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[ Home ](https://mdster.com) 2. [ Emergency Medicine ](https://mdster.com/speciality/emergency-medicine) 3. FACEM FACEM Exam Preparation ======================== Fellowship of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine Australasian College for Emergency Medicine Australia/New Zealand FACEM is the fellowship qualification awarded by the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM) through the FACEM Training Program’s Primary and Fellowship examinations. The Primary Exam confirms core knowledge of the four basic sciences relevant to Emergency Medicine, while the Fellowship Exam assesses knowledge and performance at the level expected of a junior consultant; candidates must pass the Fellowship Written Exam to be eligible for the Fellowship Clinical Examination (OSCE). Primary Written Exam Primary Oral Exam (Integrated Viva) Fellowship Written Exam Fellowship Clinical Exam (OSCE) 5,368+ Questions 3,254+ Flashcards 68+ Podcasts About the FACEM Exam ---------------------- The Fellowship of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (FACEM) is the definitive specialist qualification for Emergency Medicine physicians in Australia and New Zealand. Awarded by the ACEM, the certification rigorously assesses a candidate's mastery of basic sciences, clinical knowledge, and practical skills through structured Primary and Fellowship examinations. Achieving the FACEM credential signifies that a physician is fully equipped to practice independently as an Emergency Medicine consultant. ### Eligibility Candidates must be registered medical practitioners and formally enrolled in the ACEM FACEM Training Program. Eligibility to sit the Primary Exams requires specific preliminary training time, while the Fellowship Exams require successful completion of the Primary Exams, advanced training progression (typically late stage 3 or stage 4), and completion of required workplace-based assessments. ### Exam Format The assessment is divided into Primary and Fellowship tiers. The Primary Exam features a 6-hour online MCQ written paper and an Oral (Integrated Viva) exam with four 10-minute stations. The Fellowship Exam includes a 6-hour Written component (Short Answer Questions and MCQs) and a Clinical component (OSCE) featuring up to 12 stations. ### Duration Primary Written: 6 hours (two 3-hour sessions). Primary Viva: 40 minutes. Fellowship Written: 6 hours. Fellowship OSCE: Conducted over two consecutive days with up to 12 stations, each lasting 11 minutes. ### Passing Criteria ACEM utilizes rigorous standard-setting methodologies. Written exams typically use the Modified Angoff method to determine the pass mark, while the OSCE uses borderline regression. Candidates must pass the written components to unlock eligibility for the respective oral or clinical components. ### Exam Fees Examination fees vary by component, typically ranging from AUD 2,000 for written papers to over AUD 5,000 for the OSCE. Candidates should verify the exact and current fee schedule directly on the ACEM member portal. ### Exam Frequency FACEM examinations are generally conducted twice a year. Written exams typically take place in the early quarter (February/March) and third quarter (August/September), with Clinical/Oral exams following a few months later. ### Registration Process Registration is conducted entirely online via the ACEM member portal during strict application windows. Candidates must ensure all training prerequisites, including in-training assessments and fees, are finalized prior to submitting an application. FACEM Key Syllabus Topics --------------------------- Core topics and subject areas covered in the FACEM examination ### Anatomy Detailed applied anatomy focusing on trauma, emergency procedures (e.g., chest drains, central lines), and radiological interpretation. ~25% of Primary Exam ### Physiology Normal and altered human physiology, particularly respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological responses to acute illness and injury. ~25% of Primary Exam ### Pathology Disease processes, immunology, microbiology, and hematology relevant to emergency medicine presentations. ~25% of Primary Exam ### Pharmacology Pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology of critical care drugs, analgesics, and common emergency medications. ~25% of Primary Exam ### Resuscitation & Trauma Advanced management algorithms for critically ill and injured patients, airway management, shock, and multi-trauma care. ~High yield (Fellowship) ### Cardiovascular Emergencies Acute coronary syndromes, complex arrhythmias, heart failure management, and structural heart emergencies. ~High yield (Fellowship) ### Toxicology & Toxinology Management of acute poisonings, drug overdoses, and envenomation highly relevant to the Australian and New Zealand environments. ~High yield (Fellowship) ### Pediatric Emergency Medicine Recognition and acute management of the critically ill or injured child, including neonatal emergencies and pediatric trauma. ~High yield (Fellowship) ### Communication & Professionalism Breaking bad news, end-of-life discussions, conflict resolution, and teaching juniors. ~Crucial for Fellowship OSCE ### Administration & ED Management Triage principles, disaster and mass casualty management, patient flow dynamics, and quality improvement. ~Moderate (Fellowship) **10** key topics covered Start Your FACEM Preparation Today ------------------------------------ Comprehensive study