Further to the recent successful remote delivery of MFDS Part 1 in October 2020, the MFDS Management Board confirms the decision to hold the forthcoming Spring 2021 diet of the MFDS Part 1 Examination (6 April 2021) using the same online delivery method. It is anticipated that all future MFDS Part 1 Examinations will continue to be delivered online but this is still to be confirmed.
The online delivery system was used successfully by the vast majority of candidates in Autumn 2020. This delivery method makes the exam more accessible to candidates by reducing the travel and time away from work required to take the examination.
The exam format (180 single best answer questions, in a 3-hour examination) will be exactly the same as before, and the method of delivery will be the same as it was in Autumn 2020.
This decision means that candidates will not be required to attend any advertised examination centre, but can sit the examination from their home or workplace. Confirmation of these arrangements and further details of the online platform will be sent to candidates no later than six weeks prior to their examination.
This will include full details of the equipment required to sit the exam, however at this stage we can confirm that candidates will be required to have access to a PC or laptop with a suitable webcam and appropriate internet access. As a guide, this should be equipment that is capable of make a good-quality internet video call (such as a Zoom call or a GoTo meeting).
There will be an opportunity for candidates to trial the exam platform in advance of the examination to ensure that they are familiar with the system and that all equipment and systems are working well. Candidates with reasonable adjustments should contact their College of entry if they require different adjustments for an online exam or have any concerns about the adjustments they have been granted.
Colleges are aware that certain international venues may require alternative arrangements. These will only be provided at the discretion of individual Colleges, and details will be advised to affected candidates by the host College.
There is a Question & Answer document available for candidates to view online, but any specific concerns regarding the information provided should be addressed to the College of entry.
RCS Edinburgh mfds.exams@rcsed.ac.uk
RCPSG mfds@Rcpsg.ac.uk