Overview of the STS Exam for Medical Degree Equivalency in Turkey
The STS Exam is a central competency assessment administered by the Student Selection and Placement Center in Turkey.
This exam is designed to evaluate the qualifications of doctors who studied abroad and seek medical degree equivalency in Turkey.
Its primary purpose is to equate foreign medical degrees with Turkish standards.
What is the STS Exam?
The STS Exam (also known as the Medical Degree Equivalency Exam) was introduced by the Turkish government in 2011 to assess the competency of foreign-trained medical professionals. It ensures that foreign medical qualifications are on par with their Turkish counterparts, allowing international doctors to practice medicine in Turkey.
What sets the STS exam apart from other international exams is that it is conducted exclusively in Turkish.
This requirement guarantees that doctors can effectively communicate with patients and colleagues in a Turkish healthcare setting, thereby improving the quality of care provided.
What Are the Goals of the STS Exam and How Often Is It Held?
– Assessing Medical Knowledge: The exam includes questions designed to evaluate the doctor’s knowledge in core and clinical medical fields.
– Clinical Skills Assessment: Practical and clinical skills are tested through real-life scenarios or simulations.
– Language and Communication Proficiency: The exam may include an assessment of medical English proficiency, as effective communication with patients and colleagues is crucial.
The exam is held twice a year, coinciding with the TUS exam in the spring and fall.
It is managed by ÖSYM, the organization responsible for organizing central exams in Turkey. This standardized system evaluates the knowledge and medical skills of foreign graduates, ensuring they meet Turkish standards and requirements.
What Does the STS Exam Consist Of?
The STS exam comprises two stages, both held on the same day in Ankara. Each stage includes 120 multiple-choice questions,
with 150 minutes allocated for each session.
To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 35% in each stage.
The content of the exam covers the Turkish national curriculum and materials from Turkish medical universities to ensure the applicants’ knowledge aligns with local standards.
Success in the exam allows the Higher Education Council to issue the equivalency certificate, while failure nullifies the equivalency application.
Who Can Apply for the STS Exam in Turkey?
The exam targets two main groups:
– Turkish citizens who studied medicine abroad: This could be due to not completing their studies in Turkey or choosing to study abroad for personal reasons.
– Foreign doctors: Those who completed their medical studies outside of Turkey and wish to practice in Turkey.
Requirements for Taking the STS Exam
– Educational Qualification: Applicants must hold a medical degree from an internationally recognized university accredited by the Turkish Higher Education Council (YÖK).
This ensures that the applicant’s medical education meets Turkey’s academic standards.
– Practical Training: Completion of a clinical internship year in a recognized teaching hospital affiliated with Turkish universities is required. This ensures that the applicant has gained practical experience in a Turkish medical environment.
– Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Turkish is mandatory, as the exam is conducted entirely in Turkish.
This ensures that the doctor can communicate effectively with patients and colleagues within the Turkish healthcare system.
Sections of the STS Exam
The STS exam consists of 120 questions divided into four main sections, designed to comprehensively evaluate medical knowledge and skills:
– General Medicine (Medicine): 40 questions covering cardiology, gastroenterology, respiratory, nephrology, and neurology, assessing diagnostic and treatment capabilities.
– Pediatrics: 30 questions focusing on dealing with children, common diseases, and developmental stages, assessing knowledge of pediatric care.
– General Surgery: 30 questions addressing general surgical procedures, with a focus on cardiac and gastrointestinal surgeries, assessing surgical competency.
– Obstetrics and Gynecology: 20 questions covering women’s health, gynecological diseases, pregnancy, and childbirth, assessing competency in women’s healthcare.
STS Exam Passing Score
The STS exam features a rigorous and balanced grading system to ensure doctors are competent in all fundamental areas.
Here are the success criteria and evaluation methods:
– Success Criteria: The minimum passing score is 40 out of 100 in each section. Candidates must pass both the basic sciences and medical sciences sections separately.
– Retake Policy: If a candidate passes only one section, they may retake the failed section in the next exam cycle. Failure in both sections requires retaking the entire exam in future sessions.
How to Register for the 2024 STS Exam?
– Create an account on the ÖSYM portal (Assessment, Selection, and Placement Center), which is affiliated with the Turkish
Higher Education Council.
– Select the exam: Browse the available exams and select the STS Medical Degree Equivalency Exam.
– Complete the registration form, carefully entering your personal and professional information.
– Upload the required documents in accepted formats such as PDF or JPG, ensuring clarity and quality.
– Pay the registration fee and confirm that the payment has been successfully processed.
– Review all information and attachments and ensure you receive official confirmation of your registration.
Tips for Passing the STS Exam
– Understand the exam structure: Familiarize yourself with the different sections of the exam, both theoretical and practical.
– Review past papers: Look for previous exam questions to understand the types of questions that may be asked.
– Create a study plan: Organize your study time logically to cover all key topics.
– Stick to a schedule: Develop a timetable and stick to it to ensure you cover all topics before the exam date.
– Use reference books: Refer to recommended medical books and study materials.
– Join preparatory courses: Enroll in preparatory courses to cover important topics in a structured manner.
– Practice clinical skills: Ensure you are practicing clinical examinations and handling practical cases.
– Regular review: Set aside time for regular review sessions to retain information.
Success in the STS exam is a crucial step towards a promising career in Turkey’s healthcare sector.
With adequate preparation and by following the tips provided, you can increase your chances of passing the exam with flying
colors.
Contact us now at Alemni Shokran for more information, and don’t forget to register your documents today.