RGA standardised structure scenario-based assessment (RGA-SSSA)

Trainees are eligible to sit the RGA-SSSA once they have successfully completed:

• At least 26 weeks FTE of approved clinical anaesthesia time.
• EPAs 1 – 4 and have commenced the remaining EPAs.
• The RGA multiple-choice question exam.

Trainees must be in an approved training position at the time of their first examination attempt.

Trainees must apply and pay the exam fee prior to the closing date. Late applications will not be accepted.

The focus of the advance certificate rural generalist anaesthesia standardised structure scenario-based assessment (RGA-SSSA) is on the practical integration and application of knowledge in clinical practice, with a focus on RGA practice in the rural and remote context. 

The exam consists of 8 scenarios which assess knowledge and clinical judgement.  The scenarios are set in an invented rural community often referred to as ‘scenarioville’ - that describes the demographics, logistics and health service availability of a simulated rural community in which the assessment is set.

Examiners will be centrally located, and trainees will be at their location. Trainees will be provided access to the system prior to the exam.

Trainees are permitted a maximum of three attempts at the RGA-SSSA. To achieve a pass in the RGA-SSSA the candidate must meet the minimum standards required by the examination.

2025 RGA-SSSA dates

ANZCA Regulation 44 (Training in rural generalist anaesthesia leading to a qualification in RGA) covers special consideration for the RGA-SSSA exam allowing for exemptions within its framework, provided this assistance does not compromise the fairness or reliability of the examination. The Regulation does not allow for alteration of marks or amendment of the requirements or formats for progression.

Candidates with an existing chronic illness or disability which may impact their performance at the exam will be considered for assistance appropriate to their disability, provided that this assistance does not compromise the fairness or reliability of the examination. The candidate must submit a fully documented application (including supporting documentation) to the RGA examination committee at least 13 weeks prior to the examination closing date. 

Candidates will not be disadvantaged due to events beyond their control but will not be given any advantage that would be unfair to other candidates. 

Any candidate who withdraws from the exam, must email their request. The refund of application fees will be as advised in ANZCA Regulation 44  (Training in rural generalist anaesthesia leading to a qualification in RGA) and the RGA Handbook.

1. Entitled to a full refund if the request is made before the closing date of the RGA-SSSA application deadline
2. Candidates who withdraw from an RGA-SSSA during the interval between the closing date for applications and up to 15 days before the date of the RGA-SSSA will incur a withdrawal fee and the balance of the RGA-SSSA fee may be refunded. 
3. Candidates who withdraw from an RGA-SSSA 14 or fewer days before the RGA-SSSA will not receive a refund of the RGA-SSSA fee, unless ANZCA determines otherwise.
4. A candidate may also withdraw on medical or compassionate grounds before the RGA-SSSA date by making a written application with a request for full refund.

RGA-SSSA exam reports available to help you prepare for your exam.

• RGA SSSA Sample Question Document
• 2023 RGA SSSA Examination Report
• 2024.1 RGA SSSA Examination Report

Trainees participating in the RGA-SSSA are required to adhere to our conditions of entry.  Below are the forms and information on the exam to assist your preparation. 

Forms 

• Academic integrity document to be sent at the completion of the exam to [email protected].
• Special consideration application to be sent to [email protected] at least 13 weeks prior to the closing date.
• Incident report form to be sent at the completion of the exam should an incident arise during the examination 

Information

• Exam guide
• Scenarioville
• Support Person Guide