ESEGH FAQs
How do I withdraw from an SCE/ESE examination?
Please click here for further information on how to withdraw from an examination.
Why have the examinations been merged?
The examinations have been merged in an aim to harmonise and improve the standards of practice and patient care across Europe. Harmonising the SCE in Gastroenterology and the EBGHE is a practical way of working towards that aim.
What will the examination fees be?
You can find more information about the fees here
Where will I be able to sit the examination?
From June 2026, all UK and International SCEs will be delivered in centre. Further information about exam locations can be found here
We do not have set centres for UK and international candidates. When applying, UK and international candidates can select their preferred country and city/town. We will pass this to our exam provider, who will aim to place you in your chosen centre or the nearest available option.
Where will I apply for the examination?
Applications for the examination will be received through this website. Information about how to apply can be found here.
When will the application period for the examination open?
The application period opening dates can be found here.
Will I need to change how I prepare for the examination?
There are no changes to the content of the examination, its place in training, or the process by which the examination is developed and delivered.
Has the number of questions per paper changed?
No. The examination still consists of 200 “best of five” questions, in two papers of 100 questions each, taken on the same day. It is delivered by computer based testing.
What type of questions will the new examination include?
The style of questions in the examination will not change from the SCE in Gastroenterology and the European Board of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Examination (EBGHE).
Will there be a change in the status of the examination?
The European Specialty Examination in Gastroenterology and Hepatology (ESEGH) replaces the Specialty Certificate Examination (SCE) in Gastroenterology and will continue to test competency of UK trainees against The Specialty Training Curriculum for Gastroenterology and Sub-specialty Training Curriculum for Hepatology is published by the Joint Royal Colleges of Physicians Training Board (JRCPTB).
With the entry of UK trainees, the ESBGH Examination has been renamed as The European Specialty Examination in Gastroenterology and Hepatology (ESEGH) and is a fully validated assessment of knowledge of gastroenterology and hepatology as laid down in the European Curriculum for Gastroenterology and Hepatology Specialty Training programmes known as the "The Blue Book". The Blue Book produced by the ESBGH is in its 2017 edition and is revised every 3 to 5 years. It is available at www.eubog.org.
There is no change in the status of the Examination.
Will the examination be offered in any other languages?
The examination is offered in English only. Candidates are advised that in order to be sufficiently prepared to sit the ESEGH, their English language ability should be equivalent to IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Level 7 in each module. However, candidates do not need to have taken IELTS or any other language examination, to sit the ESEGH.