Writtens - on the day

The only thing candidates need to bring to the venue is photo identification. A candidate may bring their own pen if completing the examination on paper, however the venue can also supply these.

At registration at the venue, all candidates will be required to hand in watches, phones, tablets and other electronic devices. These items are held in a secure room and are returned to candidates at the conclusion of the session. These items are collected again prior to the second session (if applicable). 

If you bring a bag, this may be taken into the examination room and left at the front. No devices can be left in it that may make a noise - these should be handed in during registration.

Certain items cannot be brought into the examination room.  Candidates are advised to read the information on prohibited materials and cheating.

Most specialties have two written papers that are held on the same day with a break between them. There are breakout areas at the venues where candidates can wait. 

Candidates are also able to leave the venue to go for a walk or get something to eat. RACS does not provide catering for candidates during the break.

Candidates should read the candidate information, which contains full information about the written examinations (both paper based and computer based).

Candidates are required to ensure that do not bring any prohibited materials into the examination room. Please see the prohibited materials and cheating page for details.

The Written Fellowship examination will be available in the following delivery formats:

Electronic delivery only

• Cardiothoracic Surgery
• Neurosurgery
• Orthopaedic Surgery (MCQs) (Examination 1)
• Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery
• Urology
• Vascular Surgery
• Paediatric Surgery

Electronic or paper delivery (candidate choice)

• General Surgery
• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• Orthopaedic Surgery (Examination 2 on written request to examinations@surgeons.org with evidence)

Candidates will receive details of their written examination time and venue via email, following the board approval process.

Candidates should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the commencement time to allow for registration.

The written examination is conducted simultaneously across Australia and New Zealand and is offered in the following cities at Cliftons Training Centres.

Australia: Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

New Zealand: Auckland and Wellington

The length of written examination sessions for all specialties is listed below

 Session 1 (AM) for the 130 minute exam

 Session 1 (AM) for the 150 minute exam

 Session 2 (PM) for the 130 minute exam

 Session 2 (PM) for the 150 minute exam