The Exam Before Exam
Setting up for the FCICM Fellowship Exam
Preparing for the FCICM Fellowship exam requires a solid plan and the right mindset.
You don’t rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your systems – James Clear
- I think a key part of starting the exam build up is the setup phase — what most people never talk about, but what makes all the difference.
- This is not about content. It’s about structure, life setup, and tools to win.
- It’s about ensuring you have maximal focus as you start building momentum to get into the thick of your preparation
Table of Contents
Life Logistics Before Studying for the FCICM exam
Declutter Your Schedule
- Say no to extra shifts, side projects, and optional duties
- Be focused and learn how to get Deep Work done
- Create predictable, protected time blocks (2–4 study blocks/week)
Plan With Your Family
Consider all aspects of your life while studying for the FCICM Fellowship exam to ensure you can focus effectively.
Setting priorities is crucial when preparing for the FCICM Fellowship exam.
- Sit down with your partner and children to plan
- Set expectations for quiet times and support
- Build shared calendars or visual planners
Organise a Nanny or Childcare
- Outsource where possible — especially during high-yield periods
- Don’t feel guilty. You’re investing in a short-term intensity for long-term gain
- Nanny FB groups to help out with kids
Effective planning with your family can significantly impact your FCICM Fellowship exam performance.
Work Arrangements and Time Commitment
Take Time Off Work Strategically
- Minimum 1 week pre-exam, ideal = 2 full weeks
- I’ve taken 3 weeks pre-exam and felt I peaked earlier and was becoming more fatigued closer to the exam
- Use annual leave, study leave, or unpaid leave if needed
- Plan around mock exams, study groups, and revision blocks
Organizing childcare is a key step to free up time for your FCICM Fellowship exam studies.
How Much Time Do You Really Need?
- 10–15 hours per week in core months
- Increase to 25–30 hrs/week in last 4–6 weeks
- Track hours like you’d track a patient’s inputs/outputs
- My advice is that if you’re working full-time and plan to sit the exam in one year,
you have one year; you have six months to prepare. - You must factor in life, night shifts, family, kids, exercise, ect!
Download the FCICM Syllabus and Make It Yours
Print & Bind the Syllabus
- Visual ownership of the curriculum
- Highlight known/unknown topics (use Green/Yellow/Red tag system)
- Use it as a progress map
Effective work arrangements help create the ideal conditions for success in the FCICM Fellowship exam.
Test Your Exam Tools in Advance
Pen Testing
- Buy a 10-pack of the exact pen you’ll use
- Practice all your SAQs, vivas, and notes with that pen
Timer Options
- Use an analogue exam-style timer
- Or your Omega Seamaster if that’s your thing 😄
- I suggest using the exact timing tool for practice as for complete mastery on the exam day
- Remember, the FCICM Written exam does not allow digital timers
Mock exams are an essential part of your preparation for the FCICM Fellowship exam.
📌 Pro Tip: Practice multiple full paper under exam conditions — same time, same pen, same pressure.
Tracking your study hours is crucial for success in the FCICM Fellowship exam preparation.
Create a Study Space and Mental Container
- Dedicate a quiet corner (or even a café with headphones)
- Use whiteboards, post-its, or Notion boards for visual reminders
- Light a candle, play a playlist, or start every session the same way = habit cue
Prepare Your Mindset for a Hard Climb
- Define your “Why” and keep it visible
- Expect emotional dips → journal them, talk them out
- Find a study buddy or mentor — for support, not just answers
Understanding the FCICM Fellowship exam syllabus is fundamental to effective exam preparation.
📌 What helped me most: writing affirmations and pinning them near my desk
🔑 Tip: Visualizing your success can motivate you throughout your FCICM Fellowship exam journey. Try this ‘mini-visualisation’ meditation practice by Headspace.
