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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
Preparing for your RACGP AKT exam is a major milestone in your general practice career, and naturally, it can feel daunting. Balancing clinical duties, family responsibilities, and the rigorous demands of exam preparation is challenging, but achieving Fellowship is within your grasp. With clarity, practical strategies, and reliable resources, succeeding in the RACGP AKT exam becomes not just possible, but highly achievable.
This comprehensive guide explains exactly what the RACGP AKT exam covers, eligibility requirements, exam structure, marking methods, essential tips, common mistakes to avoid, recommended resources, and strategic considerations if you're planning to take both the AKT and KFP together. Let’s dive in step by step, preparing you confidently for exam success.
What Is the RACGP AKT Exam?
The RACGP AKT exam, known formally as the Applied Knowledge Test, is an essential component of your journey towards RACGP Fellowship. It evaluates your foundational medical knowledge, clinical reasoning skills, and ability to effectively apply evidence based Australian clinical guidelines [1,5].
When you pass the AKT, it confirms your competence in areas critical for safe, independent GP practice, including:
Accurate clinical reasoning in common general practice scenarios.
Comprehensive recall and application of core medical knowledge.
Effective use of Australian clinical guidelines such as Therapeutic Guidelines, RACGP’s Red Book, and the Australian Immunisation Handbook.
Essentially, passing the AKT reassures both you and the RACGP that you're ready to manage real world GP scenarios safely.
Who Can Sit the RACGP AKT Exam?
Understanding eligibility is your first practical step. To sit the RACGP AKT exam, you must meet conditions outlined by the RACGP and hold appropriate AHPRA registration [5].
You’re eligible if you:
Are enrolled in recognised GP training programs such as AGPT or RVTS.
Are an International Medical Graduate who meets specific RACGP criteria.
Have completed hospital based terms and gained supervised GP experience before sitting the exam.
Confirming your eligibility well in advance helps streamline your exam preparation and registration processes.
What Does the RACGP AKT Exam Test?
The RACGP AKT exam focuses on four core areas critical for competent GP practice [1,5]:
Clinical Reasoning: tests your ability to diagnose accurately, manage priorities effectively, and develop safe management plans.
Medical Knowledge Recall: covers pharmacology, therapeutics, preventive health strategies, vaccination schedules, and chronic disease guidelines.
Evidence Based Guideline Application: emphasises correct application of Australian guidance including Therapeutic Guidelines, RACGP Preventive Activities Guidelines, and the Australian Immunisation Handbook.
Data Interpretation: assesses skills interpreting pathology reports, diagnostic imaging, ECG results, and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme criteria.
Mastering these areas helps ensure confident, evidence based practice throughout your career.
RACGP AKT Exam Tips for First Time Candidates
For first time candidates, focusing on simple yet powerful strategies can significantly improve your performance:
Read each question carefully: avoid rushing. Misinterpretation can lead to avoidable errors. Pay attention to clinical context and specific wording.
Manage your time strategically: allocate approximately 1 minute per question initially. This pace ensures enough time remains for revisiting flagged questions you note on your paper.
Flag uncertain questions proactively: quickly circle or mark difficult items in your booklet, returning later after easier ones are confidently answered.
For detailed strategies, see our comprehensive AKT timing guide.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in the RACGP AKT Exam
Avoiding common mistakes is equally as important as having the right strategies:
Overthinking: your initial instinct is usually correct. Second guessing yourself can lead to errors.
Guessing without elimination: always eliminate clearly incorrect options first. This increases your probability of selecting the correct answer.
Ignoring Australian guidelines: international textbooks may not align with Australian clinical standards. Always verify information using Australian resources like Therapeutic Guidelines and RACGP Red Book.
Recommended Study Resources for the RACGP AKT Exam
High quality resources make a significant difference in your exam readiness:
RACGP endorsed study materials and recent AKT public exam reports [1,3,5,4].
Murtagh’s General Practice, 2023 to 2024 edition.
