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What is the MRCEM Primary exam?
The MRCEM Primary is the first exam doctors sit on the pathway to MRCEM and ultimately FRCEM. RCEM has changed exam names over time; since 2021 the “MRCEM Primary” replaced the earlier “FRCEM Primary”.
MRCEM Primary exam dates
Each sitting has a short application window. The application window typically opens 10am UK time (7 days before the deadline) and closes 4pm UK time on the closing date.
| Exam Date | Application Deadline | Results Date |
|---|---|---|
| 22 April 2026 | 18 December 2025 | 4 June 2026 |
| 27 Oct 2026 | 22 July 2026 | 1 Dec 2026 |
MRCEM Examination fees
Fees vary by RCEM membership status and whether you are UK based or international.
| Membership Category | Fee (2026) |
|---|---|
| Member UK | £429 |
| Member International | £485 |
| Non-member UK | £525 |
| Non-member International | £609 |
What is the format of the MRCEM Primary?
The MRCEM Primary is a 3-hour paper containing 180 single best answer questions. The topic split is shown below.
| Topic | Number of Questions |
|---|---|
| Anatomy | 60 |
| Physiology | 60 |
| Pharmacology | 27 |
| Microbiology | 18 |
| Pathology | 9 |
| Evidence-based Medicine | 6 |
What topics are covered in the MRCEM Primary syllabus?
The exam covers core basic sciences across six curriculum categories. The headline syllabus areas are summarised below.
Anatomy
- Upper limb
- Lower limb
- Thorax
- Abdomen
- Head and neck
- CNS
- Cranial nerve lesions
Physiology
- Basic cellular
- Respiratory
- Cardiovascular
- Gastrointestinal
- Renal
- Endocrine
Pharmacology
- Gastrointestinal
- Cardiovascular
- Respiratory
- CNS
- Infections
- Endocrine
- Fluids and electrolytes
- Musculoskeletal
- Immunological products and vaccines
- Anaesthesia
Microbiology
- Principles of microbiology
- Pathogen groups
Pathology
- Inflammatory response
- Immune response
- Infection
- Wound healing
- Haematology
Evidence-based medicine
- Statistics
- Study methodology
- Principles of critical appraisal
Exam structure diagram
Diagram showing the structure of the MRCEM Primary and topic weighting.
FAQs
What is the pass rate for the MRCEM Primary?
Based on previous sittings, the pass rate is typically around 50%.
How do I apply for the MRCEM Primary?
Each sitting has a short application window. Apply via the RCEM application page: RCEM application page.
What should I use to revise?
Most candidates benefit from structured notes + high-volume SBA practice, with careful review of explanations and weak areas. If you want, start with the MRCEM Primary question bank.