Primary Examination
The Primary Examination consists of study and examination in the areas of Anatomy, Histology, Physiology, Cell Biology & Biochemistry, Pathology and Microbiology. The aim is for candidates to demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of the basic sciences and, importantly, their relationship to clinical practice.
It is strongly advised that candidates obtain a current version of the Orientation Course lecture notes.
The Primary Examination takes place in early December each year and consists of both written papers and oral examinations. This Examination must be successfully completed by all candidates, unless they have been granted an exemption.
The College has regionalised parts of the Examinations in recognition of the needs of our candidates. Traditionally, Sydney was the only examination centre for the College. Since 1996, candidates have been able to sit the written papers of the Primary Examination at three centres: Sydney, Hong Kong and Perth. This was expanded to include Melbourne in 1997 and Brisbane in 1999. In 2002, Auckland was added, and in 2003, Singapore.
For the written paper to be held regionally, Australian venues require a minimum of five candidates, and Auckland and Singapore require a minimum of ten candidates at each location. The viva voce portion of the Primary Examination is currently conducted in Sydney and Hong Kong, following the written papers. A minimum of fourteen candidates is required to hold the full examination in Hong Kong.
Week One - Written Papers
Written papers are usually held from Monday to Wednesday. Each subject consists of a two hour written paper, two subjects scheduled on each day (one morning and afternoon). As examinations are run concurrently, examination times differ depending on the regional centre a candidate selects.
Week Two - Viva Voce Examinations
Viva Voce Examinations are usually held from Monday to Thursday (Sydney venue) and Saturday, possibly to Monday (Hong Kong venue). Each subject consists of a 10 minute viva. Candidates attending the Sydney venue are given six specific times for their vivas, and these times are usually spread over two days, with a minimum of one hour between each subject. For Hong Kong candidates, subjects are paired together and three 20 minute times are scheduled.
Previous candidates have found attendance at the Orientation Course (held in Sydney during July) is invaluable for exam preparation. The Course also gives candidates the opportunity to meet with Examiners (also the lecturers of the Course).
Past examination papers are available free of charge to enrolled candidates.
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