Therapeutic Guidelines, current edition.
Australian Immunisation Handbook, current update.
Interactive study resources proven beneficial include:
AKT aligned flashcards promoting active recall.
Comprehensive question banks simulating real exam conditions.
Structured notes clearly outlining critical guideline information.
Access these via our comprehensive AKT plus KFP exam bundle page.
When Should You Sit the AKT and KFP Together?
Sitting the RACGP AKT and KFP exams simultaneously can streamline your preparation, but careful planning is vital:
Benefits:
Efficient revision leveraging overlapping content.
Better retention of foundational knowledge.
Challenges:
Increased cognitive load.
Risk of superficial learning without careful scheduling.
Evaluate personal readiness honestly before deciding.
FAQs About the RACGP AKT Exam
1. What is the RACGP AKT exam pass rate?
The 2024.2 AKT pass rate was 82.15% from 829 candidates [3]. In 2025.2, the AKT pass rate was 79.41% from 1049 candidates [4].
2. How long is the RACGP AKT exam?
Total testing time is 4 hours which includes 3.5 hours of exam time plus a 30 minute universal allowance, with 150 single best answer questions [1,5].
3. Can International Medical Graduates sit the RACGP AKT Exam?
Yes, IMGs who meet RACGP eligibility criteria and hold appropriate AHPRA registration can sit the exam [5].
4. What study areas should I prioritise?
Clinical reasoning, preventive healthcare guidelines, pharmacology, and Australian clinical standards [1,5].
5. When is the ideal time to take the RACGP AKT exam?
Plan your enrolment once you have adequate supervised GP experience and familiarity with Australian guidelines and exam style [5].
How Is the RACGP AKT Exam Marked?
The RACGP uses criterion based standard setting, specifically a Modified Angoff method, to ensure fair and consistent marking [1].
Important statistics you need to know include:
Structure and Format of the RACGP AKT Exam
Knowing exactly what to expect on exam day helps reduce anxiety. The RACGP AKT comprises 150 single best answer questions delivered in a total testing time of 4 hours which includes 3.5 hours of exam time plus a 30 minute universal allowance [1,5]. The AKT is delivered on paper using a computer readable answer sheet [2].
Here’s a clear overview of the exam format:
Total of 150 scenario based single best answer questions that reflect clinical GP practice [1,5].
Total testing time 4 hours which includes 3.5 hours of exam time plus a 30 minute universal allowance [1].
Effective time management is crucial. Aim to spend around 1 minute per question initially, leaving sufficient review time.
If exam stress is affecting your confidence, remember Fellow Academy is here to guide you. Our high-quality AKT and KFP exam resources include carefully developed question banks, concise exam notes, evidence-based flashcards, and practical webinars. We provide the structured support you need to achieve your RACGP Fellowship goals confidently.
Disclaimer:
This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). The strategies shared are based on personal experiences and those of successful GP candidates. This guidance is general in nature and should not be considered 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 shared are based on personal experiences and those of successful GP candidates. This guidance is general in nature and should not be considered official RACGP advice.
References
[1] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). AKT and KFP guide (current edition). RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/Examinations-guide.pdf
[2] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). AKT and KFP information for candidates, delivery information page. RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/kfp-and-akt-exam-day-information
[3] newsGP. (2024, August 27). RACGP releases final AKT exam report of the year, reports 82.15% pass rate for 2024.2. RACGP.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/racgp/racgp-releases-final-akt-exam-report-of-the-year
[4] newsGP. (2025, August 22). RACGP releases 2025.2 exam cycle results, reports 79.41% AKT pass rate for 2025.2. RACGP.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/racgp/racgp-releases-2025-2-exam-cycle-results
[5] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025, April 8). Assessments and examinations candidate handbook, Part 2: Glossary and exam overviews, confirms 150 AKT single best answer questions and current structures. RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/getattachment/ca26911a-6fd2-46e3-9f5c-e572174c154e/Glossary.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
Preparing for your RACGP AKT exam is a major milestone in your general practice career, and naturally, it can feel daunting. Balancing clinical duties, family responsibilities, and the rigorous demands of exam preparation is challenging, but achieving Fellowship is within your grasp. With clarity, practical strategies, and reliable resources, succeeding in the RACGP AKT exam becomes not just possible, but highly achievable.
