The Fellowship Examination of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth) examination is recognised as an exit qualification for doctors in training.  It does not confer specialist status and does not entitle the holder to a training post in the UK.

The Part 1 FRCOphth can be taken at any time following registration (i.e. after F1 year), but passing this examination at such an early stage is inadvisable. Selection into ophthalmic specialist training cannot take into account the fact that you have passed this exam. You will have a large number of generic competencies to get through in your Foundation Years and you are advised to concentrate on these skills and wait until you are in OST until you attempt any College exams.

The FRCOphth examination consists of 3 components: Part 1 FRCOphth, Refraction Certificate and Part 2 FRCOphth.  The Part 1 FRCOphth is a written theoretical examination that is held in Cairo three times a year.  The Refraction Certificate and Part 2 FRCOphth examination are sat in the UK.

You can also download the application form.

For further information please visit the RCOphth website or contact us. You can also view our Frequently Asked Questions.