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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
The FRACGP, Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, is the key credential allowing GPs to practise independently in Australia. For search consistency, you may also see this written online as FRACGP. Whether you are an Australian trained doctor or an International Medical Graduate, achieving your FRACGP Fellowship unlocks greater professional opportunities, increased earning potential, and full autonomy in your career.
In this guide, we walk through the entire FRACGP pathway, explaining clearly each exam, AKT, KFP, CCE, outlining eligibility criteria, sharing practical exam tips, highlighting common mistakes to avoid, and guiding you through your next steps after Fellowship. Let us demystify the process so you can approach your exams confidently and effectively.
What Exactly Does FRACGP Mean?
FRACGP stands for the Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. It is the nationally recognised specialist qualification for general practice accredited by the Australian Medical Council. Achieving FRACGP means:
Why FRACGP Fellowship Matters So Much
FRACGP Fellowship significantly impacts your career by providing:
Vocational recognition. Since 16 June 2021, unrestricted access to Medicare GP items broadly requires Fellowship or an approved training placement under relevant programmes. The Vocational Register closed to new participants on that date [8].
Independence in practice locations and patient management decisions [1]
Higher Medicare rebates, directly boosting earning potential [8]
Expanded opportunities in academia, practice ownership, and specialisation [1]
Eligibility Criteria and Entry Requirements
Key FRACGP entry requirements include:
Completion of a medical degree and internship, PGY1 [9]
Current general registration with AHPRA [9]
Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or NZ citizenship for AGPT applicants [9]
IMGs under Section 19AB training in Distribution Priority Areas or rural locations [8]
Current employment in accredited general practice for FSP candidates [6]
Recognised overseas specialist qualifications for the Specialist Pathway [7]
Proven Tips for Preparing Successfully for the FRACGP Exams
Effective FRACGP exam preparation includes:
Creating structured study plans starting at least 6 months before the exam cycle [1]
Using active recall and spaced repetition, for example flashcards, question banks
Reviewing patient cases from daily practice to reinforce guidelines, for example debrief a diabetes follow up and revisit RACGP and PBS advice that evening
Practising mock exams under realistic conditions, for more strategies, see our comprehensive AKT timing guide
Joining peer study groups for shared accountability and motivation
Completing official RACGP practice materials, RACGP advises candidates to use exam preparation resources and sample materials as part of a balanced study plan [1]
How Long Does It Take to Get FRACGP Fellowship?
Typical timeframes for achieving FRACGP Fellowship vary:
AGPT: approximately 3 years, combining hospital rotations, general practice terms, and an extended skills term [9]
FSP: 2 years structured education and training with up to 3 years consolidation for examinations and final Fellowship requirements [5,6]
Specialist Pathway: typically 6 months to 2 years, depending on comparability outcomes and exam requirements [7]
Practical Advice for Passing on Your First Attempt
Key tips to enhance your likelihood of passing on the first attempt include:
Maintain consistent daily study rather than last minute cramming
Understand FRACGP marking and format rules to avoid preventable penalties, for example the KFP 0.35% per extra option rule [1]
Simulate full exam conditions frequently to build pacing and decision making
Prioritise self care, sleep, exercise, and protected downtime to maintain cognitive performance
For case pitfalls and scoring nuance, see our KFP mistakes guide
Common Mistakes Candidates Often Make, and How to Avoid Them
Avoid these frequently observed pitfalls:
Providing overly broad or non specific answers on KFP questions, ensure targeted, case specific actions
Focusing only on first line management without considering alternatives or escalation
Poor time management during exams, causing rushed or incomplete responses
Misinterpreting what the question actually asks, initial versus next step versus confirmatory investigation
Neglecting preventive care, for example immunisation and screening recommendations from the RACGP Red Book [10]
Next Steps After Achieving Your Fellowship
Once you have achieved FRACGP Fellowship, your next steps include:
Applying promptly for specialist GP registration with AHPRA and ensuring your Medicare provider details are updated for recognition [8]
Exploring further specialisation, for example women’s health, dermatology, sports medicine, academic roles, or practice ownership
Engaging in continuing professional development and considering roles in teaching, leadership, or rural generalism
For clinical communication frameworks and station structure checklists, see our CCE preparation hub
FAQ, Frequently Asked Questions
1. What exactly is the FRACGP Pathway?
The FRACGP Pathway encompasses structured training and assessment programmes such as AGPT, FSP, and the Specialist Pathway for IMGs, leading to specialist GP qualification [4,5,6,7,9].