materials designed to help you pass the FACEM with confidence [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • 5-day free trial Everything You Need to Pass the FACEM --------------------------------------- A complete preparation platform with tools designed for Emergency Medicine professionals ### Practice Questions 5,368+ questions across MCQ, SAQ, SOE formats with detailed explanations and references ### Flashcards 3,254+ flashcards for active recall — mark known and unknown cards to focus on weak areas ### Audio Podcasts 68+ audio episodes — learn on the go during commutes, workouts, or ward breaks ### Timed Mock Exams Simulate real exam conditions with timed sessions, customisable question counts, and topic filters ### AI-Powered Q&A Ask follow-up questions on any topic and get instant, contextual answers with references ### Performance Analytics Track your progress, identify weak areas, and monitor your exam readiness with detailed analytics FACEM Exam Structure ---------------------- Our materials cover all parts of the FACEM examination ### Primary Written Exam The FACEM Primary Written Exam is a rigorous assessment designed to evaluate a trainee's knowledge of the four foundational basic sciences as they apply to emergency medicine. It ensures that candidates possess the essential scientific grounding in anatomy, pathology, physiology, and pharmacology required for safe and effective clinical practice in the emergency department. Multiple Choice Questions (Select Choice Questions only) delivered as an online integrated written exam. Six hours (conducted across two 3-hour sessions). Pass: The passing score is determined for each exam cohort using standard-setting methodologies (such as the modified Angoff method) to ensure fairness and consistency across different test iterations. Key Topics Anatomy Physiology Pharmacology Pathology ### Primary Oral Exam (Integrated Viva) The FACEM Primary Oral Exam (Integrated Viva) is a rigorous verbal assessment designed to evaluate a candidate's ability to apply core basic science knowledge to clinical Emergency Medicine scenarios. It tests real-time clinical reasoning, synthesis of complex scientific principles, and effective communication skills under pressure. Candidates are required to demonstrate a deep understanding of how anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology directly influence patient presentations and emergency management. Oral examination consisting of four 10-minute verbal stations (integrated vivas) 40 minutes (four 10-minute stations) Pass: Candidates must achieve a designated overall pass mark across all four stations, determined by the ACEM using established standard-setting methodologies for each examination cohort. Key Topics Applied Anatomy for Procedures Trauma Anatomy and Imaging Cardiorespiratory Physiology Neurophysiology and Renal Physiology Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics Emergency Medications and Toxicology +2 more ### Fellowship Written Exam The FACEM Fellowship Written Exam is the critical first component of the final Fellowship assessment, evaluating candidates' clinical reasoning, theoretical knowledge, and decision-making capabilities. It tests candidates at the standard of a junior Emergency Medicine consultant and serves as a prerequisite for progressing to the Fellowship Clinical Examination. Two distinct papers: Paper 1 comprises Short Answer Questions (SAQs), and Paper 2 consists of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Extended Matching/Select Choice Questions. 6 hours total (divided into two 3-hour papers) Pass: The pass mark is determined using standard-setting methods (such as the modified Angoff method) applied to the combined scores of both papers to establish a junior consultant competency standard. Key Topics Resuscitation and Trauma General Medical Emergencies Paediatric Emergency Medicine Surgical and Orthopaedic Emergencies Toxicology and Toxinology Emergency Department Administration +1 more ### Fellowship Clinical Exam (OSCE) The FACEM Fellowship Clinical Exam (OSCE) is a rigorous practical assessment designed to evaluate a candidate's readiness to practice as a consultant in the Emergency Department. Held over two consecutive days, it assesses core clinical competencies including history taking, physical examination, complex communication, and resuscitation under highly standardized conditions. Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) consisting of up to 12 stations Held over two consecutive days with each station lasting 11 minutes (including reading and assessment time) Pass: Determined per exam iteration using standard-setting methodologies such as the Borderline Regression Method Key Topics Resuscitation and Case-Based Discussion Communication Skills Clinical Teaching History Taking Clinical Examination How to Prepare for the FACEM ------------------------------ A practical guide to help you plan your FACEM preparation effectively ### Recommended Timeline 9-12 months of structured, intensive study per major exam block (Primary and Fellowship respectively). ### Study Tips - Form a dedicated study group early, particularly for practicing OSCE stations and Viva communication. - Practice Short Answer Questions (SAQs) under strict timed conditions to build stamina for the 6-hour Fellowship written paper. - Integrate basic science principles with realistic clinical scenarios when studying for the Primary Exam. - Familiarize yourself with local Australasian guidelines