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Applying for surgical education and training (SET) can seem like a daunting and confusing task. Early preparation and an understanding of the requirements and training necessary for successful application is critical. On this page, we have distilled the information to the important aspects, courses, as well as a guide to the application itself to help in this process so you can all familarise yourself with the information.
Disclaimer: This information is largely available on the RACS website, however, we have condensed it here for ease of access. RACS provides updates on their website and we will endevour to keep the informationa as up to date as possible. However you should frequently check the RACS website and refer to their information as the definitive source.
Courses
Courses
Courses, modules, exams set out by RACS are targeted for training at different levels. Some of these are required prior to application for SET, and others are mandated for trainees prior to finishing SET training. Regardless, almost all courses listed below will be available/eligible to all candidates after PGY3+ and enrolment and completion of these will set you up to be a much better candidate and surgical trainee. Many of these courses have fixed dates which are released early in the year, and have limited availability so early application and approval of leave for these is important. The courses can be broadly classified as:
Required for SET application
GSSE
Operating with respect eModule
Hand Hygiene Australia Online Learning Module
Required prior to Completion SET training
CLEAR
ASSET
EMST
CCrISP
OWR
TIPS
Required for SET application
Required for SET application
- GSSE (Generic Surgical Sciences Examination)
- Operating with respect eModule
- Hand Hygiene Australia Online Learning Module
Required for SET completion (Varies between subspecialties)
- CLEAR
- ASSET
- EMST
- CCrISP
- OWR
- TIPS
Alternatives to above courses which can be completed internationally, that are also recognised by RACS
ASSET - Basic Surgical Skills (BSS)
EMST - Advanced trauma life support (ATLS)
CCrISP
- Held in several locations internationally
Other courses
There are also other courses which are accredited by RACS which are not mandatory for SET application or completion. However, many of these can help increase your knowledge and expertise, as well as bolster your CV. A full list of these courses can be found here.
Application process
Application process
General Surgery
The selection process for General surgery for 2025 and onwards has been revised and updated information can be found on the GSA website linked below.
https://www.generalsurgeons.com.au/education-and-training/selection
Each subspecialty follows slightly different guidelines, weightings and evaluation processes so reading the documents for each subspecialty you wish to apply for is of utmost importance. Information regarding applications can be found at:
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