Use the European training requirements and the official MCQ/oral samples for ECMGG. For the RCPath certificate, practise concise answers to the sample SAQ paper and use the stated curriculum. Include genetic counselling, clinical interpretation, inheritance, ethics and communication rather than relying only on laboratory genetics.
UEMS / EBMG / ESHG; Royal College of Pathologists
Clinical Genetics Knowledge Assessments (ECMGG / RCPath Certificate)
RCPI asks Clinical Genetics HST trainees to sit the European Board of Medical Genetics examination or the RCPath Certificate in Medical Genetics. It describes these as self-assessment, not Irish certifying or qualifying examinations.
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Components
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Dates listed
Examining body: UEMS / EBMG / ESHG; Royal College of Pathologists
Who can sit it
ECMGG: primary medical qualification, with priority rules based on country of work and training status. Designed for the final one or two training years. RCPath: consult the medical-genetics and general regulations with your supervisor; its guidance normally anticipates about two years of specialty experience.
When NCHDs sit it
Agree one route and timing with your trainer during Irish HST. For the 2027 ECMGG, the published application deadline is 13 November 2026; MCQ 30 April 2027, oral window 21–22 June 2027.
Exam format
European Certificate in Medical Genetics and Genomics (ECMGG)
Online MCQ component (110 questions), followed after a pass by six structured oral-assessment stations.
RCPath Certificate in Medical GeneticsAnnual spring sitting/yr
Written short-answer paper. The current webpage and linked regulations differ on the question count; check the candidate instructions for your sitting. · 3 hours
Dates
- 13 Nov 2026Apply byECMGG 2027 application deadline (ECMGG)
- 30 Apr 2027SittingECMGG 2027 MCQ (ECMGG MCQ)
- 21 Jun 2027SittingECMGG 2027 oral window begins (21–22 June) (ECMGG structured oral assessment)
Training links
HST Clinical Genetics
Required to sit. Sit either the European examination or the RCPath Certificate. These assess progress during training; neither is a qualifying exit examination.
Preparation resources
College guidance, question banks, books and courses, grouped by format. Descriptions identify their coverage; provider pages give current prices and access terms.
College guidance
2027 candidate document, format and dates.
Medical qualification and prioritisation rules.
Official SAQ format and preparation material.
Check the provider for current prices and access terms. No affiliate links.
Preparing
Facts last verified 2026-10-25.