The FRCEM Single Best Answer (SBA)

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Overview of the SBA

The SBA replaced the SAQ in 2021. The practical revision advice below still starts with the same essentials: know the blueprint, practise questions and give yourself enough time.

The FRCEM SBA is mapped to the RCEM curriculum. The RCEM FRCEM examination page links to the examination blueprint and regulations. Use these alongside the current RCEM curriculum. Sample questions can be found on the RCEMLearning website.

The SBA consists of 180 single best answer questions, split into two papers of 90 questions. Each paper lasts two hours, with a one-hour break between them.

Use the blueprint to guide the balance of your revision across the curriculum, and check RCEM’s theory examination guidance for the arrangements for your sitting.

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Tips and tricks

Preparation

• Give yourself enough time – for me that was six months of little and often but everyone is different.
• Use the blueprint to balance your revision across the curriculum. Find it on the RCEM FRCEM examination page.
• Share the load and buddy up.
• Go on a course, use a question bank or book.
• Time goes quicker than you think – timed practice is crucial!

On the day

• The SBA is computer based and delivered by Surpass Assessment. RCEM’s standard arrangement is a test-centre sitting; remote invigilation is considered only in exceptional circumstances. Check the current RCEM guidance and your booking confirmation.
• GENERIC: eat; drink and toilet break before.
• APPROVED REMOTE SITTING: quiet environment; good lighting; reliable internet connection. Complete the required system check and arrange the second camera device. Follow the technical instructions sent for your sitting.
• TEST CENTRE: plan how you are getting there; arrive 30 minutes before the exam and bring accepted identification matching your booking.
• Pace yourself.

• Practise pacing yourself for each two-hour paper. Familiarise yourself with the current exam software and its instructions for reviewing and submitting answers before your sitting.
• Read the question carefully AND answer what it asks, not what you want it to ask.
• No negative marks – give every question a go!
• Use the review tools available in the exam software to keep track of questions you want to revisit, and check for unanswered questions before submitting.
• If you may need reasonable adjustments, check the RCEM eligibility and adjustments guidance

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Courses and other resources

I went on the RCEM final SAQ preparation course and I found it a really useful two days, spent with College examiners giving advice about exam technique, why people fail and common themes that come up. When choosing a course now, check that it prepares you for the current SBA format and curriculum.

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Collated Resources

In this section you will find  a collation of links useful not only for the SBA but also for the OSCE. It is divided into adult and paediatric sections, with each area broadly divided by specialties. NICE guidelines are found in the first half of each speciality with other guidelines, for example RCEM; BTS in the second half. Use the publishers’ latest versions alongside the examination blueprint. Some resources require a professional login or access from the UK.

The RCPCH clinical guideline directory provides links to NICE, SIGN and other national paediatric guidance, organised by condition and specialty.

A number of the topics are relevant to both adult and paediatric EM. These will be found in the adult section.

• Use your ALS/APLS/NLS/ATLS/ETC course resources alongside current guidance. The RCUK 2025 recommendations are available for adult life support, paediatric life support and newborn life support.

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Other resources: Adult and Paediatric

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