FCPS Part 2 Plastic Surgery Eligibility: Training Requirements Explained

FCPS Part 2 – Plastic Surgery is the final fellowship examination in the specialty — and unlike Part 1, you can't simply apply once you've graduated. Eligibility depends entirely on your training record. Here's exactly what CPSP requires.

Who Can Apply

• A pass in FCPS Part 1 in Surgery (or the recognised parent specialty CPSP accepts as a route into Plastic Surgery training).
• Completion of the minimum required CPSP training period in Plastic Surgery. Surgical specialties generally require 4-5 years of recognised training — confirm the exact duration for Plastic Surgery on the CPSP ePortal, since requirements are set and updated by CPSP directly.
• A valid CPSP training record showing continuous, registered training with no unaccounted gaps.
• A supervisor's recommendation confirming you're clinically ready to sit the fellowship exam.
• Current PMC registration, valid and up to date.

You cannot apply before your training record shows the minimum period complete — CPSP checks this through the ePortal before approving any application.

Why Eligibility Trips People Up

• Unaccounted training gaps. Any break in your registered training needs to be documented and approved by your regional CPSP office well before you apply — not discovered at application time.
• Supervisor sign-off delays. Arrange your recommendation early; this isn't something to leave until the application window opens.
• Lapsed PMC registration. Renew before you start the application, not during it.

What Happens After You're Eligible

Once your training and documentation are in order, you apply through the CPSP ePortal for one of the two annual sessions (typically March/April and October/November). See our complete FCPS Part 2 application guide for the full step-by-step process, and our FCPS Part 2 schedule guide for how CPSP announces session dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pass FCPS Part 1 in Plastic Surgery specifically?

You need a pass in Surgery (or the parent specialty CPSP recognises as the entry route) — check the current accepted routes for Plastic Surgery on the CPSP ePortal, since these can be specialty-specific.

How long is Plastic Surgery training before I'm eligible for Part 2?

Surgical specialties typically require 4-5 years of recognised CPSP training. Confirm the exact figure for Plastic Surgery directly on the ePortal, as CPSP sets this per specialty.

Can I apply while still finishing my training?

No — unlike Part 1's house-job flexibility, Part 2 requires your minimum training period to already show as complete in your CPSP record before the application is approved.

While you're completing training, build your knowledge base with HighYield's FCPS Part 2 Plastic Surgery QBank — MCQs covering the clinical and surgical knowledge the written paper and viva both draw on, with detailed explanations. Try 20 questions free.