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Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC
Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer
Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP
Imagine walking into your RACGP Clinical Competency Exam, CCE, feeling calm, well prepared, and confident. You have put in the time, you have practised the scenarios, and now you are ready. Instead of anxiety and uncertainty, you feel clarity and self assurance, knowing exactly what is expected of you.
Achieving this mindset starts by clearly knowing the RACGP CCE Exam Dates 2025. Understanding these key dates is not just about marking a calendar, it is about shaping a robust study timeline around them, ensuring you arrive at your exam peak ready, not panic stricken.
In this guide, you will find the official RACGP exam dates, step by step recommendations for planning your preparation effectively, detailed guidance for integrating mock exams, and strategic advice to balance study commitments with your clinical workload.
Where to Find the Official RACGP CCE Exam Dates 2025
Accessing reliable information directly from RACGP ensures you plan correctly:
The official 2025.1 CCE exam weekends are 14 to 15 June 2025 and 21 to 22 June 2025 [1].
The 2025.2 CCE will be held on 18 to 19 October 2025 and 25 to 26 October 2025 [1].
Key tips to ensure you never miss these crucial details:
Visit RACGP’s official exam enrolment webpage regularly.
Subscribe to RACGP emails and newsletters for updates.
Mark the enrolment period, for example, for the October exam, enrolment opens 29 July 2025 and closes 26 August 2025 [2].
Set calendar reminders for critical enrolment deadlines.
Remember, missing these dates can set you back significantly, disrupting your training pathway and timeline.
How Far in Advance Should You Start Preparing?
Proper preparation takes more than just last minute cramming. RACGP outlines staged preparation windows that include 12 to 18 months and 6 to 12 months ahead of your chosen exam date [3]. Starting earlier is highly beneficial, especially if you are juggling clinical duties.
Here is exactly why planning ahead matters:
Successful candidates usually dedicate consistent weekly study across several months, building knowledge and confidence steadily.
IMGs, who may be less familiar with Australian healthcare protocols and guidelines, benefit from starting preparation early and engaging with RACGP orientation resources [4].
Early planning allows you to identify gaps in your knowledge or clinical reasoning skills well ahead of time, providing ample opportunity to seek targeted support or mentorship.
Setting a sustainable study schedule from the outset not only helps avoid burnout, it also enhances knowledge retention and confidence as you approach exam day.
Crucial Revision Strategies for the Final 4 to 6 Weeks
Your final revision period, 4 to 6 weeks before your exam, is about consolidation and refinement, rather than trying to learn entirely new topics. Specifically, you should:
Prioritise revisiting high yield topics frequently encountered in Australian general practice, such as chronic diseases, antenatal care, preventive health checks, and mental health scenarios.
Recognise that most CCE scenarios focus on common general practice presentations with added complexity, consistent with RACGP’s stated purpose for the CCE [5].
Repeatedly practise scenarios that you found challenging earlier in your preparation, familiarity breeds confidence.
Perfect your timing and clinical reasoning frameworks through repeated, timed scenario practice. The CCE uses 5 minutes of reading time and 15 minutes of interaction per case, and is delivered as a program of nine cases over two weekends [6].
Ensure your technology is fully functional. Conduct comprehensive checks of your computer, webcam, microphone, and internet connection well before the exam dates to minimise technical issues [6].
For example, Dr Marcus allocated daily 30 minute blocks in the final month specifically to revisit cases he initially found challenging, transforming these weaker areas into confident strengths by exam day.
FAQ: Common Questions about RACGP CCE Exam Dates 2025 and Study Timelines
1. What are the exact RACGP CCE Exam Dates for 2025?
The official RACGP CCE exam weekends for 2025 are mid year, 14 to 15 June 2025 and 21 to 22 June 2025, and late year, 18 to 19 and 25 to 26 October 2025 [1]. Verify these dates regularly via the RACGP’s official website.
2. How long before the CCE should preparation start?
RACGP outlines staged preparation windows that include 12 to 18 months and 6 to 12 months ahead of the CCE [3]. Beginning earlier supports thorough coverage of the RACGP curriculum and strengthens long term retention and exam confidence.
