How hard is it to become a neurosurgeon?

A neurosurgeon must first obtain a bachelor's degree and have stellar grades while doing so. After this, they must take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), a notoriously complex and difficult exam that may require multiple attempts.

Once in medical school, you must obtain exceptional grades because later you have to enter surgical residency. Neurosurgical residencies are very competitive, so the grades you make in medical school matter.

But before you apply for residency, you must take and perform well on the licensing exam.

Medical graduates with an MD take the United States Medical Licensing Examination, and those with a DO take the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination. All states require a neurosurgeon to have a license.

After obtaining either license, you can apply for neurosurgical residency. This consists of three to seven years of intensive hands-on training working in a hospital setting. After this, you may practice independently as a qualified neurosurgeon.

The over a decade-long educational and training track, the necessity for exceptional grades, and the exceedingly difficult examinations you face along the way make becoming a neurosurgeon a rather lengthy endeavor.