The Complete Guide to FRCR Part 1 Clinical Oncology: Everything You Need to Know in 2026
Preparing for the FRCR Part 1 Clinical Oncology exam? This comprehensive guide covers everything from exam structure and modules to preparation strategies and key dates for 2026
What is the FRCR Part 1 Clinical Oncology Exam?
The FRCR (Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists) Part 1 Clinical Oncology examination is the first major milestone for doctors pursuing a career in clinical oncology. Administered by the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR), this exam assesses whether trainees have the foundational scientific knowledge required to practise safely and effectively in cancer care.
Unlike the FRCR for radiology (which focuses on anatomy and physics), the clinical oncology pathway tests your understanding of cancer sciences across multiple disciplines—from molecular biology to medical statistics.
Exam Structure: What to Expect
The First FRCR (Oncology) examination consists of four modules of single best answer (SBA) questions, taken over two consecutive days:
Day One
- Cancer Biology & Radiobiology: 50 questions in 2.5 hours
- Clinical Pharmacology: 40 questions in 2 hours
Day Two
- Physics: 50 questions in 2.5 hours
- Medical Statistics: 40 questions in 2 hours
Each module is examined separately, and candidates must pass all four modules within six attempts overall. You can attempt any number of modules per sitting, and once you pass a module, you don't need to retake it.
When and Where Can You Take the Exam?
The FRCR Part 1 Clinical Oncology exam is typically held twice per year—in February and September. Exam venues include locations across the UK (London, Edinburgh, Manchester) as well as international centres in Hong Kong, and India.
Registration is handled through the RCR exam hub.
What Each Module Covers
Cancer Biology & Radiobiology
This module examines the processes of cancer cell transformation, tumour development, and the response to ionising radiation. Key topics include:
- Molecular basis of cancer and oncogenes
- Tumour suppressor genes and DNA repair mechanisms
- Cell cycle regulation and apoptosis
- The 5 Rs of radiobiology (Repair, Redistribution, Repopulation, Reoxygenation, Radiosensitivity)
- Linear quadratic model and alpha/beta ratios
- Fractionation principles
Clinical Pharmacology
Focuses on the structure, action, use, and evaluation of drugs used in cancer treatment:
- Mechanisms of cytotoxic agents (alkylating agents, antimetabolites, etc.)
- Targeted therapies and immunotherapy
- Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
- Drug toxicity and management
- Supportive care medications
Physics
Covers the physical principles underlying radiotherapy:
- Radiation physics fundamentals
- X-ray production and interactions with matter
- Dosimetry and treatment planning
- Brachytherapy principles
- Radiation protection
Medical Statistics
Tests your understanding of statistical methods used in oncology research:
- Types of data and descriptive statistics
- Clinical trial design and interpretation
- Survival analysis and Kaplan-Meier curves
- Sensitivity, specificity, and screening tests
- Epidemiological methods
Eligibility Requirements
To sit the FRCR Part 1 Clinical Oncology exam, you must:
- Hold a primary medical qualification (PMQ) recognised by the GMC
- Be registered as a medical practitioner
Notably, there is no minimum period of clinical oncology experience required for the Part 1 exam, making it accessible to doctors earlier in their training journey.
How to Prepare Effectively
Success in FRCR Part 1 requires structured, consistent preparation. Here are proven strategies:
- Start early: Most successful candidates begin preparing 3-6 months before the exam
- Use the official syllabus: The RCR curriculum should guide your entire preparation
- Practice with question banks: Timed practice under exam conditions is essential
- Focus on understanding, not memorisation: The SBA format tests application of knowledge
- Join a study group: Peer support and discussion reinforces learning
What Happens After You Pass?
Passing all four modules of FRCR Part 1 is a significant achievement. You'll then be eligible to progress to FRCR Part 2A and eventually Part 2B, which assess clinical decision-making and communication skills. Completion of the full FRCR (Oncology) qualification is required for GMC registration via the postgraduate route.
Start Your Preparation Today
PassOncology offers comprehensive question banks for all five modules (we separate Cancer Biology and Radiobiology for focused study), plus an AI-powered Onco Assistant to help clarify concepts whenever you're stuck. With detailed explanations and performance analytics, you'll know exactly where to focus your efforts.
Create your free account and begin your FRCR Part 1 journey today.
Enjoyed this article?
Share it with a colleague preparing for their FRCR.