6 answers
Kelz
Student
Benoni, Gauteng, South Africa
3
Questions
Updated
3265 views
What are the steps to becoming a neurosurgeon?
I am in grade 10 and currently deciding what career to pursue after matric. I know I want to go into medicine, but I'm not entirely sure what field. I find this career really interesting, and want to know more about the requirements to get into this field (in South Africa) and the breakdown of what usually happens in this career.
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5 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Kelz !
What a most wonderful and important career choice you have chosen and it's great that you've come here for advice !
In Benoni, Gauteng, South Africa and all of South Africa, the steps to becoming a Neurosurgeon are easy to follow. You would first spend four years at University to obtain your undergraduate degree in something such as Biology or Anatomy so that you will have a good foundation for Medical School that follows. You would then take and pass the Medical College Admission Test , also known as the MCAT exam, and submit an application to medical school. Medical School in South Africa is for four years and you will learn such subjects as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology, along with doing clinical rotations in various specialties, including neurology and neurosurgery.
When you graduate Medical School, it is mandatory in your country to do a one year internship done at a hospital at which you will get to work in various medical care settings and disciplines. You are then required to fulfill a two year community service requirement. This is a country-wide requirement for all doctors that just become qualified. You would most likely be working in a public health care facility in a rural area for an underserved population. You then will go for your specialty which is Neurosurgery. The University of Pretoria has specialty programs and so does the University of the Witwatersrand. This is when you will obtain extensive training in neurosurgery under the supervision of physician consultants. After completion, you would be done with your core training for this career and it is optional to choose to do a fellowship. Doing a fellowship is recommended, it's for one to two years. The fellowship would be your opportunity to learn pediatric neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, spine surgery, or endovascular neurosurgery. You will need to be Licensed and Board Certified to practice as a doctor.
What "usually happens" is that you'd be involved as part of an interdisciplinary team, working with patients that have had trauma, stroke, and meningitis to treating complex congenital malformations such as spina bifida. Also subarachnoid hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, and hydrocephalus, vascular and endovascular surgery, neuro-oncology, spine, skull base, neurotrauma, pediatric neurosurgery, and pituitary disorders. Keep in mind that there is a great demand for neurosurgeons in South Africa so this would be a good specialty to consider.
Hopefully you will witness first hand what "usually happens" in this field of work. It would be hard to say and it would require you to have your own individual experience with it.
I hope this helps as a start and I wish you all the best !
What a most wonderful and important career choice you have chosen and it's great that you've come here for advice !
In Benoni, Gauteng, South Africa and all of South Africa, the steps to becoming a Neurosurgeon are easy to follow. You would first spend four years at University to obtain your undergraduate degree in something such as Biology or Anatomy so that you will have a good foundation for Medical School that follows. You would then take and pass the Medical College Admission Test , also known as the MCAT exam, and submit an application to medical school. Medical School in South Africa is for four years and you will learn such subjects as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology, along with doing clinical rotations in various specialties, including neurology and neurosurgery.
When you graduate Medical School, it is mandatory in your country to do a one year internship done at a hospital at which you will get to work in various medical care settings and disciplines. You are then required to fulfill a two year community service requirement. This is a country-wide requirement for all doctors that just become qualified. You would most likely be working in a public health care facility in a rural area for an underserved population. You then will go for your specialty which is Neurosurgery. The University of Pretoria has specialty programs and so does the University of the Witwatersrand. This is when you will obtain extensive training in neurosurgery under the supervision of physician consultants. After completion, you would be done with your core training for this career and it is optional to choose to do a fellowship. Doing a fellowship is recommended, it's for one to two years. The fellowship would be your opportunity to learn pediatric neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, spine surgery, or endovascular neurosurgery. You will need to be Licensed and Board Certified to practice as a doctor.
What "usually happens" is that you'd be involved as part of an interdisciplinary team, working with patients that have had trauma, stroke, and meningitis to treating complex congenital malformations such as spina bifida. Also subarachnoid hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, and hydrocephalus, vascular and endovascular surgery, neuro-oncology, spine, skull base, neurotrauma, pediatric neurosurgery, and pituitary disorders. Keep in mind that there is a great demand for neurosurgeons in South Africa so this would be a good specialty to consider.
