INFORMATION ABOUT THE CCMG GENERAL EXAMINATION
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION (MCQ) FORMAT
The Canadian College of Medical Geneticists General Examination is written in the spring of every even year (i.e., two-year cycle). The multiple choice question-based examination is used to evaluate minimum competency in human genetics. The questions cover topics defined in the CCMG General Knowledge Study Guide and are designed to test recall, application or critical thinking skills. See the Genetic Conditions List and CCMG General Knowledge Study Guide for guidance as to the scope of the examination.
WHAT TO EXPECT FOR THE GENERAL EXAMINATION
No later than two weeks prior to the examination, the candidate will receive an email stating the examination location, invigilator and time. The examination length is 3 hours.
On the day of the examination, the candidate will be asked to check-in with the proctor 30 minutes prior to the start time with government-issued photo identification. A non-programmable electronic calculator and a pencil/pen will also be required. Scrap paper will be provided in the examination room. The candidate may bring in a bottle of water; however, the candidate should refrain from bringing in snacks as this causes a disturbance to the other candidates in the room. All other possessions must be left at the front of the room with the proctor.
The examination will be online. The MCQ format is a stem (i.e., question) followed by 5 possible answers. Candidates will be asked to choose the best possible answer. As there are no deductions for incorrect answers, candidates are encouraged to fill in an answer for each question.
An example of an MCQ on the General Examination is:
The majority of Turner syndrome patients have the following number of chromosomes:
• 45
o 46
o 47
o 48
o 69
Correct Answer: 45 (filled in circle)
Candidates will receive their pass/fail status approximately four weeks after the examinations are completed. Each General Examination is standard set to ensure that the passing grade reflects minimum competency; therefore, the passing grade will not necessarily be the same from one year’s examination to another.
