Complete Guide to FCPS Part 1 Exam in Pakistan:
Are you a medical professional in Pakistan aspiring to advance your career?
The FCPS Part 1 exam is a crucial milestone on your journey. This comprehensive guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge and strategies you need to ace this challenging exam.
Table of Contents
What is FCPS Part 1 Exam in Pakistan?
The Fellowship of the College of Physicians and Surgeons (FCPS) is a prestigious postgraduate qualification for doctors in Pakistan. It is administered by the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP), a regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the registration, training, and examination of postgraduate doctors.
CPSP conducts and manages the entire process for FCPS Part 1, FCPS Part 2, and MCPS exams. It also facilitates the enrollment of foreign-qualified doctors from recognized boards such as the US Medical Board and UK Medical Board. This organization plays a vital role in setting academic standards and ensuring quality postgraduate medical education in Pakistan.
If you hold a postgraduate or undergraduate medical degree and aspire to specialize further, FCPS offers a pathway to excel in fields like surgery, medicine, and more.
What Does CPSP Stand For and Its Role in FCPS Exam?
The College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) is the leading institution responsible for promoting postgraduate medical education and conducting exams like FCPS and MCPS. CPSP plays a pivotal role in advancing medical practice in Pakistan by offering rigorous training programs and maintaining high academic standards in various specialties such as general medicine, surgery, and more.
CPSP ensures its training programs meet international standards by collaborating with globally recognized institutions. For instance, it invites examiners from prestigious bodies like the Royal Colleges of the UK, Ireland, Australia, and other countries to participate in its evaluation processes. The FCPS qualification is widely acknowledged by medical councils in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and other regions, making it equivalent to certifications like MRCP and FRCS.
The college also emphasizes research and professional development. Through workshops and seminars, CPSP has equipped thousands of trainers and trainees with modern skills in research methodology, dissertation writing, and digital tools. Furthermore, its Department of Medical Education, designated as a WHO Collaborating Centre, has been instrumental in training over 12,000 medical teachers to improve healthcare education.
In addition to supporting medical professionals within Pakistan, CPSP has extended its services internationally by aiding healthcare development in neighboring countries like Afghanistan. With its continuous efforts, CPSP remains a cornerstone in the advancement of medical excellence in Pakistan and beyond.
List of Specialization Fields in FCPS Part 1:
I. First Fellowship:
- Anaesthesiology
- Anatomy
- Biochemistry
- Cardiac Surgery
- Cardiology
- Cardiothoracic Anaesthesia
- Chemical Pathology
- Clinical Haematology
- Community Medicine
- Dentistry (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery)
- Dentistry (Orthodontics)
- Dentistry (Periodontology)
- Dentistry (Prosthodontics)
- Dermatology
- Diagnostic Radiology
- Emergency Medicine
- Family Medicine
- Forensic Medicine
- Haematology
- Histopathology
- Immunology
- Medical Oncology
- Medicine
- Microbiology
- Nephrology
- Neurosurgery
- Neurology
- Nuclear Medicine
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology
- Operative Dentistry & Endodontics
- Ophthalmology
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Otorhinolaryngology (ENT)
- Paediatric Surgery
- Paediatrics
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
- Physiology
- Plastic Surgery
- Psychiatry
- Pulmonology
- Radiation Oncology
- Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
- Urology
- Virology
II. Second Fellowship:
- Breast Surgery
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology
- Colorectal Surgery
- Community and Preventive Paediatrics
- Critical Care Medicine
- Cytopathology
- Developmental and Behavioural Paediatrics
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
- Gynaecological Oncology
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary and Liver Transplant Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Interventional Cardiology
- Interventional Radiology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Molecular Pathology and Cytogenetics
- Neonatal Paediatrics
- Orbit and Oculoplastics
- Paediatric and Congenital Cardiac Surgery
- Paediatric Cardiology
- Paediatric Critical Care Medicine
- Paediatric Dermatology
- Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes
- Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology
- Paediatric Haematology Oncology
- Paediatric Infectious Diseases
- Paediatric Nephrology
- Paediatric Neurology
- Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
- Pain Medicine
- Palliative Medicine
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility
- Rheumatology
- Spine Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
- Urogynaecology
- Vascular Surgery
- Vitreo-Retinal Ophthalmology
Click Here to view Updated List (link)
FCPS Part 1 Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
I. Educational Qualification:
MBBS / BDS or an equivalent qualification registered with the PMDC.
