About FRCOphth

What is the Fellowship of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth)?

The Fellowship of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth) is an essential qualification for applying for consultant posts in the UK. It is required to complete the Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) for trainees or the CESR/portfolio pathway for
overseas/non-trainee candidates.

The FRCS (Glasgow) is a surgical fellowship examination offered by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. It provides an internationally respected credential demonstrating a candidate’s ability to practise general ophthalmology independently. Unlike FRCOphth, the FRCS is not part of the UK OST pathway, although it is recognised by the UK General Medical Council (GMC) and may support applications for specialist registration.

There are four examinations:

  • Part 1 FRCOphth Exam
  • Part 2 FRCOphth Written Exam
  • Refraction Certificate Exam
  • Part 2 FRCOphth Oral Exam

There are three examinations:

  • Part 1 FRCS Ophthalmology Written Exam
  • Part 2 FRCS Ophthalmology Written Exam
  • Part 3 FRCS Ophthalmology Oral & Clinical Exam
  • FRCS Glasgow includes a ‘general medicine and neurology’ station in the final viva, while
    FRCOphth does not.
  • The overall pass rate for FRCS Glasgow is said to be higher
  • Both FRCS Glasgow and FRCOphth allow GMC registration, but to become a consultant in
    the UK, one must pass all FRCOphth exams