2. How important is FRACGP for practising as a GP in Australia?
FRACGP is essential for independent practice, vocational recognition, and access to full Medicare rebates since 16 June 2021 policy changes regarding recognition and the Vocational Register [8].
3. What are the main FRACGP exams?
The primary assessments are AKT, 150 items and 4 hours [1], KFP, 70 questions and 4 hours with the 0.35% over selection penalty [1], and CCE, 9 cases of 15 minutes plus 5 minutes reading [3].
4. How can I best prepare for the FRACGP exams?
Use structured schedules, official practice resources [1], active recall, group learning, and realistic timed mocks. Apply learning directly from your clinics.
5. What happens after completing the FRACGP Fellowship?
You become eligible for specialist registration and unrestricted Medicare billing recognition [8], with options to subspecialise, teach, lead, or own a practice.
FRACGP Exams Overview: AKT, KFP, and CCE
The FRACGP exam suite evaluates comprehensive GP skills:
Applied Knowledge Test, AKT:
- 150 single best answer questions [1]
- Total time 4 hours for all candidates, 3.5 hours plus a 30 minute universal allowance [1]
- Delivered on paper with computer readable answer sheets [2]
Key Feature Problem, KFP:
- 70 multiple selection questions [1]
- Total time 4 hours for all candidates, 3.5 hours plus a 30 minute universal allowance [1]
- If you select more options than requested, a 0.35% penalty is applied per extra response to your overall exam score [1]
- Delivered on paper with computer readable answer sheets [2]
Clinical Competency Exam, CCE:
- 9 interactive online clinical cases, 5 clinical encounters and 4 case discussions [3]
- Each case 15 minutes plus 5 minutes reading time [3]
The Different FRACGP Pathways Explained Clearly
Several pathways lead to the same FRACGP qualification:
General Pathway, AGPT: Primarily urban and outer metropolitan training, with a requirement for at least 52 weeks in outer metropolitan, rural, non capital city locations, or an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health training post [4].
Rural Pathway, AGPT: Dedicated training entirely in rural and remote areas, Modified Monash Model 2 to 7, often with advanced procedural skills such as obstetrics or emergency care [4].
Practice Experience Program, PEP: Now replaced by the Fellowship Support Program, but historically allowed non vocationally recognised doctors structured progression to Fellowship.
Fellowship Support Program, FSP: Introduced in 2023, a self funded pathway that involves:
- Structured education and training lasting 24 months
- A consolidation phase of up to 36 months for exams and final Fellowship requirements [5,6]
Specialist Pathway for IMGs: Evaluates overseas trained specialists for comparability. Substantially comparable candidates typically complete 6 months of supervised practice within the PEP Specialist stream before admission to Fellowship [7].
If you are feeling overwhelmed by FRACGP exam preparation, Fellow Academy offers high quality AKT and KFP questions, concise and comprehensive exam notes, and evidence based flashcards. You can also access free KFP case packs, webinars, and resources designed to help you study smarter, boost your confidence, and successfully navigate the FRACGP pathway.
Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the RACGP. The strategies shared are based on professional experience and the experiences of other successful GP candidates and are intended as general study guidance only.
Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the RACGP. The strategies shared are based on professional experience and the experiences of other successful GP candidates and are intended as general study guidance only.
References
[1] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. AKT and KFP guide, candidate examinations guide, version current in 2025. East Melbourne, VIC: 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 exam day information, delivery and candidate instructions, page current in 2025. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/kfp-and-akt-exam-day-information
[3] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. Clinical Competency Exam, candidate guidelines and overview, pages current in 2025. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/getattachment/a5a6a184-7266-4d2b-a9f7-fc924320db68/Candidate-guidelines-for-the-Clinical-Competency-Exam.aspx
[4] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2024. AGPT training pathway eligibility and location requirements, page current in 2024, including 52 weeks requirement. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/education/gp-training/explore-a-gp-career/australian-general-practice-training
[5] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. Fellowship Support Program overview, structure including 24 months education and up to 36 months consolidation. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/education/imgs/fellowship-pathways/fellowship-programs-for-imgs/fellowship-support-program
[6] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. Your FSP application handbook, programme structure, timelines and requirements, version current in 2025. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/FSP/FSP-Application-handbook.pdf
[7] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. Practice Experience Program, Specialist Stream, programme overview and policy, including typical 6 months education and supervised practice. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/education/imgs/fellowship-pathways/fellowship-programs-for-imgs/practice-experience-program/practice-experience-program-specialist-stream
[8] Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care. 2025. Medicare Benefits Schedule General Notes GN.4.13, Vocational Register closure 16 June 2021 and arrangements for GP recognition. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia.
