BPS Exam Dates 2026 – Schedule, Details & Preparation Tips

BPS Exam Dates 2026

If you’re planning to sit the Basic Pathological Sciences (BPS) Examination in 2026, the official dates have now been confirmed by the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA). The BPS exam is an essential milestone for medical graduates and trainees entering pathology and related specialties, so early preparation is key.

Key Dates for the 2026 BPS Exam

Applications open: 1 November 2025

Applications close: 28 February 2026

BPS Webinar: 17 March 2026 at 6:00 PM AEDT

Exam date: 17 April 2026

The BPS exam is a self-invigilated online assessment, allowing candidates across Australia and New Zealand to complete it under supervised conditions from their own workplace or study environment.

What is the BPS Exam?

The Basic Pathological Sciences (BPS) Exam assesses a candidate’s understanding of fundamental disease mechanisms, pathology principles, and laboratory sciences. It is most commonly attempted by doctors and trainees preparing for specialties such as pathology, haematology, oncology, and other related disciplines.

Administered by: Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA) Format: Computer-based multiple-choice examination Focus areas: Disease mechanisms, laboratory medicine, and pathogenesis Frequency: Conducted once per year

Why Plan for the BPS 2026 Early?

Although the exam date may feel some time away, April 2026 will arrive quickly — especially if you’re juggling clinical rotations or other commitments. Many successful candidates begin structured study 4-6 months in advance, using a mix of textbooks, review materials, and dedicated BPS question banks to build familiarity with exam-style questions.

Starting early allows you to:

Review the RCPA syllabus and create a focused study plan

Identify and strengthen weaker areas in your pathology knowledge

Practise with high-quality question banks to improve exam confidence and technique

Where to Find Official Information

Official details, including registration links and candidate instructions, are available on the RCPA website. Bookmark the page below for the latest updates: RCPA Basic Pathological Sciences Exam Information

How to Prepare for the 2026 BPS Exam

A successful BPS preparation strategy should include:

Using BPS-specific question banks developed for the Australasian syllabus — such as GetThru’s upcoming BPS Question Bank, featuring over 1,400 original questions authored by expert pathologists

Reviewing the RCPA syllabus and previous exam reports

Attending the BPS Webinar on 17 March 2026 to gain insights into exam structure and preparation tips

Establishing a revision timetable that ensures comprehensive coverage of all major pathology topics

Final Thoughts

The BPS exam is a challenging but rewarding milestone in your medical training journey. With applications opening on 1 November 2025 and the exam on 17 April 2026, now is the time to begin your preparation.

Stay organised, use trusted resources, and take advantage of dedicated learning tools such as the GetThru BPS Question Bank to give yourself the best possible foundation for success.