MRCOG Part 1 question bank is written by qualified doctors, mapped to the RCOG basic and applied science syllabus, and includes timed exam simulation with a dashboard that surfaces your weakest topics. Explore the question bank →

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are in MRCOG Part 1?

Two papers of 100 single best answer questions each, 200 in total, with two and a half hours per paper. Both papers contribute equally to the final score.

What does MRCOG Part 1 cover?

The basic and applied sciences of obstetrics and gynaecology, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, pathology, microbiology and genetics, tested through applied single best answer questions.

Who can sit MRCOG Part 1?

Doctors with a recognised primary medical qualification, and you do not need to be in a UK training post, which is why it is popular with international trainees. Confirm the current criteria with the RCOG.

How does Part 1 fit into MRCOG?

It is the first of three examinations, followed by the written Part 2 and the clinical Part 3. Part 1 provides the scientific foundation for the later clinical stages.

How long should I study for MRCOG Part 1?

Around three to four months of consistent, question-led preparation suits most candidates, front-loading applied anatomy.

Exam format and scoring details were checked against the official examining bodies (accessed July 2026). Specifications, dates and fees change, always confirm the current details on the official website before you sit.