How the CIPHI Oral Exam Really Works: 7 Common Questions Answered
The CIPHI oral exam is a 75-minute, scenario-based test administered by a panel of three examiners. Candidates are presented with 12 scenarios and asked questions about the issues and how they would respond. A score of 70% is required to pass.
That’s the official version - but there are important details you won’t find on the CIPHI website.
Here are answers to seven common questions that will help you walk into the exam prepared for what actually happens.
1. Are all CIPHI oral exam scenarios the same?
Not exactly. While all questions are technically scenarios, some are really just knowledge checks in disguise.
For example:
Your department manager has asked you to lead a task force to investigate a recent spike in giardiasis in your Health Unit. What is giardiasis? What are the symptoms? What are the main prevention strategies? Name two other waterborne pathogens.
This looks like a scenario, but it’s really testing your ability to recall facts.
Strategy: When you recognize this type of question, switch to short, factual answers and move on quickly to save time for more complex scenarios.
2. Do you lose points for wrong answers?
No. Examiners only award points for correct content - you don’t lose points for incorrect statements.
How to use this:
Keep talking - silence gets you nothing
Make thoughtful guesses if you’re not sure
Don’t ramble - examiners can tell the difference between reasoning through uncertainty and “talking in circles”
Example: If you blank on the term “zoonotic,” you can still list examples like Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli and score points.
3. What information do you get with each scenario?
You’ll be given:
A written copy of each scenario
The subject area
The number of questions attached to it
Why it matters: This helps you decide when to keep expanding your answer and when to move on.
4. Can you skip a question and come back later?
Yes. You can return to a question at any time during the exam and still score points.
Pro tips:
If you freeze up early, pass and come back once you’ve calmed down
If you remember something later, revisit that scenario before time runs out
Take notes so you know where to return
Don’t overuse this - if the answer is revealed later in the exam, you lose your chance to go back
5. Are bonus points real?
Yes - and they can make a difference. Bonus points are awarded when a candidate goes above and beyond in their answers. They’re rare, but if you’re close to the passing mark, they can tip the scales in your favor.
6. Does your overall impression matter?
Absolutely. Professionalism and composure can influence your examiners’ perception.
Be respectful, think out loud, and if you’re uncertain, say:
“I’m not completely sure, but here’s my best educated guess…”
This shows maturity and keeps examiners engaged with your thought process.
Final Tip: The CIPHI oral exam isn’t just a knowledge test, it’s a performance. Understanding how the scoring works, using time wisely, and staying composed under pressure can make a big difference in your result.
Want to practice these strategies in a real-time mock exam?
Book a free coaching session or download the Strategy Guide to start preparing today.