Hopefully you will witness first hand what "usually happens" in this field of work. It would be hard to say and it would require you to have your own individual experience with it.
I hope this helps as a start and I wish you all the best !
This is really helpful, thank you so much.
Kelz
You are very welcome, Kelz !
Michelle M.
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Kelz!
DARE TO BE THE BEST!
How To Become A Neurosurgeon In South Africa
1. Understanding the Role of a Neurosurgeon
A neurosurgeon specializes in diagnosing and surgically treating disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. They manage conditions such as brain tumors, spinal cord injuries, aneurysms, epilepsy, and congenital neurological disorders. The complexity and delicacy of neurosurgical procedures require exceptional skill, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to make quick, critical decisions.
2. Educational Pathway
a. Obtain a Medical Degree
The first step is to earn a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degree. In South Africa, this is a six-year undergraduate program offered at several universities, including: Healthcare services
University of Cape Town (UCT)
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
University of Pretoria
Stellenbosch University
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Admission Requirements:
A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with excellent marks in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences.
National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) are also required by most universities.
Admission is highly competitive, so a strong academic record and participation in extracurricular activities, especially those related to health and leadership, are advantageous.
Duration: 6 years (including practical rotations in the final years).
b. Internship and Community Service
After earning the MBChB degree, graduates must complete:
2 Years of Internship: In various medical fields, including surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and emergency medicine.
1 Year of Community Service: Serving in public hospitals or clinics, often in rural or underserved areas. This experience is crucial for developing practical skills and a sense of social responsibility.
3. Specialization in Neurosurgery
a. Apply for a Neurosurgery Registrar Position
To specialize in neurosurgery, one must secure a registrar (residency) position in the Department of Neurosurgery at an accredited teaching hospital. This is extremely competitive, with limited positions available nationwide.
Requirements for Application:
Completion of internship and community service.
Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a medical practitioner.
Excellent academic and clinical performance records.
Letters of recommendation and a demonstrated interest in neurosurgery through research or related activities.
Healthcare services
Duration: Neurosurgery training in South Africa typically takes 6 years.
b. Training and Curriculum
During the residency, registrars undergo rigorous training, including:
Clinical Rotations: In neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, spine surgery, pediatric neurosurgery, and neurotrauma.
Surgical Skills Development: Gaining hands-on experience in complex surgical procedures under supervision.
Academic Learning: Attending seminars, conferences, and participating in research.
Teaching and Leadership: Involvement in teaching junior doctors and medical students.
To become a qualified neurosurgeon:
Intermediate Examinations: Usually taken after the first 2 years of residency.
Final Exit Examinations: Conducted by the College of Neurosurgeons of South Africa. These exams assess theoretical knowledge, clinical expertise, and surgical proficiency.
Research Requirement: Completing and publishing a research dissertation is mandatory.
Upon passing these exams, candidates receive the FC Neurosurgery (SA) qualification.
4. Registration and Licensing
After successfully completing the specialization:
Register with the HPCSA as a Specialist Neurosurgeon.
Maintain continuous professional development (CPD) to keep the license active.
5. Career Opportunities and Advancement
a. Employment Options
Public Hospitals: Most neurosurgeons start their careers in public hospitals, gaining valuable experience in high-volume trauma centers.
Private Practice: After gaining sufficient experience, many neurosurgeons move to private practice, offering specialized services.
Academic and Research Positions: Teaching at medical schools and contributing to neurosurgical research.
Subspecialization: Options include pediatric neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, cerebrovascular surgery, and functional neurosurgery.
b. Salary and Job Outlook
Neurosurgery is one of the highest-paid medical specializations in South Africa, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and practice setting. Private practice neurosurgeons generally earn more than those in public hospitals. The demand for neurosurgeons is growing due to advancements in medical technology and an increase in neurological conditions.
6. Challenges and Rewards
Challenges:
Long and demanding training period (minimum of 15 years).
High-stress environment requiring precision and resilience.
Continuous learning to keep up with advancements in neurosurgical techniques and technology.
Rewards:
High earning potential and respect in the medical community.
The satisfaction of making life-changing impacts on patients’ health and well-being.
Opportunities for global recognition through research and medical advancements.
