Quick answer: the next MRCEM SBA sitting is on 13 January 2027, with applications open from 22 to 29 October 2026. The next MRCEM Primary is on 27 October 2026, followed by 21 April 2027. Application windows are only one week long, so put the dates in your diary now.
This guide lists every upcoming MRCEM Primary, MRCEM SBA and MRCEM OSCE sitting published by the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM), with application windows, results dates and 2026 fees. All dates are taken from the RCEM exam calendar. Always check that page before you apply, as RCEM can change dates.
The three MRCEM exams at a glance
MRCEM is made up of three exams, taken in order:
- MRCEM Primary: 180 single best answer (SBA) questions in 3 hours, covering the basic sciences.
- MRCEM SBA: 180 SBA questions across two 2-hour papers, with a 1-hour break. It tests the full range of conditions and presentations seen in the emergency department.
- MRCEM OSCE: 16 practical stations of 8 minutes each, testing clinical and communication skills.
The Primary and SBA exams are taken at test centres worldwide. The OSCE is held in London, Malaysia and India.
MRCEM SBA exam dates 2026–27
| Exam date | Applications open | Applications close | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 September 2026 | 10 June 2026 | 17 June 2026 | 28 October 2026 |
| 13 January 2027 | 22 October 2026 | 29 October 2026 | 24 February 2027 |
| 2 June 2027 | 17 March 2027 | 24 March 2027 | 14 July 2027 |
MRCEM Primary exam dates 2026–27
| Exam date | Applications open | Applications close | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 October 2026 | 15 July 2026 | 22 July 2026 | 1 December 2026 |
| 21 April 2027 | 20 January 2027 | 27 January 2027 | 2 June 2027 |
MRCEM OSCE dates 2026–27
| Location | Exam dates |
|---|---|
| Malaysia | 21–25 September 2026 |
| London | 3–19 November 2026 |
| London | 18–29 January 2027 |
| India (Chennai) | 22–26 February 2027 |
| London | 18 May – 4 June 2027 |
| India (Hyderabad) | 5–9 July 2027 |
OSCE application windows vary by sitting and location. Check the RCEM calendar for each one.
MRCEM exam fees (2026)
| Exam | RCEM member | Non-member |
|---|---|---|
| Primary or SBA (UK) | £429 | £525 |
| Primary or SBA (international) | £485 | £609 |
| OSCE – London | £586 | £695 |
| OSCE – India | £987 | £1,186 |
| OSCE – Malaysia | £1,121 | £1,345 |
Fees for 2027 sittings may change, so confirm the amount when you apply.
How to use MRCEM exam dates to plan your revision
- Apply on day one. Each window is open for about a week. Set a reminder for the opening date.
- Count back from the exam, not the application. Many candidates plan around 12 weeks of structured revision for the MRCEM SBA. For the 13 January 2027 sitting, that means starting by mid-October 2026.
- Leave time for mock exams. Plan at least two full timed mocks in the final three weeks.
- Check eligibility early. RCEM lists the requirements for each exam on its eligibility page. IELTS Level 7 is the expected English standard.
Ready to plan? Read our 12-week MRCEM SBA revision plan.
Frequently asked questions
When is the next MRCEM SBA exam?
The next MRCEM SBA is on 13 January 2027. Applications open on 22 October 2026 and close on 29 October 2026. Results are due on 24 February 2027.
How much does the MRCEM SBA cost?
In 2026 the MRCEM SBA costs £429 for UK RCEM members and £525 for UK non-members. International candidates pay £485 (members) or £609 (non-members).
How long are MRCEM application windows?
Applications for the Primary and SBA are open for one week per sitting.
Where can I sit the MRCEM SBA?
The MRCEM Primary and SBA are held at test centres worldwide. The OSCE is held in London, Malaysia and India.
Start revising today
Try our 20 free MRCEM SBA sample questions to see where you stand. When you are ready for more, the MRCEM Pass question bank has over 2,200 questions with detailed explanations, timed mock tests and mind maps, all mapped to the RCEM curriculum. View membership plans.
Dates and fees checked against the RCEM exam calendar on 26 September 2026.