3. How many mock exams should you attempt before the CCE?
Plan for multiple full length mock exams in the final several weeks before the actual exam. Consistent mock practice is associated with better performance and lower anxiety in clinical assessment settings [8], [9].
4. What is the pass rate for the RACGP CCE and is it particularly difficult?
The most recent public report for 2025.1 CCE recorded a first attempt pass rate of 83.86 percent and an overall pass rate of 79.66 percent. While the exam is challenging, thorough, structured preparation significantly increases the likelihood of passing on your first attempt.
5. What revision resources should you prioritise in the final weeks?
In your final weeks, focus on RACGP endorsed resources such as the RACGP Curriculum, Therapeutic Guidelines, PBS prescribing guidance, and the RACGP Red Book for preventive care. Additionally, RACGP webinars, candidate guidelines, and exam reports from previous sittings are valuable for targeted revision.
When and How to Integrate Mock Exams
Incorporating mock exams into your study timeline is crucial. They provide practice and feedback under conditions closely mimicking the actual exam:
Begin mock exams in the final several weeks prior to your actual exam date, ensuring time to address any performance gaps. RACGP and regional training activities commonly schedule preparatory sessions in the lead up to each sitting [7].
Aim to complete multiple full length mock exams that include nine clinical cases, mirroring exam day pacing and cognitive load [6].
Evidence from peer reviewed medical education literature shows that structured mock OSCE style preparation can improve confidence and performance, and is associated with reduced anxiety [8], [9].
Engage in at least one supervised mock exam, typically provided by RACGP or reputable training organisations, approximately a month prior to your real exam date where available [7].
A great example is Dr Li, who undertook a series of mock exams spaced evenly over the six weeks leading up to his CCE. Each mock session not only improved his clinical reasoning but also enhanced his composure and confidence on exam day.
Booking the CCE if You Work Full Time or After Hours
Balancing full time clinical responsibilities or after hours GP shifts with CCE preparation presents unique challenges. However, these practical strategies can ease the process:
Schedule your RACGP CCE Exam Dates 2025 at least several months in advance, giving your workplace adequate notice.
Engage your supervisor or practice manager early, clearly communicating your exam goals and asking for flexibility or reduced clinical hours as your exam date approaches.
Many trainees successfully negotiate reduced shifts or even take leave 4 to 6 weeks before their exam to create intensive revision periods.
Leverage your everyday clinical interactions to reinforce learning, view challenging patient cases as real world scenarios for exam practice.
Protect specific study blocks each week, for example, dedicating a day off or evening slots specifically for targeted revision.
A practical example is Dr Priya, who worked full time and arranged to have every Thursday afternoon off for focused exam revision during the final three months leading up to her CCE. By integrating study sessions into her weekly routine, she successfully balanced work, family, and exam preparation.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by RACGP exam preparation, Fellow Academy offers high quality AKT and KFP questions, concise yet comprehensive exam notes, and evidence based flashcards explicitly designed for GP trainees and IMGs. We also provide free KFP case packs, expert webinars, and practical resources to guide you at every step. Our mission is simple, help you study smarter, achieve clarity, and perform with the confidence you deserve.
Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, RACGP. The strategies and approaches shared are based on personal experience and the experiences of other GP candidates who successfully passed their exams. They are intended as general study guidance only and should not be taken as official RACGP advice.
Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, RACGP. The strategies and approaches shared are based on personal experience and the experiences of other GP candidates who successfully passed their exams. They are intended as general study guidance only and should not be taken as official RACGP advice.
References
[1] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. Clinical Competency Exam, dates and delivery overview. Available at: https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/racgp-exams/clinical-competency-exam
[2] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. Exam enrolment periods, CCE 2025.2 enrolment window. Available at: https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/racgp-exams/exam-enrolment-instructions/enrolment-periods
[3] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. Exam planning, start here, staged preparation timeline. Available at: https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/preparing-for-exams/exam-planning-start-here
[4] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. Standard pathway for international medical graduates, orientation and requirements. Available at: https://www.racgp.org.au/education/imgs/live-and-practice-medicine-in-australia/standard-pathway
[5] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. RACGP exams overview and CCE purpose. Available at: https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/racgp-exams
[6] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. Candidate guidelines for the Clinical Competency Exam, timing and case format. Available at: https://www.racgp.org.au/getattachment/a5a6a184-7266-4d2b-a9f7-fc924320db68/Candidate-guidelines-for-the-Clinical-Competency-Exam.pdf
[7] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. Regional exam preparation activities and events, CCE preparation. Available at: https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/preparing-for-exams
[8] Bevan, J., Lawson, K., Mackay, J., Kendrick, T. 2019. A new approach to OSCE preparation, PrOSCEs. BMC Medical Education, 19, 126. Available at: https://bmcmededuc.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12909-019-1571-5
[9] Young, I. 2014. The benefits of a peer assisted mock OSCE. Medical Education, 48, 120. PubMed record available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24802924/.
