FRCOpth Part 1 and FRCS Ophthalmology (Glasgow/ Edinburgh) Part 1 Revision Course
Is This Course Right for You?
Taking FRCOphth Part 1 Written
The full FRCOphth Part 1 basic sciences syllabus is covered systematically across six structured weekly sessions.
The exam consists of two online proctored SBA papers (90 questions each) taken on the same day.
Taking FRCS Ophthalmology (Edinburgh / Glasgow) Part 1
FRCS Part 1 assesses the same core basic sciences as FRCOphth Part 1.
Where the exam emphasis differs, these areas are clearly highlighted during the course sessions.
UK Ophthalmology Trainee (ST1–ST7 or earlier)
International / IMG Candidate
Candidates sit the written examinations through online proctored formats or designated international test centres.
PrepMedico candidates regularly sit the exam from centres across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
CESR Candidate
No Ophthalmology Experience Yet
The RCOphth does not require previous ophthalmology training to sit Part 1.
This course is designed to support candidates entering the specialty for the first time, building a strong foundation in ophthalmic basic sciences.
Re-sitting the FRCOphth Part 1 Examination
Prerequisites & Where This Sits
The Part 1 Written examination forms the entry point for both the FRCOphth and FRCS Ophthalmology examination pathways. Understanding where this exam sits within the overall sequence helps candidates plan their preparation efficiently.
FRCOphth Part 1 Written and FRCS Ophthalmology Part 1 assess the same core ophthalmic basic sciences and represent the first step in their respective examination pathways.
Passing Part 1 Written is required before progressing further in the FRCOphth pathway, including:
- Refraction Certificate
- Part 2 Written
- Part 2 Oral
The FRCS Ophthalmology pathway follows a similar progression toward the FRCS Part 3 Oral examination.
Candidates cannot progress within the FRCOphth examination sequence without a confirmed Part 1 pass.
- Clinical judgement
- Investigation interpretation
- Patient management
- Part 1 Written
- Refraction Certificate
- Part 2 Written
What This Course Includes
This course is designed to prepare candidates for FRCOphth Part 1 Written and FRCS Ophthalmology (Edinburgh / Glasgow) Part 1, covering the complete ophthalmic basic sciences syllabus tested in both examinations.
Course Schedule
| Week | Date & Time (GMT) | Session / Topic |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sunday · 10:30 | Optics |
| 2 | Sunday · 10:30 | Statistics |
| 3 | Sunday · 10:30 | Physiology and Biochemistry |
| 4 | Sunday · 10:30 | Pharmacology, Genetics & Investigations |
| 5 | Sunday · 10:30 | Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology |
| 6 | Sunday · 10:30 | Anatomy & Embryology |
Upcoming FRCOphth & FRCS Ophthalmology Part 1 Courses
Registration Status
TBA
Coming Soon
Individual Lecture Sessions
Candidates who are unable to join the full Part 1 course may enrol in individual topic lectures.
Each session follows the same three-hour structured teaching format delivered within the full course and covers the FRCOphth Part 1 and FRCS Ophthalmology (Edinburgh / Glasgow) Part 1 basic sciences syllabus.
Please note that individual lecture enrolments do not include access to session recordings.
Lecture recordings are available only to candidates registered for the full course programme.
Full course registration includes:
- All six lectures
- Access to session recordings for three months
- SBA question bank via the PrepMedico App
- End-of-course mock examination
Candidates enrolling in individual lectures will not receive access to the recordings or mock exam.
More Ways to Prepare
What is the difference between FRCOphth and FRCS Ophthalmology?
FRCOphth is awarded by the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. FRCS Ophthalmology is the intercollegiate surgical fellowship awarded by Edinburgh and Glasgow. Both assess similar competencies. PrepMedico's Part 1 Written and Part 2 Oral courses cover both pathways simultaneously.
What makes PrepMHow many exams do I need to pass to get FRCOphth?edico different from recorded-only courses?
Four. Part 1 Written, the Refraction Certificate, Part 2 Written, and Part 2 Oral. Each has its own prerequisites. PrepMedico offers a dedicated course for each stage.
In what order must I take the FRCOphth exams?
You must pass Part 1 Written first. After that, Part 2 Written and the Refraction Certificate can be taken in any order. Both must be passed before you can sit the Part 2 Oral examination.
Can I prepare for FRCOphth as an international graduate?
Yes. FRCOphth is open to international medical graduates. PrepMedico's courses serve IMG candidates, with course dates aligned to international exam centres including Bangalore, Amman, Cairo, Malaysia, Delhi, Pakistan, and others.
What is the Library Subscription?
The Library Subscription gives access to recorded sessions from a PrepMedico course cohort. Ideal for candidates who cannot attend live sessions or want flexible, self-paced revision.
Do I need UK training to sit FRCOphth? +
No. International candidates can sit all FRCOphth exams without UK-based training. However, clinical experience should align with the breadth expected in the RCOphth curriculum.
Frequently Asked Questions

