Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now GP Exam Academy vs Fellow Academy: Quality Over Volume Last updated: November 2025 Buy Now GP Exam Academy vs Fellow Academy: Quality Over Volume Last updated: November 2025 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Avoid burnout and boost your RACGP exam success by choosing targeted, high quality resources. Navigating RACGP Fellowship exam preparation can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with countless resources and recommendations. Many candidates initially assume that using every possible study tool guarantees success, but in reality, effective preparation comes down to quality, not quantity. In this detailed guide, GP Exam Academy vs Fellow Academy: quality over volume, I will explain why selecting targeted, examiner approved content dramatically enhances your chances of passing, helps you retain more information, and prevents exam related burnout. As someone who has been exactly where you are now, I understand the pressure of trying to balance clinical responsibilities with effective study. Fortunately, evidence clearly supports the advantage of quality focused preparation strategies. For instance, first time AKT sitters achieved an 85.9% pass rate in 2025.2, compared to only 31% among those attempting the exam for the fourth time [1 ]. Clearly, getting your preparation approach right from the start is critical. Here’s what you can expect from this article: Clear comparisons between quantity driven versus quality focused approaches Practical guidance on avoiding burnout Why examiner created, structured materials make a genuine difference Strategies specifically tailored for IMGs, GP registrars, and supervisors Big Providers Offer Breadth, Fellow Academy Offers Organisation At first glance, large providers offering thousands of questions and extensive resources may seem appealing. However, this breadth often comes at the cost of structure, clarity, and relevance. High volume providers typically lack clear organisation, leaving you uncertain about which topics are genuinely important for your exam. RACGP guidance emphasises targeted, curriculum aligned preparation, practice under exam like conditions, and review of official practice materials, rather than indiscriminate volume, to support safer and more effective study for working trainees [2 ]. Risks of choosing a high volume study approach include: Difficulty knowing where to focus your revision Greater likelihood of fatigue and exam related anxiety Decreased retention due to cognitive overload Wasted study hours on irrelevant or outdated materials Conversely, Fellow Academy provides carefully structured and meticulously curated content developed by experienced RACGP examiners. The advantage is straightforward, resources precisely match the exam’s expectations, ensuring you spend every hour of study on high yield, relevant topics [2 ][3 ][4 ]. Why We Lead With High Quality Questions Quality questions directly influence your ability to perform under exam conditions. Examiner led, authentic practice scenarios help you develop the critical clinical reasoning skills RACGP assessors expect. RACGP reporting consistently shows that candidates who engage early with official practice materials and align study to the curriculum demonstrate better preparation and performance patterns, with first time sitters markedly outperforming repeat attempts in 2025.2, 85.9% vs 31% for AKT [1 ]. Key advantages of examiner led practice materials: Direct reflection of real exam scenarios and complexity Clear identification of your strengths and weaknesses Enhanced clinical reasoning and decision making skills Reduced anxiety and improved overall exam confidence Using low quality, generic questions is a common but damaging mistake. RACGP exam reports note that candidates can be disadvantaged when relying on outdated guidance or resources not aligned to current Australian practice, which contributes to avoidable errors in reasoning and decision making [4 ]. Understanding the RACGP Exams Structure and Focus A clear grasp of the assessment landscape helps you study with intent. The RACGP highlights the purpose of each component and expects preparation that mirrors authentic tasks in Australian general practice [2 ][3 ][4 ]. You can orient your study by matching tasks to domains, mapping common presentations to guidelines, and practising under timed conditions that reflect real exam pressure. Key focus areas to keep in view: Alignment with the Curriculum for Australian General Practice, clinical reasoning, safe prescribing, and communication Use of official practice resources to benchmark performance and identify gaps Consistency in applying current Australian guidance across scenarios Common Pitfalls Seen in RACGP Reports and How to Avoid Them RACGP public exam reports highlight recurring errors. These often relate to outdated references, incomplete safety checks, or failure to justify decisions using Australian guidance [4 ]. Avoiding these pitfalls requires you to practise decision making with current references and to articulate the why behind each choice. Watch outs and fixes: Relying on non Australian guidance, anchor on current Australian sources in your rationales Skipping safety steps in time pressure, rehearse concise safety checks and documentation Over reading distractors, focus on data points that change management Who Should Use Both Approaches? While Fellow Academy strongly advocates quality focused preparation, some trainees initially benefit from combining broad review with focused refinement. This balanced approach works especially well for International Medical Graduates, who may initially need broader content coverage to bridge knowledge gaps, before transitioning to targeted, high quality revision. Likewise, GP supervisors advising trainees can encourage a structured transition from broad content review towards increasingly targeted resources. This balanced strategy aligns with RACGP exam statistics, which clearly illustrate that first attempt RACGP exam pass rates are significantly higher than repeat attempts, specifically, first time AKT sitters achieved an 85.9% pass rate compared to only 31% for fourth time takers in 2025.2 [1 ]. Focusing early on examiner aligned materials and official practice activities supports safer, more efficient preparation [2 ][3 ][4 ]. A combined approach typically benefits: IMGs needing foundational coverage before targeted revision Registrars unfamiliar initially with RACGP exam structures GP supervisors seeking structured revision strategies for trainees Trainees previously struggling with unfocused study methods Who Should Use Both Approaches? While Fellow Academy strongly advocates quality focused preparation, some trainees initially benefit from combining broad review with focused refinement. This balanced approach works especially well for International Medical Graduates, who may initially need broader content coverage to bridge knowledge gaps, before transitioning to targeted, high quality revision. Likewise, GP supervisors advising trainees can encourage a structured transition from broad content review towards increasingly targeted resources. This balanced strategy aligns with RACGP exam statistics, which clearly illustrate that first attempt RACGP exam pass rates are significantly higher than repeat attempts, specifically, first time AKT sitters achieved an 85.9% pass rate compared to only 31% for fourth time takers in 2025.2 [1 ]. Focusing early on examiner aligned materials and official practice activities supports safer, more efficient preparation [2 ][3 ][4 ]. A combined approach typically benefits: IMGs needing foundational coverage before targeted revision Registrars unfamiliar initially with RACGP exam structures GP supervisors seeking structured revision strategies for trainees Trainees previously struggling with unfocused study methods Practical Day by Day Study Tactics for Busy Registrars Small, consistent efforts compound. Linking tasks to your work week makes preparation sustainable and more relevant to daily practice [2 ]. Practical tactics you can implement now: Convert 1 clinic case per day into a 5 line learning note with guideline links Complete 1 short, timed practice set on a priority topic, review the rationale the same day Use commute or lunch windows for quick flashcard cycles Schedule a weekly debrief to turn errors into targeted objectives for the next cycle These habits anchor learning in real work and keep your study plan focused without adding unnecessary volume. FAQ: GP Exam Academy vs Fellow Academy: Quality Over Volume 1. Is quality or quantity more important for RACGP Fellowship exam preparation? Quality matters significantly more than quantity. RACGP emphasises curriculum alignment, exam aligned practice, and targeted remediation of gaps, which correlate with stronger first attempt performance, 85.9% vs 31% for AKT in 2025.2 [1 ][2 ]. 2. Can using too many resources negatively impact my exam results? Yes, excessive, unfocused resources can increase cognitive overload and confusion, reducing retention and performance. RACGP recommends targeted planning, official practice activities, and curriculum linked revision rather than indiscriminate volume [2 ][3 ]. 3. What are effective study techniques for RACGP exams? Effective techniques include mapping study to the RACGP curriculum, using official practice exams under timed conditions, and reviewing rationales with current Australian guidelines, supported by structured notes and iterative revision cycles [2 ][3 ][4 ]. 4. How can IMGs best prepare for RACGP exams? IMGs benefit most from combining initial broad orientation to Australian primary care with targeted, examiner aligned practice and feedback, focusing on local guidelines, prescribing frameworks, and communication standards outlined by RACGP resources [2 ][3 ][4 ]. 5. Should GP supervisors recommend Fellow Academy to trainees? Yes, supervisors should recommend structured, examiner aligned resources that mirror RACGP expectations, integrate official practice activities, and support targeted remediation against the curriculum, which align with the preparation principles highlighted by RACGP [2 ][3 ][4 ]. Building a Targeted Weekly Study Loop A repeatable cycle helps you make steady gains while working in clinical practice. RACGP guidance encourages planning, time bound practice, and review that links back to the curriculum and official activities [2 ]. A simple weekly loop can look like this: Set learning objectives mapped to the curriculum, choose 2 to 3 priority topics Complete a timed practice set that reflects exam conditions Review rationales against current Australian guidelines and record takeaways in concise notes Revisit key items with focused flashcards later in the week This loop keeps you engaged with high yield content, reduces overwhelm, and builds confidence session by session. Notes and Flashcards to Fix Forgetting Memory retention is one of the biggest challenges facing GP trainees. Even if you have studied thoroughly, recalling essential details under exam conditions can be challenging. RACGP exam preparation advice supports structured, iterative revision, linkage to the Curriculum for Australian General Practice, and use of official practice resources to consolidate learning over time, rather than broad unspecific reading [2 ][3 ]. Structured notes and question linked flashcards tailored to RACGP exams help by focusing attention on guideline aligned, frequently examined areas, strengthening long term recall through repeated exposure across weeks, and translating knowledge into exam ready decisions. Structured flashcards and notes benefit trainees by: Emphasising high yield, frequently tested exam topics Strengthening long term memory via active, repeated exposure Increasing confidence by reinforcing critical clinical concepts Providing efficient revision, significantly reducing study related stress Generic or overly comprehensive notes, meanwhile, often consume valuable study time without significantly improving memory retention. A targeted, structured approach prevents this frustration, enhancing your overall learning experience [2 ][3 ]. If you are feeling overwhelmed by RACGP exam preparation, Fellow Academy offers structured, examiner led AKT and KFP questions, concise and comprehensive notes, and high yield, evidence based flashcards. Explore our practical resources, including free KFP case packs and focused webinars, to make your exam journey clearer and less stressful. Remember, successful preparation does not mean studying every available resource, but rather strategically selecting materials that genuinely enhance your knowledge and performance. Your wellbeing matters, so choose wisely. Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. The strategies 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. The strategies 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] Liotta, M. 2025, August 22. RACGP releases 2025.2 exam cycle results. newsGP, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/professional/racgp-releases-2025-2-exam-cycle-results [2] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025, March. AKT and KFP Examination Guide, Fellowship Pathways Exam Guide. East Melbourne, VIC, RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fellowship/fellowship-assessments/exam-guide [3] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. AKT examination information page, Fellowship assessments, RACGP. East Melbourne, VIC, RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fellowship/fellowship-assessments/akt [4] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2023. Public Exam Report 2023.2, Key Feature Problem KFP. East Melbourne, VIC, RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fellowship/fellowship-assessments/kfp 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary Avoid burnout and boost your RACGP exam success by choosing targeted, high quality resources. Navigating RACGP Fellowship exam preparation can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with countless resources and recommendations. Many candidates initially assume that using every possible study tool guarantees success, but in reality, effective preparation comes down to quality, not quantity. In this detailed guide, GP Exam Academy vs Fellow Academy: quality over volume, I will explain why selecting targeted, examiner approved content dramatically enhances your chances of passing, helps you retain more information, and prevents exam related burnout. As someone who has been exactly where you are now, I understand the pressure of trying to balance clinical responsibilities with effective study. Fortunately, evidence clearly supports the advantage of quality focused preparation strategies. For instance, first time AKT sitters achieved an 85.9% pass rate in 2025.2, compared to only 31% among those attempting the exam for the fourth time [1 ]. Clearly, getting your preparation approach right from the start is critical. Here’s what you can expect from this article: Clear comparisons between quantity driven versus quality focused approaches Practical guidance on avoiding burnout Why examiner created, structured materials make a genuine difference Strategies specifically tailored for IMGs, GP registrars, and supervisors Big Providers Offer Breadth, Fellow Academy Offers Organisation At first glance, large providers offering thousands of questions and extensive resources may seem appealing. However, this breadth often comes at the cost of structure, clarity, and relevance. High volume providers typically lack clear organisation, leaving you uncertain about which topics are genuinely important for your exam. RACGP guidance emphasises targeted, curriculum aligned preparation, practice under exam like conditions, and review of official practice materials, rather than indiscriminate volume, to support safer and more effective study for working trainees [2 ]. Risks of choosing a high volume study approach include: Difficulty knowing where to focus your revision Greater likelihood of fatigue and exam related anxiety Decreased retention due to cognitive overload Wasted study hours on irrelevant or outdated materials Conversely, Fellow Academy provides carefully structured and meticulously curated content developed by experienced RACGP examiners. The advantage is straightforward, resources precisely match the exam’s expectations, ensuring you spend every hour of study on high yield, relevant topics [2 ][3 ][4 ]. Why We Lead With High Quality Questions Quality questions directly influence your ability to perform under exam conditions. Examiner led, authentic practice scenarios help you develop the critical clinical reasoning skills RACGP assessors expect. RACGP reporting consistently shows that candidates who engage early with official practice materials and align study to the curriculum demonstrate better preparation and performance patterns, with first time sitters markedly outperforming repeat attempts in 2025.2, 85.9% vs 31% for AKT [1 ]. Key advantages of examiner led practice materials: Direct reflection of real exam scenarios and complexity Clear identification of your strengths and weaknesses Enhanced clinical reasoning and decision making skills Reduced anxiety and improved overall exam confidence Using low quality, generic questions is a common but damaging mistake. RACGP exam reports note that candidates can be disadvantaged when relying on outdated guidance or resources not aligned to current Australian practice, which contributes to avoidable errors in reasoning and decision making [4 ]. Understanding the RACGP Exams Structure and Focus A clear grasp of the assessment landscape helps you study with intent. The RACGP highlights the purpose of each component and expects preparation that mirrors authentic tasks in Australian general practice [2 ][3 ][4 ]. You can orient your study by matching tasks to domains, mapping common presentations to guidelines, and practising under timed conditions that reflect real exam pressure. Key focus areas to keep in view: Alignment with the Curriculum for Australian General Practice, clinical reasoning, safe prescribing, and communication Use of official practice resources to benchmark performance and identify gaps Consistency in applying current Australian guidance across scenarios 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: GP Exam Academy vs Fellow Academy: Quality Over Volume 1. Is quality or quantity more important for RACGP Fellowship exam preparation? Quality matters significantly more than quantity. RACGP emphasises curriculum alignment, exam aligned practice, and targeted remediation of gaps, which correlate with stronger first attempt performance, 85.9% vs 31% for AKT in 2025.2 [1 ][2 ]. 2. Can using too many resources negatively impact my exam results? Yes, excessive, unfocused resources can increase cognitive overload and confusion, reducing retention and performance. RACGP recommends targeted planning, official practice activities, and curriculum linked revision rather than indiscriminate volume [2 ][3 ]. 3. What are effective study techniques for RACGP exams? Effective techniques include mapping study to the RACGP curriculum, using official practice exams under timed conditions, and reviewing rationales with current Australian guidelines, supported by structured notes and iterative revision cycles [2 ][3 ][4 ]. 4. How can IMGs best prepare for RACGP exams? IMGs benefit most from combining initial broad orientation to Australian primary care with targeted, examiner aligned practice and feedback, focusing on local guidelines, prescribing frameworks, and communication standards outlined by RACGP resources [2 ][3 ][4 ]. 5. Should GP supervisors recommend Fellow Academy to trainees? Yes, supervisors should recommend structured, examiner aligned resources that mirror RACGP expectations, integrate official practice activities, and support targeted remediation against the curriculum, which align with the preparation principles highlighted by RACGP [2 ][3 ][4 ]. 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next

Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now AMC Clinical Exam: Station Types, Marking Criteria and Cultural Safety Last updated: November 2025 Buy Now AMC Clinical Exam: Station Types, Marking Criteria and Cultural Safety Last updated: November 2025 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Facing the AMC Clinical Exam : Station Types, Marking Criteria and Cultural Safety can feel intense, particularly when you know the numbers. Out of the 2,053 IMGs who sat the clinical exam in the 2022 to 2023 cycle, only 426 passed, a 21 percent pass rate [3 ]. You can still succeed. With a focused plan , an understanding of what examiners want, and targeted practice , you will give yourself every chance to pass. In this guide, you will see how the AMC clinical is structured and scored, the station types you will face, what examiners prioritise, how to communicate with cultural safety, and how to practise effectively on your own without a study group. For a deeper timing walkthrough, see our comprehensive AKT timing guide . For focused case building, see our free KFP case pack library . AMC Clinical Exam Structure and Scoring The clinical examination session includes 16 assessed stations and 4 rest stations, 20 stations in total [2 ]. Each station runs for 10 minutes, with 2 minutes to read and 8 minutes for assessment tasks, exactly as specified in the current AMC Clinical Examination Specifications, version 8 [2 ]. Examiners rate performance by key steps, performance domains, and a global rating. A station passes on a global rating using a 7 point scale, where a rating of 4 or higher is a pass [1 ]. To pass the entire exam, candidates must pass 9 out of 14 scored stations, revised from 10 out of 14, effective 21 March 2024 [1 ]. Scenarios use simulated patients, video cases, and supporting materials such as charts and diagnostic images [2 ]. These rules exist to confirm that you are safe, clear, and aligned with Australian clinical practice . Understanding them lets you target study efficiently and avoid wasting time on lower yield tactics. Alt text example for one image: AMC Clinical Exam: Station Types, Marking Criteria and Cultural Safety, OSCE style station layout with examiner and simulated patient. History, Counselling and Emergency Stations in the AMC Clinical This section gives you a clean mental model for the three common station types, so you can plan how you will open, progress, and close within 8 minutes [2 ]. You will see what to prioritise, common pitfalls, and how to show safe practice under pressure. History taking Stations History stations evaluate a focused, structured history that is relevant to the presenting complaint. Examiners expect you to establish rapport early, use patient friendly language, and explore key clinical details systematically. Start with a short open question, then signpost your plan so the patient knows what is coming. Use plain English rather than jargon, and check understanding as you go. Cover allergies, medications, and red flags early if the presentation suggests risk. Close with a brief summary, a leading differential, and logical next steps if the station requires it. Common pitfalls include interrupting, missing safety critical questions, or allowing a checklist to override the actual cues the patient gives. Practise moving smoothly from open exploration to targeted questions that reveal your reasoning. Counselling or Management Stations Counselling stations assess your ability to explain a diagnosis, outline options, and negotiate a plan. Your goals are clarity, empathy, and shared decision making, all inside a tight timeframe. Confirm prior understanding, then give a concise diagnosis statement in plain language. Present management options with risks and benefits, and check for preferences. Offer safety netting and follow up steps in case symptoms worsen or do not improve. Verify understanding and invite questions before you close. Common errors include information overload, not checking understanding, and skipping safety netting. Use short sentences, avoid jargon, and pause to let the patient process what you have said. Emergency Stations Emergency stations assess whether you recognise urgency and act safely without delay. The specification confirms the timebox, 2 minutes to read and 8 minutes to act, so you must show priority driven behaviour immediately [2 ]. Identify danger and use a structured approach, for example ABCDE, while verbalising your actions. Call for help early and state what team resources you would activate in an Australian setting . Start life saving interventions without waiting for a complete history when red flags are present. Reassess, summarise the working diagnosis, and state the immediate next disposition. Frequent pitfalls include delayed escalation, treating a high risk presentation as routine, and forgetting basic safety checks such as allergies before drug administration. Speak clearly and narrate your steps so the examiner hears your reasoning. Communication and Cultural Safety for Overseas Doctors Strong communication and cultural safety are core to passing this exam and to safe Australian practice. You will be assessed in English, and you are expected to adapt to the patient in front of you, including culturally safe care. Effective communication, practical tips Speak at a measured pace and avoid jargon. Check what the patient already knows, then build step by step. Show empathy with short validating statements and an open posture. Confirm understanding and invite questions before moving on. Cultural safety, practical behaviours Offer a professional interpreter when language barriers exist, rather than informal interpreters. Ask respectfully about cultural beliefs that may affect care, then adapt the plan. For consultations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, consider the role of Aboriginal Liaison Officers and culturally safe services as part of the plan [4 ]. These habits show respect, improve adherence, and align with good medical practice in Australia. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. What is the pass mark for the AMC Clinical Exam To pass, you must achieve a global rating of 4 or higher on a 7 point scale for at least 9 out of 14 scored stations, revised from 10 out of 14, effective 21 March 2024 [1 ]. 2. What scenarios appear in the AMC Clinical Exam You will encounter stations focused on history, physical examination, diagnostic reasoning, counselling, and emergency management. Each is set for 10 minutes, with 2 minutes reading and 8 minutes assessment, and assessed by global rating [2 ]. 3. Why is cultural safety important in the clinical exam Culturally safe care improves understanding, trust, and outcomes in a diverse Australian population. Using interpreters and engaging Aboriginal Liaison Officers when appropriate aligns with good medical practice expectations [4 ]. 4. Can I pass without a study group Yes. Many candidates succeed using disciplined solo practice with strict timing, periodic feedback, and mini circuits that mirror the specification, 2 minutes reading and 8 minutes performance [2 ]. 5. How many IMGs pass the AMC Clinical Exam In 2022 to 2023, 426 out of 2,053 IMGs passed, a 21 percent pass rate, as reported in the AMC Annual Report [3 ]. How to Practise AMC Clinical Cases Without a Study Group You can prepare effectively on your own if you organise a repeatable plan that matches the specification, 2 minutes reading and 8 minutes performance per station [2 ]. Build fluency by rehearsing aloud so your approach becomes automatic. Run timed role plays, speak every question and explanation out loud. Record short practice runs and review for clarity, pace, and empathy. Seek occasional feedback from a mentor or peer online. Rotate through history, examination, counselling, and emergency, then run mini circuits to build stamina. Keep a reflection log with three things to keep and three things to change after each session. For structured technique guides, see our comprehensive AKT timing guide. For realistic counselling language and closure scripts, see our free KFP case pack library . What AMC Examiners Look For, Safety, Clarity, Local Practice In every station, examiners want to see safety first, clear communication with the patient, and management aligned with local Australian practice. The pass standard is applied through a global rating, 7 point scale, pass at 4 and above [1 ]. Use these anchors to shape how you respond. Patient safety: Recognise red flags, avoid harmful steps, and escalate at the right time. Name consent, infection control, and medication checks when relevant. Clarity in communication: Use plain English, short sentences, and confirm understanding. Summarise to show structure and reduce error. Local Australian practice: Align with Australian guidance and systems. For example, choose first line therapy consistent with Therapeutic Guidelines and consider Medicare supported allied health when appropriate [5 ]. If you balance these three consistently, the global judgment will usually reflect that you can practise safely in the Australian context. If the AMC Clinical Exam feels heavy right now, we can help. Fellow Academy provides comprehensive exam notes, high quality AKT and KFP questions, practical webinars, and high yield flashcards that cut through noise and focus on what matters. You can also access free KFP case packs and step by step study guides to build momentum and confidence. Success is achievable. With clear structure, local practice alignment, and consistent rehearsal, you can demonstrate safe, clear, Australian standard care on exam day. 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] Australian Medical Council. 2024, April 25. Changes to the AMC clinical pass requirement, pass from 9 of 14 stations effective 21 March 2024. Canberra, Australian Medical Council. Retrieved November 2025 from https://www.amc.org.au/news-and-updates/change-to-pass-requirement-for-the-clinical-examination/ [2] Australian Medical Council. 2025, April 8. Clinical Examination Specifications, version 8. Canberra, Australian Medical Council. Retrieved November 2025 from https://www.amc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2025-04-09-Clinical-Exam-Spec-V8.pdf [3] Australian Medical Council. 2023, November 17. AMC Annual Report 2022 to 2023, Clinical Examination outcomes, pass rate 21 percent, 426 of 2,053. Canberra, Australian Medical Council. Retrieved November 2025 from https://www.amc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/AMC-2022-23-Annual-Report.pdf [4] Medical Board of Australia. 2020. Good medical practice, a code of conduct for doctors in Australia. Melbourne, Medical Board of Australia. Retrieved November 2025 from https://www.medicalboard.gov.au/ [5] Therapeutic Guidelines Limited. 2023. Therapeutic Guidelines, digital edition. Melbourne, Therapeutic Guidelines Limited. Retrieved November 2025 from https://www.tg.org.au/ 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary Facing the AMC Clinical Exam : Station Types, Marking Criteria and Cultural Safety can feel intense, particularly when you know the numbers. Out of the 2,053 IMGs who sat the clinical exam in the 2022 to 2023 cycle, only 426 passed, a 21 percent pass rate [3 ]. You can still succeed. With a focused plan , an understanding of what examiners want, and targeted practice , you will give yourself every chance to pass. In this guide, you will see how the AMC clinical is structured and scored, the station types you will face, what examiners prioritise, how to communicate with cultural safety, and how to practise effectively on your own without a study group. For a deeper timing walkthrough, see our comprehensive AKT timing guide . For focused case building, see our free KFP case pack library . AMC Clinical Exam Structure and Scoring The clinical examination session includes 16 assessed stations and 4 rest stations, 20 stations in total [2 ]. Each station runs for 10 minutes, with 2 minutes to read and 8 minutes for assessment tasks, exactly as specified in the current AMC Clinical Examination Specifications, version 8 [2 ]. Examiners rate performance by key steps, performance domains, and a global rating. A station passes on a global rating using a 7 point scale, where a rating of 4 or higher is a pass [1 ]. To pass the entire exam, candidates must pass 9 out of 14 scored stations, revised from 10 out of 14, effective 21 March 2024 [1 ]. Scenarios use simulated patients, video cases, and supporting materials such as charts and diagnostic images [2 ]. These rules exist to confirm that you are safe, clear, and aligned with Australian clinical practice . Understanding them lets you target study efficiently and avoid wasting time on lower yield tactics. Alt text example for one image: AMC Clinical Exam: Station Types, Marking Criteria and Cultural Safety, OSCE style station layout with examiner and simulated patient. History, Counselling and Emergency Stations in the AMC Clinical This section gives you a clean mental model for the three common station types, so you can plan how you will open, progress, and close within 8 minutes [2 ]. You will see what to prioritise, common pitfalls, and how to show safe practice under pressure. History taking Stations History stations evaluate a focused, structured history that is relevant to the presenting complaint. Examiners expect you to establish rapport early, use patient friendly language, and explore key clinical details systematically. Start with a short open question, then signpost your plan so the patient knows what is coming. Use plain English rather than jargon, and check understanding as you go. Cover allergies, medications, and red flags early if the presentation suggests risk. Close with a brief summary, a leading differential, and logical next steps if the station requires it. Common pitfalls include interrupting, missing safety critical questions, or allowing a checklist to override the actual cues the patient gives. Practise moving smoothly from open exploration to targeted questions that reveal your reasoning. Counselling or Management Stations Counselling stations assess your ability to explain a diagnosis, outline options, and negotiate a plan. Your goals are clarity, empathy, and shared decision making, all inside a tight timeframe. Confirm prior understanding, then give a concise diagnosis statement in plain language. Present management options with risks and benefits, and check for preferences. Offer safety netting and follow up steps in case symptoms worsen or do not improve. Verify understanding and invite questions before you close. Common errors include information overload, not checking understanding, and skipping safety netting. Use short sentences, avoid jargon, and pause to let the patient process what you have said. Emergency Stations Emergency stations assess whether you recognise urgency and act safely without delay. The specification confirms the timebox, 2 minutes to read and 8 minutes to act, so you must show priority driven behaviour immediately [2 ]. Identify danger and use a structured approach, for example ABCDE, while verbalising your actions. Call for help early and state what team resources you would activate in an Australian setting . Start life saving interventions without waiting for a complete history when red flags are present. Reassess, summarise the working diagnosis, and state the immediate next disposition. Frequent pitfalls include delayed escalation, treating a high risk presentation as routine, and forgetting basic safety checks such as allergies before drug administration. Speak clearly and narrate your steps so the examiner hears your reasoning. Communication and Cultural Safety for Overseas Doctors Strong communication and cultural safety are core to passing this exam and to safe Australian practice. You will be assessed in English, and you are expected to adapt to the patient in front of you, including culturally safe care. Effective communication, practical tips Speak at a measured pace and avoid jargon. Check what the patient already knows, then build step by step. Show empathy with short validating statements and an open posture. Confirm understanding and invite questions before moving on. Cultural safety, practical behaviours Offer a professional interpreter when language barriers exist, rather than informal interpreters. Ask respectfully about cultural beliefs that may affect care, then adapt the plan. For consultations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, consider the role of Aboriginal Liaison Officers and culturally safe services as part of the plan [4 ]. These habits show respect, improve adherence, and align with good medical practice in Australia. 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 (FAQ) 1. What is the pass mark for the AMC Clinical Exam To pass, you must achieve a global rating of 4 or higher on a 7 point scale for at least 9 out of 14 scored stations, revised from 10 out of 14, effective 21 March 2024 [1 ]. 2. What scenarios appear in the AMC Clinical Exam You will encounter stations focused on history, physical examination, diagnostic reasoning, counselling, and emergency management. Each is set for 10 minutes, with 2 minutes reading and 8 minutes assessment, and assessed by global rating [2 ]. 3. Why is cultural safety important in the clinical exam Culturally safe care improves understanding, trust, and outcomes in a diverse Australian population. Using interpreters and engaging Aboriginal Liaison Officers when appropriate aligns with good medical practice expectations [4 ]. 4. Can I pass without a study group Yes. Many candidates succeed using disciplined solo practice with strict timing, periodic feedback, and mini circuits that mirror the specification, 2 minutes reading and 8 minutes performance [2 ]. 5. How many IMGs pass the AMC Clinical Exam In 2022 to 2023, 426 out of 2,053 IMGs passed, a 21 percent pass rate, as reported in the AMC Annual Report [3 ]. 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next

Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now How to Pass the GP CCE: Communication and Clinical Reasoning Tips Last updated: October 2025 Buy Now How to Pass the GP CCE: Communication and Clinical Reasoning Tips Last updated: October 2025 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP A Message from One GP to Another You’ve spent years caring for patients, learning the rhythms of general practice, and balancing study with long clinic days. Now, the RACGP Clinical Competency Exam (CCE) stands between you and Fellowship. It’s not just another exam, it’s a test of how you think, communicate, and manage real-world complexity under pressure. Many doctors describe the CCE as the most confronting assessment in their training. The format feels personal, your reasoning is on display, and every interaction counts. Yet those who succeed don’t simply “get lucky”, they master structure, reasoning, and communication. The good news is that all of these are trainable skills. If you want to pass CCE , this guide breaks down what examiners are really looking for, how to communicate clearly, reason safely, and manage time and anxiety with confidence. You’ll find practical RACGP CCE exam tips grounded in data, examiner feedback, and years of experience mentoring successful candidates. Understanding What Examiners Are Looking For Examiners aren’t testing if you can memorise guidelines. They’re testing whether you can think and act like an independent GP. The RACGP CCE includes 9 cases across two days on Zoom, 4 case discussions with an examiner and 5 clinical encounters with role-player patients. Each lasts 15 minutes with 5 minutes of reading time before you begin. [2 ] They assess 12 core competencies, from communication and consultation to professionalism and population health. You are marked not on a single diagnosis but on your reasoning, empathy, and safe management across all domains. [1] Exam statistics tell a clear story, in 2024.1, the overall pass rate was 89.10%. First-time candidates achieved 92.56%. In contrast, third-attempt candidates passed at only 38.89%, even though their clinical knowledge was often similar. The difference? Clarity, confidence, and exam technique. [1] When you walk into each case, remember that examiners are observing three big questions: Can this doctor think safely and logically? Can they communicate and manage a consultation calmly under time pressure? Would I trust this person to work unsupervised tomorrow? If the answer to all three is yes, you will pass the CCE. The Importance of Structure and Signposting A structured approach is your best defence against nerves. It ensures you cover all critical areas without missing key details. Examiners report that disorganised consultations often lead to missing patient concerns, skipping safety-netting, or running out of time before management. Start every consult with a clear roadmap. It keeps you calm and shows the examiner you are in control. An effective structure: Introduction, greet, confirm role, and set the agenda. History, use open questions before narrowing down. Explore ICE, ideas, concerns, and expectations. Summary, reflect back what you’ve understood. Differential reasoning, think aloud. Management, cover immediate actions, prevention, follow-up, and safety-netting. Closing, summarise and confirm agreement. Signposting phrases to guide your flow: “First, I’d like to ask a few questions about your symptoms.” “Now, I’ll explain what I think may be happening.” “Let’s talk through your management options together.” These transitions reassure the patient and make your consultation sound cohesive. In the RACGP’s 2024.2 report, examiners praised candidates who “clearly summarised, prioritised problems, and structured consultations”, and warned that vague, scattergun approaches often cost marks. [3] Remember, you are not being scored for sounding robotic. Be natural but deliberate. Structure your conversation as if guiding a colleague through your thinking, and every case will feel more manageable. How to Manage Time and Anxiety During Each Station The CCE tests more than your knowledge. It tests how well you think while under time and emotional pressure. Every case is 15 minutes, and what you do with that time defines your score. Managing time in the CCE: Use the 5-minute reading time wisely. Identify key tasks, differential diagnoses, and structure your plan before you start speaking. During the case, set a clear agenda, “Let’s talk through your pain first, then we’ll discuss how to manage it.” Aim for roughly 5 minutes of history, 2–3 minutes of reasoning, and 5–6 minutes of management. If you’re behind, summarise, “Given our limited time, I’ll focus on the main concern and arrange review for the rest.” Close with a brief safety-net, “If symptoms worsen or new issues arise, please return or call immediately.” Managing exam anxiety: Even experienced GPs can feel their heart racing. Anxiety doesn’t mean you’re unprepared, it means you care. The goal is to channel it into focus. Practise short breathing exercises before each case. Rehearse under timed, simulated conditions so the real exam feels familiar. Prepare your exam environment, good lighting, stable internet, water nearby, and no distractions. Between cases, reset your mind. Let go of the previous station completely, nine fresh opportunities mean one bad case doesn’t define your outcome. According to RACGP reports, first-attempt candidates achieve a 92.56% pass rate in 2024.1. That statistic should motivate you to prepare thoroughly the first time. Build your resilience now, so stress won’t steal marks you deserve. [1 ] FAQs on How to Pass the RACGP CCE 1. How can I improve my communication skills to pass the CCE? Practise active listening, empathy, and clarity in every patient encounter. Role-play with peers, record your sessions, and refine your tone and pacing. Frameworks like Calgary-Cambridge or SPIKES help maintain structure. Seek feedback from supervisors, small adjustments, such as pausing longer after patient responses, can raise your communication score significantly. 