For more information about the three theory exams, including eligibility, fees, syllabus, how to apply and how to prepare, go to our Theory examinations page.
Get your admissions document
All candidates will receive an email notification with their admissions documents.ÌýIf you are sitting the exam at a test centre, yourÌýadmissions document will include the full address of your test centre and exam timings. We suggest you check the address and what journey you will take before the exam day. You may like to use an online map such as Google Maps to see where it is and what it looks like. The address will also be accompanied by the specific What3Words to the location. Please also ensure you check any time zone differences and start the exam at the correct time.
If you are sitting the exam via online invigilation, yourÌýadmissions document will include signposting to important documents and instructions, as well as the UK start time of your examination. You are responsible for working out your local start time prior to the examination.
Please print your admission document and bring it on the day if you are sitting at a test centre.
You'll need your form of ID
For both the test centre and online invigilation, you need to have one of these forms of identification:
- Passport with photograph and signature - this must be current or no more thanÌýtwelve monthsÌý±ð³æ±è¾±°ù±ð»å
- Valid driving license with photograph and signature
- National identity card with photograph and signature
Only original documents will be accepted.ÌýIf you do not bring an original, or if you show a photograph, scanned copy, photocopy or digital copy, you willÌý²Ô´Ç³ÙÌýbe permitted to sit the exam. ID documents must be in English or accompanied by a notarised translation.
If you are refused entry due to reasons related to your ID not meeting the requirements, you will not be eligible for any refund of your exam fees. For any concerns about ID issues, email theoryexams@rcpch.ac.uk as soon as possible, prior to the exam.
A handy checklist
- If you are sitting your exam in a test centre, make sure you know where it is and how to get there and give yourself plenty of time!
- If you are sitting your exam via online invigilationÌý- remember you will need to do a systems check and setup before your exam day - see instructions for systems check for online invigilation in our How you sit your exam page
- Bring a hard copy of your admission document
- Bring a hard copy of a valid form of ID
- Read our exam regulations and rules
- Note our email addressÌýif you need support: theoryexams@rcpch.ac.uk
There are several available resources to help you prepare for the exam including
- Sample papersÌý- Take a look at past papers and various examples of question types
- SyllabiÌý- Review theÌýsyllabi and useful information about the exam content
- Video top tips - featuring theory exams expert clinicians and question writers
- Listing of resources, including textbooks and upcoming courses
Finished your exam and wondering what's next?
Your results will be available on your RCPCH online account on this website about 6-7 weeks after your exam. We know this can be a stressful period. Many candidates do not pass on their first attempt - speak with your supervisor or others for support and consider your training timeframe.