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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
Creating an effective GP exam study plan is your best bet if you aim to pass the RACGP exams confidently on your first attempt. Passing these exams means not only having the right knowledge but organising that knowledge systematically, covering every crucial area clearly, and reducing stress as you go.
This detailed guide provides a practical 6-month week-by-week strategy, carefully outlining exactly how to study for GP exams, including the Applied Knowledge Test (AKT), Key Feature Problem (KFP) exam, and Clinical Competency Exam (CCE). Drawing on authoritative research, official RACGP statistics, and proven exam prep strategies, this structured plan is designed specifically for Australian GP trainees and International Medical Graduates (IMGs).
As you work through this guide, you will learn exactly what topics to prioritise, when to focus on practice questions, how often to revise, and importantly, how to effectively manage your busy clinical schedules without feeling overwhelmed.
Why You Need a Study Plan to Pass the RACGP Exams
A structured GP exam study plan ensures thorough coverage of the extensive curriculum and significantly boosts your chance of success. Evidence consistently shows that trainees who follow a clear study schedule from the outset achieve higher pass rates and experience less exam-related stress.
RACGP statistics clearly show that candidates attempting the AKT for the first time have a notably higher pass rate of 91.3%, compared to 72.6% on a second attempt, 53.8% on a third attempt, and 23.9% on a fourth attempt (RACGP NewsGP, 2024) [1]. Clearly, your best chance of success is getting it right on your first try.
A structured approach means:
You will avoid critical gaps in your knowledge.
Your revision will be more targeted and effective.
Regular checkpoint reviews dramatically improve retention.
The RACGP specifically recommends using Self-Assessment Progress Tests (SAPTs) and the official practice exam to build familiarity and time management, which supports readiness for the real exam (RACGP Exam Planning, SAPT guidance) [2].
6-Month Study Plan for the AKT (Applied Knowledge Test)
The AKT is a paper-delivered multiple-choice exam consisting of 150 questions completed over 4 hours (RACGP, 2025) [3a]. It covers broad clinical knowledge across all domains of general practice, testing applied reasoning and safe management decisions.
You will need consistent revision, regular practice questions, and focused guideline reviews.
Months 1 and 2: Building Foundations
These initial months are for developing solid foundations in your clinical knowledge base. Map weekly topics directly to the RACGP curriculum—for example, cardiology in week 1, respiratory medicine in week 2 (RACGP Curriculum, 2023) [3].
Read essential texts like Murtagh’s General Practice, the Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG), and the Australian Immunisation Handbook [4,5].
Use flashcards daily for 10–15 minutes to reinforce guideline details, drug dosages, and screening intervals.
Complete your first mock AKT exam at the end of month 2. Analyse your results thoroughly, identifying areas needing more attention.
Months 3 and 4: Active Question Practice
In months 3 and 4, consistently integrating practice questions is essential. Completing 10–20 AKT questions each week reinforces knowledge and improves your test-taking strategies.
Join a study group or discuss challenging questions with peers weekly to sharpen your reasoning skills.
Perform checkpoint reviews every 3–4 weeks, reinforcing earlier learning through spaced repetition.
Keep track of repeated errors, and allocate extra revision time for topics where you frequently struggle.
Month 5: Exam Simulations
In month 5, intensify your preparation by simulating the AKT exam realistically.
Complete at least 2 full-length timed AKT mock exams under exam conditions.
Carefully audit each mock exam result to identify knowledge gaps and common exam errors (e.g., misreading questions, timing issues).
Discuss exam strategies such as how to manage exam stress, efficient question triage, and elimination techniques with a mentor or experienced supervisor.
Month 6: Final Consolidation
Month 6 is for refining your knowledge and building confidence.
Focus your revision on high-yield topics, especially recent guideline updates or commonly tested clinical scenarios.
Take one final mock exam approximately 2 weeks before the actual AKT to confirm readiness.
During the final week, rest, review key flashcards gently, and prepare your exam-day logistics (location, timings, and materials).
6-Month Study Plan for the CCE (Clinical Competency Exam)
The CCE consists of 9 cases delivered across 2 days via Zoom, including 5 clinical encounters and 4 case discussions, with each case lasting about 15 minutes (RACGP, 2025) [5a]. It assesses practical consultation, communication, and management skills essential for independent GP practice.
Months 1 and 2: Essential Foundations
Start by observing experienced GPs closely to grasp effective consultation structures.
Practise informal role-play consultations weekly to build confidence.
Identify and address communication or knowledge gaps early to ensure a solid consultation foundation.
Months 3 and 4: Regular Practical Training
Practise simulated consultations weekly, varying across acute, chronic, mental health, paediatric, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health cases.