II. House Job Requirement:
- Completion of a one-year house job in an institution recognized by the CPSP.
- At least six months of the house job must be in your chosen specialization field.
- Any deficiency in the house job period can be compensated by an equivalent duration of residency.
III. Residency Training:
- Two years of residency training in any CPSP-recognized institution.
- Exemption in Training Duration for Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Otorhinolaryngology Specializations:
- Training in Obstetrics & Gynaecology diplomas (e.g., DGO, DRCOG, or Graded Specialist from the Armed Forces) or Otorhinolaryngology diplomas (e.g., DLO or Graded Specialist from the Armed Forces) is accepted as equivalent to a maximum of one year of training toward MCPS requirements.
- This equivalency applies regardless of the number of diplomas acquired.
FCPS Part 1 Exemption: Who Qualifies and How to Apply?
I. Who Qualifies for Exemption:
- MRCP (Medicine specialization) or FRCS (Other specializations) from UK/Ireland Royal Colleges.
- Diplomate American Board of Specialties.
- FCPS Part-I from Bangladesh.
II. How to Apply:
- Submit an application to CPSP with relevant documents and a non-refundable processing fee.
- Upon verification and payment, CPSP grants exemption.
III. Important Notes:
- Exemption requests are reviewed individually for other qualifications.
- Exemption certificates are issued upon payment and must be submitted with applications for FCPS Part-II registration and exams.
FCPS Part 1 Exam Dates and Schedule in Pakistan:
- The FCPS Part-I examinations are conducted four times a year, in the months of February, May, August, and November.
- Theory examinations are held in designated centers across various cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Multan, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Bahawalpur, Quetta, and Hyderabad.
- The medium of examination will be English.
- Any changes in the centers, dates, or format of the examination will be communicated by the College prior to the examination.
- Candidates who successfully clear the FCPS Part-I examination will receive a letter to facilitate their placement for training at a recognized training institute.
- The College-appointed competent authority reserves the right to debar any candidate from the examination if it determines that the candidate is unfit due to unfair means, misconduct, or other disciplinary issues.
For the latest updates and changes, please check the updated information here Click here to View.
FCPS Part 1 Paper Pattern and Exam Format:
- The examination comprises two theory papers (Paper-I and Paper-II), each containing 100 questions, which may include Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) and Best-Choice Questions (BCQs).
- Each paper of FCPS Part-I (MCQ type) is divided into three clearly defined sections: Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology, along with other allied basic medical sciences. Candidates must achieve at least 75% in each paper to pass.
- Duration of Each Paper is 2 Hours (For online Exam) and 2 ½ Hours (For conventional exam, conducted abroad
Note:
The College reserves the right to alter or amend any rules and regulations. All decisions made by the College regarding the interpretation of these regulations will be final and binding on the applicant. For Updates Check the Official Website.
FCPS Part 1 Preparation: Study Alone, Join a Group, or Enroll in a Course?
Choosing the best preparation method for FCPS Part 1 depends on your learning style, discipline, and resources. Here’s a breakdown:
Studying Alone:
Best For: Self-disciplined individuals who prefer working independently.
Pros:
- Complete flexibility in schedule and pace.
- Personalized focus on weak areas.
- Cost-effective.
Cons:
- Risk of losing motivation and consistency.
- Limited access to diverse perspectives and tips.
II. Studying With a Group:
Best For: Those who thrive in collaborative environments.
Pros:
- Encourages accountability and consistent study habits.
- Opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss concepts, and clear doubts.
- Diverse insights from peers with varied strengths.
Cons:
- Possible distractions or unproductive sessions.
- Group pace might not align with your learning speed.
III. Enrolling in a Course:
Best For: Candidates who need structured guidance and lack prior exposure to the FCPS syllabus.
Pros:
- Structured guidance from experienced mentors.
- Access to curated study materials, mock tests, and resources.
