New reimbursement arrangements could help resident doctors in England recover the cost of mandatory Royal College examinations. Here's what we know so far, who's eligible and how to prepare.
Preparing for postgraduate medical exams can be expensive. Between examination fees, professional memberships and other training-related costs, the financial commitment can quickly add up.
However, following an agreement between the British Medical Association (BMA) and the Government, eligible resident doctors in England will be able to claim reimbursement for certain mandatory Royal College examination fees.
Here's what the changes mean for you.
What's changing with Royal College exam fees?
Under the new arrangements, eligible resident doctors will be able to receive reimbursement for the first two attempts at each mandatory Royal College or Faculty examination required for their specialty training.
The changes include:
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Exam fees from 1 April 2026: Eligible examinations taken from this date will be covered retrospectively.
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First two attempts: Reimbursement will cover up to two attempts at each eligible mandatory examination.
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Resident doctors and locally employed doctors: The arrangements apply to eligible doctors in England, including those in training and locally employed doctors (LEDs).
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Employer reimbursement: Eligible fees will be reimbursed through employers once the claims process is available.
The changes are intended to reduce the financial burden associated with progressing through postgraduate medical training.
Which medical exams are eligible?
The arrangements cover mandatory Royal College and Faculty examinations required for completion of specialty training.
This may include eligible examinations within specialties such as:
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MRCP – Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians
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MRCS – Membership of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons
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MRCPCH – Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
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MRCEM – Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine
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FRCA – Fellowship of the Royal College of Anaesthetists
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MRCOG – Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
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MRCPsych – Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists
Eligibility depends on the individual examination and the scheme's requirements. Doctors should check the official list of eligible examinations before submitting a claim.
How can you claim reimbursement for your exam fees?
The BMA has confirmed that reimbursement will be available for eligible examinations, including those taken from 1 April 2026.
However, the exact launch date and practical instructions for submitting claims are still being confirmed.
In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to prepare:
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Keep your exam receipts. Make sure you have proof of payment for eligible examinations.
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Record your exam details. Keep a note of the examination, payment date, amount paid and attempt number.
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Check your eligibility. Review the official guidance to understand which examinations and circumstances are covered.
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Follow BMA updates. Keep an eye on the latest announcements for confirmation of when and how to submit your claim.
For the latest information, visit the BMA's official guidance on exam fee reimbursement.
Can doctors also claim tax relief on professional expenses?
Yes. Alongside the new reimbursement arrangements, eligible doctors may also be able to claim tax relief on certain professional expenses through HMRC.
These can include:
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GMC registration fees
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Royal College membership subscriptions
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BMA membership fees
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Medical indemnity subscriptions
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Certain eligible examination fees
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Some other qualifying work-related expenses
It's important to understand the difference: reimbursement returns eligible costs to you through your employer, whereas tax relief reduces the income tax payable on qualifying expenses.
You cannot claim tax relief on costs that have already been reimbursed. If you've previously claimed tax relief on an exam fee that is subsequently reimbursed, you may need to correct your tax position with HMRC.
Claim tax relief on professional expenses with Medics' Money
Did you know you may also be eligible to claim tax relief on professional expenses, including GMC fees, Royal College memberships and certain examination fees?
Our partners at Medics' Money have created a free, step-by-step guide to help doctors understand what they can claim and how to submit a claim through HMRC.
Simply enter your details on their website, and they'll email you a copy of the guide, covering eligible expenses, receipts and the claims process.
Get your FREE tax relief guide →
Please note: Tax relief is separate from the new BMA exam reimbursement arrangements. You cannot claim tax relief on expenses that have already been reimbursed.
Stay informed about exam fee reimbursement
The new reimbursement arrangements represent an important development for resident doctors facing the costs of postgraduate medical training.
While further details about the claims process are being finalised, keeping your receipts and checking the latest eligibility guidance will help you prepare.
For official updates, visit the BMA website, and for help understanding other eligible professional expenses, explore the tax relief resources available through Medics' Money.
Information correct as of 23 October 2026. This article provides general information and does not constitute individual tax or financial advice. Eligibility and claims processes are subject to official guidance.