Prioritise clear communication, structured consultation methods, shared decision-making, and effective safety-netting.
Regularly obtain structured feedback from peers or mentors to refine consultation skills.
Month 5: Comprehensive Mock Sessions
Arrange realistic mock sessions simulating a series of cases just like the actual CCE exam.
Conduct mock consultations back-to-back to build stamina and familiarity.
Collect detailed feedback highlighting where improvement is required—clinical content, communication, or structure.
Month 6: Final Readiness
In month 6, refine your consultation skills and practise managing stress and logistics.
Focus on clear, structured communication during consultations.
Practise exam-day logistics thoroughly, ensuring comfort with all technical and timing details.
Rest adequately before exam day to ensure peak performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long should I study for the RACGP exams?
Most candidates should allow at least 6–9 months of structured study for the RACGP exams, planning around 15 hours per week, totalling approximately 300–750 study hours by exam day. Starting late significantly reduces your chance of passing.
2. How can I create a GP exam study plan?
Download a dedicated study planner and map your timeline into weeks. Assign topics, question blocks, review sessions, and mock exams. Use weekly key outcome indicators (KOIs) such as:
Complete 50 AKT questions
Do 1 KFP case
Review flashcards for 15 minutes daily
This becomes your structured GP exam study plan.
3. What are the differences between the AKT, KFP, and CCE exams?
The AKT tests applied knowledge via multiple-choice questions across general practice.
The KFP tests clinical reasoning in scenario-based format focusing on key features of cases.
The CCE tests practical consultation and management skills in real-time simulated GP consults.
Each requires distinct yet overlapping preparation strategies.
4. What resources should I use to study for the GP exams?
Use Australian-specific guidelines (e.g., Therapeutic Guidelines, Australian Immunisation Handbook), the RACGP Curriculum, question banks for AKT/KFP, review flashcards, and mentor-led study groups. Also review exam-technique modules and past exam reports.
5. Any study tips for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) preparing for RACGP exams?
IMGs should become familiar with Australian guidelines and GP practice context (e.g., Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, local screening programs). Practise English clinical language, focus on consultation style for the CCE, join IMG study groups, and use a structured weekly schedule to balance work, life, and study.
Essential Study Tools and Resources for GP Exam Preparation
Effective GP exam preparation involves strategic use of high-quality, evidence-based resources:
RACGP Curriculum and Syllabus for topic guidance [3].
Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG) for accurate clinical management decisions [4].
Australian Immunisation Handbook for vaccination and preventive care [5].
High-quality GP exam flashcards for daily spaced repetition (available in Fellow Academy’s Flashcards Collection).
AKT and KFP question banks for realistic exam practice (available through Fellow Academy’s Exam Prep Bundles).
Structured study planner to organise your study (download the free Fellow Academy GP Exam Study Planner).
Regular participation in study groups and mentorship sessions.
RACGP exam support pages outlining SAPTs, practice exams, and technique modules to build familiarity and time management [2].
If exam preparation feels overwhelming, Fellow Academy offers structured resources including AKT and KFP question banks, concise comprehensive exam notes, and evidence-based flashcards designed to maximise your performance. You can also access free KFP case packs, webinars, and other practical resources to build your confidence.
Remember, structured, consistent study using reliable resources is your surest path to exam success. Trust your preparation, manage your schedule clearly, and reach out for structured support when needed.
6-Month Study Plan for the KFP (Key Feature Problem)
The KFP is a paper-delivered exam consisting of approximately 70 multi-selection questions completed over 4 hours, each question worth 1.43% of the total score, with a 0.35% penalty for over-shading (RACGP, 2025) [4a]. It tests clinical reasoning and decision-making rather than simple recall.
Clear, concise answers directly linked to patient scenarios are crucial.
Months 1 and 2: Reasoning Skills
In the early months, developing structured clinical reasoning skills is key.
Identify critical decision points for each clinical topic (e.g., must-not-miss diagnoses or essential investigations).
Start practising short-answer KFP questions early, focusing on brevity and relevance.
Avoid common pitfalls such as overcoding (providing irrelevant information) or missing key patient-specific details like age, pregnancy status, or comorbidities.
Months 3 and 4: Scenario Focus
Active scenario practice is essential in these months.
Complete at least 1 detailed KFP scenario each week, simulating real-world patient encounters.
Regularly integrate clinical cases from your practice to provide realistic scenario practice.
Engage mentors or study-group peers weekly for detailed feedback on your responses.
Month 5: Realistic Simulation
Month 5 should include realistic full mock exams to assess your readiness under exam conditions.
