CICM Second Part Paediatric Examination Pass Rate 2026
The headline figure
CICM does not publish a single headline pass rate for the Second Part Paediatric Examination. Per-sitting, per-component results (written, hot cases, vivas) are reported in the College's Second Part Paediatric Examination reports, which also note the Angoff-derived written cut for that sitting. There is no fixed numerical pass mark. You can review the official position at the CICM source.
How the standard is set
For the CICM Second Part Paediatric Examination, CICM assesses candidates against a defined competency standard rather than ranking them against each other, so the proportion who pass reflects how a cohort performs against that bar and varies between sittings. Where a verified figure is published it appears above with its source; where the examining body publishes none, PRIMEX states that plainly rather than estimating one.
What separates pass-tier from fail-tier candidates
The CICM Second Part Paediatric Examination is Two written SAQ papers (30 SAQs, 300 marks), then an oral section of 8 vivas and 2 paediatric ICU hot cases. Held once a year. Across multiple examination sittings, the following patterns distinguish candidates who pass from those who do not:
- Applying adult ICU frameworks without adjusting for paediatric physiology, weight-based dosing and age-specific targets.
- Hot-case anxiety in the PICU: an unstructured bedside examination that misses the marks in each scored domain.
- Thin coverage of neonatal and congenital-heart presentations and of paediatric-specific emergencies (DKA with cerebral oedema, status epilepticus, single-ventricle physiology).
- SAQ answers that list differentials instead of giving a prioritised, child-specific management plan with doses per kilogram.
How PRIMEX helps you cross the pass line
- SAQ practice with AI grading benchmarked to CICM Second Part Paediatric examiner expectations, marking on age-appropriate management and weight-based pharmacology.
- Hot-case and viva simulation for the PICU oral section, with a timed bedside-to-discussion structure and a distinction-grade model answer.
- Curriculum-mapped study notes and flashcards across the full breadth of paediatric intensive care, from neonate to adolescent.
Start your 7-day free PRIMEX trial for the CICM Second Part Paediatric Examination and find out exactly where your preparation stands.
Start free trialFrequently asked questions
How long should I study for the CICM Second Part Paediatric Examination?
Most candidates dedicate 26-52 weeks of structured preparation for the CICM Second Part Paediatric Examination. The exact duration depends on your prior knowledge base, clinical experience, and available study time per week. Starting earlier generally produces better outcomes than compressing preparation into a short period.
What is the format of the CICM Second Part Paediatric Examination?
Two written SAQ papers (30 SAQs, 300 marks), then an oral section of 8 vivas and 2 paediatric ICU hot cases. Held once a year.
What is the pass rate for the CICM Second Part Paediatric Examination?
CICM does not publish a single headline pass rate for the Second Part Paediatric Examination. Per-sitting, per-component results (written, hot cases, vivas) are reported in the College's Second Part Paediatric Examination reports, which also note the Angoff-derived written cut for that sitting. There is no fixed numerical pass mark. You can review the official position at the CICM source.
What are the most common failure modes in the CICM Second Part Paediatric Examination?
- Applying adult ICU frameworks without adjusting for paediatric physiology, weight-based dosing and age-specific targets.
- Hot-case anxiety in the PICU: an unstructured bedside examination that misses the marks in each scored domain.
- Thin coverage of neonatal and congenital-heart presentations and of paediatric-specific emergencies (DKA with cerebral oedema, status epilepticus, single-ventricle physiology).
- SAQ answers that list differentials instead of giving a prioritised, child-specific management plan with doses per kilogram.
What resources does PRIMEX provide for the CICM Second Part Paediatric Examination?
PRIMEX provides a curriculum-mapped question bank, AI-graded practice, and structured study resources for the CICM Second Part Paediatric Examination. Start with a 7-day free trial to access the full platform.