2. What clinical reasoning strategies will help me pass the CCE? Focus on transparent reasoning. Always verbalise your differential diagnoses and justify each choice. Examiners can only mark what they hear. Integrate red-flag recognition and safety-netting into your reasoning, showing that patient safety is always your first priority. 3. What is the CCE process? The process for the CCE is clearly described by the RACGP, You must pass the Applied Knowledge Test, AKT , and Key Feature Problem, KFP , exams first. [2 ] You then enrol for the CCE, nine cases delivered online via Zoom over two weekends, four case discussions and five clinical encounters. [2 ] Each case comprises 15 minutes of active interaction plus 5 minutes reading time. [2 ] Your performance is assessed across 12 competencies including communication, clinical reasoning, professionalism, preventive health, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. [3] Results are released after standard-setting and ratification, and you either pass or need to re-sit. This process demands you not just know medicine, but demonstrate safe independent practice under exam conditions. 4. What do examiners specifically look for in the CCE exam? Examiners look for safe, empathetic, and structured consultations . They assess whether you can communicate effectively, apply evidence-based reasoning, and manage uncertainty. Demonstrate you can diagnose, explain, manage, and follow up safely within time constraints. 5. What common mistakes should I avoid to pass the CCE? Avoid generic, unstructured consultations. Don’t rush through history without addressing the patient’s main concern. Avoid medical jargon without checking understanding. Never omit safety-netting or follow-up. Most importantly, avoid the “scattergun” approach, every test or treatment must have a clear rationale. How to Practise for the CCE Effectively The candidates who perform best are those who practise deliberately, not just reading notes but simulating the real exam. Every practice case should test your structure, reasoning, communication, and time management simultaneously. How to build effective practice habits: Practise in real time, run 15-minute mock cases using Zoom or Teams, with a peer acting as the patient. Use a case bank, Fellow Academy’s CCE-style case bank lets you practise across all RACGP domains, including ethics, paediatrics, mental health, and Indigenous health. Seek feedback, record your sessions and review them with a supervisor. Ask, “Did I address ICE? Did I summarise? Did I close properly?” Refine your reasoning aloud, practise explaining your thought process. Instead of saying “I’ll order bloods,” say, “I’d order a full blood count to confirm infection because of her fever.” Examiners must hear your reasoning to award marks. Stay current, regularly check the Therapeutic Guidelines, the Australian Immunisation Handbook, and PBS updates. Outdated management plans can cost marks. Incorporate small, frequent practice sessions rather than cramming. For example, after each clinic day, choose one patient encounter and mentally “replay” it as if it were a CCE case. Ask yourself, “Did I clearly state my reasoning? Did I manage time? Did I address the patient’s perspective?” The RACGP’s official CCE reports show that weak candidates often had sufficient medical knowledge but failed due to disorganisation or poor communication. Remember, practising your structure is practising for success. [3 ] Common Scenarios and How to Approach Them The CCE cases mirror the breadth of Australian general practice. They are not obscure puzzles but realistic situations drawn from everyday medicine. The difference is that each one compresses complexity into 15 minutes. You can expect cases across: Chronic disease management, diabetes, COPD, heart failure, hypertension. Acute presentations, chest pain, febrile child, abdominal pain, shortness of breath. Mental health, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation. Women’s health, contraception, antenatal checks, menopause. Paediatrics, unsettled infant, immunisation, child protection concerns. Ethics and professionalism, consent, confidentiality, medico-legal boundaries. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, cultural safety, community health planning. For example: In a child protection case, the best candidates recognised the old clavicle fracture as a safeguarding red flag and explained how they’d act within mandatory reporting laws. In a postpartum check, they addressed both mother and baby holistically, covering maternal mood, contraception, and infant development. In Indigenous health cases, they demonstrated cultural respect, acknowledged systemic barriers, and used practical strategies such as engaging an Aboriginal Health Worker or offering health checks under MBS item 715. Examiners repeatedly emphasise that cultural sensitivity, context-awareness, and patient safety are weighted equally with clinical accuracy. They reward doctors who adapt care to the individual, rather than applying generic solutions. A useful preparation strategy is to create a “case type map”, list 20 common GP presentations and, for each, practise reasoning, management, and communication under 15 minutes. The more diverse your practice, the stronger your adaptability in the exam. The RACGP Clinical Competency Exam isn’t intended to trip you up, it’s designed to confirm your readiness for independent general practice. By honing clear, structured communication, systematic clinical reasoning , and confident time management, you're preparing yourself not just for an exam, but for a thriving professional life. If you feel overwhelmed, remember, every Fellow GP has stood exactly where you are now. Through Fellow Academy, you’ll find targeted resources including realistic CCE-style case examples, examiner-aligned feedback tools, webinars, and high-yield notes designed specifically to ease your journey towards Fellowship. You have everything it takes to pass CCE successfully, and confidently claim your future as a Fellow of the RACGP. 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). Exam report 2024.1 CCE . East Melbourne, VIC, RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/2024-1-CCE-Public-Exam-Report.pdf [2] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). Clinical Competency Exam, CCE, Overview , page last updated 3 July 2025. East Melbourne, VIC, RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/racgp-exams/clinical-competency-exam [3] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2024). Exam report 2024.2 CCE . East Melbourne, VIC, RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/2024-2-CCE-Public-Exam-Report.pdf 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary A Message from One GP to Another You’ve spent years caring for patients, learning the rhythms of general practice, and balancing study with long clinic days. Now, the RACGP Clinical Competency Exam (CCE) stands between you and Fellowship. It’s not just another exam, it’s a test of how you think, communicate, and manage real-world complexity under pressure. Many doctors describe the CCE as the most confronting assessment in their training. The format feels personal, your reasoning is on display, and every interaction counts. Yet those who succeed don’t simply “get lucky”, they master structure, reasoning, and communication. The good news is that all of these are trainable skills. If you want to pass CCE , this guide breaks down what examiners are really looking for, how to communicate clearly, reason safely, and manage time and anxiety with confidence. You’ll find practical RACGP CCE exam tips grounded in data, examiner feedback, and years of experience mentoring successful candidates. Understanding What Examiners Are Looking For Examiners aren’t testing if you can memorise guidelines. They’re testing whether you can think and act like an independent GP. The RACGP CCE includes 9 cases across two days on Zoom, 4 case discussions with an examiner and 5 clinical encounters with role-player patients. Each lasts 15 minutes with 5 minutes of reading time before you begin. [2 ] They assess 12 core competencies, from communication and consultation to professionalism and population health. You are marked not on a single diagnosis but on your reasoning, empathy, and safe management across all domains. [1] Exam statistics tell a clear story, in 2024.1, the overall pass rate was 89.10%. First-time candidates achieved 92.56%. In contrast, third-attempt candidates passed at only 38.89%, even though their clinical knowledge was often similar. The difference? Clarity, confidence, and exam technique. [1] When you walk into each case, remember that examiners are observing three big questions: Can this doctor think safely and logically? Can they communicate and manage a consultation calmly under time pressure? Would I trust this person to work unsupervised tomorrow? If the answer to all three is yes, you will pass the CCE. The Importance of Structure and Signposting A structured approach is your best defence against nerves. It ensures you cover all critical areas without missing key details. Examiners report that disorganised consultations often lead to missing patient concerns, skipping safety-netting, or running out of time before management. Start every consult with a clear roadmap. It keeps you calm and shows the examiner you are in control. An effective structure: Introduction, greet, confirm role, and set the agenda. History, use open questions before narrowing down. Explore ICE, ideas, concerns, and expectations. Summary, reflect back what you’ve understood. Differential reasoning, think aloud. Management, cover immediate actions, prevention, follow-up, and safety-netting. Closing, summarise and confirm agreement. Signposting phrases to guide your flow: “First, I’d like to ask a few questions about your symptoms.” “Now, I’ll explain what I think may be happening.” “Let’s talk through your management options together.” These transitions reassure the patient and make your consultation sound cohesive. In the RACGP’s 2024.2 report, examiners praised candidates who “clearly summarised, prioritised problems, and structured consultations”, and warned that vague, scattergun approaches often cost marks. [3] Remember, you are not being scored for sounding robotic. Be natural but deliberate. Structure your conversation as if guiding a colleague through your thinking, and every case will feel more manageable. How to Manage Time and Anxiety During Each Station The CCE tests more than your knowledge. It tests how well you think while under time and emotional pressure. Every case is 15 minutes, and what you do with that time defines your score. Managing time in the CCE: Use the 5-minute reading time wisely. Identify key tasks, differential diagnoses, and structure your plan before you start speaking. During the case, set a clear agenda, “Let’s talk through your pain first, then we’ll discuss how to manage it.” Aim for roughly 5 minutes of history, 2–3 minutes of reasoning, and 5–6 minutes of management. If you’re behind, summarise, “Given our limited time, I’ll focus on the main concern and arrange review for the rest.” Close with a brief safety-net, “If symptoms worsen or new issues arise, please return or call immediately.” Managing exam anxiety: Even experienced GPs can feel their heart racing. Anxiety doesn’t mean you’re unprepared, it means you care. The goal is to channel it into focus. Practise short breathing exercises before each case. Rehearse under timed, simulated conditions so the real exam feels familiar. Prepare your exam environment, good lighting, stable internet, water nearby, and no distractions. Between cases, reset your mind. Let go of the previous station completely, nine fresh opportunities mean one bad case doesn’t define your outcome. According to RACGP reports, first-attempt candidates achieve a 92.56% pass rate in 2024.1. That statistic should motivate you to prepare thoroughly the first time. Build your resilience now, so stress won’t steal marks you deserve. [1 ] 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. FAQs on How to Pass the RACGP CCE 1. How can I improve my communication skills to pass the CCE? Practise active listening, empathy, and clarity in every patient encounter. Role-play with peers, record your sessions, and refine your tone and pacing. Frameworks like Calgary-Cambridge or SPIKES help maintain structure. Seek feedback from supervisors, small adjustments, such as pausing longer after patient responses, can raise your communication score significantly. 2. What clinical reasoning strategies will help me pass the CCE? Focus on transparent reasoning. Always verbalise your differential diagnoses and justify each choice. Examiners can only mark what they hear. Integrate red-flag recognition and safety-netting into your reasoning, showing that patient safety is always your first priority. 3. What is the CCE process? The process for the CCE is clearly described by the RACGP, You must pass the Applied Knowledge Test, AKT , and Key Feature Problem, KFP , exams first. [2 ] You then enrol for the CCE, nine cases delivered online via Zoom over two weekends, four case discussions and five clinical encounters. [2 ] Each case comprises 15 minutes of active interaction plus 5 minutes reading time. [2 ] Your performance is assessed across 12 competencies including communication, clinical reasoning, professionalism, preventive health, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. [3] Results are released after standard-setting and ratification, and you either pass or need to re-sit. This process demands you not just know medicine, but demonstrate safe independent practice under exam conditions. 4. What do examiners specifically look for in the CCE exam? Examiners look for safe, empathetic, and structured consultations . They assess whether you can communicate effectively, apply evidence-based reasoning, and manage uncertainty. Demonstrate you can diagnose, explain, manage, and follow up safely within time constraints. 5. What common mistakes should I avoid to pass the CCE? Avoid generic, unstructured consultations. Don’t rush through history without addressing the patient’s main concern. Avoid medical jargon without checking understanding. Never omit safety-netting or follow-up. Most importantly, avoid the “scattergun” approach, every test or treatment must have a clear rationale. 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next

Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now 6 Week RACGP CCE Study Plan (Working GP / IMG Friendly) Last updated: November 2025 Buy Now 6 Week RACGP CCE Study Plan (Working GP / IMG Friendly) Last updated: November 2025 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP The 6 Week RACGP CCE Study Plan (Working GP / IMG Friendly) is created to help you study efficiently and confidently for the RACGP Clinical Competency Exam. You will see exactly what to focus on each week, how to prepare in a structured way while working full time, and how to integrate your daily clinical practice directly into your CCE preparation. With the CCE pass rate sitting at 79.66% [1 ], there is every reason to feel optimistic when you follow a clear, strategic plan. Anxiety before a major fellowship exam is normal and completely human. Rather than a sign of weakness, it often reflects your commitment to providing safe and competent care for your patients. This guide will help you convert that anxious energy into steady progress and renewed confidence. You will learn how to break your preparation into realistic weekly goals, how to use role plays and mock circuits effectively, and how to refine your consultation flow so it reflects the expectations of the RACGP examiners. Week 1 to 2: Identify Your Gaps and Build a Firm Foundation These first 2 weeks help you establish a clear map of what you need to study. When you know exactly where your gaps are, your study becomes more targeted, efficient, and less stressful. Key points for Week 1 and 2: Start with a structured self assessment using the full RACGP curriculum as your reference. Go through each domain carefully and rate your competence honestly. Involve your supervisor early, as RACGP guidance emphasises supervisor supported preparation and engagement with the clinical competency rubric and gplearning resources [1 , 7 ]. Use BEACH study summaries to identify the highest yield conditions that appear frequently in Australian general practice. These include hypertension, diabetes, respiratory infections, depression, and osteoarthritis, which are highlighted across RACGP BEACH linked materials and peer reviewed summaries [4 , 5 ]. Ask your GP supervisor to review your self assessment. Supervisors can often identify blind spots such as inconsistent communication style, rushed safety netting , or limited experience with psychosocial cases. The RACGP emphasises preparation that includes practising case discussions with supervisors and colleagues, and aligning with the clinical competency rubric [1 , 7 ]. To make this process more practical, try writing out a simple 2 column table. On the left, list areas you feel confident in. On the right, list areas you are less confident in. Sometimes the act of writing helps reduce the overwhelm and gives you a sense of direction. These 2 weeks are also an ideal time to gather resources: Therapeutic Guidelines, RACGP Red Book, clinical cases books, and gplearning modules. Add internal prompts to your plan, for example, “For pacing strategies, see our AKT timing guide ,” and “For structured case analysis, see our KFP technique guide ,” so you can return to focused methods as you progress. Week 3 to 4: Daily Role Play for Exam Success Weeks 3 and 4 are where your preparation becomes active and hands on. These weeks accelerate your readiness because repeated role play is the single most effective way to strengthen consultation flow, communication, and clinical reasoning. CCE scoring allocates 27 percent to clinical management and therapeutic reasoning and 21 percent to communication skills [1 ]. Daily practice directly improves your performance in these heavily weighted domains. What to focus on during Week 3 and 4: Complete daily 15 minute role plays covering acute medicine, chronic disease management, mental health, and women’s health. Each simulation should follow the consultation structure you will use in the exam. After each role play, obtain immediate feedback. Ask your peer or supervisor to comment specifically on clarity, empathy, structure, and whether your safety netting was explicit enough [1 ]. Practise safety netting until it becomes natural. Safety netting is one of the most frequently missed components in the CCE and contributes to many candidate pitfalls identified by examiners [1 ]. Make sure your language is clear and calm. For example, you might say, “If your symptoms worsen or you develop new chest discomfort, I would like you to return promptly for review.” Examples of role plays that typically benefit candidates include: Counselling a young adult through contraception options. Managing an acute asthma flare in a child. Supporting a patient who has low mood with new life stressors. Explaining diabetes management and long term monitoring to a newly diagnosed patient. The more varied the role plays, the more confident you will feel. You will also improve your ability to improvise, stay calm, and manage complex patient emotions. Week 6: Fine Tuning Consultation Skills for Exam Day Week 6 is your consolidation and confidence week. At this stage, you are no longer learning new content. You are refining how you deliver it under exam conditions. Focus areas in Week 6: Practise short consultation openings and closings daily. Introduce yourself, set the agenda, validate the patient’s emotions, and summarise the plan clearly [1 , 7 ]. Polish your safety netting language. Keep it simple, precise, and patient friendly. Use light revision only. Avoid deep new learning and lean instead on familiar material. This reduces cognitive load and enhances clarity. Use stress reduction techniques such as controlled breathing. Even 3 minutes of slow, deliberate breathing can reduce cognitive overload and improve clarity on exam day. Week 6 is also ideal for soft tuning your communication style. Slow your pace slightly, remove jargon, and maintain a supportive, calm tone. Examiners judge how well you communicate under pressure, not how much you know. For additional exam day organisation ideas, add an internal prompt like, “For exam day routines and pacing, see our AKT timing guide.” FAQ: Essential RACGP CCE Preparation Questions 1. Is a 6 Week RACGP CCE Study Plan (Working GP / IMG Friendly) enough to pass? Yes. While RACGP suggests 3 to 6 months of preparation for the best outcome [1 ], many working GPs and IMGs succeed with a structured, high yield 6 week plan because they integrate study with real clinical work. 2. How can IMGs adapt quickly to Australian practice expectations? IMGs should focus on Australian guidelines, strong communication skills, and structured consultation habits. Regular supervisor feedback accelerates adaptation significantly and improves exam performance [1 , 7 ]. 