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Any candidate who passes all three of the MÂ鶹´«Ã½ Theory examinations (FOP, TAS and AKP) will be eligible to use the new term of Theory Diploma of the Â鶹´«Ã½ (TDÂ鶹´«Ã½) as a recognition of their achievement in passing these exams. No changes have been made to the structure or content of any of the Theory exams.

The term has been introduced following discussions by the Â鶹´«Ã½ Examinations Board. They considered there would be significant benefit, most notably for our overseas candidates, if there was clear nomenclature that could be understood internationally for the three Theory exams. 

TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ will indicate that a candidate has the knowledge required of UK paediatric trainees in order that they can progress to Tier 2 of training. This knowledge is detailed in the Theory examination syllabi.

The TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ was approved by the Examinations Board and at Â鶹´«Ã½ Council in spring 2025. So, from June 2025, candidates will see the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ qualification mentioned in their result letters and be provided with an explanation of what passing the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ means for them.

Frequently asked questions

What do I have to do to attain the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ once I have passed all three Theory exams?

Candidates who pass all three Theory exams will not need to do anything in addition to passing the exams; TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ is the recognised full qualification name for the Theory component of the Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (MÂ鶹´«Ã½).

How much does this cost?

There is no additional cost for this.

Will I receive a diploma certificate or letter confirming that I have completed the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½?

No. By having passed all three Theory examinations you will be able to refer to having the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½. But you will not receive an additional letter beyond the results letters you receive after passing the three Theory exams.

Can I use TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ as a post-nominal?

No. TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ is a diploma and, as such, cannot be used as a post-nominal by those who have completed it. However, you can refer to it on your curriculum vitae (CV) and other documents where you refer to your qualifications.

Is the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ equivalent to the MÂ鶹´«Ã½?

No, the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ is the qualification term for the three Theory exams of the MÂ鶹´«Ã½. Candidates need to successfully pass the Clinical exam in order to obtain the full MÂ鶹´«Ã½

Will I still have the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ if I go onto to pass the MÂ鶹´«Ã½ Clinical examination?

Yes. While the MÂ鶹´«Ã½ supersedes the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½, you will still have completed the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ by passing all three Theory examinations before passing the Clinical examination and attaining the MÂ鶹´«Ã½.

As such, you can continue to refer to the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ on your CV and other documents where you refer to your qualifications even after you have completed the MÂ鶹´«Ã½.

What happens to my TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ if I do not go on to pass the MÂ鶹´«Ã½ Clinical examination within 7 years of passing my final Theory examination?

Nothing. The TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ is a standalone diploma and, as such, is not subject to the 7-year currency rule for the MÂ鶹´«Ã½.

Candidates who wish to attain the MÂ鶹´«Ã½ will still need to pass the Clinical examination within 7 years of passing their final Theory examination. If they do not, they will need to re-take and pass the AKP exam in order to be eligible to attempt the clinical exam again.

I passed the three Theory exams a few years ago. Can I still use the terminology TDRPCH?

Yes. The TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ term is the qualification name for the Theory component of the Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (MÂ鶹´«Ã½). Any candidate (UK and overseas) who has passed the exams in their current format i.e. since June 2013, can use the terminology. However, only candidates who take and pass the Theory exams from June 2025 will have the TDÂ鶹´«Ã½ mentioned in their results letter.