The Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM): Comprehensive Guide to Examinations and Scheduling

Introduction to RCEM

The Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) stands as the foremost professional membership body for Emergency Medicine doctors in the United Kingdom. Established with the goal of advancing education and research in Emergency Medicine, RCEM is pivotal in setting training standards and administering examinations that lead to Fellowship and Membership of the College. The RCEM also plays a crucial role in recommending trainees for the Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) in Emergency Medicine.

Fellowship of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (FRCEM)

Since August 2021, the FRCEM qualification is structured into several key examination components designed to assess a candidate’s expertise comprehensively:

• MRCEM Exam:
  • MRCEM Primary: This initial exam tests fundamental knowledge in Emergency Medicine.
  • MRCEM Intermediate SBA (Single Best Answer): An assessment of more advanced knowledge and application.
  • MRCEM OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination): A practical exam focusing on clinical skills and scenarios.
• FRCEM Final Exam:
  • FRCEM SBA: This component evaluates comprehensive knowledge through advanced multiple-choice questions.
  • FRCEM OSCE: The final practical exam assessing clinical competencies and decision-making skills in simulated emergency situations.

Exam and Scheduling Information

RCEM conducts its exams at Pearson VUE test centres. Here’s a streamlined guide to navigating the examination process:

1. Available Exams:
   • MRCEM Primary
   • MRCEM Intermediate SBA
   • FRCEM SBA
   • Each exam is offered twice a year. For detailed schedules, refer to the RCEM website.
2. Application Process:
   • Applications for exams should be submitted through the RCEM website within the designated application windows.
   • After approval, candidates will receive an email from Pearson VUE to proceed with booking their exam.
3. Scheduling Your Exam:
   • Log in to your Pearson VUE account: Access your account to select and schedule your exam date.
   • Confirm your appointment: You will receive a confirmation email with your exam date and location within 48 hours. If you do not receive this confirmation or if there are errors, contact Pearson VUE immediately by phone or email.
4. Contact Information:
   • For questions about exam eligibility, accommodations, or adjustments approved by RCEM, contact:
     • Email: exams@rcem.ac.uk
     • Phone: +44 (0)20 7404 1999

Testing at Pearson VUE Test Centres

To ensure a smooth examination experience, familiarize yourself with the Pearson VUE check-in process and available resources. For information on the test centre environment, check-in procedures, and frequently asked questions, visit the RCEM Resource Page.

Comfort Aids and Special Accommodations

• Approved Comfort Aids: Pearson VUE test centres allow certain comfort aids. For a list of approved items, refer to the downloadable PDF available here.
• Testing Exceptions for Nursing Mothers: Pearson VUE supports accommodations for breastfeeding or expressing milk. For approval, contact RCEM directly at exams@rcem.ac.uk.

Testing with OnVUE

If extenuating circumstances prevent you from attending a Pearson VUE test centre, consider Online Proctoring (OnVUE). Contact RCEM at exams@rcem.ac.uk to discuss eligibility for OnVUE.