3. Which competencies carry the most weight in CCE scoring? Clinical management and therapeutic reasoning form 27 percent, while communication skills form 21 percent, making them the highest impact domains in CCE scoring [1 ]. 4. What are the essential RACGP exam resources? You need the RACGP curriculum and clinical competency rubric, Therapeutic Guidelines, the RACGP Red Book, recent public exam reports, BEACH related materials, and structured clinical cases such as those discussed in RACGP preparation pages and peer reviewed summaries [1 , 4 , 5 , 7 ]. 5. What common preparation pitfalls should I avoid? According to RACGP examiner feedback, the most frequent pitfalls include inadequate safety netting, unclear clinical reasoning, poor patient centred communication, and weak time management [1 ]. Targeted role plays can correct these errors early. Tracking Your Progress Clearly and Calmly The more intentional you are about reflection, the stronger your performance becomes. Progress tracking also helps reduce unnecessary anxiety by showing you objective evidence of improvement. Your tracking toolkit should include: A weekly reflection session where you review what you learned and what still feels uncertain. A simple daily confidence scale from 1 to 5 for key topics like cardiology, paediatrics, mental health, chronic disease management, and communication. A list of recurring themes that need targeted practice such as dermatology, antenatal care, or managing angry patients. If you notice your confidence consistently dips in dermatology, for example, you can schedule 3 targeted sessions in Week 6, focusing specifically on skin lesion descriptions, common rashes, and management frameworks. Reflection is your anchor when preparation feels chaotic. It turns vague worry into specific action. If you want more structure for self review, include a note to self such as, “For reflective practice frameworks, see our KFP technique guide.” Week 5: Full CCE Mock Circuit with Feedback Week 5 is your most powerful growth week. A realistic, structured mock exam allows you to stress test your consultation habits, identify patterns, and refine your performance before the actual CCE. This week often transforms moderate confidence into calm readiness. The RACGP CCE contains 9 cases delivered over 2 sessions [2 , 3 ] so your mock should mirror this structure as closely as possible. Your Week 5 goals include: Conduct a full 9 case mock circuit with accurate timing and case variety. Ensure that you include at least 2 psychosocial cases, 2 acute presentations, 2 chronic disease cases, and 1 women’s health or paediatrics scenario. Document thoroughly during your feedback session. Ask your observer to describe specific examples of where your communication shone and where it faltered. Capture how your time management looked in each case. Apply the high yield conditions from the BEACH study to your mock circuit, including hypertension, diabetes, respiratory illness, musculoskeletal pain, and mental health conditions [4 , 5 ]. From an examiner perspective, common mock exam issues include: Running out of time due to spending too long gathering history. Using overly technical language without checking patient understanding. Forgetting to explicitly state follow up and red flags. Attempting to address too many problems in a single case. By identifying these patterns early, you prevent them from repeating during the real CCE. If you feel uncertain about any aspect of your preparation, Fellow Academy offers high quality AKT and KFP questions , concise and comprehensive exam notes , and high yield flashcards that help you study efficiently and confidently. You will also find free KFP case packs, webinars, and practical study tools designed to support you at every stage of your journey. Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. It is based on personal experience and the experiences of successful GP candidates. It is intended as general study guidance only and should not be interpreted as official RACGP advice. Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. It is based on personal experience and the experiences of successful GP candidates. It is intended as general study guidance only and should not be interpreted as official RACGP advice. References [1] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). Exam report 2025.1 Clinical Competency Exam CCE (Public exam report). East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/education-providers/assessment/examinations/cce/exam-reports [2] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). Clinical Competency Exam, How the CCE works web page. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/education-providers/assessment/examinations/cce [3] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). CCE candidate technical guidelines (PDF). East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/education-providers/assessment/examinations/cce/candidate-technical-guidelines [4] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2023). BEACH, Frequency and patterns of problems in general practice web page. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/clinical-resources/clinical-guidelines/key-racgp-guidelines/beach [5] Glasziou, P., Britt, H., Cooke, G., & Valenti, L. (2013). Common general practice presentations and publication frequency. Australian Family Physician, 42 (1 to 2), 65 to 68. https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2013/januaryfebruary/common-general-practice-presentations-and-publication-frequency [6] GP Registrars Australia. (2024). Tips for your clinical exams web page. Melbourne, VIC: GPRA. https://gpra.org.au/resources/tips-for-your-clinical-exams [7] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). Candidate guidelines for the Clinical Competency Exam (PDF). East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/education-providers/assessment/examinations/cce/candidate-guidelines 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary The 6 Week RACGP CCE Study Plan (Working GP / IMG Friendly) is created to help you study efficiently and confidently for the RACGP Clinical Competency Exam. You will see exactly what to focus on each week, how to prepare in a structured way while working full time, and how to integrate your daily clinical practice directly into your CCE preparation. With the CCE pass rate sitting at 79.66% [1 ], there is every reason to feel optimistic when you follow a clear, strategic plan. Anxiety before a major fellowship exam is normal and completely human. Rather than a sign of weakness, it often reflects your commitment to providing safe and competent care for your patients. This guide will help you convert that anxious energy into steady progress and renewed confidence. You will learn how to break your preparation into realistic weekly goals, how to use role plays and mock circuits effectively, and how to refine your consultation flow so it reflects the expectations of the RACGP examiners. Week 1 to 2: Identify Your Gaps and Build a Firm Foundation These first 2 weeks help you establish a clear map of what you need to study. When you know exactly where your gaps are, your study becomes more targeted, efficient, and less stressful. Key points for Week 1 and 2: Start with a structured self assessment using the full RACGP curriculum as your reference. Go through each domain carefully and rate your competence honestly. Involve your supervisor early, as RACGP guidance emphasises supervisor supported preparation and engagement with the clinical competency rubric and gplearning resources [1 , 7 ]. Use BEACH study summaries to identify the highest yield conditions that appear frequently in Australian general practice. These include hypertension, diabetes, respiratory infections, depression, and osteoarthritis, which are highlighted across RACGP BEACH linked materials and peer reviewed summaries [4 , 5 ]. Ask your GP supervisor to review your self assessment. Supervisors can often identify blind spots such as inconsistent communication style, rushed safety netting , or limited experience with psychosocial cases. The RACGP emphasises preparation that includes practising case discussions with supervisors and colleagues, and aligning with the clinical competency rubric [1 , 7 ]. To make this process more practical, try writing out a simple 2 column table. On the left, list areas you feel confident in. On the right, list areas you are less confident in. Sometimes the act of writing helps reduce the overwhelm and gives you a sense of direction. These 2 weeks are also an ideal time to gather resources: Therapeutic Guidelines, RACGP Red Book, clinical cases books, and gplearning modules. Add internal prompts to your plan, for example, “For pacing strategies, see our AKT timing guide ,” and “For structured case analysis, see our KFP technique guide ,” so you can return to focused methods as you progress. Week 3 to 4: Daily Role Play for Exam Success Weeks 3 and 4 are where your preparation becomes active and hands on. These weeks accelerate your readiness because repeated role play is the single most effective way to strengthen consultation flow, communication, and clinical reasoning. CCE scoring allocates 27 percent to clinical management and therapeutic reasoning and 21 percent to communication skills [1 ]. Daily practice directly improves your performance in these heavily weighted domains. What to focus on during Week 3 and 4: Complete daily 15 minute role plays covering acute medicine, chronic disease management, mental health, and women’s health. Each simulation should follow the consultation structure you will use in the exam. After each role play, obtain immediate feedback. Ask your peer or supervisor to comment specifically on clarity, empathy, structure, and whether your safety netting was explicit enough [1 ]. Practise safety netting until it becomes natural. Safety netting is one of the most frequently missed components in the CCE and contributes to many candidate pitfalls identified by examiners [1 ]. Make sure your language is clear and calm. For example, you might say, “If your symptoms worsen or you develop new chest discomfort, I would like you to return promptly for review.” Examples of role plays that typically benefit candidates include: Counselling a young adult through contraception options. Managing an acute asthma flare in a child. Supporting a patient who has low mood with new life stressors. Explaining diabetes management and long term monitoring to a newly diagnosed patient. The more varied the role plays, the more confident you will feel. You will also improve your ability to improvise, stay calm, and manage complex patient emotions. Week 6: Fine Tuning Consultation Skills for Exam Day Week 6 is your consolidation and confidence week. At this stage, you are no longer learning new content. You are refining how you deliver it under exam conditions. Focus areas in Week 6: Practise short consultation openings and closings daily. Introduce yourself, set the agenda, validate the patient’s emotions, and summarise the plan clearly [1 , 7 ]. Polish your safety netting language. Keep it simple, precise, and patient friendly. Use light revision only. Avoid deep new learning and lean instead on familiar material. This reduces cognitive load and enhances clarity. Use stress reduction techniques such as controlled breathing. Even 3 minutes of slow, deliberate breathing can reduce cognitive overload and improve clarity on exam day. Week 6 is also ideal for soft tuning your communication style. Slow your pace slightly, remove jargon, and maintain a supportive, calm tone. Examiners judge how well you communicate under pressure, not how much you know. For additional exam day organisation ideas, add an internal prompt like, “For exam day routines and pacing, see our AKT timing guide.” 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: Essential RACGP CCE Preparation Questions 1. Is a 6 Week RACGP CCE Study Plan (Working GP / IMG Friendly) enough to pass? Yes. While RACGP suggests 3 to 6 months of preparation for the best outcome [1 ], many working GPs and IMGs succeed with a structured, high yield 6 week plan because they integrate study with real clinical work. 2. How can IMGs adapt quickly to Australian practice expectations? IMGs should focus on Australian guidelines, strong communication skills, and structured consultation habits. Regular supervisor feedback accelerates adaptation significantly and improves exam performance [1 , 7 ]. 3. Which competencies carry the most weight in CCE scoring? Clinical management and therapeutic reasoning form 27 percent, while communication skills form 21 percent, making them the highest impact domains in CCE scoring [1 ]. 4. What are the essential RACGP exam resources? You need the RACGP curriculum and clinical competency rubric, Therapeutic Guidelines, the RACGP Red Book, recent public exam reports, BEACH related materials, and structured clinical cases such as those discussed in RACGP preparation pages and peer reviewed summaries [1 , 4 , 5 , 7 ]. 5. What common preparation pitfalls should I avoid? According to RACGP examiner feedback, the most frequent pitfalls include inadequate safety netting, unclear clinical reasoning, poor patient centred communication, and weak time management [1 ]. Targeted role plays can correct these errors early. 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next

Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now Lecture Heavy vs Structured GP Exam Academy: Which One Helps You Pass Faster? Last updated: November 2025 Buy Now Lecture Heavy vs Structured GP Exam Academy: Which One Helps You Pass Faster? Last updated: November 2025 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Deciding between a lecture heavy and structured GP exam academy is critical because your choice directly affects your ability to pass your RACGP exams swiftly. If you've ever left a lengthy lecture session feeling uncertain about what you've actually retained, you know exactly how frustrating passive study methods can be. You're not alone: countless GP trainees and International Medical Graduates, IMGs, have experienced the same cycle of ineffective learning, which often prolongs their path to Fellowship. In this post, we'll thoroughly examine the question: Lecture Heavy vs Structured GP Exam Academy: Which One Helps You Pass Faster? We'll uncover why passive lecture methods often fall short, explore the scientifically proven advantages of structured, active learning approaches, and guide you through practical ways to integrate structured learning into your current study routine. The problem with slide only GP exam academies Lecture heavy courses, reliant mainly on slides and passive listening, often provide a false sense of productivity. However, evidence consistently shows this method can significantly limit your ability to deeply understand and retain information: Students in traditional lecture settings are 1.5 times more likely to fail exams compared to students who engage in active learning methods [1 ]. Additionally, these students typically score around 0.5 standard deviations lower on tests [1 ]. RACGP's 2024.2 KFP exam report highlights this starkly, revealing a first attempt pass rate of 83.8%, which plunges dramatically to just 19.3% for those taking their fourth or subsequent attempts [2 ]. This data clearly indicates that relying solely on lectures is not only inefficient but can significantly delay your progression through exams. Active participation is crucial for achieving rapid success. Topic first design, diabetes, AF, antenatal, psych Structured GP exam preparation uses a topic first design, meaning your studies align with key RACGP exam topics. This approach ensures you strategically focus on high yield areas: Diabetes: Become familiar with critical management guidelines, medication regimens, and diagnostic criteria detailed in Therapeutic Guidelines and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, PBS, listings. Atrial fibrillation, AF: Master anticoagulation strategies, interpret ECG findings confidently, and understand the latest clinical management guidelines. Antenatal care: Thoroughly review RACGP Red Book guidelines, antenatal screening protocols, and effectively manage common obstetric complications. Psychiatry: Strengthen your understanding of commonly presented psychiatric conditions, their management plans, and Medicare mental health care protocols. Aligning your studies directly with these RACGP curriculum priorities ensures efficiency, clarity, and greater confidence when you approach your exams [3 ]. For more topic mapping examples and weekly study templates, see our RACGP curriculum aligned study planner. How to combine structured methods with your current course Even if you're currently enrolled in a lecture heavy GP academy, integrating structured study methods can greatly enhance your effectiveness and exam success: Evaluate and identify gaps: Regularly review your existing lectures and identify areas that require reinforcement through structured approaches. Align lectures with exam topics: Focus your post lecture revision on key RACGP curriculum topics, ensuring targeted and efficient preparation. Immediate post lecture practice: Directly following lectures, engage with targeted practice questions to reinforce learning immediately. Structured note taking and flashcards: Summarise lecture content into concise notes, then transform these notes into flashcards for spaced revision sessions. Continuous self assessment: Regularly assess your performance on flashcard recall and adjust your revision accordingly. Support tailored for IMGs and supervisors: Address specific gaps unique to IMGs, including Australian healthcare systems and guidelines, and supervisors should actively facilitate structured revision sessions. Implementing structured methods alongside your existing course ensures comprehensive, effective preparation, significantly boosting your likelihood of passing on the first attempt. RACGP exam readiness metrics and tracking Defining simple, objective metrics lets you see if your study is working before exam day: Question bank benchmarks: Track accuracy by topic and reattempt weak areas until consistent improvement is seen. Flashcard cadence: Aim for daily short sessions and weekly cumulative reviews using spaced repetition principles [4 ]. Mock performance reviews: Schedule regular full length practice blocks to test pacing and technique. For pacing strategies, see our comprehensive AKT timing guide. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Can lecture heavy GP exam academies effectively support first time passers? While lectures can introduce broad content quickly, structured active learning methods dramatically outperform lectures alone, with an 83.8% first attempt pass rate in the 2024.2 KFP exam [2 ]. 2. How much study time is necessary to pass RACGP exams effectively? Structured preparation typically requires consistent dedication, with recommended timelines being around 6 to 9 months of focused study at approximately 15 hours per week minimum [5 ]. 3. Why are practice questions so beneficial in RACGP exam preparation? Practice questions actively reinforce knowledge retention, highlight gaps immediately, and familiarise you with the RACGP exam format, significantly improving exam outcomes [4 ]. 4. How can IMGs best use structured methods to prepare for RACGP exams? Structured methods help IMGs systematically address gaps specific to Australian medical practice, such as Medicare and PBS guidelines, enhancing their overall readiness and exam performance [5 ]. 