We are pleased to advise candidates that work is underway to modernise and streamline the RCSEd Ophthalmology Examination Pathway. We anticipate introducing a revised exam structure in early 2027.
The proposed new pathway will reduce the number of examinations from four to three and will align all components at Fellowship level. As part of this change, the current Membership examination will be retired, creating a more straightforward and cohesive route for candidates progressing through the qualification process.
The new examination pathway is expected to comprise:
- FRCSEd Ophthalmology Component 1 – Written MCQ Paper
- FRCSEd Ophthalmology Component 2 – Written SBA Paper
- FRCSEd Ophthalmology Component 3 – Two sections consisting of a Structured Oral and an OSCE Examination.
Further information regarding the revised structure, eligibility requirements and implementation timeline will be communicated in due course.
In preparation for these changes, the FRCSEd Ophthalmology Comp 2 – Structured Orals examination diet scheduled to take place in Edinburgh on 16 & 17 October 2026 is expected to be the final sitting of the current examination pathway. Applications for this examination will open next week.
We remain committed to delivering a robust, high quality assessment framework that supports ophthalmologists throughout their professional development and look forward to sharing further updates in the coming months.