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Examinations

Pre-Training Examinations 

As part of the application and selection process, applicants must complete two examinations: 

  • RACS Generic Surgical Science Examination 
  • NSA Neurosurgery Anatomy Examination 

The RACS Generic Surgical Sciences Examination is designed to demonstrate that the candidate understands anatomy, pathology and physiology at levels required for surgical training. It is not a neurosurgery specific examination.  Successful completion of the RACS Generic Surgical Science Examination is a prerequisite to apply for selection for the Training Program so future applicants should be planning to sit this in the year prior to their first application to the Training Program.   Information on the RACS Generic Surgical Science Examination is available on the RACS website.

The NSA Neurosurgery Anatomy Examination is designed to demonstrate that the candidate understands neuroanatomy and is a selection tool used as part of the selection process for the Training Program. Applicants can only sit this as part of the selection process, and must sit on each occasion they apply for selection to the Training Program. Further details can be found here.  

Training Examinations

The Training Program training requirements include successful completion of one examination:

  • RACS Fellowship Examination in Neurosurgery

The RACS Fellowship Examination in Neurosurgery is the final examination, at the standard and level of competency equivalent to that of a consultant surgeon in their first year of independent practice as a neurosurgeon. The examination comprises both a written and clinical/viva component. This is sat in Advanced Training only.  Information on the RACS Fellowship Examination is available on the RACS website.

The Training Seminars may also have examination which trainees must sit but which are not used to determine progression or completion of training. They are a way to provide feedback to trainees on their level of knowledge so that trainees can reflect on their self directed learning and development.