GSSE Exam Structure
The Generic Surgical Sciences Examination consists of two online examinations held over two consecutive days.
150 min
Per Exam
None
Negative Marking
None
Reading Time
Exam Schedule
Conducted three times annually in February, June, and October.
Registration windows typically open approximately three months prior to each examination period.
Exam 1 — Anatomy
150 minutes · ~50% of GSSE mark
4 true/false statements per question · 1 mark each · 4 marks total
Image-based questions · 8 marks each · Any anatomy topic
Category Distribution (MCQs)
Question Types Explained
Worth: 1 mark
Traditional MCQ with one correct answer from 5 options. Select the single best answer (A–E).
Worth: 4 marks
Four independent true/false statements. Each statement marked separately (1 mark per statement).
Worth: 8 marks
Image-based questions testing anatomical identification and clinical correlation. Multiple sub-questions per image.
Online Exam System
Candidates are individually timed — timer starts when you click "Start"
Free navigation through entire exam or sequential progression
Questions can be flagged for later review
Questions are randomised between candidates
Answers auto-save every few minutes and on page refresh
Review screen available before submission to check all questions attempted
Preparation Tips
"Preparing for this exam is not just gaining the basic knowledge..."
"Before you start studying, look at the College question bank first..."