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 analogues or smart 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, you must hand it in at the time of registration and ensure all devices are switched off. 

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) 
• Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery
• Urology
• Vascular Surgery
• Paediatric Surgery

Electronic or paper delivery (candidate choice)

• General Surgery
• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

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

 Candidates should arrive at the scheduled time mentioned in the email they received.

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