https://www9.health.gov.au/mbs/fullDisplay.cfm?type=note&q=GN.4.13&q2=noteID
[9] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. AGPT program guide, training structure describing hospital, GP terms, and extended skills that total approximately 3 years. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/AGPT/Program-guide.pdf
[10] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. Guidelines for preventive activities in general practice, Red Book, 10th ed., preventive health schedules including immunisation and screening. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP.
https://www.racgp.org.au/getattachment/3eddf0a7-7cec-4064-a44b-5bde6c2515a5/Guidelines-for-preventive-activities-in-general-practice.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
The FRACGP, Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, is the key credential allowing GPs to practise independently in Australia. For search consistency, you may also see this written online as FRACGP. Whether you are an Australian trained doctor or an International Medical Graduate, achieving your FRACGP Fellowship unlocks greater professional opportunities, increased earning potential, and full autonomy in your career.
In this guide, we walk through the entire FRACGP pathway, explaining clearly each exam, AKT, KFP, CCE, outlining eligibility criteria, sharing practical exam tips, highlighting common mistakes to avoid, and guiding you through your next steps after Fellowship. Let us demystify the process so you can approach your exams confidently and effectively.
What Exactly Does FRACGP Mean?
FRACGP stands for the Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. It is the nationally recognised specialist qualification for general practice accredited by the Australian Medical Council. Achieving FRACGP means:
Why FRACGP Fellowship Matters So Much
FRACGP Fellowship significantly impacts your career by providing:
Vocational recognition. Since 16 June 2021, unrestricted access to Medicare GP items broadly requires Fellowship or an approved training placement under relevant programmes. The Vocational Register closed to new participants on that date [8].
Independence in practice locations and patient management decisions [1]
Higher Medicare rebates, directly boosting earning potential [8]
Expanded opportunities in academia, practice ownership, and specialisation [1]
Eligibility Criteria and Entry Requirements
Key FRACGP entry requirements include:
Completion of a medical degree and internship, PGY1 [9]
Current general registration with AHPRA [9]
Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or NZ citizenship for AGPT applicants [9]
IMGs under Section 19AB training in Distribution Priority Areas or rural locations [8]
Current employment in accredited general practice for FSP candidates [6]
Recognised overseas specialist qualifications for the Specialist Pathway [7]
Tools That Make Active Recall Easy
Digital tools simplify the process of integrating active recall and spaced repetition into your RACGP exam preparation.
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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:
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Review flashcards during commutes or between patients.
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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.
FAQ, Frequently Asked Questions
1. What exactly is the FRACGP Pathway?
The FRACGP Pathway encompasses structured training and assessment programmes such as AGPT, FSP, and the Specialist Pathway for IMGs, leading to specialist GP qualification [4,5,6,7,9].
2. How important is FRACGP for practising as a GP in Australia?
FRACGP is essential for independent practice, vocational recognition, and access to full Medicare rebates since 16 June 2021 policy changes regarding recognition and the Vocational Register [8].
3. What are the main FRACGP exams?
The primary assessments are AKT, 150 items and 4 hours [1], KFP, 70 questions and 4 hours with the 0.35% over selection penalty [1], and CCE, 9 cases of 15 minutes plus 5 minutes reading [3].
4. How can I best prepare for the FRACGP exams?
Use structured schedules, official practice resources [1], active recall, group learning, and realistic timed mocks. Apply learning directly from your clinics.
5. What happens after completing the FRACGP Fellowship?
You become eligible for specialist registration and unrestricted Medicare billing recognition [8], with options to subspecialise, teach, lead, or own a practice.
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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