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If you are an aspiring medical graduate looking to establish a career in Europe, the European Fellowship in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (EFOG-EBCOG) is the pathway you should choose. Awarded by the prestigious European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (EBCOG), this globally recognised qualification validates that you possess the clinical excellence required to practice across European borders.

To gain this qualification, candidates must go through two sets of exams: Part 1 KBA (Knowledge- Based Assessment) and Part 2 OSCE (Clinical Skills Assessment). Although the exams cover the same curriculum, what they test is entirely different from each other. In this blog, we’ll have an in-depth discussion of the differences between these two exams.

The Core Objective: Knowledge VS Application

The core difference between the exams is what they assess:

• EFOG Part 1 KBA: This exam is conducted to test your theoretical knowledge, testing your understanding, memory of pathophysiology, latest guidelines (EBCOG/ PACT), and your skill to differentiate between similar clinical scenarios.
• EFOG Part 2 OSCE: This exam is to test your practical knowledge, specifically assessing how you apply that knowledge in high-pressure situations involving actors frequently roleplaying as patients, colleagues, and relatives.

Exam Structure and Format

Now, it’s time to see how different these exams are in structure and format:

EFOG Part 1 KBA

Part 1 Written is a computer-based written test, evaluating the theoretical knowledge you possess.

• Structure: Two papers, lasting 3 hours each.
• Questions: The question paper will have Single Best Answers (SBAs), Extended Matching Questions (EMQs), and Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
• Focus: One paper mainly focuses on Obstetrics, while the other focuses on Gynaecology, as well as basic sciences relevant to the field.

EFOG Part 2 OSCE

This is a practical exam in the Objective Structure Clinical Examination (OSCE) format, assessing how well you apply your clinical knowledge in simulated clinical situations.

• Structure: This exam consists of 10 stations, with each station lasting approximately 10-15 minutes.
• The Circuit: You move from one station to another. Each station requires you to do particular tasks, such as suturing, communicating with patients or colleagues, and interpreting CTGs, Ultrasound, etc.

Assessment Criteria: Theory VS Skills

In the EFOG Part 1 Written exam, the only thing that matters is whether you choose the right answer or not. However, in the OSCE, the examiners closely observe how accurately you perform the tasks and how clearly you communicate with the patients.

Part 1 Vs Part 2

Preparation Strategy

Now that we know the formats of the exam are very different, it is necessary that you have a perfect study plan for each exam:

• Preparation Plan for EFOG Part 1: While preparing for Part 1, review the textbooks, EBCOG PACT curriculum, and question banks. It is recommended that you focus on active recall and regular mocks to master the real exam.
• Preparation Plan for EFOG Part 2: In this exam, things are different. Depending on just textbooks won’t cut it. You need to practice every step carefully and out loud. Make sure you simulate the “pressure” of the 10-minute timer. While preparing, make sure you have a friend posing as a patient to refine your procedural and communication skills.

Stress Factor

While Part 1 is stressful due to the volume of information, Part 2 is often known as nerve-wracking, as you are closely observed by examiners while you perform the tasks and communicate with patients

Conclusion: Bridging the Gap with StudyMEDIC

Passing the EFOG-EBCOG exam is a life-changing milestone, but the transition from the theoretical world of Part 1 to the clinical intensity of Part 2 can be daunting. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

StudyMEDIC, the proud global academic partner of EBCOG, offers the most comprehensive pre-exam training programs designed specifically for the EFOG-EBCOG exams. Whether you are tackling the written papers or the OSCE circuit, StudyMEDIC provides:

• Expert Mentorship: Learn from EBCOG-certified trainers who know exactly what the examiners are looking for.
• Extensive Question Banks: Thousands of SBAs and EMQs modelled on the latest exam patterns.
• Live Circuit Courses: For Part 2, experience a “Real-Exam” simulation with mock OSCE stations, personalised feedback, and technical skill workshops.
• Innovative App & LMS: Access study materials, wisdom shots, and video library 24/7 on your mobile device.

You can get all the latest updates about the exam through our Instagram. If you have any questions about the course, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

Written by: Muhammed Farzeen