7. Essential Skills and Qualities
To excel as a neurosurgeon, one must possess:
Manual Dexterity and Hand-Eye Coordination: For performing intricate surgical procedures.
Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: To make quick, accurate decisions in critical situations.
Emotional Resilience and Compassion: For dealing with life-threatening conditions and patient outcomes.
Commitment to Lifelong Learning: Keeping up with new technologies, research, and surgical techniques.
8. Tips for Aspiring Neurosurgeons
Start Early: Focus on excelling in sciences during high school.
Seek Mentorship: Shadow neurosurgeons to gain insights into the profession.
Engage in Research: Participate in neuroscience or medical research projects.
Build a Strong Network: Attend medical conferences, seminars, and workshops.
Maintain Work-Life Balance: Neurosurgery is demanding; maintaining mental and physical health is crucial.
For those passionate about the human nervous system and willing to embrace the challenges, neurosurgery offers a fulfilling and prestigious career. Through dedication, resilience, and continuous learning, you can achieve the remarkable goal of becoming a neurosurgeon in South Africa
Their work involves performing complex surgeries to remove tumors, repair damaged nerves, treat spinal issues, and relieve pressure in the brain. They also collaborate with other specialists for non-surgical treatments, provide postoperative care, and engage in research to advance neurosurgical techniques and treatments.
Benefits Of Being A Neurosurgeon
High Earning Potential: Neurosurgeons are among the highest-paid medical specialists due to the complexity and demand of their work.
Intellectual Challenge: The field is intellectually stimulating, involving complex problem-solving and cutting-edge medical technology.
Impactful Work: Neurosurgeons make significant differences in patients’ lives, often performing life-saving or life-changing procedures.
DARE TO BE THE BEST!
How To Become A Neurosurgeon In South Africa
1. Understanding the Role of a Neurosurgeon
A neurosurgeon specializes in diagnosing and surgically treating disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. They manage conditions such as brain tumors, spinal cord injuries, aneurysms, epilepsy, and congenital neurological disorders. The complexity and delicacy of neurosurgical procedures require exceptional skill, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to make quick, critical decisions.
2. Educational Pathway
a. Obtain a Medical Degree
The first step is to earn a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degree. In South Africa, this is a six-year undergraduate program offered at several universities, including: Healthcare services
University of Cape Town (UCT)
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
University of Pretoria
Stellenbosch University
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Admission Requirements:
A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with excellent marks in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences.
National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) are also required by most universities.
Admission is highly competitive, so a strong academic record and participation in extracurricular activities, especially those related to health and leadership, are advantageous.
Duration: 6 years (including practical rotations in the final years).
b. Internship and Community Service
After earning the MBChB degree, graduates must complete:
2 Years of Internship: In various medical fields, including surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and emergency medicine.
1 Year of Community Service: Serving in public hospitals or clinics, often in rural or underserved areas. This experience is crucial for developing practical skills and a sense of social responsibility.
3. Specialization in Neurosurgery
a. Apply for a Neurosurgery Registrar Position
To specialize in neurosurgery, one must secure a registrar (residency) position in the Department of Neurosurgery at an accredited teaching hospital. This is extremely competitive, with limited positions available nationwide.
Requirements for Application:
Completion of internship and community service.
Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a medical practitioner.
Excellent academic and clinical performance records.
Letters of recommendation and a demonstrated interest in neurosurgery through research or related activities.
Healthcare services
Duration: Neurosurgery training in South Africa typically takes 6 years.
b. Training and Curriculum
During the residency, registrars undergo rigorous training, including:
Clinical Rotations: In neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, spine surgery, pediatric neurosurgery, and neurotrauma.
Surgical Skills Development: Gaining hands-on experience in complex surgical procedures under supervision.
Academic Learning: Attending seminars, conferences, and participating in research.
Teaching and Leadership: Involvement in teaching junior doctors and medical students.
To become a qualified neurosurgeon:
Intermediate Examinations: Usually taken after the first 2 years of residency.
Final Exit Examinations: Conducted by the College of Neurosurgeons of South Africa. These exams assess theoretical knowledge, clinical expertise, and surgical proficiency.
Research Requirement: Completing and publishing a research dissertation is mandatory.
