MRCOG July 2025 Exam: Complete Guide to Part 1 & Part 2 Eligibility and Key Details  

Tired of Reading? Please listen to the blog

---

Introduction

MRCOG is one of the most prestigious postgraduate qualifications for medical professionals pursuing a career in obstetrics and gynaecology. Globally recognized, the MRCOG credential signifies clinical competence, academic excellence, and professional commitment in the field of women’s health.  

The MRCOG exam is divided into three parts
Part 1 assesses basic sciences relevant to O&G, Part 2 tests applied clinical knowledge, and Part 3 evaluates communication and practical skills. For July 2025, Parts 1 and 2 are scheduled for early July, with booking windows and eligibility deadlines closing several months in advance.  

This blog unpacks all the critical information you need—from eligibility and exam structure to preparation strategies—so you can approach the MRCOG July 2025 exam with confidence and clarity.  

If you're targeting the July 2025 sitting, here are the tentative timelines you should keep in mind:  

• Eligibility submission deadline: Mid-March 2025  

• Expression of Interest (EOI) closing date: Late March 2025  

• Booking window: Late April to early June 2025  

• Exam dates:  

• Part 1: Tuesday, 1st July 2025  

• Part 2: Wednesday, 2nd July 2025  

• Results release: End of July 2025  

Planning your preparation around these dates is crucial to avoid last-minute complications and missed opportunities.  

Eligibility Criteria

Part 1: Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for Part 1, candidates must hold a primary medical qualification (MBBS or equivalent) recognised by the medical regulatory authority in their country of practice. Candidates are also required to complete a formal eligibility application and provide supporting documents, including valid identification and academic credentials. Approval of eligibility is a mandatory step before booking the exam.  

It’s essential to complete this process at least four weeks before the booking window opens to ensure timely approval. Candidates should also be mindful that eligibility approval remains valid for a specific period, after which re-application may be necessary.  

Part 2: Who Qualifies?

Candidates can sit for MRCOG Part 2 only after successfully passing Part 1. Furthermore, the Part 2 exam must be taken within seven years of passing Part 1. The number of attempts is also capped—candidates are allowed a maximum of six attempts for each part of the MRCOG exam.  

Additionally, applicants must express their interest formally through the EOI process and ensure that their professional and clinical experience aligns with the knowledge areas tested in Part 2.  

Understanding the format of each part helps in targeted preparation.  

MRCOG Part 1 Format

Part 1 focuses on the basic and applied sciences relevant to clinical obstetrics and gynaecology. The exam comprises two papers, each lasting 2.5 hours. Every paper contains 100 Single Best Answer (SBA) questions, bringing the total to 200 SBAs across both papers.  

Core domains include:  

• Anatomy and Physiology  

• Biochemistry and Pharmacology  

• Pathology and Microbiology  

• Embryology and Genetics  

• Immunology and Endocrinology  

• Epidemiology and Statistics  

Part 1 exam evaluates your theoretical understanding and foundational medical knowledge required to progress in specialist training.  

MRCOG Part 2 Format 

Part 2 is designed to test your ability to apply clinical knowledge in practice. The exam consists of two three-hour papers. Each paper features 50 SBA questions and 50 Extended Matching Questions (EMQs), totalling 200 questions.  

Part 2 assesses:  

• Diagnostic reasoning  

• Risk management  

• Application of guidelines  

• Decision-making in complex clinical scenarios  

The exam challenges candidates to demonstrate deep understanding, evidence-based reasoning, and prioritization under pressure—skills essential in real-world practice.  

Preparation Strategies for MRCOG July 2025

1. Start Early and Plan Smart

Begin your revision at least four to six months in advance. Break down the syllabus into manageable blocks and allocate specific time slots for each subject. A weekly planner helps track progress and maintain consistency.  

2. Master the Format

Get comfortable with the structure of SBAs and EMQs by practising with past papers and mock tests. Understand how questions are framed and develop the skill of narrowing down options using clinical logic.  

3. Use Official Resources

Rely on recommended textbooks, clinical guidelines, and RCOG-endorsed publications. Green-top guidelines, NICE protocols, and The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist (TOG) journal are invaluable sources of up-to-date information and real-world applications.  

4. Join a Study Group

Studying in a group fosters accountability and allows peer discussion of complex concepts. Explaining topics to others also reinforces your understanding of them. Schedule weekly sessions to review complex scenarios and conduct mock exams.  

5. Simulate the Exam Environment

Time-bound practice is crucial. Simulate full-length exams under exam-like conditions to improve stamina, pacing, and confidence. This will enable you to build effective techniques for handling time constraints with confidence.  

6. Focus on High-Yield Areas

Prioritise topics that frequently appear in past papers, such as labour management, fetal monitoring, postpartum complications, contraception, and emergency obstetric care.  

7. Take Care of Yourself

Balancing exam prep with physical and mental well-being is essential. Ensure you get sufficient sleep, follow a balanced diet, and make time for relaxation. Remember, consistent, quality study matters more than quantity.  

Common Mistakes to Avoid  

• Last-minute eligibility submission: Delays in document approval can prevent you from booking the exam.  

• Skipping EMQ practice: Many candidates focus heavily on SBAs but underestimate the complexity of EMQs.  

• Over-reliance on one source: Diversify your resources to cover the breadth of topics required.  

• Ignoring exam format: Knowing the content isn’t enough mastering how to approach questions is equally critical.  

FAQ

Conclusion

The MRCOG July 2025 exam presents a golden opportunity for medical professionals seeking to advance their careers in obstetrics and gynaecology. With careful planning, disciplined preparation, and awareness of the key dates and requirements, you can navigate the process confidently and set yourself on a path to success. Whether you're just beginning your journey or planning for your next attempt, remember that persistence and smart strategy are your greatest allies.  

For guidance, support, and access to structured preparation materials, visit us—your trusted partner in postgraduate medical education.