by @ tiffstudies
Thank you to everyone who sent through a question about the GSSE. I’ve compiled a guide here covering your questions and my advice from having sat it in October 2023. If you have any other questions please comment them on the original Instagram post!
(Please note that all opinions are my own. This post is not endorsed or affiliated by any person or any company, including RACS)
What is the GSSE? 🤷🏻♀️
- It is the ‘Generic Surgical Sciences Examination’ by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). It tests aspiring surgical candidates on anatomy, pathology and physiology. Successfully passing the GSSE is a mandatory eligibility requirement for selection onto surgical programs in Australia and New Zealand.
Where do I start?🚦
- Firstly, it is important that you decide whether you want to pursue surgical training or not. If you want to become a surgeon, then it is wise that you sit this exam sooner rather than later. If you are unsure, do a bit more soul searching before dedicating almost $5k to this one exam.
When do I register? 🖊️
- The exam is held in February, June and October each year. The October exam is NOT open to SET trainees.
- Registration details for each exam sitting are available on the RACS website, as are the details on fees. Currently, 2024 fees for Junior Doctors are $4,850 (Australia) / $5,425 (New Zealand).
> Sitting in PGY1 <
- If you pass, you can mention it when job interviews come around for SRMO positions midway through PGY2, and to consultants during surgical rotations (intrinsically demonstrating your initiative, dedication and motivation towards the career).
- Medical knowledge is fresher in your mind (in theory) given you have just graduated from med school.
- If you fail, you have room to resit it prior to job applications in mid-PGY2.
- It may be difficult to sit earlier on in the year given you are adjusting to working full time in the hospital system.
> Sitting in PGY2 <
- More time to study to build up your confidence.