What to Expect on Exam Day: MRCOG Part 3 Candidate Experience  

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Introduction 

The MRCOG Part 3 is a crucial test for aspiring obstetricians and gynaecologists. It assesses how you apply knowledge, communicate effectively, and manage clinical scenarios under pressure.  

The exam features 14 OSCE-style stations, assessing clinical skills, communication, ethics, and professionalism. Knowing what to expect might reduce anxiety and boost performance.  

At Texila American University, our Fellowship in Obstetrics and Gynaecology is tailored to support your MRCOG journey. With structured mock exams, intensive training, and continuous mentoring, we ensure you're ready not only for exam day but for your future in OB-GYN.  

Sharpening Your Skills 

Before the exam, focus on clinical decision-making and communication skills. Practice with peers and simulated patients to build confidence and empathy.  

Practice role-playing scenarios with peers. Record yourself and review how clearly you present, how structured your thought process is, and whether you appear calm and confident.  

Logistics to Prepare 

Verify your exam center location and time.  

Pack your identification and exam materials the night before.  

Sleep well the night before the exam—fatigue can dull even the best-prepared minds.  

Check-In Process 

On exam day, arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before the scheduled start time. You’ll be checked in, have your ID verified, and receive instructions from the coordinators.  

The environment is professional and quiet. You’ll join a group of equally focused candidates, each starting at different stations within the circuit to ensure a smooth flow.  

Mental Reset 

Use the waiting time to calm your nerves. Deep breathing, mental affirmations, and reviewing core communication steps can keep you centered.  

The exam consists of 14 OSCE stations, each lasting 12 minutes: 2 minutes to read the task outside the room, followed by 10 minutes of interaction.  

Simulated Patient/Colleague Stations 

These stations involve actors playing patients or healthcare colleagues. You may be asked to:  

• Take a patient history  

• Break bad news  

• Explain a procedure or diagnosis  

• Manage an emotional or cultural concern  

Here, empathy, clarity, and professionalism are key. Maintain eye contact, avoid medical jargon, and respond to patient cues.  

Structured Discussion Stations 

Examiner-led stations test critical thinking on clinical plans and ethical issues.  

Organize your responses clearly. Begin by explaining your diagnosis, outlining your rationale, and presenting the management plan. Consider the associated risks and alternatives.  

Linked Stations 

Some tasks are spread over two stations, such as identifying a complication in one and managing it in the next. While linked in theme, each station is marked independently.  

After 7 stations, take a short break. Use it to refresh—then move on to the next station with a clear mind.  

After the 14th station, the exam concludes without feedback. Expect to feel relieved and tired.  

Avoid overanalyzing. The exam is marked holistically. Celebrate completing this milestone.  

Texila American University offers a Fellowship in Obstetrics and Gynaecology that goes beyond theory to develop the practical skills required for international certifications, such as the MRCOG.  

Program Features: 

Mock OSCE Exams

Simulate the actual exam environment with real-time assessments across various clinical scenarios.  

Experienced Faculty Support

Receive personalized mentorship from MRCOG-qualified faculty who understand exam expectations.  

Comprehensive Modules  

Cover communication skills, ethical decision-making, maternal and fetal care, surgical scenarios, and more.  

Peer Learning Groups  

Study with motivated peers across the globe and benefit from collaborative learning.  

Flexible Learning

Designed for working professionals, the program includes recorded sessions, live workshops, and weekend training blocks.  

This fellowship offers robust academic and practical support for achieving success in the MRCOG.  

Exam Day Success Tips

Tip	Why It Helps
Master time management	Practice 10-minute tasks in mock settings to stay efficient under pressure.
Use signposting in communication	Phrases like “Let me explain what will happen next…” show clarity and structure.
Stay patient-centred	Use empathy, listen actively, and acknowledge the patient's concerns.
Think aloud when reasoning	Verbalizing your clinical decisions helps the examiner follow your thought process.
Regroup after each station	Don’t carry mistakes forward—treat each station as a fresh start.
Practice with feedback	Mock exams with critiques improve both skill and confidence.

Final Thoughts

The MRCOG Part 3 is a unique and challenging exam, but with the proper preparation, it can be a rewarding experience that opens doors to global career opportunities in obstetrics and gynaecology.  

Texila American University’s Fellowship in Obstetrics and Gynaecology isn’t just preparation—it's a unique platform that aligns training with MRCOG criteria and global best practices, giving you the confidence and practical edge to excel as an international OB-GYN.