This comprehensive guide explains exactly what the RACGP AKT exam covers, eligibility requirements, exam structure, marking methods, essential tips, common mistakes to avoid, recommended resources, and strategic considerations if you're planning to take both the AKT and KFP together. Let’s dive in step by step, preparing you confidently for exam success.
What Is the RACGP AKT Exam?
The RACGP AKT exam, known formally as the Applied Knowledge Test, is an essential component of your journey towards RACGP Fellowship. It evaluates your foundational medical knowledge, clinical reasoning skills, and ability to effectively apply evidence based Australian clinical guidelines [1,5].
When you pass the AKT, it confirms your competence in areas critical for safe, independent GP practice, including:
Accurate clinical reasoning in common general practice scenarios.
Comprehensive recall and application of core medical knowledge.
Effective use of Australian clinical guidelines such as Therapeutic Guidelines, RACGP’s Red Book, and the Australian Immunisation Handbook.
Essentially, passing the AKT reassures both you and the RACGP that you're ready to manage real world GP scenarios safely.
Who Can Sit the RACGP AKT Exam?
Understanding eligibility is your first practical step. To sit the RACGP AKT exam, you must meet conditions outlined by the RACGP and hold appropriate AHPRA registration [5].
You’re eligible if you:
Are enrolled in recognised GP training programs such as AGPT or RVTS.
Are an International Medical Graduate who meets specific RACGP criteria.
Have completed hospital based terms and gained supervised GP experience before sitting the exam.
Confirming your eligibility well in advance helps streamline your exam preparation and registration processes.
What Does the RACGP AKT Exam Test?
The RACGP AKT exam focuses on four core areas critical for competent GP practice [1,5]:
Clinical Reasoning: tests your ability to diagnose accurately, manage priorities effectively, and develop safe management plans.
Medical Knowledge Recall: covers pharmacology, therapeutics, preventive health strategies, vaccination schedules, and chronic disease guidelines.
Evidence Based Guideline Application: emphasises correct application of Australian guidance including Therapeutic Guidelines, RACGP Preventive Activities Guidelines, and the Australian Immunisation Handbook.
Data Interpretation: assesses skills interpreting pathology reports, diagnostic imaging, ECG results, and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme criteria.
Mastering these areas helps ensure confident, evidence based practice throughout your career.
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.
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Start early (at least 6–12 months before your exam).
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Create flashcards for each guideline or high-yield topic.
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Use Brainscape or Anki daily to review material in spaced cycles.
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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.
FAQs About the RACGP AKT Exam
1. What is the RACGP AKT exam pass rate?
The 2024.2 AKT pass rate was 82.15% from 829 candidates [3]. In 2025.2, the AKT pass rate was 79.41% from 1049 candidates [4].
2. How long is the RACGP AKT exam?
Total testing time is 4 hours which includes 3.5 hours of exam time plus a 30 minute universal allowance, with 150 single best answer questions [1,5].
3. Can International Medical Graduates sit the RACGP AKT Exam?
Yes, IMGs who meet RACGP eligibility criteria and hold appropriate AHPRA registration can sit the exam [5].
4. What study areas should I prioritise?
Clinical reasoning, preventive healthcare guidelines, pharmacology, and Australian clinical standards [1,5].
5. When is the ideal time to take the RACGP AKT exam?
Plan your enrolment once you have adequate supervised GP experience and familiarity with Australian guidelines and exam style [5].
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
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GP Supervisors Australia. (2025). Study Skills Guide for GP Registrars: Studying Smarter, Not Harder. GPSA.
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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.
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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.
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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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