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[ Home ](https://mdster.com) 2. [ Internal Medicine ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine) 3. FCP(SA) FCP(SA) Exam Preparation ========================== Fellowship of the College of Physicians of South Africa Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (College of Physicians) South Africa FCP(SA) is the physician fellowship examination administered by the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA) through the College of Physicians. It is a major postgraduate credential for Internal Medicine specialists and is structured as staged assessments progressing from foundational sciences to advanced written, clinical, and structured oral components. The examination pathway is widely recognized and used as a key benchmark of specialist-level competence in physician practice. FCP(SA) Part I FCP(SA) Part II 3,853+ Questions 3,627+ Flashcards 68+ Podcasts About the FCP(SA) Exam ------------------------ The Fellowship of the College of Physicians of South Africa, abbreviated as FCP(SA), is the premier postgraduate specialist qualification in Internal Medicine in South Africa. Administered by the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA), it is a rigorous, two-part examination that serves as the benchmark for specialist-level competence. Successfully obtaining the FCP(SA) credential is a key requirement for registration as a specialist physician with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). ### Eligibility For Part I, candidates must hold a medical qualification registered with the HPCSA and have successfully completed their internship. For Part II, candidates must have passed Part I, hold current HPCSA registration, and have completed a specified minimum period (typically 36 to 48 months) of approved registrar training in an accredited Internal Medicine department. ### Exam Format Part I consists of a single basic sciences multiple-choice question (MCQ) paper. Part II is divided into written and clinical components: the written section includes two Short Answer/Case Assessment (SCA) papers and one objective test. Candidates who pass the written section are invited to the clinical/oral component, which consists of an Assessment of Clinical Competence and Structured Oral Examinations. ### Duration The Part I exam is typically a single 3-hour paper. Part II written exams are spread over two days (usually 3 hours per paper), followed by the clinical and oral assessments which take place over one to two days in the subsequent months. ### Passing Criteria Part I requires a standard-set pass mark (usually around 50%). For Part II, candidates must achieve a minimum aggregate pass across the written papers (with no critically low scores in any single paper) to be invited to the clinicals. The clinical and oral examinations must then be passed independently to achieve the overall FCP(SA) qualification. ### Exam Fees Exam fees typically range from R 7,000 to R 16,000 depending on the specific Part and examination component. Candidates should verify the exact, current fee structure on the official CMSA website as these are subject to annual review. ### Exam Frequency The CMSA examinations are generally held twice a year, grouped into a First Semester (usually February to May) and a Second Semester (usually July to October). ### Registration Process Registration is conducted entirely online via the CMSA portal. Candidates must create an account, complete the application form, upload certified copies of their medical degree, proof of HPCSA registration, and a certificate of training (for Part II), followed by online payment of the examination fees before the strict closing dates. FCP(SA) Key Syllabus Topics ----------------------------- Core topics and subject areas covered in the FCP(SA) examination ### Basic Sciences (Part I Focus) Applied clinical physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and anatomy relevant to the practice of internal medicine. ~100% of Part I, foundational for Part II ### Infectious Diseases & HIV Medicine Diagnosis, management, and prevention of infectious diseases, with a heavy emphasis on HIV/AIDS, opportunistic infections, and Tuberculosis given the South African epidemiological context. ~15-20% (High yield) ### Cardiology Management of ischemic heart disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, valvular heart disease, and hypertension. ~10-15% ### Pulmonology Evaluation and treatment of obstructive airways diseases (Asthma, COPD), interstitial lung diseases, pulmonary vascular disease, and respiratory failure. ~10-15% ### Nephrology Acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, glomerular diseases, acid-base balance, and electrolyte derangements. ~10-12% ### Endocrinology & Metabolism Diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, adrenal and pituitary disorders, and lipid metabolism. ~10-12% ### Gastroenterology & Hepatology Liver diseases (cirrhosis, viral hepatitis), inflammatory bowel disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, and pancreaticobiliary disorders. ~8-10% ### Neurology Stroke, epilepsy, movement disorders, neuromuscular diseases, and central nervous system infections. ~8-10% ### Rheumatology Systemic autoimmune diseases, inflammatory arthritides, vasculitides, and connective tissue diseases. ~5-8% ### Haematology Anaemias, coagulopathies, leukaemias, lymphomas, and transfusion medicine. ~5-8% ### Medical Oncology & Palliative Care Screening, staging, and systemic therapy principles for common solid tumors, alongside symptom control and end-of-life care. ~5-7% ### Critical Care & Emergency Medicine Management of the acutely deteriorating patient, shock, sepsis, toxicology, and advanced life support principles. ~5-8% **12** key topics covered Start Your FCP(SA) Preparation Today -------------------------------------- Comprehensive study materials designed to help you pass the FCP(SA) with confidence [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • 5-day free trial Everything You