FRCR Part 2B Changes from June 2025: Everything You Need to Know

The final step toward achieving the prestigious FRCR title is the FRCR Part 2B exam — a rigorous, multi-component assessment that tests your clinical radiology expertise in depth. Passing this exam is a major milestone for radiologists, demonstrating that you possess not only technical knowledge but also critical thinking, diagnostic precision, and effective communication skills.

However, starting from June 2025, the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) is introducing several important changes to the FRCR Part 2B exam. These updates are aimed at making the exam fairer, more consistent, and better aligned with modern assessment standards.

If you're preparing for the FRCR Part 2B, this guide will walk you through the current exam structure, the upcoming changes, and how to adapt your preparation strategy accordingly.

A Quick Overview: Current FRCR Part 2B Structure

The FRCR Part 2B exam is currently made up of three key components:

1. Reporting Session

Mode: Computer-based (written)

Format: Six radiological cases

Duration: 75 minutes

Goal: To assess your ability to interpret complex imaging studies, make accurate diagnoses, and suggest appropriate management steps.

2. Rapid Reporting Session

Mode: Computer-based (written)

Format: 30 short cases

Duration: 35 minutes

Goal: To test your speed and accuracy in spotting abnormalities, often using skeletal X-rays.

3. Oral Examination (Viva)

Mode: Computer-based

Format: Two 30-minute viva sessions

Duration: 60 minutes

Goal: To assess your ability to interpret cases, communicate findings clearly, and apply clinical judgment under timed, pressured conditions.

The written parts (reporting and rapid reporting) are typically completed on the same day, while the oral exam takes place 3–7 days later.

What’s Changing from June 2025?

The RCR has announced several key updates that will reshape the way the FRCR Part 2B exam is delivered and scored:

1. Domain-Based Marking for the Oral Exam

Instead of the traditional overall scoring system, the oral (viva) exam will now use domain-based marking. This means your performance will be assessed across several specific skill areas — such as image interpretation, clinical judgment, and communication — offering a clearer, more structured evaluation.

Why this matters:

Candidates will receive more detailed feedback and a more transparent understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.

2. Same Cases for All Candidates on the Same Day

To ensure fairness and consistency, all candidates being examined on a particular day will be presented with the same set of cases during the oral exams.

Why this matters:

This minimizes the variability between different examiners and ensures every candidate faces an identical challenge.

3. Quarantine Period Before and After the Oral Exam

A quarantine period will be introduced. Candidates will stay in a designated waiting area before and after their oral exam to prevent any sharing of exam content between candidates.

Why this matters:

This change protects the integrity of the exam process and ensures a level playing field.

4. Transition to the Risr/Assess Platform

The FRCR Part 2B exam will be delivered via the Risr/Assess digital platform, a move aimed at improving the technical stability and user experience during the exam.

Why this matters:

Expect a smoother, more intuitive exam environment, with better support for handling clinical images and reports.

5. Revised Scoring for Reporting Sections

The scoring system for both the reporting and rapid reporting sections will be modernized to align with contemporary assessment practices.

Why this matters:

The new scoring method is designed to be more objective, reducing the chances of inconsistency across different examiners.

Key Takeaways: What You Should Focus On

Don't panic! While the scoring and logistics are evolving, the core format and expectations of the FRCR Part 2B exam remain the same.

Practice domain-based skills. Strengthen your ability to communicate your thought process clearly, not just get to the right diagnosis.

Adapt to the platform. If possible, practice mock exams or sessions that simulate the Risr/Assess environment to feel more comfortable on exam day.

Stay updated. Keep checking official RCR announcements for any additional minor updates closer to your exam date.

How StudyFRCR Can Help You

If you're preparing for the FRCR Part 2B exam, especially with these new changes, StudyFRCR is here to guide you.

We offer:

🎯 Live, interactive sessions tailored to the new domain-based viva format

📚 High-quality study materials and mock exams simulating the real test environment

👩‍🏫 Expert mentorship from FRCR-qualified professionals

🤝 Daily study group activities to reinforce your learning

📈 Regular feedback sessions to help you track your progress

With the right guidance, updated resources, and a focused strategy, you can confidently tackle the new FRCR Part 2B exam format and take a major step forward in your radiology career.

Connect with us today to learn more about our FRCR courses and how we can support your journey to success!