5. What role can GP supervisors play in structured exam preparation? Supervisors are essential in facilitating structured revision sessions, guiding trainees through targeted practice questions, providing regular feedback, and using performance metrics to support ongoing preparation [6 ]. Lecture Heavy vs Structured GP Exam Academy, Which One Helps You Pass Faster This section reinforces the core comparison and helps you decide what to do next without delay: Clarity of aim: Lecture heavy models provide exposure, structured models build mastery. Measurable progress: Structured approaches convert content into questions, notes, flashcards, giving you visible performance markers over time [4 ]. Actionable next steps: Keep attending essential lectures, then layer the structured cycle to lock in knowledge. For a practical plan, see our RACGP curriculum aligned study planner. Questions, notes, flashcards: the Fellow Academy model A proven structured learning sequence involves systematically using questions, notes, and flashcards, leveraging well researched cognitive strategies such as active recall and spaced repetition: Practice questions: Regular use of RACGP style AKT and KFP practice questions immediately highlights your knowledge gaps and solidifies your understanding through active recall. Research confirms that practice testing is one of the most effective study techniques available [4 ]. Concise notes: Transform detailed RACGP guidelines and clinical scenarios into structured, concise notes. This practice significantly aids efficient revision and enhances your memory retention. Flashcards: Convert key points from your notes into flashcards, and systematically review them at intervals. This method is backed by cognitive science, reinforcing memory through active recall and spaced repetition [4 ]. Supporting this structured method, the RACGP KFP statistics clearly show an 83.8% first attempt pass rate, compared to the significantly lower 19.3% rate for multiple attempts, underscoring the clear benefits of structured preparation [2 ]. For step by step implementation, see our questions to flashcards study workflow. Feeling overwhelmed by RACGP exam preparation is entirely understandable. Fortunately, Fellow Academy provides robust support through expertly curated AKT and KFP question banks, concise yet comprehensive exam notes, and research backed flashcards. These tools are specifically designed to enhance your learning efficiency and significantly improve your exam performance. For further practical strategies, you can explore our comprehensive AKT timing guide, KFP study resources, and additional revision techniques carefully crafted to guide you confidently toward achieving Fellowship. Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the RACGP. The strategies shared are based on personal experiences of GP candidates who successfully passed their exams 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 personal experiences of GP candidates who successfully passed their exams and are intended as general study guidance only. References [1] Freeman, S., Eddy, S. L., McDonough, M., Smith, M. K., Okoroafor, N., Jordt, H., and Wenderoth, M. P. 2014. Active learning increases student performance in science, engineering, and mathematics. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 111,23, 8410 to 8415. https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1319030111 [2] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2024. 2024.2 KFP Public Exam Report. East Melbourne, VIC, RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/education-exams/exams/kfp [3] General Practice Registrars Australia. 2025. Study Tips for GP Trainees, Top 10 Tips to Make the Most of Your Study. Melbourne, VIC, GPRA. https://gpra.org.au/resources/study-tips-for-gp-trainees/ [4] Dunlosky, J., Rawson, K. A., Marsh, E. J., Nathan, M. J., and Willingham, D. T. 2013. Improving students’ learning with effective learning techniques, Promising directions from cognitive and educational psychology. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 14,1, 4 to 58. https://doi.org/10.1177/1529100612453266 [5] General Practice Registrars Australia. 2025. Study Tips for GP Trainees, Top 10 Tips to Make the Most of Your Study. Melbourne, VIC, GPRA. https://gpra.org.au/resources/study-tips-for-gp-trainees/ [6] General Practice Supervisors Australia. 2025. Study Skills Guide for GP Registrars, Studying Smarter, Not Harder, Version 8. Melbourne, VIC, GPSA. https://gpsa.org.au/knowledge-base/study-skills-guide/ 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary Deciding between a lecture heavy and structured GP exam academy is critical because your choice directly affects your ability to pass your RACGP exams swiftly. If you've ever left a lengthy lecture session feeling uncertain about what you've actually retained, you know exactly how frustrating passive study methods can be. You're not alone: countless GP trainees and International Medical Graduates, IMGs, have experienced the same cycle of ineffective learning, which often prolongs their path to Fellowship. In this post, we'll thoroughly examine the question: Lecture Heavy vs Structured GP Exam Academy: Which One Helps You Pass Faster? We'll uncover why passive lecture methods often fall short, explore the scientifically proven advantages of structured, active learning approaches, and guide you through practical ways to integrate structured learning into your current study routine. The problem with slide only GP exam academies Lecture heavy courses, reliant mainly on slides and passive listening, often provide a false sense of productivity. However, evidence consistently shows this method can significantly limit your ability to deeply understand and retain information: Students in traditional lecture settings are 1.5 times more likely to fail exams compared to students who engage in active learning methods [1 ]. Additionally, these students typically score around 0.5 standard deviations lower on tests [1 ]. RACGP's 2024.2 KFP exam report highlights this starkly, revealing a first attempt pass rate of 83.8%, which plunges dramatically to just 19.3% for those taking their fourth or subsequent attempts [2 ]. This data clearly indicates that relying solely on lectures is not only inefficient but can significantly delay your progression through exams. Active participation is crucial for achieving rapid success. Topic first design, diabetes, AF, antenatal, psych Structured GP exam preparation uses a topic first design, meaning your studies align with key RACGP exam topics. This approach ensures you strategically focus on high yield areas: Diabetes: Become familiar with critical management guidelines, medication regimens, and diagnostic criteria detailed in Therapeutic Guidelines and Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, PBS, listings. Atrial fibrillation, AF: Master anticoagulation strategies, interpret ECG findings confidently, and understand the latest clinical management guidelines. Antenatal care: Thoroughly review RACGP Red Book guidelines, antenatal screening protocols, and effectively manage common obstetric complications. Psychiatry: Strengthen your understanding of commonly presented psychiatric conditions, their management plans, and Medicare mental health care protocols. Aligning your studies directly with these RACGP curriculum priorities ensures efficiency, clarity, and greater confidence when you approach your exams [3 ]. For more topic mapping examples and weekly study templates, see our RACGP curriculum aligned study planner. How to combine structured methods with your current course Even if you're currently enrolled in a lecture heavy GP academy, integrating structured study methods can greatly enhance your effectiveness and exam success: Evaluate and identify gaps: Regularly review your existing lectures and identify areas that require reinforcement through structured approaches. Align lectures with exam topics: Focus your post lecture revision on key RACGP curriculum topics, ensuring targeted and efficient preparation. Immediate post lecture practice: Directly following lectures, engage with targeted practice questions to reinforce learning immediately. Structured note taking and flashcards: Summarise lecture content into concise notes, then transform these notes into flashcards for spaced revision sessions. Continuous self assessment: Regularly assess your performance on flashcard recall and adjust your revision accordingly. Support tailored for IMGs and supervisors: Address specific gaps unique to IMGs, including Australian healthcare systems and guidelines, and supervisors should actively facilitate structured revision sessions. Implementing structured methods alongside your existing course ensures comprehensive, effective preparation, significantly boosting your likelihood of passing on the first attempt. 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. Can lecture heavy GP exam academies effectively support first time passers? While lectures can introduce broad content quickly, structured active learning methods dramatically outperform lectures alone, with an 83.8% first attempt pass rate in the 2024.2 KFP exam [2 ]. 2. How much study time is necessary to pass RACGP exams effectively? Structured preparation typically requires consistent dedication, with recommended timelines being around 6 to 9 months of focused study at approximately 15 hours per week minimum [5 ]. 3. Why are practice questions so beneficial in RACGP exam preparation? Practice questions actively reinforce knowledge retention, highlight gaps immediately, and familiarise you with the RACGP exam format, significantly improving exam outcomes [4 ]. 4. How can IMGs best use structured methods to prepare for RACGP exams? Structured methods help IMGs systematically address gaps specific to Australian medical practice, such as Medicare and PBS guidelines, enhancing their overall readiness and exam performance [5 ]. 5. What role can GP supervisors play in structured exam preparation? Supervisors are essential in facilitating structured revision sessions, guiding trainees through targeted practice questions, providing regular feedback, and using performance metrics to support ongoing preparation [6 ]. 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next

Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now 5 Pitfalls Stopping You from Passing the RACGP Exam Last updated: October 2025 Buy Now 5 Pitfalls Stopping You from Passing the RACGP Exam Last updated: October 2025 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP The RACGP exam is a significant milestone in your medical career, marking the transition from registrar to Fellow. But even the most dedicated GP trainees sometimes stumble, not due to a lack of knowledge or effort, but because they unknowingly repeat common RACGP exam mistakes . I have guided many talented doctors through these exams, and the good news is these pitfalls are entirely avoidable. In this article, I will share practical RACGP exam tips to help you recognise these errors, understand why they occur, and confidently pass the RACGP exam . Starting Practice Too Late A major RACGP exam mistake is starting your serious revision too close to exam day. This error severely impacts your ability to cover the comprehensive RACGP syllabus, leading to incomplete knowledge and unnecessary stress. Starting early is critical for exam success. Consider these eye opening statistics from the RACGP: the pass rate for first time KFP exam candidates is 83.8% [1] . This success rate drops drastically to 48.6% for second attempts [1]. By the fourth attempt, only 19.3% succeed [1] . Clearly, being adequately prepared from the start pays dividends. An early start means: Covering all curriculum areas comprehensively, including weaker topics. Spaced revision that improves long term retention and recall. Sufficient time for multiple realistic mock exams . Lower stress, making room to manage unexpected personal or work related demands. For example, balancing on call shifts or running busy clinics alongside your revision is tough enough without being pressured by last minute cramming. Starting at least 6 months before exam day ensures steady progress and a calm, confident approach. Neglecting the KFP Reasoning Format The Key Feature Problem, KFP, exam uniquely assesses clinical reasoning, not just clinical facts. Many strong candidates falter because they treat KFP questions like standard knowledge tests rather than applying precise, focused reasoning [2] . Common errors include: Giving overly broad or vague answers. Listing several diagnoses rather than identifying the single most relevant one. Failing to use the specific details provided in the patient scenario. Overcoding, providing extra or irrelevant information, which costs marks. To avoid these pitfalls: Regularly practise KFP style questions under timed, realistic exam conditions. Identify precisely what each question is asking before answering. Provide clear, concise answers tailored to the scenario’s context. Review official RACGP exam reports regularly to understand common pitfalls and improve your strategy [2] . For instance, instead of writing “order blood tests,” specify precisely which tests, for example full blood count, iron studies, thyroid function tests, and relate them clearly to the clinical scenario. Using Non Australian Resources Another critical RACGP exam mistake involves using non Australian resources for your preparation. This issue particularly impacts International Medical Graduates, IMGs, who often unintentionally overlook essential local guidelines. For IMGs, the challenge is significant: the pass rate in RACGP written Fellowship exams among IMGs outside the registrar training program has been reported as 37%, nearly half that of GP registrars, based on RACGP data reported by Australian Doctor in 2019 [5] . Provide current context if you cite this figure in other materials. Crucial Australian specific differences include: Immunisation schedules, clearly outlined in the Australian Immunisation Handbook [4] . Medications subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, PBS. Disease epidemiology, such as Australia’s high melanoma incidence. Local healthcare rules, referral pathways, and ethical guidelines. To tackle this effectively: Prioritise studying Australian specific resources such as RACGP’s Red Book, Therapeutic Guidelines, eTG, Australian Prescriber, and PBS guidelines. Always cross check international information with Australian standards. Engage deeply with the local healthcare system context through official Australian resources. An example: guidelines for antibiotic prescribing can differ significantly between Australia and overseas resources. Misunderstanding these nuances can result in critical errors during the exam. How to Avoid These RACGP Exam Mistakes Avoiding these common pitfalls involves strategic preparation. Here are clear, practical RACGP exam tips to ensure exam success: Start early: begin your structured preparation at least 6 months before the exam date. Master KFP reasoning: regularly practise precise, targeted answers focused explicitly on the given scenarios. Balance your revision: allocate equal time across AKT, KFP, and CCE preparation. Use exclusively Australian resources: familiarise yourself with RACGP guidelines, PBS resources, and Australian therapeutic standards. Regularly simulate exam conditions: consistently undertake full length mock exams under timed, realistic settings. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Common Pitfalls That Stop Candidates Passing the RACGP Exams The most frequent RACGP exam mistakes are starting preparation late, neglecting the KFP’s reasoning format, over focusing on AKT content while under preparing for the CCE, relying on non Australian resources, and failing to simulate real exam conditions. Candidates who complete official practice exams have pass rates that are 20% to 37% higher, which shows the value of realistic mocks [6] , [2] . Anchor your study in Australian guidelines and practise under timed conditions to pass the RACGP exam. 2. What to avoid during an examination? Avoid reading stems superficially, answering a different question to the one asked, and adding unsafe or irrelevant options that can negate marks in multi selection items. Avoid poor time management, for example spending too long on one case, and avoid outdated or non Australian recommendations that do not reflect PBS availability or local standards [5] , [8] , [10] . Keep answers specific, safe, and aligned to Australian practice. 3. What is problem representation in RACGP? Problem representation is a concise one sentence summary that captures the defining features of a case using semantic qualifiers to support clinical reasoning, for example 68 year old man, subacute progressive exertional dyspnoea with orthopnoea, likely cardiac cause [11] . It translates a presentation into a coherent case that can be matched to illness scripts and guides the differential diagnosis [11] . Practising clear problem representations improves KFP and CCE performance. 4. What is the Situational Judgement Test for RACGP? For RACGP AGPT selection, the online Situational Judgement Test assesses responses to interpersonal and professional dilemmas across nine competencies, including collaboration, communication, empathy, fairness, ethics, self awareness, resilience, problem solving, and motivation [7] . It does not assess clinical knowledge, although scenarios may be set in clinical contexts [7] . Use Australian professional standards to guide responses. 5. What are KFP questions? KFP questions are clinical vignettes designed to assess clinical decision making and clinical reasoning in Australian general practice [5] . From 2025.2 the KFP consists of 70 individual scenarios that each require a multiple selection response, with short answer questions removed [1], [2] , [5] . The assessment targets key features in care rather than exhaustive lists. Failing to Simulate Real Exam Conditions A key RACGP exam mistake is not practising under real exam conditions. Knowing the syllabus thoroughly is important, but inadequate preparation for the actual exam setting can jeopardise your performance. Statistically, candidates who complete official RACGP practice exams significantly outperform those who do not: pass rates are 20% to 37% higher for candidates who simulate exam conditions beforehand [2] , [6] . Potential pitfalls include: Poor time management and not completing the exam. Increased fatigue, reduced concentration, and impaired decision making. Technical or logistical issues with the online exam format, especially for the CCE. To ensure you are fully prepared: Regularly undertake full length timed mock AKT and KFP exams. Practise realistic CCE consultations under accurate exam conditions, including technology setup. Carefully review your performance after each mock session to identify weaknesses. Build stamina and resilience through repeated exposure to timed exam stress. Practical tip: aim to complete several complete mock exams under strict timed conditions to eliminate surprises on the actual exam day. Over Focusing on AKT Content, Ignoring CCE 1 subtle but serious RACGP exam mistake is over investing in AKT, Applied Knowledge Test, preparation while under preparing for the CCE, Clinical Competency Exam. While AKT assesses your foundational medical knowledge, the CCE tests your ability to apply this knowledge practically through consultation skills. Important RACGP exam statistics highlight this clearly: in the 2022.2 cohort, 11.1% of candidates passed the AKT but failed the KFP, whereas 2.6% failed the AKT and passed the KFP [3] . This reveals that mastering clinical reasoning skills, as required in the KFP and CCE, can have a powerful effect on overall exam success. Balanced preparation means: Practising structured patient consultations early in your revision. Focusing on clear, empathetic patient communication and effective consultation management. Consistently seeking detailed feedback from mentors and colleagues to refine your approach. Regularly undertaking realistic mock CCE consultations , including online formats. Real world scenario: imagine having robust medical knowledge but failing to build rapport or safety net adequately during consultations. Such issues significantly affect performance during the CCE. If you are feeling anxious or overwhelmed by RACGP exam preparation, Fellow Academy provides comprehensive support to guide you every step of the way. You will find meticulously designed AKT and KFP questions , concise and thorough exam notes, evidence based flashcards, free KFP case packs, informative webinars, and practical study resources. We are here to ensure you feel fully prepared and confident for exam day. Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner, Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP 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 experience and those of successful candidates, intended for 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 shared are based on personal experience and those of successful candidates, intended for general study guidance only, and should not be taken as official RACGP advice. References [1] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2024. Exam report 2024.2 KFP, Public exam report. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. Retrieved from https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/fellowship%20pathways/Exams/2024-2-KFP-Public-Exam-Report.pdf [2] Liotta, M. 2020, April 2. KFP 2020.1 exam report: Tips to improve outcomes. newsGP, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Retrieved from https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/racgp/racgp-s-kfp-exam-report-tips-to-improve-outcomes-1 [3] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2022. Exam report 2022.2 KFP, Public exam report. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. Retrieved from https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/fellowship%20pathways/Exams/2022-2-KFP-public-exam-report.pdf [4] Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. Australian Immunisation Handbook. Canberra, ACT. Continually updated. Retrieved October 2025 from https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au [5] O’Rourke, G. 2019, September 10. IMG disparity in RACGP exam results revealed. Australian Doctor. Retrieved from https://www.ausdoc.com.au/news/img-disparity-racgp-exam-results-revealed/ [6] Liotta, M. 2019, March 27. KFP 2019.1 exam report: Tips to improve outcomes. newsGP, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Retrieved from https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/racgp/kfp-2019-1-exam-report-tips-to-improve-outcomes [7] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025, August 25. AGPT selection assessment. Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. Retrieved from https://www.racgp.org.au/education/gp-training/explore-a-gp-career/australian-general-practice-training/agpt-selection-assessment [8] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025. AKT and KFP, information for candidates. Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. Retrieved from https://www.racgp.org.au/kfp-and-akt-exam-day-information [9] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025, April 29. Assessments and examinations, candidate handbook, Part 2. Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. Retrieved from https://www.racgp.org.au/education/registrars/fellowship-pathways/policy-framework/program-handbooks-and-guidance-documents/assessments-and-examinations-candidate-handbook/part-2/introduction [10] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. 2025, July 22. The RACGP assessment framework, Appendix 1, Current assessments. Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. Retrieved from https://www.racgp.org.au/education/education-providers/curriculum/the-racgp-assessment-framework/racgp-assessment-framework/appendices/current-racgp-assessments [11] Stone, L. 2007. Reasoning for registrars. Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Retrieved from https://www.racgp.org.au/getattachment/f97a4067-8223-4264-960f-0ad6828d86e4/attachment.aspx 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary The RACGP exam is a significant milestone in your medical career, marking the transition from registrar to Fellow. But even the most dedicated GP trainees sometimes stumble, not due to a lack of knowledge or effort, but because they unknowingly repeat common RACGP exam mistakes . I have guided many talented doctors through these exams, and the good news is these pitfalls are entirely avoidable. In this article, I will share practical RACGP exam tips to help you recognise these errors, understand why they occur, and confidently pass the RACGP exam . Starting Practice Too Late A major RACGP exam mistake is starting your serious revision too close to exam day. This error severely impacts your ability to cover the comprehensive RACGP syllabus, leading to incomplete knowledge and unnecessary stress. Starting early is critical for exam success. Consider these eye opening statistics from the RACGP: the pass rate for first time KFP exam candidates is 83.8% [1] . This success rate drops drastically to 48.6% for second attempts [1]. By the fourth attempt, only 19.3% succeed [1] . Clearly, being adequately prepared from the start pays dividends. An early start means: Covering all curriculum areas comprehensively, including weaker topics. Spaced revision that improves long term retention and recall. Sufficient time for multiple realistic mock exams . Lower stress, making room to manage unexpected personal or work related demands. For example, balancing on call shifts or running busy clinics alongside your revision is tough enough without being pressured by last minute cramming. Starting at least 6 months before exam day ensures steady progress and a calm, confident approach. Neglecting the KFP Reasoning Format The Key Feature Problem, KFP, exam uniquely assesses clinical reasoning, not just clinical facts. Many strong candidates falter because they treat KFP questions like standard knowledge tests rather than applying precise, focused reasoning [2] . Common errors include: Giving overly broad or vague answers. Listing several diagnoses rather than identifying the single most relevant one. Failing to use the specific details provided in the patient scenario. Overcoding, providing extra or irrelevant information, which costs marks. To avoid these pitfalls: Regularly practise KFP style questions under timed, realistic exam conditions. Identify precisely what each question is asking before answering. Provide clear, concise answers tailored to the scenario’s context. Review official RACGP exam reports regularly to understand common pitfalls and improve your strategy [2] . For instance, instead of writing “order blood tests,” specify precisely which tests, for example full blood count, iron studies, thyroid function tests, and relate them clearly to the clinical scenario. Using Non Australian Resources Another critical RACGP exam mistake involves using non Australian resources for your preparation. This issue particularly impacts International Medical Graduates, IMGs, who often unintentionally overlook essential local guidelines. For IMGs, the challenge is significant: the pass rate in RACGP written Fellowship exams among IMGs outside the registrar training program has been reported as 37%, nearly half that of GP registrars, based on RACGP data reported by Australian Doctor in 2019 [5] . Provide current context if you cite this figure in other materials. Crucial Australian specific differences include: Immunisation schedules, clearly outlined in the Australian Immunisation Handbook [4] . Medications subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, PBS. Disease epidemiology, such as Australia’s high melanoma incidence. Local healthcare rules, referral pathways, and ethical guidelines. To tackle this effectively: Prioritise studying Australian specific resources such as RACGP’s Red Book, Therapeutic Guidelines, eTG, Australian Prescriber, and PBS guidelines. Always cross check international information with Australian standards. Engage deeply with the local healthcare system context through official Australian resources. An example: guidelines for antibiotic prescribing can differ significantly between Australia and overseas resources. Misunderstanding these nuances can result in critical errors during the exam. 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. Common Pitfalls That Stop Candidates Passing the RACGP Exams The most frequent RACGP exam mistakes are starting preparation late, neglecting the KFP’s reasoning format, over focusing on AKT content while under preparing for the CCE, relying on non Australian resources, and failing to simulate real exam conditions. Candidates who complete official practice exams have pass rates that are 20% to 37% higher, which shows the value of realistic mocks [6] , [2] . Anchor your study in Australian guidelines and practise under timed conditions to pass the RACGP exam. 2. What to avoid during an examination? Avoid reading stems superficially, answering a different question to the one asked, and adding unsafe or irrelevant options that can negate marks in multi selection items. Avoid poor time management, for example spending too long on one case, and avoid outdated or non Australian recommendations that do not reflect PBS availability or local standards [5] , [8] , [10] . Keep answers specific, safe, and aligned to Australian practice. 3. What is problem representation in RACGP? Problem representation is a concise one sentence summary that captures the defining features of a case using semantic qualifiers to support clinical reasoning, for example 68 year old man, subacute progressive exertional dyspnoea with orthopnoea, likely cardiac cause [11] . It translates a presentation into a coherent case that can be matched to illness scripts and guides the differential diagnosis [11] . Practising clear problem representations improves KFP and CCE performance. 4. What is the Situational Judgement Test for RACGP? For RACGP AGPT selection, the online Situational Judgement Test assesses responses to interpersonal and professional dilemmas across nine competencies, including collaboration, communication, empathy, fairness, ethics, self awareness, resilience, problem solving, and motivation [7] . It does not assess clinical knowledge, although scenarios may be set in clinical contexts [7] . Use Australian professional standards to guide responses. 5. What are KFP questions? KFP questions are clinical vignettes designed to assess clinical decision making and clinical reasoning in Australian general practice [5] . From 2025.2 the KFP consists of 70 individual scenarios that each require a multiple selection response, with short answer questions removed [1], [2] , [5] . The assessment targets key features in care rather than exhaustive lists. 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next

Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now The Ultimate Guide to CCE Exam Preparation Last Updated: April 2026 Buy Now The Ultimate Guide to CCE Exam Preparation Last Updated: April 2026 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary If you are about to sit the CCE exam, this guide could save you six months of delayed Fellowship and paying a second $5,565 exam fee. Everything I will cover is drawn from specific patterns I have seen through coaching 60+ doctors through the CCE (many of them on their second or third attempt). The mistakes that cost marks in the CCE are very consistent across candidates: Long, unstructured answers that the examiner cannot follow, ordering excessive investigations without prioritising, and failing to vocalise safety considerations. In most cases, doctors who make these mistakes know the medicine - they just do not present their knowledge in the way the examiners mark. The good news is that every one of these CCE mistakes is avoidable. In this guide to CCE exam preparation, I will walk you through the five most common failure patterns I see in candidates, followed by practical strategies for how to structure your study around what the exam actually rewards. What Is the CCE Exam? The Clinical Competency Exam (CCE) is the final clinical assessment for RACGP Fellowship . It is a live, examiner-observed clinical examination delivered via Zoom, consisting of nine stations across two sessions: four case discussions (viva) and five patient simulations. Each station follows a 5+15 structure, including five minutes of reading time to review the case material, followed by fifteen minutes of observed performance. In case discussions, an examiner asks structured questions about your clinical reasoning, differentials, investigations, management and ethical, cultural or medicolegal considerations. In patient simulations, you conduct a consultation with a trained role-player while an examiner observes and scores silently. The CCE assesses 12 specific competencies , testing skills such as communication, clinical reasoning, professionalism, ethics and cultural safety. It is sat by both Australian GP registrars and International Medical Graduates on the RACGP Fellowship pathway. For current exam dates, registration deadlines and fees, see our RACGP Exam Dates page . Why the CCE Is Different From Every Other Exam You Have Sat The AKT and KFP are "internal" exams. You read a stem, weigh up options and select an answer. The process happens inside your head. In contrast, the CCE focuses on external presentation of clinical knowledge: Differentials must be spoken aloud Safety-netting must be vocalised with specific, actionable language Management plans must be structured so the examiner can follow your logic in real time and attribute it to the correct competency domain. The principle I return to again and again when coaching candidates through CCE preparation is this: if you did not say it, you did not think it. In the CCE, the examiner can only credit what they hear. Implicit reasoning that is not actively verbalised scores zero. This is why capable, knowledgeable doctors fail the CCE. Not because they lack knowledge or ability, but because they have not properly practiced verbally presenting clinical reasoning under timed, observed conditions. The Five Most Common Reasons Candidates Fail the CCE These are the five failure patterns I see most often in CCE candidates, along with practical strategies for how to avoid each one. 1. Presenting Answers Without Structure Candidates often know the correct answer, but cannot communicate it in a way the examiner can follow. This failure pattern shows up as: Clinical points that are buried in rambling Unstructured responses that jump between history Investigations and management without a clear framework For example, an unstructured answer might jump from mentioning a medication, to a differential, back to an investigation, then to a referral. The information is all correct, but impossible for the examiner to follow. A structured answer moves through a consistent sequence that the examiner can track in real time and attribute to the correct competency domain. Practical Tip Before you speak, have a mental framework for the question type. For a management question, I recommend splitting your answer into pharmacological and non-pharmacological management, then working through each systematically: Under pharmacological, distinguish between symptomatic treatment and disease-modifying treatment. Under non-pharmacological, cover lifestyle factors, referrals, patient education, safety-netting and follow-up. Structured mnemonics like SSSNAPW and RECAP-R can help ensure you cover all non-pharmacological management factors without relying on memory under pressure. Established frameworks like SOCRATES for history-taking and ICE for understanding the patient's perspective can also be useful for keeping your consultation structured and focused. If you encounter a breaking bad news station, the SPIKES framework provides a clear structure for navigating these consultations. 2. Rambling Rather Than Reasoning This is a downstream effect of poor structure. However, it deserves its own category because the underlying problem is different. In most cases, rambling candidates are more anxious than disorganised. They attempt to cover everything, hoping that volume will compensate for uncertainty. It does not. Examiners are trained to identify focused, logical clinical reasoning. A long answer that touches twelve differentials without prioritising any of them signals that the candidate cannot distinguish the likely from the unlikely. It also makes it difficult for the examiner to pick up the key information within your answer. This is especially true if you are speaking quickly, which most candidates do under pressure. The fix is to slow down and enunciate, so the examiner has time to hear and attribute what you are saying. Practical Tip Prioritise ruthlessly. If a question asks for differentials: Lead with the two or three most likely given the clinical picture Explain briefly why each fits Mention one or two serious conditions to exclude That is a complete answer. The instinct to "cover everything" is the instinct to play it safe - but in the CCE, it achieves the opposite. 3. Over-Investigation Ordering every available test is one of the most consistent failure patterns in the CCE exam. When asked what investigations they would order, candidates default to a comprehensive list, rather than a targeted selection appropriate to the specific patient . The CCE rewards clinical prioritisation. The question is not "what tests exist for this presentation?" It is "what tests does this patient need, given their history, risk factors and the clinical picture in front of you?" An experienced GP does not order everything - they order what is evidence-based and what will change their management. That is the standard the examiner is scoring against. Practical Tip For every investigation you mention, ask yourself: will the result change what I do next? If the answer is no, do not order it. Practice articulating why you are selecting each test: "I would order X because I need to rule out Y given the patient's history of Z." That reasoning is what earns marks, not the length of the list. 4. Missing Red Flags and Patient Safety Considerations One of the most heavily penalised patterns in the CCE is failing to demonstrate that you are a safe clinician. This does not usually mean missing something obvious. It means not considering the things a careful GP would always rule out, even when they are unlikely. For example, a patient presenting with chest pain will most likely have something benign. But it is still essential to vocalise that you would want to exclude an MI or PE - not because you think that is the diagnosis, but because a safe GP considers it. The same applies to: Prescribing a medication without checking for interactions with the patient's current drugs Not conducting a suicide risk assessment in a mental health presentation Failing to address consent, cultural safety or medicolegal obligations. If a safety consideration exists in the case and you do not name it, the examiner cannot give you credit for recognising it. This is the "if you did not say it, you did not think it" principle where it matters most. Practical Tip Build a safety screen into every station. Before you pursue the presenting complaint in depth, actively ask yourself: What is the serious diagnosis I need to exclude here, even if it is unlikely? Is there a prescribing risk? A mandatory reporting obligation? A cultural safety consideration? These do not need lengthy discussion - they need to be named. Vocalising them takes seconds and it is often the difference between passing and failing a station. 5. Missing Cultural, Ethical and Medicolegal Dimensions The RACGP tests cultural safety, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health considerations, ethical reasoning and medicolegal awareness with increasing frequency and weight. These are areas where candidates with strong clinical knowledge routinely lose marks - not because they lack the instinct, but because they have not practiced applying this reasoning in a structured, vocalised format. For example, a candidate who manages a clinical presentation competently but does not consider the medicolegal implications of a mandatory reporting scenario, or does not address the cultural safety dimension of an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander patient, is leaving marks on the table in domains that are straightforward to prepare for. Practical Tip For each case, actively ask if there are cultural safety considerations, ethical dimensions and medicolegal obligations. Remember, these are core competency domains that the RACGP is explicitly testing. Practice identifying them in every case you work through, even when they are not the primary focus, so the habit is automatic by exam day. How to Structure Your CCE Preparation One principle before the specifics of CCE exam preparation - it is vital to start with the right foundations. How you use your reading time, how you structure your answers and how you approach each station type are habits that form early in your preparation. It is far easier to build them correctly from day one than to unlearn bad patterns after a failed attempt. With that in mind, here is how to structure your study . Start With Cases Under Exam Conditions The foundation of CCE preparation is practicing with realistic cases. Cases that are too short, too simple or formatted differently from the actual exam create false confidence. You need cases that replicate the complexity, timing and structure of the real CCE so that exam day feels familiar rather than foreign. Practice under timed conditions from the beginning. Set a timer for fifteen minutes per station. Record yourself if possible, or work with a study partner who can use role-player scripts to simulate patient encounters. The goal is not to get the "right answer" - it is to practice delivering a structured response within the time constraints. Address Knowledge Gaps With Targeted Review Your cases will reveal gaps. When they do, address them efficiently rather than re-studying everything from scratch. Concise notes and clinical topic guides that cover differentials, red flags and management frameworks for specific presentations are more effective than re-reading textbook chapters. Reinforce Retention With Active Recall There is typically a six-month gap between the written exams and the CCE. That is six months in which everything you consolidated for the AKT and KFP is gradually leaking away. Think of your memory as an inflatable pool with a small hole in it. Every time you study, you are filling the pool. But if you stop, the water level drops. Repetition tops it back up. But the real goal is consolidation: patching the hole so the knowledge stays. That is why spaced repetition works . You do not just see the material again. You retrieve it at increasing intervals so the memory moves into long-term storage. For CCE preparation specifically, the most effective approach is to build this around verbal active recall - practicing how you would say the answer to an examiner, not how you would recognise it on a page. Book a Mock Exam One preparation step that consistently separates candidates who pass from candidates who do not, is sitting a full mock exam under realistic conditions with live examiner feedback. Self-study reveals knowledge gaps. A mock exam reveals performance gaps by identifying the habits, timing errors and structural weaknesses that only become visible when someone is watching and scoring. A mock exam is particularly valuable for identifying the failure patterns described earlier in this guide. You may not realise you are rambling, over-investigating or missing safety considerations until an experienced examiner tells you directly. CCE Exam Day Strategies Here are three techniques I use myself and recommend to every candidate I coach. They are simple, but they make a noticeable difference to how composed and structured you come across in the room. Use Your Reading Time Wisely