FSEM MSK Diploma

One online, invigilated written paper of 180 single best answer questions in 180 minutes, with a 15-minute comfort break after 90 minutes. All candidates sit on the same date and at the same time, with timings stated in UK time. The exam is in English and based on UK clinical practice and national guidelines.

The source does not state a pass rate or difficulty rating. The paper tests applied knowledge and clinical problem-solving, not just recall, and the pass mark is pre-set using modern standard setting methods. You need to meet that standard rather than a published percentage. Time pressure across 180 questions adds to the challenge.

You may make a maximum of six attempts. A continuous record is kept, and prior attempts with previous providers count towards the six. A resit diet is not offered after a failed examination, and the diploma normally runs once each year, so plan for the next annual sitting rather than a quick re-sit.

No. The exam is a live, invigilated online examination held on a specific date and at a specific time. Single candidates cannot sit it on alternative dates or at alternative times. Note the date early and check time-zone differences if you are outside the UK.

Start with the syllabus and reading list, then map your existing MSK, rheumatology, pain, sport and exercise, and professional-practice knowledge to it. Learning is self-directed. University or other courses and current reputable guidelines can help if mapped to the syllabus. A PCRMM revision course is available, but it is organised independently of FSEM.

The source does not list common failure modes. Sensible risks are poor time management across 180 questions, relying on recall without applying UK guidelines to clinical scenarios, and neglecting less familiar areas such as persistent pain or sport and exercise medicine. Practise single best answer technique and review the syllabus for gaps.

Results are released no later than six weeks after the sitting. They are uploaded to the FSEM website, and certificates are posted to successful candidates. Candidates receive their overall marks. There is no resit diet if you fail, so you would need to consider the next annual sitting.

Eligibility includes doctors with a primary medical qualification suitable for GMC or Irish Medical Council registration; HCPC-registered physiotherapists and allied health professionals; NMC-registered advanced nurse practitioners with primary care experience; and internationally registered healthcare professionals. Other candidates may be considered individually by the Faculty. Check with [email protected] before applying if you are unsure.

All diplomas currently cost £296, subject to annual price review. For the next announced sitting on 27 May 2027, applications are scheduled to open on 11 January 2027 and close on 1 April 2027. The exam is delivered online, so you can sit it remotely from anywhere in the world.