rather than relying exclusively on North American or European texts. - Regularly review the Life in the Fast Lane (LITFL) clinical cases and ECG library to build rapid pattern recognition. - Utilize the ACEM standard training modules and past examiner reports to understand the specific standard expected of a junior consultant. ### High-Yield Topics - Australasian Toxinology (snake and spider envenomation) - Applied anatomy for emergency procedures (airway, vascular access, regional blocks) - Resuscitation pharmacology and ACLS algorithms - Pediatric resuscitation and non-accidental injury - Communication stations involving angry patients or breaking bad news - ECG and arterial blood gas (ABG) interpretation ### Common Pitfalls - Failing to manage time during the SAQ written paper, resulting in incomplete answers. - Treating the Fellowship OSCE purely as a knowledge test rather than demonstrating safe clinical practice and effective communication. - Neglecting the basic sciences until the last minute during Primary Exam preparation. - Failing to directly answer the specific question asked in SAQs (e.g., giving 'management' when 'investigations' are requested). - Overlooking the administrative and systems-based practice aspects of Emergency Medicine. ### Recommended Resources - Dunn's The Emergency Medicine Manual - Cameron's Textbook of Adult Emergency Medicine - Life in the Fast Lane (LITFL) FOAMed resources - ACEM Past Examination Papers and Examiner Reports - Tintinalli's Emergency Medicine: A Comprehensive Study Guide - Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG) Australia Study Pathways ---------------- Choose the pathway that matches your FACEM preparation stage ### Emergency Medicine Core Pathway Core pathway for Emergency Medicine covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### What's Included 2,345 MCQ Questions 1,143 SAQ Questions 2,343 Flashcards 35 Podcasts 5,866 total study resources #### Exam Coverage FACEM Primary Written Exam FACEM Primary Oral Exam (Integrated Viva) [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) ### Emergency Medicine Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Emergency Medicine covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### What's Included 997 MCQ Questions 769 SAQ Questions 114 SOE Questions 911 Flashcards 33 Podcasts 2,824 total study resources #### Exam Coverage FACEM Fellowship Written Exam FACEM Fellowship Clinical Exam (OSCE) [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) Last refreshed: May 2026 Flexible Pricing Plans ------------------------ Choose the plan that fits your FACEM study schedule ### Try Risk-Free for 5 Days Start your free trial today and get full access to all FACEM features. **No credit card required**. Cancel anytime. No Commitment! Full platform access All study materials Analytics & tracking Cancel anytime ### Emergency Medicine Core Pathway Core pathway for Emergency Medicine covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $12.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 8% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $11.00 /month Billed $33.00 every 3 months Save 8% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 17% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $10.00 /month Billed $60.00 every 6 months Save 17% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Emergency Medicine Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Emergency Medicine covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $15.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 13% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $13.00 /month Billed $39.00 every 3 months Save 13% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 20% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $12.00 /month Billed $72.00 every 6 months Save 20% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Emergency Medicine Bundle (Core + Advanced) Bundle subscription for Emergency Medicine: Core + Advanced pathways with all features included. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $20.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 15% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $17.00 /month Billed $51.00 every 3 months Save 15% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 25% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $15.00 /month Billed $90.00 every 6 months Save 25% vs monthly Best value for serious learners Latest FACEM Updates ---------------------- Recent changes and developments for the FACEM examination 2022 ### FACEM Training Program Revisions ACEM introduced an updated FACEM training program, altering some assessment structures and workplace-based assessments. Candidates enrolling from 2022 face updated progression requirements. Recent ### Transition to Digital Written Exams Both Primary and Fellowship written components have fully transitioned to a computer-based format delivered at authorized testing centers. Candidates should practice typing SAQs. Recent ### OSCE Station Adjustments Minor adjustments have been made to the length and structure of Fellowship OSCE stations to better reflect contemporary ED workflows. Candidates should verify the exact 11-minute format with the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine. Updates are based on publicly available information and may not reflect the very latest changes. Always verify with the official Australasian College for Emergency Medicine website. Related Emergency Medicine Exams ---------------------------------- Other examinations in Emergency Medicine you may be interested in [ ### ABEM American Board of Emergency Medicine USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/emergency-medicine/abem) [ ### AOBEM American Osteopathic Board of Emergency Medicine USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/emergency-medicine/aobem) [ ### CFPC College of Family Physicians of Canada Canada ](https://mdster.com/speciality/emergency-medicine/cfpc-emergency-medicine) [ ### EBEEM European Board Examination in Emergency Medicine Europe ](https://mdster.com/speciality/emergency-medicine/ebeem) [ ### FRCEM Fellowship of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine UK ](https://mdster.com/speciality/emergency-medicine/frcem) [ ### MRCEM Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine UK ](https://mdster.com/speciality/emergency-medicine/mrcem) Frequently Asked Questions ---------------------------- Everything you need to know about FACEM preparation ### What is the difference between the Primary and Fellowship FACEM exams? The Primary Exam assesses core knowledge of four basic sciences (anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology) as they relate to emergency medicine. The Fellowship Exam evaluates advanced clinical knowledge, complex decision-making, and the practical skills expected of a junior consultant. ### Who is eligible to sit the FACEM examinations? Candidates must be registered medical practitioners actively enrolled in the ACEM FACEM Training Program. Specific training time, progression points, and workplace-based assessments must be completed before a candidate is cleared to apply for each exam. ### Can I sit the Fellowship OSCE before passing the written exam? No, candidates must successfully pass the Fellowship Written Exam before they are eligible to attempt the Fellowship Clinical Examination (OSCE). A similar prerequisite applies to the Primary Written and Oral exams. ### How is the Fellowship OSCE structured? The OSCE is typically held over two consecutive days. It consists of up to 12 stations, each lasting 11 minutes (including reading and assessment time). Stations simulate real ED scenarios involving history taking, physical examination, communication, resuscitation, and teaching. ### What happens if I fail a component of the FACEM exam? Candidates are permitted to retake exam components, provided they remain within the maximum training time limits set by ACEM. Candidates should carefully review ACEM's progression and maximum attempt policies if a retake is necessary. ### What is the pass mark for the FACEM exams? There is no fixed percentage pass mark. ACEM uses standard-setting methods, such as the Modified Angoff method for written papers and borderline regression for OSCEs, to ensure a fair and consistent standard across different candidate cohorts. ### How much does it cost to take the FACEM exams? Exam fees are substantial, with individual components typically ranging from AUD 2,000 to over AUD 5,000. Completing all parts of the examination process generally costs over AUD 12,000, so candidates should consult the ACEM website for the most up-to-date fee schedule. ### How long does it typically take to prepare for the Fellowship Exam? Most successful candidates dedicate 9 to 12 months of highly structured study for the Fellowship Written Exam. Following a pass, candidates usually spend an additional 2 to 3 months focusing intensively on clinical simulation and communication practice for the OSCE. Specialty reading hub Related Emergency Medicine Articles ------------------------------------- Reinforce your FACEM preparation with specialty-specific guides, exam strategy articles, and clinical revision insights from the MDster blog. 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May 10, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/how-to-pass-the-royal-college-of-physicians-and-surgeons-of-canada-rcpsc-emergency-medicin) [ ![Hip and Pelvic Fractures in Older Adults: The ED Approach](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/hip-and-pelvic-fractures-in-older-adults-the-ed-approach.jpg) Medical Education / 6 min read ### Hip and Pelvic Fractures in Older Adults: The ED Approach High-yield ED review of geriatric hip and pelvic fractures, with pearls on occult injury, regional blocks, admission decisions, and early mobilization planning. May 07, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/hip-and-pelvic-fractures-in-older-adults-the-ed-approach) [ ![Pediatric Trauma Airway and TBI: High-Stakes ED Case Discussion](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/pediatric-trauma-airway-and-tbi-high-stakes-ed-case-discussion.jpg) Case Discussion / 4 min read ### Pediatric Trauma Airway and TBI: High-Stakes ED Case Discussion A board-focused Emergency Medicine case discussion on pediatric trauma airway management, severe TBI ventilation, occult hemorrhagic shock, cervical spine precautions, and the limits of PECARN. May 03, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/pediatric-trauma-airway-and-tbi-high-stakes-ed-case-discussion) Ready to Pass the FACEM? -------------------------- Join medical professionals who are preparing for the Fellowship of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine with MDster [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • Cancel anytime [ MDster home ](/ "MDster home") Master your medical exams with evidence-based learning. 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