Briefing

Taking royal college exams is an expensive business, as data from the BMA's cohort study of 1995 graduates shows clearly. Almost two thirds of those completing the 1998 questionnaire had taken royal college exams; about half passed. The average spent on exam fees and other expenses such as courses, books and transport was £917. The report takes a neutral view on whether this represents good value for money. The exams have been criticised for their expense and lack of clinical relevance, while the colleges point to their narrow profit margins and cross-subsidy of other educational activities.