How to prepare for MRCOG Assessment of Training (AoT)

28th February, 2023

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Doctors

If you’re an obstetrician or gynaecologist looking for more information on MRCOG assessment of training (AoT), you’ve come to the right place. In this article, you’ll learn about eligibility, how long the application takes and how it is assessed.

Please visit our other MRCOG guides for more information on MRCOG Part 1 , MRCOG Part 2 and MRCOG Part 3.

If you are a doctor and looking for Obstetrics and Gynaecology locum or permanent opportunities, you can browse our O&G vacancies.

Am I eligible to apply for assessment of training?

The Assessment of Training (AoT) is a requirement for entry into the Part 3 MRCOG. Before applying for the MRCOG Part 3 exam or MTI scheme, you must have had your training assessed to confirm your eligibility to register.

You can apply to have your training assessed any time after passing MRCOG Part 1. Trainees in recognised specialist training programmes must be ST3 level or above at the date of application. Trainees not in a UK specialist training programme must demonstrate they have spent a minimum of four years post-graduate training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

How long does AoT take?

RCOG ask candidates to allow 4 weeks for their application to be processed. In the lead-up to exams, deadlines are implemented to ensure enough time for the higher volume of applications to be processed and so that successful candidates have enough time to know if they will be sitting MRCOG Part 3. If possible, it would be better to get your assessment of training approved ahead of time so that you can plan your revision accordingly.

How is my training assessed?

There are 2 routes in which post-registration training is assessed to confirm eligibility to enter into the Part 3 MRCOG exam:

Route A

Candidates in a recognised UK specialist training programme should demonstrate the following:

Must be in intermediate training, at ST3 level or above at the date of application for the Assessment of Training.
Trainees are required to submit an application for Assessment of Training and provide their National Training Number.
No further supporting documentation is required; should the College require any additional information candidates will be contacted via email after receipt of their application.

Route B

Candidates who are not in a recognised UK specialist training programme should demonstrate the following:

A minimum of 4 years in obstetrics and gynaecology full-time or equivalent post-registration posts in the UK or overseas
This must include at least 2 years (full-time or equivalent) in the speciality within the 4 years preceding a candidate’s initial application.
A minimum of 6 consecutive months in any single post is required
All hospital-based overseas posts in O&G are accepted.
Training must be completed at the date of application for the Assessment of Training
Flexible training in recognised posts is permitted provided approval of the College is obtained in advance

Under route B, suitable training carried out before successful attainment of the Part 1 MRCOG can be counted towards the requirement. In this context, registration refers to registration as a doctor, not with the College.

How do I register?

You will need to complete the assessment of training form which can be accessed here. After that you will email your form directly with the subject heading “AoT Application [Insert Your College Number]” to RCOG on AOT@rcog.org.uk.

At Pulse, we’re passionate about the quality of our people and proud of the services we provide. You can find more information about MRCOG Part 1, MRCOG Part 2 and MRCOG Part 3 or for any other information or guidance, register today with Pulse.

Our team are here to help doctors find great work opportunities in the UK. If you are a doctor and looking for Obstetrics or Gynaecology locum or permanent opportunities, you can browse our O&G vacancies.