The NZOA conducts the selection process, training and assessment of Orthopaedic Surgical Trainees on behalf of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)
Applications have closed for 2026 (2027 Intake)
A pass in the Clinical Exam (CE) is no longer a prerequisite for applying to the NZOA Training Programme. Applicants who have successfully completed the CE may still claim one point within the Courses/Exams section of the selection process. This point contributes to the maximum of four points available for this section.
All applicants must meet the specialty-specific eligibility criteria by being either a New Zealand citizen or holding New Zealand Permanent Residency. This requirement is additional to any eligibility requirements for registration with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS).
Our treasured Matua Ken Te Tau, our past NZOA Māori Cultural Advisor has given the name Te Kāhui Kahurangi to our SET applicants, read more about the meaning here: ‘Te Kāhui Kahurangi’ - ‘Our Treasured People – Our Shining Stars’ as a name for the SET Selection Applicants ...... read more
Note: there are no restrictions on the number of applications you can make.
Congratulations to the registrars selected at the 2026 NZOA SET interviews for a SET 1 position in 2027.
JDocs
The JDocs Framework is aligned to the RACS Core Competencies and provides junior doctors with the skills, knowledge and behaviours expected for entry to procedural specialist training.
As you begin your medical career, it is important to start thinking about the direction of your future clinical practice and the specialty that best aligns with your interests, strengths, and career aspirations. The early postgraduate years provide valuable opportunities to develop core clinical skills, gain broad experience, and explore different specialties before making career decisions.
The JDocs Framework provides a structured guide to the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours expected during the first three postgraduate years (PGY1–3). Using the framework and its supporting resources throughout these years will help you build a strong foundation for clinical practice, identify learning needs, and prepare for entry into specialist training programmes such as orthopaedic surgery.
How to prepare for the Surgical Education and Training Programme:
Podcast with Teriana Maheno
CV the required components can be found in the SET Selection Regulations.
Application Process
Each step of the application process must be completed and submitted before progressing to the next stage. A copy of each submitted section will be emailed to the applicant for their records.
Once a step has been submitted, applicants will be unable to add or amend information within that section. Applicants should ensure all relevant information has been included and reviewed prior to submission.
If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact Prue Elwood, Education and Training Manager, at prue@nzoa.org.nz or 027 586 4336.
All applicants
- must have successfully completed the Generic Surgical Science Exam (GSSE) prior to applying. Details about the exam can be found on the RACS website
- must have pre-registered with RACS in each and every year of application, this must be done even if you have applied previously.
- must be currently working in a New Zealand hospital and have completed a minimum of 52 weeks of Orthopaedics at Registrar level or above in a New Zealand Orthopaedic Department prior to the closing date for applications.
- must be a New Zealand Citizen or New Zealand Permanent Resident, this is a Speciality Specific requirement.
All applications are made through an online application
Online Application Process
Access to the online application is controlled by a unique login and password.
The application must be completed in STEPS. Each STEP must be completed, all supporting documentation uploaded, and submitted before moving to the next STEP.
After submitting each STEP, a copy will be emailed to you for your records. Once a STEP has been submitted, it is saved and you will no longer be able to access or make changes to that section.
Before you start
Please ensure you have all required information and supporting documentation ready before beginning each STEP. The application cannot be saved and returned to later to add additional information or documents.
No extensions will be granted. Applicants are strongly encouraged to complete and submit their application well before the closing date.
Payment
Once your application is complete, you will have the option to pay by credit card or request an invoice.
Important: Read the SET Selection Regulations
Before applying, you must read the SET Application Regulations, which outline the selection process and requirements.
Please pay particular attention to the section on Publications, Research and Presentations. Research, publications and presentations will only be scored once across these three categories.
Do not enter the same piece of work under more than one heading. Each publication, research project or presentation should only be listed once and will receive a single score.
To receive a copy of the Reconsideration, Review and Appeals Mechanism contact prue@nzoa.org.nz
Further information contact:
Prue Elwood | Education and Training Manager | prue@nzoa.org | 04 913 9898 | 027 586 4336
Additional Resources:
Fellowship:
New Zealand Orthopaedic trainees who complete the five-year SET Program and succeed in the Fellowship Examinations are eligible to be awarded the Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS).
Note: this information may be varied, withdrawn or replaced at any time