MCPS Preparation Quick Summary
The MCPS final exam has two theory papers, either 100 MCQs or 10 short answer questions each depending on your subject, followed by a TOACS, viva voce or clinical exam in Pakistan. The next theory exam starts on 13 April 2027, and first-time candidates must apply by 10 November 2026. Prepare the theory and the clinical skills side by side through your two years of training.
Know the exam before you start
MCPS is CPSP's two-year membership, taken after FCPS Part I and two years of registered training. The theory exam has two papers: in Anaesthesiology, Dermatology, Diagnostic Radiology, Family Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Ophthalmology, ENT, Paediatrics, Psychiatry and Pulmonology each paper has 100 MCQs, while all other subjects have 10 short answer questions per paper. If you pass, you go on to the TOACS, viva voce or clinical cases, which are held only in Pakistan. The disciplines, training rules and fee are explained in our guide to what MCPS is.
A step-by-step preparation plan
- Know your paper type. Check whether your subject has MCQ or short answer papers, and practise in that format from the start.
- Use your training. Read around the patients you see every day; the clinical exam tests the skills you build on the wards and in clinics.
- Cover the core topics systematically. Work through your discipline's main topics in a fixed order, and revise each one before moving on.
- Practise under exam conditions. Time yourself on full MCQ papers, or write short answers to time, and review every answer you get wrong.
- Rehearse the TOACS and viva. Practise structured stations and oral questions with colleagues or your supervisor, focusing on clear, safe answers.
- Finish your requirements early. Complete all mandatory workshops and get your training certificate (covering training up to 13 March 2027) signed by your supervisor and head of department in good time.
- Apply on time. Complete both steps of the online application on your CPSP e-Portal trainee account by 10 November 2026 to avoid late fees; repeaters have until 12 January 2027.
Test yourself with our MCPS practice tests.
Interface MCPS live online course
Interface runs a live online preparatory course for the MCPS exam, designed around the CPSP exam outline. Classes are taught live by experienced medical teachers, so you can prepare from home while continuing your job, with no travel or accommodation costs.
Teachers: the course is led by Dr Zahid Memon (MBBS, FCPS, MRCS). For course dates, availability and the tuition fee, please contact us.
Exam day and results
Not passed FCPS Part I yet?
MCPS training can only be registered after you pass FCPS Part I, so start there: see our guide to preparing for FCPS Part I and practise with our FCPS Part 1 Qbank. For an overview of the MCPS exam, visit our MCPS exam page.
Frequently asked questions
> How should I prepare for the MCPS exam?
Practise in your subject's paper format (MCQs or short answer questions), cover the core topics systematically, rehearse TOACS stations and viva questions, and finish your workshops and training certificate early.
> Does Interface offer an MCPS course?
Yes. Interface runs a live online MCPS course with live lectures, diagnostic and mock exams, class recordings and support, led by Dr Zahid Memon. Contact us for dates and fees.
> When is the deadline for the April 2027 MCPS exam?
First-time theory candidates must apply by 10 November 2026 (late fees until 24 November). Theory and clinical repeaters have until 12 January 2027 (late fees until 26 January).
> Is the MCPS clinical exam held abroad?
No. CPSP holds MCPS oral and clinical exams only in Pakistan.
Questions about preparing for MCPS? Contact us.
Start your MCPS preparation
Ask us about the dates and availability of our live online MCPS course.
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