- Doubt-clearing sessions and exam-specific tips.
Cons:
- Costs associated with courses.
- Fixed schedules may limit flexibility.
Conclusion:
- If you’re self-motivated, studying alone can work.
- If you benefit from discussion and peer support, opt for group study.
- For expert guidance and comprehensive preparation, a course is ideal.
Best Resources and Books for FCPS Part 1 Preparation:
Preparing for FCPS Part 1 can be overwhelming, but with the right resources, you can simplify your journey and ensure success. Below, we’ve curated the best theory books and question resources to help you ace the exam.
I. Essential Theory Books
- USMLE First Aid (Latest Edition)
This book is a must-have resource, not just for MBBS students but also for dental students. It provides a concise and clear overview of key topics, making it an excellent starting point for building a strong theoretical foundation. - NBDE First Aid for Dental Subjects (Latest Edition)
Designed specifically for dental students, this book offers a comprehensive and detailed view of dental subjects. It is particularly useful for FCPS Part 1 Dentistry candidates, ensuring thorough preparation with targeted content.
B. Essential MCQs/BCQs Resources
- Coming Soon
- FCPS Part One Dentistry Course by MedCrack is tailored for FCPS Part 1 Dentistry aspirants. Key features include:
- Subject-wise and topic-wise MCQs Past papers and fast facts for quick revision
FCPS Part 1 Passing Criteria: What You Need to Know:
To successfully pass the Fellowship of College of Physicians and Surgeons (FCPS) Part 1 exam, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum 75% in Each Paper
You must pass both papers individually with a minimum score of 75% in each. - Overall Aggregate of 75%
In addition to passing both papers, your combined aggregate score must also be at least 75%. - No Negative Marking
There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so you can attempt all questions without the risk of losing marks. - Equal Weightage for Questions
All questions carry equal weight, and there are no specific marks assigned to individual questions.
Where Are FCPS Part 1 Exams Conducted in Pakistan?
Theory examinations are held in designated CPSP centers across various cities, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Bahawalpur, Quetta, and Multan. For Latest Updates Check Their Official Website.
How to Register for FCPS Part 1 Exam: Step-by-Step Guide
To register for the FCPS Part 1 exam, follow these steps:
- Select Fresh or Repeater as your registration type.
- If you are a fresh applicant, enter your PMDC number and email address.
- If you are a repeater, enter your enrollment number.
- You will receive a verification code via email to confirm your email address.
- Enter the verification code in the form to be redirected to the registration form.
- Complete the form.
- You will receive a PDF file with a form number.
- Deposit the examination fee.
- Enter the form number and verification code to complete your registration.
Documents Required:
- Original or attested photocopy of your primary medical/BDS degree or provisional medical college certificate.
- Valid registration certificate from the Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (PMDC).
- Certificate of completion of a one-year house job from a PMDC-approved institution.
FCPS Part 1 Registration Fee:
The current fee is approximately 25,050 rupees.
Stay Updated
- For the latest updates on the FCPS Part 1 exam, visit the official website.
- To learn more about the FCPS Part 1 exam procedure, check out our detailed blog here.
Common Challenges in FCPS Part 1 Preparation and How to Overcome Them:
- Vast Syllabus
- Time Management
- Lack of Quality Study Material
- Difficulty Retaining Information
- Stress and Burnout
- Handling Negative Results
Click here to Read our complete blog post about this.
Why Choose FCPS Over Other Postgraduate Medical Exams?
- FCPS is the first choice of every medical graduate in Pakistan after graduation.
- It provides a structured pathway to polish clinical skills, offering opportunities for paid postgraduate training within Pakistan.
- FCPS also opens doors to prestigious roles such as Assistant Professor and Associate Professor in medical institutions across the country, ensuring career growth and professional recognition.
Click here to Read our complete blog post about this.
Conclusion:
The FCPS Part 1 exam is a gateway for aspiring specialists in Pakistan, offering a well-structured pathway to excel in medical and dental fields. By understanding the exam format, preparation strategies, and registration process, candidates can approach this challenge with confidence. For the latest updates, always visit the official CPSP website.
To learn more about FCPS preparation tips, resources, and procedures, check out our detailed blog here.