Exam Details & Pattern

What are the documents required to apply for FRCS?

The documents required include proof of qualifications, curriculum vitae (CV), evidence of training, medical registration, ID proof, and other supporting documents.

Where can I find the application form?

Visit the Royal College website ( https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/) to fill out the application form. 

How long does it take to complete FRCS?

It takes a maximum of 7 years to complete the examination process 

How many times can you attempt Section 1 and Section 2 exams?

Section 1:  Maximum of 4 attempts (2 years)

Section 2:  Maximum of 4 attempts with no re-entry

What is the pattern for the Section 1 exam for JCIE and JSCFE?
  • Paper 1: 120 Single Best Answer (2 hours 15 mins)  
  • Paper 2: 120 Single Best Answer (2 hours 15 mins)
What is the pattern for the Section 2 exam ( JCIE )?

There are 2 parts to it: Clinical examination and Oral/viva examination

Clinical examination

  • General Surgery Clinical – 2 Short Cases (20 mins) + 1 Long case (20mins)
  • Special Interest Clinical –  2 Short Cases (20 mins) + 1 Long case (20mins)

Oral/viva examinations: (30 mins each)

  • Emergency Surgery/Trauma/Critical Care 
  • General Surgery Principles and Clinical Practice
  • Special Interest Surgery – Clinical Practice 
  • Special Interest Surgery – Basic Principles x15 min and Academic Foundation x 15 min (Candidates will be given 30 minutes to read one generic paper relevant to the wider field of General Surgery)
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What is the pattern for the Section 2 exam ( JSCFE)?

There are 2 parts to it: Clinical examination and Oral/viva examination

Clinical examination

  • Two short case sessions (4 cases in each session) –  30 mins each
  •  History taking/  examination and planning of surgical care/relevant pathology/ investigations and operative surgery

Oral/Viva examinations

  • Emergency Surgery Oral (30 minutes) 
  • General Surgery Oral (30 minutes)  
  • Trauma and Critical Care (30 minutes) 

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