Credential type: certification examination · verified on the issuer's site September 20, 2026 issuer page
The Certified General Surgery Coder (CGSC) exam is administered by AAPC and tests coding knowledge specific to general surgery practice. It covers four domains: procedure coding, anesthesia and modifiers, surgical diagnosis coding, and documentation and compliance. Candidates answer 100 multiple-choice questions in a linear format within a 340-minute testing window.
Medical coders working in or transitioning to general surgery settings should consider this credential. It suits professionals who already hold a coding foundation and want to validate specialty-specific skills in surgical procedure and diagnosis coding.
Start by reviewing the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, since diagnosis coding is one of the four tested domains. Pair that with AAPC's CGSC study materials and practice coding operative notes for general surgery cases. Drill modifier selection and NCCI edits separately, then take timed practice tests to build pacing for the 340-minute window.
This domain covers CPT procedure coding for general surgery, including the full range of operative cases a general surgeon performs. Candidates must apply correct codes from operative notes and supporting documentation.
This domain covers anesthesia coding fundamentals and the correct use of CPT and HCPCS modifiers in surgical claims. Candidates apply modifiers to reflect circumstances such as multiple procedures, bilateral work, or distinct services.
This domain covers ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding for surgical cases, applying the Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting. Candidates sequence diagnoses correctly and follow chapter-specific rules for surgical encounters.
This domain covers documentation requirements and compliance considerations that support accurate surgical coding. Candidates evaluate medical record content for completeness and apply NCCI and global surgery policy rules.
Arrive early with required ID and reference materials permitted by AAPC. Pace yourself across the 340-minute window, flagging uncertain items and returning during review. Read each question stem carefully before selecting.
The CGSC exam contains 100 questions. All items are multiple choice, and the exam is delivered in a linear format, meaning candidates cannot return to earlier items after advancing through the test.
A score of 70 is required to pass the CGSC exam. The credential is valid for two years and must be renewed to remain active.
Candidates have 340 minutes to complete the CGSC exam. Time management across all 100 questions is important given the length of the testing window and the linear delivery format.
The CGSC exam costs $299 for AAPC members and $399 for non-members. Membership pricing applies only to current AAPC members at the time of registration.
The CGSC certification is valid for two years. Renewal is required, and coders should check with AAPC for the current renewal requirements and continuing education units needed.
Yes, the CGSC exam is current and administered by AAPC. There is no retirement of this credential, and candidates seeking the long-term certification path should check with AAPC.
Verified 2026-09-02
This page was built from AAPC's official CGSC exam guides and study documentation, cross-referenced with CMS ICD-10-CM and NCCI policy materials used in exam preparation.