The MRCOG Part 1 exam (Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists) is the foundation step for doctors aspiring to specialise in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in the UK or internationally. It tests the application of basic and applied sciences that underpin clinical practice in women’s health. 

Whether you’re a fresh medical graduate or an experienced doctor planning to pursue higher studies abroad, understanding the MRCOG Part 1 structure, syllabus, and question paper pattern is the first step toward success.

MRCOG Part 1 Exam Structure

The MRCOG Part 1 exam pattern is designed to assess your theoretical understanding of scientific principles relevant to OBGYN practice. 

Exam Overview: 

• Format: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Total Duration: 5 hours (split into two papers of 2.5 hours each)
• Total Questions: 200 Single Best Answer (SBA) questions
• Venue: Conducted online at authorised Person VUE test centres across multiple countries

Paper Breakdown: 

• Paper 1: Focuses on general basic sciences (Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry).
• Paper 2: Covers applied sciences and OBGYN-related topics 

Marking Scheme:

• Each correct answer is marked 
• No negative marking 
• Each paper contributes equally to the final score 

Detailed MRCOG Part 1 Syllabus 

The MRCOG Part 1 syllabus is vast and interdisciplinary, drawing knowledge from multiple branches of medicine that contribute to OBGYN care.

Basic Sciences 

Builds the scientific foundation for understanding body systems and disease processes.

• Anatomy: Pelvic anatomy, reproductive organs, vascular and nervous supply
• Physiology: Menstrual cycle regulation, endocrine control, pregnancy physiology
• Biochemistry: Hormonal pathways, enzyme functions, metabolism
• Pathology: Cellular changes, inflammation, neoplasia 
• Microbiology: Bacterial, viral and parasitic infections related to the genital tract 
• Pharmacology: Mechanism and use of drugs in pregnancy, contraception and gynaecology
•  Biophysics: Principles of imaging, ultrasound and radiation safety 

Applied Sciences in Obstetrics & Gynaecology 

Applies fundamental science concepts to clinical problems 

• Reproductive endocrinology and embryology 
• Placental and fetal physiology 
• Immunology in pregnancy 
• Genetics and chromosomal abnormalities
• Clinical pharmacology and therapeutics 
• Biostatistics and interpretation of medical research 

Evidence-Based Medicine & Research 

Candidates should be familiar with: 

• Study designs, data analysis and p-values
• Interpretation of clinical trials 
• Medical ethics and professional conduct 

Tip: Review the official MRCOG Part 1 syllabus PDF on the RCOG website to align your preparation with the latest updates. 

MRCOG Part 1 Question Paper Pattern 

The MRCOG Part 1 question paper comprises Single Best Answer (SBA) questions, a modern assessment format that evaluates analytical and applied knowledge rather than rote memorisation. 

Each question includes: 

• A clinical or theoretical scenario 
• Five possible options (A-E) 
• Only one best answer 

Example: 

A 26-year-old woman with amenorrhea is found to have elevated prolactin levels. Which drug is most appropriate for management? 

A. Clomiphene
B. Bromocriptine
C. Danazol
D. Tamoxifen
E. GnRH analogue

Answer: B. Bromocriptine 

Common Question Themes: 

• Physiology of pregnancy 
• Hormonal control of menstruation 
• Developmental anatomy 
• Pharmacology of contraceptives 
• Pathophysiology of contraceptives 
• Pathophysiology of fetal growth 

Sample MRCOG Part 1 Questions 

Practising sample MRCOG Part 1 questions is essential to understanding the question pattern, time management, and logic behind each option. 

1. What is the function of the corpus luteum in early pregnancy? 

Answer: Secretion of progesterone to maintain the endometrium. 

2. Which structure forms from the Müllerian ducts? 

Answer: Fallopian tubes and uterus. 

3.  Which statistical test is most appropriate for comparing the means of two independent samples? 

Answer: Student’s t-test. 

4. Which hormone stimulates milk ejection during lactation? 

Answer: Oxytocin. 

5. What is the chromosomal pattern in Turner’s syndrome? 

Answer: 45, X0 

MRCOG Part 1 Preparation Strategy 

Cracking MRCOG Part 1 requires conceptual clarity, daily discipline and consistent practice. Here’s a proven plan to guide your preparation: 

1. Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly 

The MRCOG Part 1 syllabus is extensive-start by mapping topics and identifying weak areas. Use the official RCOG syllabus as your baseline. 

2. Study from Standard References 

Recommended books for MRCOG Part 1 preparation: 

• Basic Sciences for MRCOG Part 1 by Tim Chard and Richard Lilford 
• Ten Teachers (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) 
• MCQs for MRCOG Part 1 by Metin Basaga and Janice Rymer 
• Essential Revision Notes for MRCOG Part 1 

3. Practice with Question Banks 

Solving mock tests and past MRCOG Part 1 question papers helps improve speed and accuracy. Online platforms and apps offer thousands of SBA-style questions for practice. 

4. Focus on Integration 

Link physiology with pathology and pharmacology to understand mechanisms rather than memorising isolated facts. 

5. Time Management 

Simulate real exam conditions by attempting full-length mock exams within time limits to enhance stamina and focus. 

6. Revise Smartly 

In the final month, revise core topics like reproductive physiology, genetics and pharmacology daily. Create summary notes for rapid review. 

Why MRCOG Part 1 is Important 

Passing MRCOG Part 1 is your entry ticket to global recognition in obstetrics and gynaecology. It opens opportunities for training and specialist registration in the UK, the  Middle East, India and other Commonwealth countries. 

It not only provides knowledge but also encourages doctors to develop analytical and evidence-based thinking essential for modern medical practice. 

The MRCOG Part 1 exam can seem daunting, but with a well-structured approach, the right resources and consistent practice, you can master it. Understanding the MRCOG Part 1 syllabus, familiarising yourself with the question paper format, and practising sample questions will give you a clear edge in preparation. 

Stay dedicated, review regularly and trust the process. Success in MRCOG Part 1is your first major step toward becoming a globally recognised obstetrician and gynaecologist. 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

1. What is the pattern of MRCOG Part 1? 

Ans – The MRCOG Part 1 exam follows the Single Best Answer (SBA) format. Each question consists of a clinical scenario followed by five options, from which candidates must choose the most appropriate answer. Each question carries one mark.

2. What is the pass percentage of MRCOG Part 1?

Ans – The MRCOG Part 1 pass rate typically ranges between 30-40%, meaning a significant number of candidates fail on their first attempt. However, success rates improve with structured preparation and strategic study plans.

3. How many attempts for MRCOG Part 1?

Ans – Candidates intending to be entered onto the UK Specialist Register, now or in the future, are permitted no more than 6 attempts at the MRCOG Part 1.

4. What’s next after MRCOG?

 Ans – MRCOG can be a stepping stone to pursue subspecialty training through fellowships in areas such as reproductive medicine, maternal-fetal medicine, or gynaecological oncology.