FRCPath Examination Guide for Haematologists

jakubdebski7
Apr 17
2 min read

The FRCPath (Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists) in Haematology is an essential milestone for doctors pursuing a career as a Consultant Haematologist in the UK. It is also highly valuable for international medical graduates (IMGs) aiming for GMC Specialist Registration through the CESR pathway.

In this blog, we’ll explore the exam format, recommended revision materials, key topics, exam fees, and how to approach each stage of the FRCPath qualification process.

🧠 What Is the FRCPath in Haematology?

The FRCPath (Haematology) is a postgraduate qualification awarded by the Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath). It’s designed to assess a candidate’s theoretical knowledge, clinical judgement, and practical diagnostic ability in both laboratory and clinical haematology.

It is typically completed over two parts:

Part 1 – Assesses comprehensive knowledge and understanding of haematological science and clinical practice
Part 2 – Tests practical competence and readiness for independent clinical work as a consultant

🛤️ Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the FRCPath (Haematology)

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Part 1:

Requires a recognised medical degree and relevant experience in haematology
Ideal for those in ST3+ in UK training or with 2+ years of specialist haematology experience for IMGs

Part 2:

Requires a pass in FRCPath Part 1
At least 3 years of supervised training or clinical experience in haematology

🧪 Exam Structure

🧾 Part 1 – FRCPath Haematology

Format:

Two written exams, each lasting 3 hours
- Paper 1: Essay-based questions (choose 4 from 5)
- Paper 2: Short-answer and multiple-part questions

Topics Covered:

Red cell and white cell disorders
Haemostasis and thrombosis
Transfusion medicine
Laboratory management and quality control
Haematological malignancies
Immunohaematology, molecular and cytogenetics

When Offered:

Twice a year (Spring and Autumn)

🔬 Part 2 – FRCPath Haematology

Format:

Held over 3–4 days in-person, usually at RCPath headquarters or selected NHS centres.

Components Include:

Written Exercises
- Case interpretation
- Diagnostic reasoning
- Laboratory report writing
Practical Assessments
- Slide-based morphology
- Flow cytometry and cytogenetic interpretation
- Blood film analysis
Oral Viva
- Structured discussion with examiners
- Clinical case scenarios
- Management of emergencies (e.g. leukaemia, bleeding disorders, transfusion reactions)

Purpose:To assess diagnostic, analytical, and management skills in a clinical and laboratory setting—replicating real-world consultant-level duties.

⏳ How Long Does It Take to Complete the FRCPath?

UK Trainees (ST3–ST5): Typically complete both parts over 2–3 years within the specialty training programme
International Doctors: Often takes 2–4 years depending on availability, clinical exposure, and study time

📚 Recommended Revision Materials

📘 For FRCPath Part 1:

Textbooks:
- Hoffbrand’s Essential Haematology
- Postgraduate Haematology by Hoffbrand, Catovsky, and Tuddenham
- WHO Classification of Tumours of Haematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues
Online Resources:
- British Society for Haematology (BSH) Guidelines
- RCPath Sample Questions and exam syllabus
- Online MCQs: Haemtrainee.com, Quizlet flashcards, BMJ OnExamination

🧪 For FRCPath Part 2:

Practical Preparation:
- Morphology slides from your department or online banks (e.g. Leeds Virtual Pathology)
- Practice film reading, flow cytometry, karyotypes, and marrow biopsies
Books:
- Blood and Bone Marrow Pathology by Dacie & Lewis
- Practical Hematopathology by Daniel A. Arber
- Practical Guide to Bone Marrow Examination
Viva Prep:
- Join mock exam courses or local hospital viva groups
- Study BSH & NICE clinical guidelines on haematological disorders

For the approximate cost of completing the examination, please click here.