This is the criteria set up by RCPath –
Medically qualified candidates are required to have trained in a recognised Regional Specialist Training Programme in microbiology or virology for a period of normally not less than 12 months.
Non-medically qualified candidates are required to have trained in a recognised training programme in microbiology for a period of normally not less than 12 months. In addition, they must be state registered, or the equivalent of state registered in another country.
Take Home message:
You require 12 months of training in an accredited post-graduate training programme (e.g. MD microbiology, DNB, etc.). You are eligible. Even if you are still training (that is, doing your MD), you are still eligible, but you must have been in that programme for at least 1 year.
You are still eligible if you completed your postgraduate training many years ago (e.g., 30 years ago).
One point to consider.
While you might be eligible for part 1, if you are looking to do part 2 FRCPath Microbiology as well, you must check the part 2 criteria at this point. Part 2 eligibility criteria are –
Medically qualified candidates must have passed the Part 1 examination and are required to have trained in a recognised regional HST programme, including CIT, in microbiology for a period of normally not less than two and a half years.
Non-medically qualified candidates must have passed the Part 1 examination and have at least four years’ experience in a laboratory recognised for higher specialist training.Reference: Entry requirements
Why is this important for overseas candidates?
I assume you would be considering part 2 after part 1. If you do, you must have 2.5 years of microbiology training.
It is not a problem for those training in a 3-year programme, such as an MD, as that will cover the 2.5-year period. However, if your programme is less than 2 years (MPhil), you may need some additional training. There is no guidance on how you can make up for this additional period. It will be assessed by RCPath.
Can I ask RCPath if I am eligible?
Unfortunately, RCPath will not respond to your email regarding this matter (see here); however, they will refund your money if they determine that you are not eligible. They may request additional information from you if they are not satisfied with your qualifications.
Microregistrar survey result:
Do I need to take the IELTS or OET for the FRCPath examination?
No, you don’t need IELTS or OET
Do I need GMC registration for the FRCPath exam?
No.
GMC registration is not needed for this exam.
Do I need to travel to the UK for this examination?
If you are in the UK, you will likely need to travel to one of the centres. In Spring 2026 – London, Glasgow, Manchester, Cardiff and a centre in Northern Ireland/RoI.
If you are overseas, in Spring 2026, two assigned centres were New Delhi and Dubai. However, the Dubai centre was cancelled.
RCPath will inform you about the centres or if there is any online options are available in Autumn 2026.