Understand the numbers behind MRCP Part 1 success. This guide breaks down official pass rate data, what drives the variation between candidate groups, and how to shift the odds in your favour. For the full exam overview, see our MRCP Part 1 Complete Guide 2026.
40-50%
Overall Pass Rate (Any Single Sitting)
The MRCP Part 1 pass rate consistently sits below 50%. Across recent diets, somewhere between 39% and 48% of candidates receive a passing result on any given sitting — meaning the majority of doctors who sit this exam will not pass it.
But here’s the truth: understanding what the pass rate data actually tells you is the first step towards making sure you end up on the right side of it.
How MRCP Part 1 Scoring Works
Before interpreting pass rates, you need to understand how the MRCP Part 1 pass mark is determined — because it is not a simple percentage threshold.
The MRCP Part 1 passing score is calculated using a statistical process called equating, based on Item Response Theory (IRT). This system adjusts for the difficulty of each specific diet so that the standard remains consistent across sittings.
Aim to consistently exceed the 540 threshold in practice exams rather than chasing an arbitrary percentage.
MRCP Part 1 Pass Rates: 2025-2026
The MRCP Part 1 is held three times per year, and pass rates fluctuate modestly between diets. For the full 2026 exam calendar with booking deadlines, see our dedicated guide.
| Diet | Overall Pass Rate | First Attempt | UK Trainees |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 2025 | ~46% | ~58% | ~62% |
| September 2024 | ~44% | ~56% | ~60% |
| May 2024 | ~47% | ~59% | ~63% |
| January 2024 | ~45% | ~57% | ~61% |
Pass Rates by Candidate Type
Not all candidates have equal pass rates. Here’s what the data shows:
First-Time Candidates
- First attempt pass rate: ~56-60%
- Significantly higher than repeat candidates
- Most successful group overall
UK Trainees
- Pass rate: ~60-65%
- Higher than average due to structured training
- Benefit from supervised learning environments
International Medical Graduates (IMGs)
- Pass rate: ~35-42%
- Lower than UK trainees on average
- Often face additional challenges: language, different training backgrounds, exam technique
Repeat Candidates
- Pass rate drops with each attempt
- Second attempt: ~35-40%
- Third+ attempts: ~25-30%
What Actually Affects Your Pass Rate
Factors Within Your Control
- Quality of preparation — using high-yield resources
- Question practice volume — 1,500+ questions recommended
- Mock exam performance — consistently above 65% = ready
- Time management — pacing during the exam
- Strategic topic focus — see our syllabus weightage breakdown to prioritise effectively
Factors Outside Your Control
- Question difficulty variation between diets
- Luck of the draw (which topics appear)
- Exam day conditions
How to Improve Your Chances
- Start early — 4-6 months minimum for adequate preparation
- Focus on high-yield topics — Cardiology, GI, Respiratory, Neurology = 45% of exam
- Use quality question banks — consultant-written questions reflect real difficulty
- Practice under exam conditions — timed mock papers are essential
- Address weaknesses actively — don’t ignore topics you find hard
- Don’t rush retakes — if you fail, analyse why and fix gaps before re-sitting
For a complete week-by-week study plan, see our MRCP Part 1 First Time Pass Strategy.
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Key Takeaways
- The overall pass rate is 40-50% on any single sitting
- First-time candidates pass at ~56-60% — preparation matters
- UK trainees pass at higher rates than IMGs, but IMGs can and do succeed
- Repeat candidates have lower pass rates — fix knowledge gaps, don’t just retake
- Aim for 65%+ on mock exams before sitting the real thing
Conclusion
Yes, the MRCP Part 1 pass rate is below 50%. But that statistic includes everyone — those who underprepared, those who guessed, and those who didn’t have the right resources.
With targeted preparation using quality resources, you can absolutely be in the 60%+ who pass. The exam is challenging, but it’s designed to be passable by doctors with adequate preparation.
Focus on what you can control: preparation quality, question practice, and exam technique.
