Communication and empathy are hallmarks of psychiatry. These skills are rightly emphasised throughout training and the MRCPsych examinations. I would like to think the College displays these qualities in its dealings with trainees. However, the application process for the examinations raises concerns that this is not always the case.

The College aims to notify applicants of eligibility ‘approximately four weeks in advance [of the exam]’. However, some candidates have learned of their ineligibility less than 2 weeks prior to the exam, and then only after contacting the College themselves. In the event of such late decisions, any appeal would need to occur with urgency, yet the frustrating inability to speak to the appropriate authority prevents this and perpetuates distress.

At a minimum the College should keep to its own standards. However, since a preparation time of 6 months has been recommended for the part II examination (Reference Naeem, Rutherford and KennNaeem et al, 2003), I would suggest a longer period of notice, such as 8 weeks, is necessary. This would spare unsuccessful applicants the trauma of the final 2 months, when revision is most intense.

I appreciate that approval of eligibility is a laborious process. The ever-increasing number of applicants means the College might be relying on an outdated system. Perhaps the extra examination revenue generated could provide a more efficient system, thus minimising the anxieties of applicants.

Is there a danger of trainee disillusionment with the College regarding the examination procedure, and could this impact upon recruitment and retention of future psychiatrists?