FFICM Final Examination Dates 2026 and 2027
Confirmed examination dates
- MCQ (June 2026): 2026-06-25 - Online via TestReach (applications close 2026-04-23).
- OSCE and SOE (October 2026): 5-8 October 2026 (applications close 2026-08-10).
- MCQ (January 2027): 2027-01-13 - Online via TestReach (applications close 2026-11-19).
- OSCE and SOE (March 2027): 15-18 March 2027 (applications close 2027-02-02).
- MCQ (June 2027): 2027-06-14 - Online via TestReach (applications close 2027-04-22).
The Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine transitions to the College of Intensive Care Medicine from July 2026, so sittings from October 2026 are branded FCICM. From July 2027, subject to GMC approval, new exam formats replace the current ones: the MCQ becomes the AKT (same format, dichotomous scoring out of 130) and the OSCE and SOE are replaced by the ACRE (14 stations of 9 minutes across 2 circuits). Candidates holding a partial pass may complete the legacy component during the 2027-28 transition year.
Always verify your exam date and deadlines against the official FICM page before making travel or leave arrangements.
How to plan around the examination calendar
Whichever sitting you target, plan three concentric calendars:
- Sitting date. The day of the examination itself. Everything else works backwards from here.
- Registration window. Typically opens months before and closes weeks before the sitting. Late registration is often impossible or attracts a surcharge.
- Study leave window. Request leave for the final 4 to 8 weeks before sitting, with shorter blocks for protected revision earlier in preparation.
Registration deadlines - what to watch for
- Registration windows close weeks before the sitting itself; check the closing date as carefully as the sitting date.
- Some examining bodies require evidence of training-program eligibility submitted by a separate earlier deadline.
- Identification, address verification and supervisor sign-off can take longer than expected. Start the paperwork early.
- Confirm the test centre or examination venue is reachable before the registration window closes, particularly for candidates outside major cities.
How to plan your preparation around a confirmed date
Once your exam date is confirmed, work backwards:
- Set the date of a full timed practice paper or simulated viva for 8 to 12 weeks before the sitting.
- Block the final 2 to 3 weeks for consolidation and rehearsal only - no new content.
- Reserve the final week for tapering, sleep recovery and exam-day logistics rehearsal.
- Pre-book any travel, accommodation and identification documents as soon as your date is confirmed.
How PRIMEX adapts to your timeline
- Progress analytics show your trajectory relative to your exam date so you can adjust effort in real time.
- Spaced-repetition scheduling automatically intensifies in the final weeks before the examination.
- Timed practice modes let you simulate the format of the FFICM Final Examination as your date approaches.
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Frequently asked questions
Where can I find confirmed dates for 2026 and 2027?
Confirmed dates, registration deadlines and any changes are published by FICM. See the link above for the source of truth.
How far in advance should I register?
Registration windows typically open months before each sitting and close weeks before the examination date. Late registration is often not permitted or attracts a surcharge.
How should I plan study leave around the exam?
Most candidates take the bulk of study leave in the final 4 to 8 weeks before sitting, with shorter blocks earlier in preparation. Speak to your training program early because leave allocation is finite.
What if the date changes after I register?
Reschedule policies vary. The official examination page sets out the current policy for date changes, fee transfers and any extenuating circumstances provisions.
Does PRIMEX adjust to my sitting date?
PRIMEX progress analytics and spaced-repetition scheduling adapt to your remaining time, so revision intensity scales with your countdown to the FFICM Final Examination.