Interim Assessment - Substantially Comparable

IMG surgeons are assessed as substantially comparable if there is evidence:

• of recent surgical practice in the relevant specialty
• completion of a specialist training program comparable to the RACS programs including the competencies, skills and attributes
• the applicant has completed an exit examination comparable to the RACS Fellowship Examination and/or
• the depth and scope of surgical practice in the specialty since the attainment of their surgical qualification is of a sufficiently high standard or duration as to waive the need to sit the Fellowship Examination.

IMG surgeons who are assessed as substantially comparable will be required to complete the following before being eligible for specialist recognition and Fellowship of the College:

• undergo a period of up to 12 months of clinical assessment commencing on MBA Level 3 supervision requirements, progressing to MBA Level 4 supervision based on satisfactory performance
• complete professional development activities and
• complete any specified up-skilling.

The flowchart below depicts the process undertaken by an IMG if they are assessed as substantially comparable.

Successful completion of assessment requirements entitles the applicant to specialist recognition and/or Fellowship of RACS.

For further information read the Guidelines for Substantially Comparable IMG Surgeons Undergoing Clinical Assessment (PDF 343.99KB).