AKT Exam Preparation: Study Strategies That Work
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Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC
Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer
Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP
Summary
Imagine walking into your RACGP Clinical Competency Exam, CCE, feeling calm, well prepared, and confident. You have put in the time, you have practised the scenarios, and now you are ready. Instead of anxiety and uncertainty, you feel clarity and self assurance, knowing exactly what is expected of you.
Achieving this mindset starts by clearly knowing the RACGP CCE Exam Dates 2025. Understanding these key dates is not just about marking a calendar, it is about shaping a robust study timeline around them, ensuring you arrive at your exam peak ready, not panic stricken.
In this guide, you will find the official RACGP exam dates, step by step recommendations for planning your preparation effectively, detailed guidance for integrating mock exams, and strategic advice to balance study commitments with your clinical workload.
Where to Find the Official RACGP CCE Exam Dates 2025
Accessing reliable information directly from RACGP ensures you plan correctly:
The official 2025.1 CCE exam weekends are 14 to 15 June 2025 and 21 to 22 June 2025 [1].
The 2025.2 CCE will be held on 18 to 19 October 2025 and 25 to 26 October 2025 [1].
Key tips to ensure you never miss these crucial details:
Visit RACGP’s official exam enrolment webpage regularly.
Subscribe to RACGP emails and newsletters for updates.
Mark the enrolment period, for example, for the October exam, enrolment opens 29 July 2025 and closes 26 August 2025 [2].
Set calendar reminders for critical enrolment deadlines.
Remember, missing these dates can set you back significantly, disrupting your training pathway and timeline.
How Far in Advance Should You Start Preparing?
Proper preparation takes more than just last minute cramming. RACGP outlines staged preparation windows that include 12 to 18 months and 6 to 12 months ahead of your chosen exam date [3]. Starting earlier is highly beneficial, especially if you are juggling clinical duties.
Here is exactly why planning ahead matters:
Successful candidates usually dedicate consistent weekly study across several months, building knowledge and confidence steadily.
IMGs, who may be less familiar with Australian healthcare protocols and guidelines, benefit from starting preparation early and engaging with RACGP orientation resources [4].
Early planning allows you to identify gaps in your knowledge or clinical reasoning skills well ahead of time, providing ample opportunity to seek targeted support or mentorship.
Setting a sustainable study schedule from the outset not only helps avoid burnout, it also enhances knowledge retention and confidence as you approach exam day.
Crucial Revision Strategies for the Final 4 to 6 Weeks
Your final revision period, 4 to 6 weeks before your exam, is about consolidation and refinement, rather than trying to learn entirely new topics. Specifically, you should:
Prioritise revisiting high yield topics frequently encountered in Australian general practice, such as chronic diseases, antenatal care, preventive health checks, and mental health scenarios.
Recognise that most CCE scenarios focus on common general practice presentations with added complexity, consistent with RACGP’s stated purpose for the CCE [5].
Repeatedly practise scenarios that you found challenging earlier in your preparation, familiarity breeds confidence.
Perfect your timing and clinical reasoning frameworks through repeated, timed scenario practice. The CCE uses 5 minutes of reading time and 15 minutes of interaction per case, and is delivered as a program of nine cases over two weekends [6].
Ensure your technology is fully functional. Conduct comprehensive checks of your computer, webcam, microphone, and internet connection well before the exam dates to minimise technical issues [6].
For example, Dr Marcus allocated daily 30 minute blocks in the final month specifically to revisit cases he initially found challenging, transforming these weaker areas into confident strengths by exam day.