Perform 1–2 complete mock KFP exams, mimicking the testing conditions.
Carefully analyse each response and identify clear reasons for errors.
Practise writing concise and relevant answers, ensuring each response directly addresses the scenario details provided.
Month 6: Polishing and Confidence
In your final month, hone your KFP response precision.
Practise meticulous scenario reading to ensure no critical details are overlooked.
Focus final revision on weaker clinical domains identified from previous mocks.
Calmly organise your final study and rest schedule leading up to exam day.
If you find RACGP exam preparation overwhelming, Fellow Academy is here to help. We provide high-quality AKT and KFP question banks, concise comprehensive exam notes, and evidence-based flashcards tailored to GP trainees. You’ll also find supportive webinars, free KFP case packs, 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.
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. (2024). RACGP releases final AKT exam report of the year. NewsGP, 27 August 2024. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/racgp/racgp-releases-final-akt-exam-report-of-the-year
[2] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). Exam planning: start here and Self-Assessment Progress Tests (SAPTs). East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/preparing-for-exams/exam-planning-start-here
[3] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2023). RACGP Curriculum and Syllabus for Australian General Practice 2022. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/education/education-providers/curriculum/curriculum-and-syllabus/home
[3a] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) – Information for candidates. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/Examinations-guide.pdf
[4] Therapeutic Guidelines Limited. (2024). eTG Complete. Melbourne, VIC: Therapeutic Guidelines.
https://www.tg.org.au/
[4a] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). Key Feature Problem (KFP) – Information for candidates. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/kfp-and-akt-exam-day-information
[5] Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023). Australian Immunisation Handbook. Canberra, ACT: Commonwealth of Australia.
https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/
[5a] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). Clinical Competency Exam (CCE) – Candidate Guidelines. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/getattachment/a5a6a184-7266-4d2b-a9f7-fc924320db68/Candidate-guidelines-for-the-Clinical-Competency-Exam.aspx
AKT Exam Preparation: Study Strategies That Work
AKT vs KFP: Which RACGP Exam Is Harder (and How to Prepare for Both)
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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
Creating an effective GP exam study plan is your best bet if you aim to pass the RACGP exams confidently on your first attempt. Passing these exams means not only having the right knowledge but organising that knowledge systematically, covering every crucial area clearly, and reducing stress as you go.
This detailed guide provides a practical 6-month week-by-week strategy, carefully outlining exactly how to study for GP exams, including the Applied Knowledge Test (AKT), Key Feature Problem (KFP) exam, and Clinical Competency Exam (CCE). Drawing on authoritative research, official RACGP statistics, and proven exam prep strategies, this structured plan is designed specifically for Australian GP trainees and International Medical Graduates (IMGs).
As you work through this guide, you will learn exactly what topics to prioritise, when to focus on practice questions, how often to revise, and importantly, how to effectively manage your busy clinical schedules without feeling overwhelmed.
Why You Need a Study Plan to Pass the RACGP Exams
A structured GP exam study plan ensures thorough coverage of the extensive curriculum and significantly boosts your chance of success. Evidence consistently shows that trainees who follow a clear study schedule from the outset achieve higher pass rates and experience less exam-related stress.
RACGP statistics clearly show that candidates attempting the AKT for the first time have a notably higher pass rate of 91.3%, compared to 72.6% on a second attempt, 53.8% on a third attempt, and 23.9% on a fourth attempt (RACGP NewsGP, 2024) [1]. Clearly, your best chance of success is getting it right on your first try.
A structured approach means:
You will avoid critical gaps in your knowledge.
Your revision will be more targeted and effective.
Regular checkpoint reviews dramatically improve retention.
The RACGP specifically recommends using Self-Assessment Progress Tests (SAPTs) and the official practice exam to build familiarity and time management, which supports readiness for the real exam (RACGP Exam Planning, SAPT guidance) [2].
6-Month Study Plan for the AKT (Applied Knowledge Test)
The AKT is a paper-delivered multiple-choice exam consisting of 150 questions completed over 4 hours (RACGP, 2025) [3a]. It covers broad clinical knowledge across all domains of general practice, testing applied reasoning and safe management decisions.
You will need consistent revision, regular practice questions, and focused guideline reviews.
Months 1 and 2: Building Foundations
These initial months are for developing solid foundations in your clinical knowledge base. Map weekly topics directly to the RACGP curriculum—for example, cardiology in week 1, respiratory medicine in week 2 (RACGP Curriculum, 2023) [3].
Read essential texts like Murtagh’s General Practice, the Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG), and the Australian Immunisation Handbook [4,5].
