Question 1

What is the psychiatry training pathway in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Core Psychiatry Training runs from CT1–CT3, followed by higher specialty training (ST4–ST6) in a chosen subspecialty (general adult, old age, child & adolescent, forensic, learning disabilities, or psychotherapy). The full pathway leads to a CCT in Psychiatry.

Question 2

What exams do psychiatry trainees sit?

Accepted Answer

The MRCPsych (Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists) has three papers and a clinical exam: Paper A (basic sciences), Paper B (clinical topics), Paper C (critical appraisal), and CASC (Clinical Assessment of Skills and Competencies — an OSCE). Papers are taken during core training.

Question 3

How competitive is psychiatry training?

Accepted Answer

Core Psychiatry Training has seen a dramatic increase in competition. The 2025 CT1 ratio was 21.83:1 — one of the highest of any specialty — reflecting a surge in applicants. Higher training (ST4) is far less competitive at around 1.39:1. Psychiatry experience, audit, MRCPsych progress, and psychotherapy training hours strengthen applications.

Question 4

What courses help psychiatry trainees?

Accepted Answer

Useful courses include MRCPsych revision courses, CASC preparation workshops, psychotherapy skills courses (CBT, psychodynamic), risk assessment training, mental health law updates, and specialist courses in areas like eating disorders, addiction, or perinatal psychiatry.

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