Need to Pass the FCP(SA) ----------------------------------------- A complete preparation platform with tools designed for Internal Medicine professionals ### Practice Questions 3,853+ questions across MCQ, SAQ, SOE formats with detailed explanations and references ### Flashcards 3,627+ 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 FCP(SA) Exam Structure ------------------------ Our materials cover all parts of the FCP(SA) examination ### FCP(SA) Part I The FCP(SA) Part I is a foundational entry-level assessment for Internal Medicine registrars in South Africa. It rigorously evaluates a candidate's grasp of the basic medical sciences, ensuring they possess the scientific framework necessary for advanced clinical training. Passing this examination is a mandatory milestone before candidates can proceed to the clinical phase and the FCP(SA) Part II exams. Single digital Multiple-Choice Question (MCQ) paper consisting of 150 'best of four options' single correct answer questions. 3 hours Pass: Determined using Cohen's method of standard setting (typically calculated as 65% of the 95th percentile of candidate scores), with no negative marking applied. Key Topics Physiology Pathophysiology Cell Biology & Genetics Pharmacology Clinical Anatomy Statistics & Research Methods ### FCP(SA) Part II The FCP(SA) Part II is the advanced fellowship assessment in Internal Medicine, evaluating comprehensive clinical reasoning, diagnostic accuracy, and patient management skills at a consultant level. It acts as the final gateway to becoming a specialist physician in South Africa, thoroughly testing both theoretical knowledge and practical competence. Candidates must successfully navigate the rigorous written papers to qualify for the subsequent clinical and oral examinations. Written component (two SCA papers and one objective test) followed by a Clinical component (Assessment of Clinical Competence and Structured Oral Examinations). Written examinations typically consist of three 3-hour papers; the subsequent clinical and oral examinations are conducted over 2 to 3 days. Pass: Candidates must achieve an overall pass across the written papers to be invited to the clinical examination, followed by an overall pass in the clinical and oral components to attain the fellowship. Key Topics Infectious Diseases Cardiology Pulmonology Nephrology Endocrinology Gastroenterology and Hepatology +4 more How to Prepare for the FCP(SA) -------------------------------- A practical guide to help you plan your FCP(SA) preparation effectively ### Recommended Timeline 6-9 months of dedicated study for Part I; 12-18 months of intensive theoretical and clinical preparation for Part II. ### Study Tips - Master local guidelines: South African guidelines (e.g., SA HIV Clinicians Society, National Department of Health TB guidelines) take precedence over international guidelines in this exam. - Practice under timed conditions: The Part II SCA papers require excellent time management. Practice writing concise, structured answers. - Form clinical study groups: For the Part II clinicals, practice presenting cases and defending your differential diagnoses with peers and consultants regularly. - Integrate basic sciences: For Part I, do not study basic sciences in isolation; always relate pharmacology and physiology to clinical syndromes. - Review past papers: Analyze available CMSA past papers to understand the format, depth of knowledge required, and recurring high-yield themes. - Attend mock exams: Participate in departmental or national mock clinical exams to simulate the pressure of the Assessment of Clinical Competence. ### High-Yield Topics - HIV/AIDS and its multiorgan complications - Tuberculosis (pulmonary, extrapulmonary, drug-resistant) - Acute medical emergencies (DKA, status epilepticus, acute pulmonary edema) - Acid-base and electrolyte disturbances - Clinical pharmacology and drug interactions - Interpretation of complex ECGs and radiological imaging - Rheumatological emergencies and systemic manifestations ### Common Pitfalls - Running out of time during the written SCA papers due to overly lengthy answers. - Applying international guidelines (like NICE or AHA) when a specific South African protocol exists and is expected. - Poor presentation skills and lack of a structured approach during the clinical/oral examinations. - Underestimating the depth of basic sciences (pharmacokinetics, cellular physiology) required for Part I. - Focusing too heavily on rare syndromes while neglecting bread-and-butter internal medicine conditions. ### Recommended Resources - Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine - Davidson's Principles and Practice of Medicine - South African Medicines Formulary (SAMF) - South African HIV Clinicians Society (SAHCS) Guidelines - Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine - Macleod's Clinical Examination (for clinical skills preparation) Study Pathways ---------------- Choose the pathway that matches your FCP(SA) preparation stage ### Internal Medicine Core Pathway Core pathway for Internal Medicine covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### What's Included 1,174 MCQ Questions 686 SAQ Questions 2,266 Flashcards 35 Podcasts 4,161 total study resources #### Exam Coverage FCP(SA) FCP(SA) Part I [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) ### Internal Medicine Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Internal Medicine covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### What's Included 1,083 MCQ Questions 810 SAQ Questions 100 SOE Questions 1,361 Flashcards 33 Podcasts 3,387 total study resources #### Exam Coverage FCP(SA) FCP(SA) Part II [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) Last refreshed: April 2026 Flexible Pricing Plans ------------------------ Choose the plan that fits your FCP(SA) study schedule ### Try Risk-Free for 5 Days Start your free trial today and get full access to all FCP(SA) features. **No credit card required**. Cancel anytime. No Commitment! Full platform access All study materials Analytics & tracking Cancel anytime ### Internal Medicine Core Pathway Core pathway for Internal 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 ### Internal Medicine Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Internal 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 ### Internal Medicine Bundle (Core + Advanced) Bundle subscription for Internal 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 FCP(SA) Updates ------------------------ Recent changes and developments for the FCP(SA) examination 2023-2024 ### Transition to Digital Written Examinations The CMSA has increasingly transitioned written components (MCQ and SCA) to computerized, invigilated digital platforms rather than traditional pen-and-paper. Candidates should verify the exact delivery method with the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa. Recent Exam Cycles ### Restructuring of Clinical Assessments Post-pandemic, the clinical exams have seen modifications to patient interactions and the integration of objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) elements. Candidates should verify current clinical formats with the examining body. Ongoing ### Standard Setting Methodologies The CMSA utilizes established standard setting methods (such as the Angoff method) for determining the pass mark, meaning the required percentage may fluctuate slightly between papers based on difficulty. Candidates should consult the latest CMSA regulations. Updates are based on publicly available information and may not reflect the very latest changes. Always verify with the official Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (College of Physicians) website. Related Internal Medicine Exams --------------------------------- Other examinations in Internal Medicine you may be interested in [ ### ABIM American Board of Internal Medicine USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/abim) [ ### AIM Facharztprüfung Allgemeine Innere Medizin Europe ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/aim) [ ### AOBIM American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/aobim) [ ### DNB/DrNB Diplomate of National Board India ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/dnb-drnb) [ ### FCPS Fellowship of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan Pakistan ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/fcps-internal-medicine) [ ### MRCP(UK) Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the United Kingdom UK ](https://mdster.com/speciality/internal-medicine/mrcp-uk) Frequently Asked Questions ---------------------------- Everything you need to know about FCP(SA) preparation What is the FCP(SA) examination? The FCP(SA) is the Fellowship examination of the College of Physicians of South Africa. It is a rigorous postgraduate credential required to register and practice as a specialist Internal Medicine physician in South Africa. Who is eligible to write the FCP(SA) Part I? Candidates are generally eligible for Part I once they have completed their medical degree, finished their mandated medical internship, and hold current registration as a medical practitioner with the HPCSA. Do I need to be in a registrar training post to write the exams? You do not need to be in an official registrar training post to write Part I. However, to be eligible for Part II, you must have completed a minimum specified period (usually 36-48 months) in an accredited Internal Medicine registrar training number. How are the Part II written exams structured? The Part II written component consists of two Short Case Assessment/Short Answer (SCA) papers and one objective test (MCQ/SBA). You must pass this combined written section to be invited to the clinical examinations. What happens if I pass the written exams but fail the clinicals? If a candidate passes the written component but fails the clinical component, they usually have a limited window to retake the clinical examination without having to rewrite the written papers. Candidates must refer to the specific CMSA carry-over regulations as time limits apply. What is the pass mark for the FCP(SA)? There is no fixed percentage, as the CMSA uses standard setting (like the Angoff method) to determine the pass mark for each specific paper based on its difficulty. It generally hovers around 50%, but candidates must also meet minimum criteria in all sections. How much does the FCP(SA) cost? Exam fees vary depending on whether you are taking Part I or Part II, but generally range between R 7,000 and R 16,000. It is crucial to check the latest fee structure published on the CMSA website prior to registration. Are international guidelines tested in this exam? While general medical knowledge aligns with international standards, the FCP(SA) heavily emphasizes South African guidelines and protocols, particularly for conditions like HIV, TB, and locally prevalent diseases. Local guidelines will typically take precedence in scoring. How long does it take to get the results? Written exam results are usually published 4 to 6 weeks after the examination dates. Clinical exam results are typically finalized and released shortly after the completion of the clinical assessment period. Can I work as a specialist immediately after passing? Passing the FCP(SA) Part II is the academic requirement. To practice as a specialist, you must also complete your required registrar training time, submit your MMed (Master of Medicine) research dissertation (if required by your university), and formally register as a specialist with the HPCSA. 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Mar 29, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/colorectal-cancer-treatment-concepts-surgery-to-surveillance) Ready to Pass the FCP(SA)? ---------------------------- Join medical professionals who are preparing for the Fellowship of the College of Physicians of South Africa with MDster [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • Cancel anytime [ ](/) Master your medical exams with evidence-based learning. 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