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Dreaming of the MRCPI OBG qualification? Acquiring the internationally recognised MRCPI OBG title signals to healthcare employers across the globe that you possess advanced skills and expertise in obstetrics and gynaecology. This qualification opens up numerous opportunities with higher salary packages and better career prospects worldwide. In Ireland, achieving the MRCPI means that you are ready to enter Higher Specialist Training, which is the final stage of training before independent practice.

Besides, this prestigious qualification is recognised by the General Medical Council (GMC) in the United Kingdom. Therefore, if you are an international medical graduate with the MRCPI OBG qualification, you can apply for full-time registration with a license to practice medicine in the UK.

The MRCPI OBG title is awarded after successfully completing a two-part examination. This includes a written exam, which consists of 100 single best answer questions lasting three hours, and an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). The OSCE comprises seven 10-minute stations and a 25-minute clinical exam with real patients or role players.

MRCPI OBG Part 2 Written: Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the MRCPI OBG Part 2 Written exam, which is the first hurdle in achieving the MRCPI OBG qualification, candidates must meet one of the following criteria.

• MRCOG Part 1 (exemption from MRCOG Part 1 is not accepted)
• RCPI Professional Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (only awarded from 2022 onwards)
• MRCPI Part 1 (General Medicine or Paediatrics) obtained within the last six years
• MRACOG (Australia)
• MRNZCOG (New Zealand)
• FCOG (SA)
• FCPS (O and G) (Pakistan)
• MRANZCOG
• MMed (O and G) (Malaysia) – applicable from 2008 onwards only

Most candidates prefer focusing on MRCOG Part 1 because it directly relates to the specialty of obstetrics and gynaecology. The RCPI does not currently offer MRCPI Part 1 in obstetrics and gynaecology.

Post-registration training

In addition to the above qualifications, candidates must complete 18 months of post-registration training in recognised posts. This includes:

• Nine months in obstetrics and nine months in gynaecology, or combined posts.
• The posts must be recognised by the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists at RCPI.
• At least six months must be completed by January for the March examination or by August for the September examination.

We hope this information was helpful to you. If you have any doubts about the exam eligibility or need support with exam preparation, feel free to contact the StudyMRCPI team today.

Authored By: Sarath