Upon passing these exams, candidates receive the FC Neurosurgery (SA) qualification.
4. Registration and Licensing
After successfully completing the specialization:
Register with the HPCSA as a Specialist Neurosurgeon.
Maintain continuous professional development (CPD) to keep the license active.
5. Career Opportunities and Advancement
a. Employment Options
Public Hospitals: Most neurosurgeons start their careers in public hospitals, gaining valuable experience in high-volume trauma centers.
Private Practice: After gaining sufficient experience, many neurosurgeons move to private practice, offering specialized services.
Academic and Research Positions: Teaching at medical schools and contributing to neurosurgical research.
Subspecialization: Options include pediatric neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, cerebrovascular surgery, and functional neurosurgery.
b. Salary and Job Outlook
Neurosurgery is one of the highest-paid medical specializations in South Africa, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and practice setting. Private practice neurosurgeons generally earn more than those in public hospitals. The demand for neurosurgeons is growing due to advancements in medical technology and an increase in neurological conditions.
6. Challenges and Rewards
Challenges:
Long and demanding training period (minimum of 15 years).
High-stress environment requiring precision and resilience.
Continuous learning to keep up with advancements in neurosurgical techniques and technology.
Rewards:
High earning potential and respect in the medical community.
The satisfaction of making life-changing impacts on patients’ health and well-being.
Opportunities for global recognition through research and medical advancements.
7. Essential Skills and Qualities
To excel as a neurosurgeon, one must possess:
Manual Dexterity and Hand-Eye Coordination: For performing intricate surgical procedures.
Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: To make quick, accurate decisions in critical situations.
Emotional Resilience and Compassion: For dealing with life-threatening conditions and patient outcomes.
Commitment to Lifelong Learning: Keeping up with new technologies, research, and surgical techniques.
8. Tips for Aspiring Neurosurgeons
Start Early: Focus on excelling in sciences during high school.
Seek Mentorship: Shadow neurosurgeons to gain insights into the profession.
Engage in Research: Participate in neuroscience or medical research projects.
Build a Strong Network: Attend medical conferences, seminars, and workshops.
Maintain Work-Life Balance: Neurosurgery is demanding; maintaining mental and physical health is crucial.
For those passionate about the human nervous system and willing to embrace the challenges, neurosurgery offers a fulfilling and prestigious career. Through dedication, resilience, and continuous learning, you can achieve the remarkable goal of becoming a neurosurgeon in South Africa
Their work involves performing complex surgeries to remove tumors, repair damaged nerves, treat spinal issues, and relieve pressure in the brain. They also collaborate with other specialists for non-surgical treatments, provide postoperative care, and engage in research to advance neurosurgical techniques and treatments.
Benefits Of Being A Neurosurgeon
High Earning Potential: Neurosurgeons are among the highest-paid medical specialists due to the complexity and demand of their work.
Intellectual Challenge: The field is intellectually stimulating, involving complex problem-solving and cutting-edge medical technology.
Impactful Work: Neurosurgeons make significant differences in patients’ lives, often performing life-saving or life-changing procedures.
This is extremely helpful information, I deeply appreciate this, thank you so much.
Kelz
USE COURAGE TO DOMINATE! YOU ARE A CHILD OF THE MOST HIGH!
James Constantine Frangos
Mark Mudano
Orthopaedic Surgery
7
Answers
Evans, Georgia
Updated
Mark’s Answer
To pursue a career in neurosurgery, you'll need dedication and years of education after high school. Here's a simple guide to help you:
1. Aim for good grades in high school.
2. In college, strive for excellent grades. You don't need to major in science unless it interests you. Medical schools value a high GPA, so choose a major you enjoy and excel in, whether it's English, history, or even economics.
3. Medical school lasts 4 years. If you're interested in neurosurgery, focus on doing well in neurology and neurosurgery rotations to show your commitment. After medical school, a neurosurgery residency takes 5 years. If you want to further specialize, you might spend 1-2 years in a fellowship.
Stay motivated and remember that your hard work can lead to a rewarding career.
Do you or your family know a neurosurgeon ? If so you could call his office and see about a short meeting where you can ask all the questions you have , such as, would he (or she) allow you to set up a schedule where you might go and visit with this doctor on a regular basis to see exactly what he does on a daily basis.
