• Objectively samples the clinical and communication skills of trainees and ensures that they are those of someone ready for higher training
• Will replace the existing Intermediate SJP exam (NB. a prior pass in the Intermediate SJP will count for eligibility to undertake FRCEM Final examination and will be accepted for progression to ST4)
• A pass in the SJP will have currency for seven years for entry to higher specialty training
• Existing MRCEM OSCE passes achieved between August 2014 and before end of July 2018 will be valid for FRCEM eligibility and entry to higher training
• From August 2021, all existing MRCEM OSCE passes achieved between August 2014 and July 2021 will be accepted for FRCEM eligibility and entry to higher training (this was approved by the GMC as part of the 2021 curriculum submission)
• Prior unsuccessful attempts at MRCEM OSCE will be counted
• Prior unsuccessful attempts at the SJP will not be counted

The MRCEM OSCE is designed to test both the theoretical knowledge and clinical skills of emergency medicine doctors. The OSCE stations test a wide variety of skills including history taking, physical examination, communication skills and the ability to perform practical procedures.

The MRCEM OSCE usually consists of a circuit of 18 stations, each of which is 7 minutes long. There are usually two ‘double stations’, which are 14 minutes longs and involve ALS, APLS or ATLS style scenarios.