One of the most common questions candidates ask is: what is the pass mark for Paper A? The honest answer is that there isn't a fixed one, and understanding why helps you set the right target.
What the Angoff method is
The Royal College uses a modified Angoff standard-setting procedure. A panel of experienced psychiatrists reviews each question and estimates the proportion of just-competent candidates who would answer it correctly. Summing those judgements across the paper produces the passing standard for that particular sitting. Because papers differ slightly in difficulty, the mark is adjusted so that the standard stays constant even as the raw percentage moves.
So what should I aim for?
In practice the pass mark tends to fall in the region of the high-50s to mid-60s per cent, but it varies by diet, so don't anchor to a single number. A sensible target is to be consistently scoring above about 70% on mixed question sets in the weeks before the exam, that gives you a comfortable margin whatever the standard turns out to be. Always confirm current details on the RCPsych website.
Read the full Paper A guide or start practising with the free questions.