Final FRCA Exam Pathways

If you sit the Final FRCA SOE in June 2027, your outcome will decide your next steps:

  • If you pass: you complete the Final FRCA under the current format.
  • If you do not pass: you will transition to the new Final Clinical Performance Exam (FCPE) and take this from Academic Year 2027–28.

From 2027 onwards, candidates who have not passed the Final SOE will move onto the new FCPE.

Final Decision Tree

Recommendation for Final Candidates - Wait to Sit

In many cases, choosing to wait for the new format may offer advantages, including:

  • Resetting the attempt count for the relevant examination component.
  • Preserving eligibility to complete the FRCA by avoiding exhaustion of final attempts.
  • The possibility of a one-year extension to the validity of written exam passes, where applicable and in line with College policy.
  • Progression to examinations that are designed to be more integrated and reflective of clinical practice

For further guidance to support candidates in making informed decisions about their examination pathway, please see our dedicated page here: Deciding whether to sit or wait | The Royal College of Anaesthetists