100+ Free CMSA FCS(SA) Primary Practice Questions
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Sample CMSA FCS(SA) Primary Practice Questions
Try these sample questions to test your CMSA FCS(SA) Primary exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.
1Which structure forms the floor of the inguinal canal?
2The deep inguinal ring lies immediately lateral to which structure?
3Which structure occupies the most medial compartment of the femoral sheath?
4Calot’s triangle is bounded by the cystic duct, common hepatic duct, and which additional structure?
5At the porta hepatis, which structure is typically most posterior?
6Which vessel runs immediately posterior to the neck of the pancreas?
7The splenic artery and vein reach the spleen primarily within which peritoneal fold?
8The marginal artery of Drummond interconnects which arterial territories?
9Which structure forms the principal anatomical landmark separating the intraperitoneal rectum from the extraperitoneal rectum anteriorly in the male?
10Which muscle is the primary voluntary sphincter of anal continence?
About the CMSA FCS(SA) Primary Exam
FCS(SA) Primary is the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa applied basic-sciences examination for the Fellowship pathway of the College of Surgeons. It tests clinically relevant anatomy/embryology plus physiology, pathology, microbiology, pharmacology, transfusion/fluids/acid–base concepts, and applied statistics/EBM rather than operative clinical management. Many surgical specialties accept this Primary. Candidates who pass proceed toward Intermediate and Final examinations after fulfilling training prerequisites (including Basic Surgical Skills/BESST).
Assessment
Two 3-hour written papers of MCQs and/or short written questions on applied basic sciences for surgery. Paper 1 is anatomy (official blueprint 120 items). Paper 2 covers physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and miscellaneous surgical sciences (official blueprint 120 items). MCQ formats may include multiple true/false, best-option, and extended matching questions.
Time Limit
Two papers × 3 hours each
Passing Score
Average ≥50% for both papers combined, with ≥40% sub-minimum in each paper (FCS(SA) regulations).
Exam Fee
R 12 950 including VAT for FCS(SA) Primary on the CMSA SS2026/FS2027 fee schedule. Confirm the payable amount on the examination portal for your sitting. (Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA), College of Surgeons)
CMSA FCS(SA) Primary Exam Content Outline
Anatomy (Paper 1)
Gross, surface, cross-sectional anatomy and applied embryology across surgically relevant regions.
Physiology
Fluids/acid–base, cardio-respiratory, renal, GI, endocrine, neuro and haemostasis physiology.
Pathology
Cell injury, inflammation, healing, neoplasia, infection, immunology and haemostasis pathology.
Pharmacology
Antibiotics/resistance, anticoagulants, local anaesthetics and autonomic drug principles.
Miscellaneous
Statistics/EBM, asepsis, diathermy, sutures and anastomosis principles.
How to Pass the CMSA FCS(SA) Primary Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: Average ≥50% for both papers combined, with ≥40% sub-minimum in each paper (FCS(SA) regulations).
- Assessment: Two 3-hour written papers of MCQs and/or short written questions on applied basic sciences for surgery. Paper 1 is anatomy (official blueprint 120 items). Paper 2 covers physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and miscellaneous surgical sciences (official blueprint 120 items). MCQ formats may include multiple true/false, best-option, and extended matching questions.
- Time limit: Two papers × 3 hours each
- Exam fee: R 12 950 including VAT for FCS(SA) Primary on the CMSA SS2026/FS2027 fee schedule. Confirm the payable amount on the examination portal for your sitting.
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
CMSA FCS(SA) Primary Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the format of the CMSA FCS(SA) Primary examination?
Primary consists of two 3-hour written papers on applied basic sciences. MCQs may include multiple true/false, best-option, and extended matching formats, and short written questions may also be used. The official Primary blueprint allocates 120 anatomy items to Paper 1 and 120 physiology/pathology/pharmacology/miscellaneous items to Paper 2.
What is the pass mark for FCS(SA) Primary?
Candidates must achieve an average of 50% or more across both papers and a sub-minimum of 40% in each paper, per the FCS(SA) regulations.
How much does FCS(SA) Primary cost?
The CMSA examination fee schedule for Second Semester 2026 and First Semester 2027 lists FCS(SA) Primary at R 12 950 including VAT. Always confirm the amount payable on the CMSA examination portal for your diet.
Who is eligible to sit FCS(SA) Primary?
Candidates must hold a post-internship medical qualification registered or registrable with the HPCSA and should have completed the Basic Surgical Skills course or BESST before applying. The General Surgical Primary is also used by candidates progressing into other surgical specialties—check that specialty’s regulations.