FRCR stands for Fellow of Royal College of Radiology. Furthermore, the FRCR is a three-step examination conducted by the Royal College of Radiologists (UK). Candidates are inducted as fellows of the RCR after this exam. The second step involved is the Final FRCR Part 2 A Examination.
FRCR Part 2 A examination is composed of two MCQ based written papers.
Exam Syllabus
The major systems covered are Cardiothoracic and Vascular, MSK and trauma, GI, GU including adrenals, OB GYN, Paediatric, CNS and Head & Neck. In addition, the official website of RCR provides detailed information on the syllabus and curriculum.
Exam Structure
Until 2017, FRCR Part 2 A comprised 6 modules. Moreover, these could be taken together or individually. A total of 6 attempts were allowed to clear all modules. This no longer exists. Even if you are yet to clear only 1 modality you have to complete 2A as per the new exam structure.
Starting December 2017, FRCR Part 2 A Exam consists of two papers. Each paper contains 120 single best answer questions (SBAs). These questions cover the entire spectrum. Besides, duration for each paper is three hours, both conducted on the same day.
Strategy For the Exam
RCR provides all the necessary information about the exam paper in its FAQ section on FRCR Part 2 A. In addition, a good understanding of radiology is mandatory to clear this exam.
Every modality is given equal weightage. MCQ books can be used as a guide, a means to stay focused and self-evaluate. They should not be the basis for your preparation.
Plenty of resources are available online that can help you prepare for the exam. Notes are further available on Gastrointestinal radiology, genitourinary system, cardiovascular and thoracic, CNS and Head & Neck, Musculoskeletal Radiology and Trauma, Paediatric and General snippets.
In addition, free to download podcasts for the FRCR Part 2 A preparation are also available online. You can listen to them during the commute or when you are too lazy to open your books.
The best time to appear for FRCR Part 2 A is within 1 or 2 years of completing residency. The venues for the exam include Belfast, Birmingham, Cairo – Egypt, Crewe, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Hong Kong, Hyderabad – India, Leeds, London, Malta, Plymouth, Singapore, and Bridgend Wales.
