Exam structure

The GSSE is comprised of two 150 minute (2.5 hour) online examinations held over two consecutive days. Please note that there is no reading time for these examinations. There is also no negative marking for incorrect responses.

This exam is worth approximately 50 per cent of the total GSSE mark. It consists of 60 multiple choice questions (MCQs) and 20 anatomy spot test questions. 

The 60 MCQs are all Type X questions where there are four distractors that are worth one mark each. This means a Type X question is worth up to four marks in total.

The breakdown is as follows:

The 20 anatomy spot test questions are worth a total of eight marks each. These questions can cover any part of the anatomy syllabus.

This exam is worth approximately 50 per cent of the total GSSE mark, with the pathology and physiology components representing approximately 25% each. It consists of a total of 125 MCQs.

The pathology component consists of 65 MCQs of the following question types:

• 20 "type A" and "type B" questions where there is one correct answer worth one mark.
• 45 "type X" questions where there are four distractors that are worth one mark each. This means a type X question is worth up to four marks in total.

The breakdown is as follows:

The physiology component consists of 60 MCQs of the following question types:

• 12 "type A" and "type B" questions where there is one correct answer worth one mark.
• 48 "type X" questions where there are four distractors that are worth one mark each. This means a "type X" question is worth up to four marks in total.

The breakdown is as follows:

The GSSE and Specialty Specific examinations are all conducted online.

Candidates are individually timed and that begins when each candidate first clicks on 'Start'. This ensures that each candidate receives their full allotted time and can see the time they have remaining on their monitor.

Candidates have the ability to freely navigate the entire examination or to proceed sequentially. Individual questions can be flagged (and unflagged) by the candidate if required. Examination questions within each section are randomised between candidates.

Answers are automatically saved every few minutes and whenever a page is refreshed. All answers can be finalised by the candidate at any time. Prior to exiting the exam, the candidate has the ability to review the entire exam to ensure that all questions have been attempted.

Listen to these candidates reflect on their exam preparation.

"Preparing for this exam is not just gaining the basic knowledge …"

"Before you start doing your study I think you need to look at the College question bank ..."

 "I personally found that more independent study was helpful ..."