Eligibility FRCOphth

Who is this exam for?

These exams are for ophthalmology trainees in the UK’s Ophthalmic Specialist Training (OST) program, which lasts for seven years. Trainees take these exams at various stages of their training.

 
  • UK trainees take it by the end of year two as a curriculum requirement to progress
  • No prior ophthalmology experience is required for overseas candidates
  • Candidates must have a verified MBBS qualification
  • Candidates must submit an attested copy of their medical degree or GMC registration evidence

Candidates who have successfully passed the Part 1 FRCOphth exam are eligible to take the Part 2 written exam.

  • It can be taken before or after the Part 2 written exam
  • Passing this exam is mandatory before appearing for the Part 2 oral exam
  • OST trainees must pass this exam before entering year four of training
  • Candidates must have passed both the Part 2 written exam and the Refraction Certificate exam
  • The Royal College recommends a minimum of four years of ophthalmology experience before taking the Part 2 written and oral exams