Frequently asked questions: Surgery oral exams

Who grades the exam?

A minimum of two board certified surgeons. One is usually the course director. One is usually someone who specializes in the discreet field. 

How can I view the transcript of my exam?

The transcript is uploaded to E.Flo MD in the Course Director Handback Response field. The VCC and the course director will upload this within 3 business days after your exam. 

How can I view the video from my exam?

The video is uploaded to your SimCapture account. This is the same account as you use to see your OSCE performance. 

How is the exam graded?

• The graders review the transcript, and sometimes they view the video. 
• The examiner’s script for each case covers two skills. The graders use a rubric for a score (0–5) in each skill. The informed consent skill usually has two opportunities to perform. The score is averaged. 

How do I get my scores for each of the skills?

The graders use a form which summarizes your transcript, gives a score and the rationale for that score. Typically, the rationale will explain what was / would have been expected to receive a higher score. 

How is the professionalism/teachability/engagement component graded?

• Punctuality and politeness are important to the graders.
• Accepting the calendar invitation without prompting is appreciated.
• Appearance and poise are also judged. This is done to prepare students for interview season. Surgery program directors and faculty at residency training programs will expect a certain formality.
  • Center your face in the top 1/3 of your computer screen. Make sure your face is well-lit. Use a simple virtual background if your ambient background is dark or distracting. Make sure your device is charged and that there is stable wifi. Make sure you are in a quiet environment, and that your audio is optimized so examiners can hear. Make sure you speak clearly so the transcription software can work optimally.
  • Slouching, slang, disheveled hair, wearing scrubs without a white coat, and wearing a hat are all discouraged. You should aim to appear at least as put together as your surgeon proctors. 

Can I use resources during the exam?

You can have your cases in front of you. If you need to, you can take notes. We don’t mind if the mnemonics are in front of you (if you need to glance at them). However, reading pre-prepared materials out loud or use of AI during the exam is strictly prohibited. Examiners may ask to view your workspace or your hands during an exam to ensure academic integrity. 

What if I have tech difficulties during the exam?

Each exam is allotted 30 mins. If your tech issue can be solved and we can accomplish a full exam within that time, then there will be no need for reattempt. If the exam is compromised by tech, it will be rescheduled. 

When will my grade for the exam be posted?

We aim to have the exam grade posted within 10 business days of the exam. The grade will appear in E.Flo MD. 

How is the course graded?

A grading panel meets within 2 weeks of the last date of your rotation. If the grading panel has adequate data to determine your grade, they will. That grade is then posted to E.Flo MD. 

What if I fail my oral exam?

• Especially for first-time takers, failing the exam is a possibility. If you fail, you will be offered coaching before your reattempt. Those students who fail the oral exam on the first attempt will not be honors-eligible at the second attempt. 
• Those who fail the exam twice will require significant coaching before the third attempt, because failure on the third attempt equates to failure of the course. 

What if I get a Satisfactory score on the oral exam?

If you are a first-time oral exam taker and you wish to reattempt, you may request this in writing to surgery@wsu.edu within 2 weeks of the posting of your exam grade. You must view your original exam video before your reattempt. At least one coaching session is required before your reattempt. Your two attempts will be averaged to determine the final grade. 

What is the timing of exam coaching and reattempts?

Grades need to be finalized within 6 weeks of the course ending. In exceptional cases, if a grade change is warranted, it can be requested via the formal appeals process.

How do I get cases to the examiners for my oral exam reattempt?

The course directors will provide you with a variety of cases which have been written up by other students. You can pick which three you wish to use for your oral exam retake. You will need to compile them into a single PDF and submit them to the examiners at least 72 hrs before your reattempt.