1. Aim for good grades in high school.
2. In college, strive for excellent grades. You don't need to major in science unless it interests you. Medical schools value a high GPA, so choose a major you enjoy and excel in, whether it's English, history, or even economics.
3. Medical school lasts 4 years. If you're interested in neurosurgery, focus on doing well in neurology and neurosurgery rotations to show your commitment. After medical school, a neurosurgery residency takes 5 years. If you want to further specialize, you might spend 1-2 years in a fellowship.
Stay motivated and remember that your hard work can lead to a rewarding career.
Mark recommends the following next steps:
Alrighty, thank you so much. Thankfully I can get in contact with a neurosurgeon, thank you for the advice.
Kelz
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1092
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Kelz,
If you are in grade 10, you don't need to worry about specializing just yet. Focus on doing well in matric so you can get into medical school. You'll have 6 years in medical school to learn and experience the world of medicine. You'll have figured out your favorite specialization(s) before you graduate.
Your first step would be to attend medical school. In South Africa, it takes 6 years to earn your Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB). Universities with medical programs include University of Pretoria, University of the Witwatersrand, University of the Free State, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Walter Sisulu University, University of Stellenbosch, University of Cape Town, Nelson Mandela University and Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University.
Admission to medical school is competitive. You'll need excellent marks in matric (NSC), especially in math and sciences, as well as a good score in the National Bench Mark Test (NBT). Each medical school has their own admission criteria, so you need to look up schools you are interested in.
Some examples for schools in Gauteng:
https://www.wits.ac.za/course-finder/undergraduate/health/medicine-and-surgery
https://www.up.ac.za/programmes/programme/10130003/year/2025
https://www.smu.ac.za/schools/medicine/medicine-undergraduate-admission-requirements
After graduation with your MBChB, you have 2 years of medical internship plus 1 year of community service. These will be allocated to you by the Department of Health.
Next comes training in your specialization. A masters program in neurosurgery takes 5-6 years possibly followed by a fellowship e.g. to further specialize in neurosurgical spine surgery. I left links to some programs below.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://www.up.ac.za/faculty-of-health-sciences/programmes/programme/10250035/year/2026
https://health.uct.ac.za/neurosurgery/education/postgraduate-training
https://www.sun.ac.za/english/pgstudies/Documents/MHS%20Faculty/Programmes/MMed%20Neurosurgery.pdf
https://www.wits.ac.za/course-finder/postgraduate/health/master-of-medicine/
https://health.uct.ac.za/neurosurgery/education/fellowships
If you are in grade 10, you don't need to worry about specializing just yet. Focus on doing well in matric so you can get into medical school. You'll have 6 years in medical school to learn and experience the world of medicine. You'll have figured out your favorite specialization(s) before you graduate.
Your first step would be to attend medical school. In South Africa, it takes 6 years to earn your Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB). Universities with medical programs include University of Pretoria, University of the Witwatersrand, University of the Free State, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Walter Sisulu University, University of Stellenbosch, University of Cape Town, Nelson Mandela University and Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University.
Admission to medical school is competitive. You'll need excellent marks in matric (NSC), especially in math and sciences, as well as a good score in the National Bench Mark Test (NBT). Each medical school has their own admission criteria, so you need to look up schools you are interested in.
Some examples for schools in Gauteng:
https://www.wits.ac.za/course-finder/undergraduate/health/medicine-and-surgery
https://www.up.ac.za/programmes/programme/10130003/year/2025
https://www.smu.ac.za/schools/medicine/medicine-undergraduate-admission-requirements
After graduation with your MBChB, you have 2 years of medical internship plus 1 year of community service. These will be allocated to you by the Department of Health.
Next comes training in your specialization. A masters program in neurosurgery takes 5-6 years possibly followed by a fellowship e.g. to further specialize in neurosurgical spine surgery. I left links to some programs below.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Charu Bansal
Product Leader
3
Answers
Livingston, New Jersey
Updated
Charu’s Answer
Stay committed to your goal of becoming a neurosurgeon. In the U.S., you decide on your specialty during medical school rotations and internships. Contact a local medical school and join any virtual sessions they offer to learn more about the medical fields that interest you. Good luck!
Thank you, I'll definitely do that.
Kelz