2027: Launch of the New FCICM Exams
Key Information for Candidates and Training Supervisors
The Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine is launching new formats for the FCICM examinations, with full implementation beginning July 2027. This marks an exciting step forward in modernising our assessments and improving the candidate experience.
What’s changing?
- New exam formats will be delivered from July 2027 onward (subject to GMC approval).
- These formats will replace the current OSCE and SOE components.
- All candidates will sit the new formats unless they hold a valid partial pass.
| Legacy Format | Exam Name | New Exam Format |
| FCICM* Final MCQ |
FCICM* AKT (Applied Knowledge Test) |
Change of scoring system to dichotomous scoring with a maximum of 130 marks No change to purpose, format, duration, blueprint, standard setting or delivery method |
| FCICM* Final OSCE & SOE |
FCICM* ACRE (Applied Clinical Reasoning Examination) |
2 circuits of 7 stations (14 stations total) 9-minute stations 2 minutes to read station information Total time: 2 hrs 34 mins |
*Please note that all Transition Year webpages reference FCICM (Fellowship of the College of Intensive Care Medicine) as from July 2026, the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine will transition to the College of Intensive Care Medicine. For further details, please follow the link below:
The College of Intensive Care Medicine
Why are the exams changing?
The exam formats are being transformed to improve clarity, consistency, and alignment with current training and assessment standards. This transformation has taken place over a four-year development period and addresses the recommendations in the Independent Review of RCoA exam processes published in February 2023.
The new exam formats give candidates
- Greater authenticity
- A better test experience
-
A reduced assessment burden
Hear from our Exam Development Leads
In this short video, our Exam Development Leads introduce the new ACRE (Applied Clinical Reasoning Examination) examination. They explain the purpose of the new format, what candidates can expect on the day, and share practical tips and reassurance as you prepare for the transition.
Available May 2026
-
An Introduction to ACRE
Who does this affect?
- All candidates should prepare for the new exam formats from July 2027.
- Candidates with a valid partial pass (e.g. have passed either SOE or OSCE only) may complete their remaining legacy component during the 2027–2028 transition year.
Not sure which exam route applies to you? See our dedicated Transition Year page for decision pathways.
