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The Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons is the mark of excellence for surgeons across the globe. This prestigious postgraduate qualification is awarded by the Royal College of Surgeons in the United Kingdom and Ireland. If you are an aspiring surgeon looking to appear for the final stage of FRCS Section 2 General Surgery examination, here we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about FRCS eligibility criteria.

FRCS Section 2 General Surgery Examination 

FRCS Section 2 General Surgery examination primarily evaluates candidates’ knowledge and skills in the field of General surgery. The FRCS exam also assesses aspirants’ clinical acumen, communication skills, data interpretation, decision-making abilities, and the ability to handle real-life surgical situations.

There are two versions of FRCS, one for domestic and other for International candidates.

JCIE  FRCS (Joint Committee on Intercollegiate Examinations) (domestic – UK & Ireland)

JSCFE FRCS (Joint Surgical Colleges’ Fellowship Examinations) (international)

FRCS Section 2 General Surgery – All about Eligibility Criteria

There are different eligibility requirements for Non-UK JCIE candidates and JSCFE international candidates.

Eligibility requirements for Non-UK JCIE candidates

Medical Degree (MBBS or equivalent qualification) recognised by GMC UK/ MC Ireland

Core training (CT1 to CT2)

Specialist training (CT3 to CT8)

A minimum of 6 years of surgical experience and 4 years of speciality training

MRCS exam clearance

ID proof

A minimum of one year of active surgical engagement in either the UK or Ireland is a prerequisite. Throughout this period within the UK or Ireland, candidates are expected to enrol in ISCP, ensuring a documented confirmation of competency progression linked to this registration.

Three structured references – Referees must all be on the UK or Irish Medical Register. One should be the Clinical Director/Lead and the Referees must have direct experience with the applicant’s current clinical practice in the last 2 years.

CV in GMC-suggested format

Operative Summary

Eligibility requirements for JSCFE international candidates

6 years of experience

MRCS exam clearance

Successful completion of surgical training programmes like MS or MCh

Evidence of having achieved the required competencies Three references are required – One from the Head of Regional Training Committee (HOD) and two from Senior clinicians who have closely collaborated with the candidate within the last two years.

CV

Surgical logbook

In the case of Indian medical graduates working as General Surgeons, you will have to appear for JSCFE FRCS General Surgery. It’s time to take the first step towards your dream career in surgery.