The intercollegiate MRCS (ENT) tests the knowledge, clinical and communication skills and professional attributes expected of a doctor intending to join an otolaryngology department in a trainee position.
The MRCS (ENT) regulations below apply to all candidates. It is essential that you read and understand them before sitting the examination.
These regulations are under continual review; we recommend that you keep in regular contact with your college to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information. Any changes to the regulations will also be announced on this website.
MRCS (ENT) regulations
The MRCS (ENT) examination regulations govern the content and conduct of the MRCS (ENT) exam and provide information on eligibility, application, content and format.
Archive DO-HNS Regulations
The DO-HNS examination regulations govern the content and conduct of the examination that leads to the award of the Diploma in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. These regulations are only relevant to candidates who have already passed the DO-HNS Part 1 exam before it was discontinued after the September 2021 examination and who are not intending to take the MRCS Part A examination in order to attain the MRCS (ENT).
Appeals and complaints
These regulations apply to all candidates and will be used to investigate all examination appeals.
Candidate Code of Conduct
The Intercollegiate Candidate Code of Conduct defines the behaviours and standards that are expected of MRCS and MRCS (ENT) candidates. Candidates should note that by virtue of applying for an MRCS or MRCS (ENT) examination they are deemed to have understood and agreed to abide by the Candidate Code of Conduct.
Intercollegiate Candidate Code of Conduct
Misconduct
These regulations define candidate misconduct with examples, as well as how suspected misconduct will be investigated and the sanctions in place. Find out how to avoid it as well as what to do if you suspect misconduct.
Intercollegiate Suspected Candidate Misconduct Regulations
Following the online/remote delivery of an examination, Colleges may need to contact candidates to investigate anomalous behaviour that has been identified in post-examination reviews of remote-proctoring videos. The document below explains this process.
Investigation of anomalous behaviour in online exams
The policy below outlines the steps that may be taken if candidates display concerning or dangerous behaviour during an MRCS (ENT) examination.
Intercollegiate policy for concerning or dangerous candidate behaviourAdditional attempts
All medical royal colleges and faculties are required by the General Medical Council (GMC) to introduce a limit on the number of attempts at their examinations. However, candidates who have had the maximum number of attempts at MRCS, MRCS (ENT) and DO-HNS can apply for a maximum of one additional attempt if they have carried out verified additional educational experience and their educational supervisor feels they are now likely to achieve a pass. The documents below provide guidance on the eligibility and application process for an additional attempt.
Additional attempts policy - an introduction
Additional attempt application form
Mitigating circumstances
This policy provides guidance for candidates and Colleges to address instances when candidates may experience an event that may cause them to perform at a less than optimal level in a fair and equitable manner.
Mitigating Circumstances Policy
Access and adjustments
This policy outlines the processes to follow in applying for a reasonable adjustment for all parts of the MRCS (ENT) examination and the basis for which reasonable adjustments can be granted.
Access arrangements and reasonable adjustments policy for candidates with a disability or specific learning difficulty
Refugee concessions
This document outlines the fee concessions available to refugee doctors.