Use flashcards daily for 10–15 minutes to reinforce guideline details, drug dosages, and screening intervals.
Complete your first mock AKT exam at the end of month 2. Analyse your results thoroughly, identifying areas needing more attention.
Months 3 and 4: Active Question Practice
In months 3 and 4, consistently integrating practice questions is essential. Completing 10–20 AKT questions each week reinforces knowledge and improves your test-taking strategies.
Join a study group or discuss challenging questions with peers weekly to sharpen your reasoning skills.
Perform checkpoint reviews every 3–4 weeks, reinforcing earlier learning through spaced repetition.
Keep track of repeated errors, and allocate extra revision time for topics where you frequently struggle.
Month 5: Exam Simulations
In month 5, intensify your preparation by simulating the AKT exam realistically.
Complete at least 2 full-length timed AKT mock exams under exam conditions.
Carefully audit each mock exam result to identify knowledge gaps and common exam errors (e.g., misreading questions, timing issues).
Discuss exam strategies such as how to manage exam stress, efficient question triage, and elimination techniques with a mentor or experienced supervisor.
Month 6: Final Consolidation
Month 6 is for refining your knowledge and building confidence.
Focus your revision on high-yield topics, especially recent guideline updates or commonly tested clinical scenarios.
Take one final mock exam approximately 2 weeks before the actual AKT to confirm readiness.
During the final week, rest, review key flashcards gently, and prepare your exam-day logistics (location, timings, and materials).
6-Month Study Plan for the CCE (Clinical Competency Exam)
The CCE consists of 9 cases delivered across 2 days via Zoom, including 5 clinical encounters and 4 case discussions, with each case lasting about 15 minutes (RACGP, 2025) [5a]. It assesses practical consultation, communication, and management skills essential for independent GP practice.
Months 1 and 2: Essential Foundations
Start by observing experienced GPs closely to grasp effective consultation structures.
Practise informal role-play consultations weekly to build confidence.
Identify and address communication or knowledge gaps early to ensure a solid consultation foundation.
Months 3 and 4: Regular Practical Training
Practise simulated consultations weekly, varying across acute, chronic, mental health, paediatric, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health cases.
Prioritise clear communication, structured consultation methods, shared decision-making, and effective safety-netting.
Regularly obtain structured feedback from peers or mentors to refine consultation skills.
Month 5: Comprehensive Mock Sessions
Arrange realistic mock sessions simulating a series of cases just like the actual CCE exam.
Conduct mock consultations back-to-back to build stamina and familiarity.
Collect detailed feedback highlighting where improvement is required—clinical content, communication, or structure.
Month 6: Final Readiness
In month 6, refine your consultation skills and practise managing stress and logistics.
Focus on clear, structured communication during consultations.
Practise exam-day logistics thoroughly, ensuring comfort with all technical and timing details.
Rest adequately before exam day to ensure peak performance.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long should I study for the RACGP exams?
Most candidates should allow at least 6–9 months of structured study for the RACGP exams, planning around 15 hours per week, totalling approximately 300–750 study hours by exam day. Starting late significantly reduces your chance of passing.
2. How can I create a GP exam study plan?
Download a dedicated study planner and map your timeline into weeks. Assign topics, question blocks, review sessions, and mock exams. Use weekly key outcome indicators (KOIs) such as:
Complete 50 AKT questions
Do 1 KFP case
Review flashcards for 15 minutes daily
This becomes your structured GP exam study plan.
3. What are the differences between the AKT, KFP, and CCE exams?
The AKT tests applied knowledge via multiple-choice questions across general practice.
The KFP tests clinical reasoning in scenario-based format focusing on key features of cases.
The CCE tests practical consultation and management skills in real-time simulated GP consults.
Each requires distinct yet overlapping preparation strategies.
4. What resources should I use to study for the GP exams?
Use Australian-specific guidelines (e.g., Therapeutic Guidelines, Australian Immunisation Handbook), the RACGP Curriculum, question banks for AKT/KFP, review flashcards, and mentor-led study groups. Also review exam-technique modules and past exam reports.
5. Any study tips for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) preparing for RACGP exams?
IMGs should become familiar with Australian guidelines and GP practice context (e.g., Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, local screening programs). Practise English clinical language, focus on consultation style for the CCE, join IMG study groups, and use a structured weekly schedule to balance work, life, and study.
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.
RACGP Exam Mistakes: Common Pitfalls That Stop Candidates Passing the RACGP Exams
AKT Exam Preparation: Study Strategies That Work
AKT vs KFP: Which RACGP Exam Is Harder (and How to Prepare for Both)