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So, you have cleared the MRCEM Primary, the first step in the journey towards achieving the prestigious ‘MRCEM’ title. And now comes the next hurdle, the MRCEM Intermediate SBA exam. Many candidates feel a mix of feelings at this stage. Relief because the first step is over, and anxiety because the SBA needs a different kind of approach. With the September 2025 exam date fast approaching, this is the time to focus on smart, focused preparation.

The MRCEM Intermediate SBA exam is a bit different from the Primary exam, which focuses more on recalling facts. The SBA focuses more on applying knowledge in real-life emergency medicine scenarios. Let’s break it down and see how you can prepare effectively in the final stretch.

Know what to expect

The exam is computer-based and conducted at Pearson Vue test centres across the globe. The exam consists of two sections or papers, and there will be a total of 180 questions. The duration of the exam is four hours (2 x 2 hours with a 1-hour break in the middle).

MRCEM SBA exam syllabus

The questions in the MRCEM SBA exam are mapped to the 2021 Emergency Medicine Curriculum, specifically the Specialty Learning Outcomes (SLOs) for training years 1 to 3. Given below is a concise breakdown of the MRCEM SBA blueprint based on the official document of the RCEM.

SLO 1: Complex stable patient – 55 questions

SLO 3: Resuscitate, ACCS LO8 organ failure (excluding major trauma) – 40 questions

SLO 4: Injured patient – 30 questions

SLO 5: Paediatric Emergency Medicine – 25 questions

SLO 6: Procedural skills (ACCS), ACCS LO7 basic anaesthetic care – 20 questions

SLO 7: Complex or challenging situations – 10 questions

Refer to the RCEM’s Regulations and Information pack to get more details about the exam syllabus.

Last-minute strategies

Topics in SLO 1, 2, and 3 carry more weight in the exam. So, aim to revise with these areas in mind.

Prioritise smart revision

At this stage, it’s not about learning everything from scratch. Instead, revise the key guidelines and management protocols, especially RCEM guidelines. Go over the conditions you know are common in the exam. Keep your notes concise and handy for quick look-ups.

Practise under exam conditions

If you haven’t already, do as many mock tests as possible. This helps you get comfortable with the pace. Focusing on reviewing mistakes and understanding why an answer is wrong is just as important as getting it right.

Structure your final revision

Break down your study sessions into manageable slots. For example, spend one session on trauma, the next on paediatrics, then a block on ECGs and imaging. This will help you touch all important areas without overwhelming yourself.

We hope this information was helpful for you. In the final stretch, look after yourself. Don’t compromise on sleep and food. Stay calm, trust your preparation, and approach the exam confidently.

StudyMRCEM offers expert-led courses for every stage, including MRCEM Primary, SBA, and OSCE. From short courses for quick revision to detailed long term MRCEM courses for complete preparation, we help candidates succeed in their very first attempt. You can even explore our high-quality study materials, curated by a team of expert mentors, for free through the StudyMEDIC LMS 3.0 before enrolling in the course.

Connect with our team today to know more about our courses.

Authored By: Sarath