Tools That Make Active Recall Easy
Digital tools simplify the process of integrating active recall and spaced repetition into your RACGP exam preparation.
-
Brainscape: Uses adaptive algorithms to determine when you should review each flashcard based on your confidence level.
-
Anki: Allows custom deck creation for topics like PBS rules or emergency management.
-
Quizlet: Offers collaborative decks for study groups.
Using these tools allows you to:
-
Review flashcards during commutes or between patients.
-
Automatically revisit topics you’re struggling with.
-
Track progress and identify weak areas.
These platforms bring structure to your study plan, ensuring regular reinforcement and better recall.
(For time management strategies, see our AKT Study Planner.)
How to Combine These Methods for Peak Performance
When you combine active recall with spaced repetition, the results are exponential. This combination, known as “spaced retrieval practice”, creates a continuous cycle of learning, forgetting, and relearning that strengthens memory.
-
Start early (at least 6–12 months before your exam).
-
Create flashcards for each guideline or high-yield topic.
-
Use Brainscape or Anki daily to review material in spaced cycles.
-
Schedule mock exams every 3–4 weeks to test your applied knowledge.
Research indicates spaced repetition can significantly increase long-term retention, with spaced learners achieving approximately 58% accuracy compared to 43% among traditional learners (p<0.001) [4].
By six months into this method, most candidates report not only improved recall but also better confidence under pressure. You’re no longer scrambling to remember—you’re retrieving information automatically.
FAQ: Common Questions about RACGP CCE Exam Dates 2025 and Study Timelines
1. What are the exact RACGP CCE Exam Dates for 2025?
The official RACGP CCE exam weekends for 2025 are mid year, 14 to 15 June 2025 and 21 to 22 June 2025, and late year, 18 to 19 and 25 to 26 October 2025 [1]. Verify these dates regularly via the RACGP’s official website.
2. How long before the CCE should preparation start?
RACGP outlines staged preparation windows that include 12 to 18 months and 6 to 12 months ahead of the CCE [3]. Beginning earlier supports thorough coverage of the RACGP curriculum and strengthens long term retention and exam confidence.
3. How many mock exams should you attempt before the CCE?
Plan for multiple full length mock exams in the final several weeks before the actual exam. Consistent mock practice is associated with better performance and lower anxiety in clinical assessment settings [8], [9].
4. What is the pass rate for the RACGP CCE and is it particularly difficult?
The most recent public report for 2025.1 CCE recorded a first attempt pass rate of 83.86 percent and an overall pass rate of 79.66 percent. While the exam is challenging, thorough, structured preparation significantly increases the likelihood of passing on your first attempt.
5. What revision resources should you prioritise in the final weeks?
In your final weeks, focus on RACGP endorsed resources such as the RACGP Curriculum, Therapeutic Guidelines, PBS prescribing guidance, and the RACGP Red Book for preventive care. Additionally, RACGP webinars, candidate guidelines, and exam reports from previous sittings are valuable for targeted revision.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by RACGP exam preparation, Fellow Academy offers high quality AKT and KFP questions, exam notes in concise and comprehensive format, and high yield, evidence based flashcards designed to help you study smarter and perform with confidence. You’ll also find free KFP case packs, webinars, and practical study resources to guide you every step of the way.
Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). The strategies and approaches shared are based on personal experience and the experiences of other GP candidates who successfully passed their exams. They are intended as general study guidance only and should not be taken as official RACGP advice.
References
-
GP Supervisors Australia. (2025). Study Skills Guide for GP Registrars: Studying Smarter, Not Harder. GPSA.
-
Carpenter, S. K., Pan, S. C., & Butler, A. C. (2022). The science of effective learning with spacing and retrieval practice. Nature Reviews Psychology, 1(10), 496–511.
-
Durrani, S. F., Yousuf, N., Ali, R., et al. (2024). Effectiveness of spaced repetition for clinical problem solving amongst undergraduate medical students studying paediatrics in Pakistan. BMC Medical Education, 24(1), 676.
-
Price, D. W., Wang, T., O’Neill, T. R., et al. (2025). The effect of spaced repetition on learning and knowledge transfer in a large cohort of practising physicians. Academic Medicine, 100(1), 94–102.
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