All About FCPS Dentistry in Pakistan:
Introduction
The FCPS Part-I examination is a crucial step for medical professionals pursuing specialization in Pakistan. This blog provides a comprehensive overview of the examination schedule, fees, format, and important rules and regulations set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP).
FCPS Part-I Examination Schedule
The FCPS Part-I exams are conducted four times a year as per the schedule notified by CPSP.
Examination Centres
The computer-based examination is held at the headquarters and specified regional centers. Currently, the examination centers include:
- Pakistan: Karachi, Quetta, Hyderabad, Larkana, Bahawalpur, Multan, Lahore, Faisalabad, Islamabad, Peshawar, Abbottabad, and Muzaffarabad (AJK).
- Overseas: Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) and Kathmandu (Nepal).
Medium of Examination
All examinations are conducted in English.
Changes in Schedule or Format
Any changes in the dates or format of the examinations will be announced by the CPSP before the exam date.
Examination Fees and Payment
Application Process
Candidates must submit their applications along with the prescribed examination fee and required documents by the last notified date before each examination.
Fee Details
- The examination fees and fees for changes (such as center or subject changes) will be notified before each exam.
- Fees deposited for a particular examination are non-transferable to subsequent exams in cases of withdrawal, absence, or exclusion.
Payment Methods
All fees are payable by cash at CPSP designated banks, bank draft, or pay order made out in favor of the “College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan.” Personal checks and postal orders are not accepted.
- Special Instructions for Bahawalpur, Abbottabad, and Muzaffarabad Candidates: Candidates from these cities are required to send a demand draft of the fees directly to the CPSP Head Office in Karachi.
Refund Policy
- Candidates who submit a written request not to appear in the examination up to the last date of application withdrawal can receive a 75% refund of the fees.
- No refunds will be processed after the last date of withdrawal or for other fees, such as late fees or change of center/subject fees.
Format of FCPS Part-I Examination
The FCPS Part-I examination consists of two theory papers (Paper-I and Paper-II), each comprising 100 MCQs (One Best Type).
Validity of FCPS Part-I
Registration Requirements
Candidates who pass the FCPS Part-I examination must register as FCPS residents within three years of passing.
Validity Based on Specialty Program
- With Intermediate Module (IMM): The resident must pass the Intermediate Module (IMM) examination (both Theory & TOACS) within six consecutive attempts from the date of completing two years in training.
- Without Intermediate Module (IMM): The resident must appear at least once in the final FCPS-II examination within 7 or 8 years, depending on their residency training duration (4 or 5 years) plus an additional 3 years.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with these policies will result in the pass status of FCPS Part-I becoming null and void. The candidate must reappear and pass the FCPS Part-I examination to maintain residency status and continue attempts in the IMM or FCPS-II examination.
Final Notes
The College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan reserves the right to alter or amend any rules and regulations. Decisions made by the College regarding these regulations will be binding on all applicants.
Conclusion
Understanding the FCPS Part-I examination schedule, fees, and regulations is essential for all candidates preparing for their specialization journey. Stay updated with the latest information from CPSP to ensure compliance with all requirements.