In the five minutes before each station, note down: The presenting issue A brief problem list Your key differentials The investigations you would prioritise Your management approach Any red flags or urgent referral needs This gives you a structured roadmap before you open your mouth. Pause Before You Speak When the examiner asks a question, do not start talking immediately. Say "please give me a moment to collect my thoughts," take 10–15 seconds to organise your response, and then begin. You will sound composed from the first sentence rather than finding your structure as you go. If You Get Lost, Summarise In a patient simulation, there will be moments where you are unsure what to ask next. Instead of going silent or asking a random question, summarise everything you have discussed so far: "So to make sure I have this right - you have been experiencing abdominal pain for seven days, the pain is central and radiating to your groin and you have been vomiting. Have I got that correct?" This buys you time, demonstrates active listening, and almost always reveals where to go next. Ask ICE Early in Patient Simulations In the first few minutes of a patient simulation, ask about the patient's Ideas, Concerns and Expectations (ICE). This tells you where the consultation needs to go and prevents you from spending ten minutes going down a clinical rabbit hole that the patient was never worried about. It also demonstrates patient-centred communication, which is one of the competency domains the examiner is scoring against. CCE Exam Day Strategies Here are three techniques I use myself and recommend to every candidate I coach. They are simple, but they make a noticeable difference to how composed and structured you come across in the room. Use Your Reading Time Wisely In the five minutes before each station, note down: The presenting issue A brief problem list Your key differentials The investigations you would prioritise Your management approach Any red flags or urgent referral needs This gives you a structured roadmap before you open your mouth. Pause Before You Speak When the examiner asks a question, do not start talking immediately. Say "please give me a moment to collect my thoughts," take 10–15 seconds to organise your response, and then begin. You will sound composed from the first sentence rather than finding your structure as you go. If You Get Lost, Summarise In a patient simulation, there will be moments where you are unsure what to ask next. Instead of going silent or asking a random question, summarise everything you have discussed so far: "So to make sure I have this right - you have been experiencing abdominal pain for seven days, the pain is central and radiating to your groin and you have been vomiting. Have I got that correct?" This buys you time, demonstrates active listening, and almost always reveals where to go next. Ask ICE Early in Patient Simulations In the first few minutes of a patient simulation, ask about the patient's Ideas, Concerns and Expectations (ICE). This tells you where the consultation needs to go and prevents you from spending ten minutes going down a clinical rabbit hole that the patient was never worried about. It also demonstrates patient-centred communication, which is one of the competency domains the examiner is scoring against. Ultimate CCE Exam Preparation With Fellow Academy Everything in this guide reflects how I approach CCE preparation with the candidates I support through Fellow Academy. Our platform includes 225 CCE cases (100 case discussions and 125 patient simulations), detailed clinical topic guides and evidence-based flashcards. All resources are designed by practicing GPs and former RACGP examiners to specifically train the exact performance skills required to pass the CCE exam. If you would like to try our CCE exam preparation platform, we offer a free trial with 8 CCE cases, written to the exact standard of our full case bank. Each case mirrors the format, timing and examiner benchmarks used in the real exam. For a full overview of our CCE preparation system, visit our CCE exam preparation page. Practical Tips for CCE Prep From Dr Shaun In addition to awareness of common failure patterns, several CCE exam preparation strategies can significantly increase your chances of passing at first attempt. Practice Verbalising - Not Memorising The single biggest shift candidates need to make when moving from written exams to the CCE is to stop studying silently. The CCE does not test what you can recognise on a page. It tests what you can say out loud, in sequence, under time pressure. This is a distinct skill that requires focused preparation. Here's a useful 3-step self-test: Close whatever you are studying Turn to the person next to you (or an empty chair) Explain the topic as if you were presenting to an examiner If you cannot do that fluently, you have not learned it at the level the CCE requires - regardless of how well you understood it when reading. An important note: This does not mean you should memorise scripts. Scripted answers are penalised in the CCE because they sound robotic and fail to adapt when the patient says something unexpected. What you want is a framework with a consistent structure for organising your response that you can populate with case-specific content in real time. The structure stays the same; the details change with each patient. Structure Your Study Around Your Energy Not all study hours are equal. For most candidates, a focused hour in the morning is worth more than two exhausted hours at night. However, it is not realistic to only study in the morning. So here is the approach I recommend: High energy - Deep re-learning. This is when you tackle content you have forgotten since the AKT and KFP. Memorising new material, working through unfamiliar clinical topics, building understanding from scratch. This requires the most cognitive effort, so do it when you are sharpest. Medium energy - Active practice. Work through cases, verbalise your answers out loud, practice clinical examinations (MSK, neurological, cardiorespiratory) and review flashcards. This requires effort, but you are applying knowledge rather than building it. Low energy - Passive review. Read through familiar notes, revise material you have already consolidated, review visual content like derm images, ECGs and X-rays. This keeps knowledge warm without demanding deep concentration. This structure for CCE exam preparation is particularly relevant for doctors balancing full-time clinical work with exam preparation. If you only have 60–90 minutes of study per day, allocating that time according to your energy level makes a measurable difference over several months. Build Familiarity Through Volume and Variety The CCE can test a broad range of clinical knowledge across 12 competency domains. You cannot predict which presentations will come up, but you can make sure that nothing feels completely unfamiliar. The way to do that is to work through as many cases as possible , across the widest breadth of topics you can. This is especially important for presentations you are not confident in. The temptation is to avoid those cases and focus on your strengths, but the opposite approach is what builds exam readiness. When you have practiced structuring an answer on a topic you were unsure about multiple times, it becomes second nature to do the same thing under pressure on exam day (even if the specific presentation is one you did not expect). Expose yourself to everything: Common presentations Uncommon presentations Paediatrics Mental health Medicolegal scenarios Cultural safety cases The goal is not to memorise every possible answer. It is to build confidence so that no matter what comes up, you have a structured approach that works. Use Real Patients as Study Triggers The conventional advice is to "see more patients" to prepare for the CCE. That is not wrong, but it is incomplete. Seeing patients passively - without deliberately connecting the encounter to your study - does not build the structured clinical reasoning the exam requires. A more effective approach is when you encounter a presentation you are not fully confident managing, use that as your study trigger for the evening: Research the topic Work through the differentials Review the guidelines If appropriate, schedule the patient for further review, using that follow-up consultation as an opportunity to consolidate what you have learned by applying it in practice. CCE Exam Pass Rates: The Second-Attempt Cliff As you can see from the table below, after a first failure, the probability of passing the CCE drops by nearly 25 percentage points. CCE Exam AttemptPass Rate First attempt ~83% Second attempt ~58% Third attempt ~46–59% Fourth+ attempt ~30–38% Source: RACGP Results and Public Reports In my experience, this "second-attempt cliff" is not because the candidate has forgotten the medicine - it is because the habits and anxiety that caused the failure compound with each subsequent attempt. In other words, the patterns become harder to unlearn. The most effective intervention after a failed attempt is not more study, it is better preparation. Specifically, CCE exam preparation that targets the verbal performance skills the exam actually assesses. References [1] The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). Clinical Competency Exam (CCE). RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/fellowship-exams/clinical-competency-exam [2] The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025). Results and Public Reports. RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/exam-results-and-next-steps/results-and-public-reports [3] Choosing Wisely Australia. (2015). Recommendations from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. NPS MedicineWise. https://www.choosingwisely.org.au/recommendations/racgp 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary If you are about to sit the CCE exam, this guide could save you six months of delayed Fellowship and paying a second $5,565 exam fee. Everything I will cover is drawn from specific patterns I have seen through coaching 60+ doctors through the CCE (many of them on their second or third attempt). The mistakes that cost marks in the CCE are very consistent across candidates: Long, unstructured answers that the examiner cannot follow, ordering excessive investigations without prioritising, and failing to vocalise safety considerations. In most cases, doctors who make these mistakes know the medicine - they just do not present their knowledge in the way the examiners mark. The good news is that every one of these CCE mistakes is avoidable. In this guide to CCE exam preparation, I will walk you through the five most common failure patterns I see in candidates, followed by practical strategies for how to structure your study around what the exam actually rewards. What Is the CCE Exam? The Clinical Competency Exam (CCE) is the final clinical assessment for RACGP Fellowship . It is a live, examiner-observed clinical examination delivered via Zoom, consisting of nine stations across two sessions: four case discussions (viva) and five patient simulations. Each station follows a 5+15 structure, including five minutes of reading time to review the case material, followed by fifteen minutes of observed performance. In case discussions, an examiner asks structured questions about your clinical reasoning, differentials, investigations, management and ethical, cultural or medicolegal considerations. In patient simulations, you conduct a consultation with a trained role-player while an examiner observes and scores silently. The CCE assesses 12 specific competencies , testing skills such as communication, clinical reasoning, professionalism, ethics and cultural safety. It is sat by both Australian GP registrars and International Medical Graduates on the RACGP Fellowship pathway. For current exam dates, registration deadlines and fees, see our RACGP Exam Dates page . Why the CCE Is Different From Every Other Exam You Have Sat The AKT and KFP are "internal" exams. You read a stem, weigh up options and select an answer. The process happens inside your head. In contrast, the CCE focuses on external presentation of clinical knowledge: Differentials must be spoken aloud Safety-netting must be vocalised with specific, actionable language Management plans must be structured so the examiner can follow your logic in real time and attribute it to the correct competency domain. The principle I return to again and again when coaching candidates through CCE preparation is this: if you did not say it, you did not think it. In the CCE, the examiner can only credit what they hear. Implicit reasoning that is not actively verbalised scores zero. This is why capable, knowledgeable doctors fail the CCE. Not because they lack knowledge or ability, but because they have not properly practiced verbally presenting clinical reasoning under timed, observed conditions. The Five Most Common Reasons Candidates Fail the CCE These are the five failure patterns I see most often in CCE candidates, along with practical strategies for how to avoid each one. 1. Presenting Answers Without Structure Candidates often know the correct answer, but cannot communicate it in a way the examiner can follow. This failure pattern shows up as: Clinical points that are buried in rambling Unstructured responses that jump between history Investigations and management without a clear framework For example, an unstructured answer might jump from mentioning a medication, to a differential, back to an investigation, then to a referral. The information is all correct, but impossible for the examiner to follow. A structured answer moves through a consistent sequence that the examiner can track in real time and attribute to the correct competency domain. Practical Tip Before you speak, have a mental framework for the question type. For a management question, I recommend splitting your answer into pharmacological and non-pharmacological management, then working through each systematically: Under pharmacological, distinguish between symptomatic treatment and disease-modifying treatment. Under non-pharmacological, cover lifestyle factors, referrals, patient education, safety-netting and follow-up. Structured mnemonics like SSSNAPW and RECAP-R can help ensure you cover all non-pharmacological management factors without relying on memory under pressure. Established frameworks like SOCRATES for history-taking and ICE for understanding the patient's perspective can also be useful for keeping your consultation structured and focused. If you encounter a breaking bad news station, the SPIKES framework provides a clear structure for navigating these consultations. 2. Rambling Rather Than Reasoning This is a downstream effect of poor structure. However, it deserves its own category because the underlying problem is different. In most cases, rambling candidates are more anxious than disorganised. They attempt to cover everything, hoping that volume will compensate for uncertainty. It does not. Examiners are trained to identify focused, logical clinical reasoning. A long answer that touches twelve differentials without prioritising any of them signals that the candidate cannot distinguish the likely from the unlikely. It also makes it difficult for the examiner to pick up the key information within your answer. This is especially true if you are speaking quickly, which most candidates do under pressure. The fix is to slow down and enunciate, so the examiner has time to hear and attribute what you are saying. Practical Tip Prioritise ruthlessly. If a question asks for differentials: Lead with the two or three most likely given the clinical picture Explain briefly why each fits Mention one or two serious conditions to exclude That is a complete answer. The instinct to "cover everything" is the instinct to play it safe - but in the CCE, it achieves the opposite. 3. Over-Investigation Ordering every available test is one of the most consistent failure patterns in the CCE exam. When asked what investigations they would order, candidates default to a comprehensive list, rather than a targeted selection appropriate to the specific patient . The CCE rewards clinical prioritisation. The question is not "what tests exist for this presentation?" It is "what tests does this patient need, given their history, risk factors and the clinical picture in front of you?" An experienced GP does not order everything - they order what is evidence-based and what will change their management. That is the standard the examiner is scoring against. Practical Tip For every investigation you mention, ask yourself: will the result change what I do next? If the answer is no, do not order it. Practice articulating why you are selecting each test: "I would order X because I need to rule out Y given the patient's history of Z." That reasoning is what earns marks, not the length of the list. 4. Missing Red Flags and Patient Safety Considerations One of the most heavily penalised patterns in the CCE is failing to demonstrate that you are a safe clinician. This does not usually mean missing something obvious. It means not considering the things a careful GP would always rule out, even when they are unlikely. For example, a patient presenting with chest pain will most likely have something benign. But it is still essential to vocalise that you would want to exclude an MI or PE - not because you think that is the diagnosis, but because a safe GP considers it. The same applies to: Prescribing a medication without checking for interactions with the patient's current drugs Not conducting a suicide risk assessment in a mental health presentation Failing to address consent, cultural safety or medicolegal obligations. If a safety consideration exists in the case and you do not name it, the examiner cannot give you credit for recognising it. This is the "if you did not say it, you did not think it" principle where it matters most. Practical Tip Build a safety screen into every station. Before you pursue the presenting complaint in depth, actively ask yourself: What is the serious diagnosis I need to exclude here, even if it is unlikely? Is there a prescribing risk? A mandatory reporting obligation? A cultural safety consideration? These do not need lengthy discussion - they need to be named. Vocalising them takes seconds and it is often the difference between passing and failing a station. 5. Missing Cultural, Ethical and Medicolegal Dimensions The RACGP tests cultural safety, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health considerations, ethical reasoning and medicolegal awareness with increasing frequency and weight. These are areas where candidates with strong clinical knowledge routinely lose marks - not because they lack the instinct, but because they have not practiced applying this reasoning in a structured, vocalised format. For example, a candidate who manages a clinical presentation competently but does not consider the medicolegal implications of a mandatory reporting scenario, or does not address the cultural safety dimension of an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander patient, is leaving marks on the table in domains that are straightforward to prepare for. Practical Tip For each case, actively ask if there are cultural safety considerations, ethical dimensions and medicolegal obligations. Remember, these are core competency domains that the RACGP is explicitly testing. Practice identifying them in every case you work through, even when they are not the primary focus, so the habit is automatic 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. 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next

Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now Top 10 GP Exam Tips to Avoid Common RACGP Mistakes Last updated: October 2025 Buy Now Top 10 GP Exam Tips to Avoid Common RACGP Mistakes Last updated: October 2025 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Preparing for the RACGP exams can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Common RACGP exam mistakes frequently undermine capable candidates, preventing them from passing their GP exams on the first attempt. By knowing these pitfalls and using proven GP exam tips, you can avoid common errors and significantly increase your chances of success. Drawing on years of experience as an examiner and mentor, I'll guide you through the 10 most frequent mistakes GP trainees make and practical strategies to overcome them. 1. Starting Practice Questions Too Late Starting your practice questions too late is one of the most common errors candidates make. Leaving question practice until the final weeks limits your ability to identify weaknesses, develop effective exam strategies, and build the stamina you need for a 4-hour exam. Begin practising exam-style questions at least 3 to 6 months before your exam date. Regular timed practice sessions simulate the real exam environment and reduce anxiety. In the 2024.2 AKT exam cycle, first-attempt candidates achieved a pass rate of 91.3%, while fourth-attempt candidates had just 23.9%, demonstrating the power of early preparation [1] . Track weekly progress to spot recurring weaknesses early and refine your study plan. Practical tip: If you struggle with dermatology or ECG interpretation, dedicate targeted sessions early to develop these core competencies. 2. Neglecting the KFP Reasoning Format The KFP exam is not a memory test — it assesses clinical reasoning and decision-making. Many candidates fail because they treat it like a recall exercise instead of demonstrating logical thinking. Focus on key decision points: diagnostic reasoning, investigations, and immediate management. Keep your responses concise and relevant. As of July 2025, the KFP comprises 70 multi-selection questions completed in 4 hours, reinforcing the need for accuracy and efficient reasoning [2] . RACGP exam reports repeatedly note that candidates lose marks for providing irrelevant details or unfocused answers [2]. Practical tip: When practising, write down your reasoning for each case. Explaining your thought process trains you to think like an examiner. 4. Over-Focusing on Rare Topics Overemphasising rare diseases is a time trap. RACGP exams focus primarily on common, high-yield presentations encountered in everyday GP practice. 48% of GP consultations involve the 30 most common conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, depression, respiratory infections, and preventive care [4] . Prioritise these topics over uncommon diseases to align with exam emphasis. Practical tip: Use the RACGP curriculum as your map. Ensure you can confidently manage the top chronic and acute presentations seen in general practice. 6. Relying on Passive Study Methods Passive study, such as rereading notes or highlighting text, may feel productive but doesn’t prepare you for real exam pressure. Replace passive study with active recall: quiz yourself, teach peers, or write practice summaries. Use spaced repetition flashcards to reinforce long-term memory. Research shows active engagement improves knowledge retention and retrieval accuracy [3] . Practical tip: Convert your reading into short-answer questions and attempt them daily. 7. Underestimating the CCE’s Communication Component Strong communication often separates pass from fail. Many candidates with correct diagnoses lose marks because they fail to demonstrate empathy, patient partnership, and clarity. The Clinical Competency Exam (CCE) consists of 9 cases, each 15 minutes long with a 5-minute reading period, conducted online via Zoom [5 ]. The CCE assesses communication, professionalism, and reasoning as much as clinical accuracy. RACGP examiners highlight poor rapport-building, excessive jargon, or missing patient concerns as common reasons for failure [1] . Practical tip: Role-play real cases with peers. Focus on open questioning, summarising, and safety-netting. 7. Underestimating the CCE’s Communication Component Strong communication often separates pass from fail. Many candidates with correct diagnoses lose marks because they fail to demonstrate empathy, patient partnership, and clarity. The Clinical Competency Exam (CCE) consists of 9 cases, each 15 minutes long with a 5-minute reading period, conducted online via Zoom [5 ]. The CCE assesses communication, professionalism, and reasoning as much as clinical accuracy. RACGP examiners highlight poor rapport-building, excessive jargon, or missing patient concerns as common reasons for failure [1] . Practical tip: Role-play real cases with peers. Focus on open questioning, summarising, and safety-netting. 8. Failing to Build Exam-Day Stamina RACGP exams are long, intense, and require sustained concentration. Many candidates perform poorly simply because they run out of mental energy halfway through. Regularly practise full-length, 4-hour mock exams under timed conditions to build endurance. Gradually increase your study block lengths to mirror exam conditions. Candidates who perform repeated full-length simulations report improved focus, reduced fatigue, and better pacing [3] . Practical tip: Treat your study plan like a training program — balance high-intensity practice with adequate rest. FAQs: GP Exam Tips & RACGP Exam Mistakes 1. What are the Top 10 Mistakes GP Trainees Make When Preparing for the RACGP Exams? The top mistakes include starting practice questions too late, ignoring the clinical reasoning required for KFP, relying on passive learning methods, studying outdated guidelines, over-focusing on rare topics, neglecting feedback, underestimating communication in CCE, inadequate stamina preparation, failing to review RACGP marking criteria, and delaying the use of critical study resources [1 ,3] . 2. How to study for GP exams ? Use active learning techniques such as self-testing, flashcards, and spaced repetition rather than passive reading. Regularly practise exam-style questions in timed conditions. Refer closely to current Australian clinical guidelines (eTG, RACGP Red Book, Australian Immunisation Handbook) and participate in structured study groups and workshops to reinforce knowledge and reasoning [1 ,3] . 3. What are KFP questions ? Key Feature Problem (KFP) questions assess your clinical reasoning skills rather than pure knowledge recall. Each question presents a clinical scenario requiring concise answers focused on diagnosis, investigation, or immediate management. The RACGP’s KFP exam currently consists of 70 multi-selection questions completed in 4 hours [2 ]. 4. What is the Murtagh's restricted rule out framework? Murtagh’s restricted rule-out framework guides clinical reasoning by focusing first on serious conditions ("red flags") that must be urgently excluded, followed by common conditions, less likely conditions, and masquerades. This structured approach ensures safe clinical decision-making and efficient problem-solving in primary care, crucial for both KFP and clinical practice[4] . 5. What is the new KFP format? As of July 2025, the KFP exam consists of 70 multi-selection questions, each requiring careful selection of multiple correct answers without providing irrelevant details. The exam duration is 4 hours, completed on paper-based answer sheets [2]. 5. Ignoring Feedback From Practice Cases Failing to apply feedback keeps you stuck at the same level. Reviewing your mistakes critically is one of the most effective ways to improve exam performance. Maintain a “learning log” of incorrect answers or weak areas. Seek feedback from supervisors or study partners and revisit corrected cases. RACGP examiners frequently report candidates repeating the same reasoning mistakes, such as missing red flags or failing to prioritise urgent management [1] . Practical tip: After each mock exam, analyse why you got a question wrong — not just what the right answer was. 3. Not Studying From Official Guidelines Using outdated or non-Australian resources can cost you marks. The RACGP expects candidates to use current national guidelines that reflect best practice in Australian primary care. Review the RACGP Red Book (preventive care), Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG), and Australian Immunisation Handbook. Incorporate PBS-listed therapies and management algorithms from the Australian Prescriber. Active learning using up-to-date guidelines improves exam outcomes compared with passive reading [3] . Practical tip: Allocate one study session weekly to reviewing newly released guideline updates relevant to general practice. 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 shared are based on personal experience and the experiences of GP candidates who successfully passed their exams. They are intended as general 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 shared are based on personal experience and the experiences of GP candidates who successfully passed their exams. They are intended as general guidance only and should not be taken as official RACGP advice. References [1] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2024, December). Examination report 2024.2 Applied Knowledge Test (AKT). East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/AKT-2024-2-Public-Exam-Report.pdf [2] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025, July 31). AKT and KFP information for candidates. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/kfp-and-akt-exam-day-information [3] Liotta, M. for RACGP newsGP. (2019, September 11). RACGP’s KFP exam report: Tips to improve outcomes. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/racgp/racgp-s-kfp-exam-report-tips-to-improve-outcomes [4] Glasziou, P., Britt, H., Cooke, G., & Valenti, L. (2013). Common general practice presentations and publication frequency. Australian Family Physician, 42 (1), 65–68. https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2013/january-february/common-general-practice-presentations [5] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025, July). CCE Candidate Information. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/racgp-exams/clinical-competency-exam 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary Preparing for the RACGP exams can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Common RACGP exam mistakes frequently undermine capable candidates, preventing them from passing their GP exams on the first attempt. By knowing these pitfalls and using proven GP exam tips, you can avoid common errors and significantly increase your chances of success. Drawing on years of experience as an examiner and mentor, I'll guide you through the 10 most frequent mistakes GP trainees make and practical strategies to overcome them. 1. Starting Practice Questions Too Late Starting your practice questions too late is one of the most common errors candidates make. Leaving question practice until the final weeks limits your ability to identify weaknesses, develop effective exam strategies, and build the stamina you need for a 4-hour exam. Begin practising exam-style questions at least 3 to 6 months before your exam date. Regular timed practice sessions simulate the real exam environment and reduce anxiety. In the 2024.2 AKT exam cycle, first-attempt candidates achieved a pass rate of 91.3%, while fourth-attempt candidates had just 23.9%, demonstrating the power of early preparation [1] . Track weekly progress to spot recurring weaknesses early and refine your study plan. Practical tip: If you struggle with dermatology or ECG interpretation, dedicate targeted sessions early to develop these core competencies. 2. Neglecting the KFP Reasoning Format The KFP exam is not a memory test — it assesses clinical reasoning and decision-making. Many candidates fail because they treat it like a recall exercise instead of demonstrating logical thinking. Focus on key decision points: diagnostic reasoning, investigations, and immediate management. Keep your responses concise and relevant. As of July 2025, the KFP comprises 70 multi-selection questions completed in 4 hours, reinforcing the need for accuracy and efficient reasoning [2] . RACGP exam reports repeatedly note that candidates lose marks for providing irrelevant details or unfocused answers [2]. Practical tip: When practising, write down your reasoning for each case. Explaining your thought process trains you to think like an examiner. 4. Over-Focusing on Rare Topics Overemphasising rare diseases is a time trap. RACGP exams focus primarily on common, high-yield presentations encountered in everyday GP practice. 48% of GP consultations involve the 30 most common conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, depression, respiratory infections, and preventive care [4] . Prioritise these topics over uncommon diseases to align with exam emphasis. Practical tip: Use the RACGP curriculum as your map. Ensure you can confidently manage the top chronic and acute presentations seen in general practice. 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. FAQs: GP Exam Tips & RACGP Exam Mistakes 1. What are the Top 10 Mistakes GP Trainees Make When Preparing for the RACGP Exams? The top mistakes include starting practice questions too late, ignoring the clinical reasoning required for KFP, relying on passive learning methods, studying outdated guidelines, over-focusing on rare topics, neglecting feedback, underestimating communication in CCE, inadequate stamina preparation, failing to review RACGP marking criteria, and delaying the use of critical study resources [1 ,3] . 2. How to study for GP exams ? Use active learning techniques such as self-testing, flashcards, and spaced repetition rather than passive reading. Regularly practise exam-style questions in timed conditions. Refer closely to current Australian clinical guidelines (eTG, RACGP Red Book, Australian Immunisation Handbook) and participate in structured study groups and workshops to reinforce knowledge and reasoning [1 ,3] . 3. What are KFP questions ? Key Feature Problem (KFP) questions assess your clinical reasoning skills rather than pure knowledge recall. Each question presents a clinical scenario requiring concise answers focused on diagnosis, investigation, or immediate management. The RACGP’s KFP exam currently consists of 70 multi-selection questions completed in 4 hours [2 ]. 4. What is the Murtagh's restricted rule out framework? Murtagh’s restricted rule-out framework guides clinical reasoning by focusing first on serious conditions ("red flags") that must be urgently excluded, followed by common conditions, less likely conditions, and masquerades. This structured approach ensures safe clinical decision-making and efficient problem-solving in primary care, crucial for both KFP and clinical practice[4] . 5. What is the new KFP format? As of July 2025, the KFP exam consists of 70 multi-selection questions, each requiring careful selection of multiple correct answers without providing irrelevant details. The exam duration is 4 hours, completed on paper-based answer sheets [2]. 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next

Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now AMC Exam for IMGs: Structure, MCQ vs Clinical, and Registration Pathway Last updated: November 2025 Buy Now AMC Exam for IMGs: Structure, MCQ vs Clinical, and Registration Pathway Last updated: November 2025 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP If you’re an international medical graduate (IMG) aspiring to practise medicine in Australia, you’ve likely faced moments of uncertainty about your journey ahead. At the heart of this journey lies the AMC Exam for IMGs : Structure, MCQ vs Clinical, and Registration Pathway. Understanding clearly how this works, who must sit it, what exemptions might exist, and what happens afterwards can transform uncertainty into purposeful action. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the AMC Exam for IMGs, clearly comparing the MCQ and Clinical exams, outlining precisely where these exams fit within the registration process, identifying who needs to complete them, and showing you exactly what happens once you succeed. What Is the AMC Exam and Why Do IMGs Need It? The AMC Exam for IMGs is a critical assessment mandated for international medical graduates on Australia's Standard Pathway to medical registration. Its main purpose is simple yet important: ensuring that IMGs possess knowledge, clinical reasoning, and practical skills equivalent to a newly graduated Australian doctor [1] . To practise safely in Australia, the AMC Certificate obtained after successfully passing both AMC Exams is essential [2] . The AMC Exam comprises two key assessments: AMC MCQ Exam , evaluating theoretical medical knowledge. AMC Clinical Exam , assessing practical clinical competencies and communication. Understanding the AMC exam structure clearly helps IMGs prepare confidently and ensures safety for both the practitioner and patients. AMC MCQ vs AMC Clinical: Key Differences in Format and Skills The AMC Exam involves two distinct and complementary tests. Clearly understanding their formats and assessed skills helps you tailor your preparation effectively. AMC MCQ Examination (Part 1) The AMC MCQ Exam is a computer based test of your medical knowledge, comprising 150 multiple choice questions completed within 3.5 hours [1] , [3] . Key facts about the AMC MCQ Exam: 150 multiple choice questions. Completed in 3.5 hours at secure test centres worldwide. Covers medicine, surgery, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, psychiatry, and general practice. The AMC publishes specifications and performance information through official documents and annual reports rather than a single fixed pass rate on the exam page, so trends vary by reporting period and cohort [1] , [7] . Skills assessed: Clinical reasoning. Diagnostic accuracy. Application of evidence based theoretical knowledge. Clinicians often find real world experience advantageous here, particularly in scenario based questions. Regular revision, mock exams, and thorough understanding of Australian clinical guidelines are strongly recommended. AMC Clinical Examination (Part 2) The AMC Clinical Exam, in contrast, evaluates your practical, patient centred clinical skills via an OSCE style assessment. It consists of 16 clinical stations: 14 scored stations plus 2 pilot stations [1] . Key facts about the AMC Clinical Exam: OSCE with 16 stations. 14 scored stations, 2 unscored pilot stations. Must pass 9 out of 14 scored stations to succeed, an updated criterion that took effect 21 March 2024 [4] , [5] . Recent AMC reporting shows the Clinical Examination pass rate is 21 percent in the published analysis and annual reporting context, reflecting the exam’s challenge and the AMC’s standard setting approach [7] , [8] . Skills assessed: Real time clinical reasoning and patient management. Physical examination proficiency. Clear, empathetic, culturally safe patient communication. Professional conduct and medical ethics. For success in the Clinical Exam, consistent OSCE practice, role playing clinical scenarios, and familiarity with Australian clinical protocols are highly beneficial. Clear summary of differences: MCQ assesses theoretical knowledge, Clinical assesses practical patient management. Clinical requires direct patient interaction, while MCQ is purely theoretical. The MCQ must be passed before you can progress to the Clinical exam [9] . Who Must Sit the AMC Exam, and Who May Be Exempt Clearly identifying who must undertake the AMC exam and who might be exempt can streamline your journey significantly. IMGs required to complete AMC exams: Graduates from countries whose medical qualifications are not recognised by Australia. IMGs without recognised specialist qualifications. IMGs potentially exempt from AMC exams: Graduates from Competent Authority countries (United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand), due to reciprocal recognition [6] . IMGs with specialist qualifications assessed by Australian medical colleges (such as RACGP or RACP), via the specialist pathway. Confirming your specific category early helps in accurately planning your Australian medical career. (For further clarity on specialist pathway exemptions, see our specialist recognition pathway guide.) FAQs: AMC Exams and IMG Registration in Australia 1. What exactly are the AMC exams? The AMC MCQ Exam is a 150 question, computer based theoretical test completed within 3.5 hours. The AMC Clinical Exam is an OSCE assessment featuring 16 stations (14 scored, 2 pilot) evaluating clinical skills and communication [1] , [3] , [9] . 2. What is the AMC exam pass rate? The AMC communicates performance through official reports rather than a single fixed MCQ pass rate on the exam page, so outcomes vary by period. The Clinical Examination has a 21 percent pass rate in recent published AMC reporting and analysis contexts [7] , [8] . 3. Can some IMGs skip AMC exams? Yes. IMGs from Competent Authority countries (United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand) or those with recognised specialist qualifications may bypass AMC exams [6] . 4. After passing AMC exams, how soon can I practise independently? After successfully passing AMC exams, you must complete 12 months supervised practice (47 full time weeks) before applying for general registration and practising independently [2] , [10] . 5. What resources should I use to prepare for AMC exams? Recommended resources include official AMC guidelines, AMC exam trial apps, AMC dedicated textbooks, past AMC exam question banks, structured OSCE workshops, and IMG focused study groups. (Visit our AMC preparation resources page for comprehensive support.) Next Steps After Passing the AMC Exam Upon successful completion of your AMC exams, clearly defined next steps ensure smooth transition into practising medicine in Australia: AMC Certificate: Confirms successful completion of MCQ and Clinical exams. Provisional registration application: Apply to AHPRA, providing AMC certificate and relevant documentation. Complete supervised practice: Undertake 12 months (47 weeks full time) of supervised clinical practice, ensuring adaptation to Australian standards [2] , [10] . General registration application: Apply for full medical registration to practise independently after supervision period [2] . Further vocational training: Optionally pursue RACGP Fellowship or other specialist training. Clearly following these steps supports your seamless integration into Australia’s healthcare system. (Explore further training opportunities with our RACGP Fellowship guide .) Where the AMC Exam Fits in the Australian Medical Registration Pathway The AMC Exam for IMGs is an integral component of Australia’s Standard Pathway for international doctors. Here’s the clearly defined registration sequence: Credential verification: Submit medical degree and credentials through AMC and ECFMG EPIC for verification [2] . AMC MCQ Exam: Successfully pass the theoretical examination. AMC Clinical Exam or Workplace Based Assessment (WBA): Successfully complete the practical clinical assessment [1] . AMC Certificate: Issued upon passing both examinations. Supervised practice: Complete 12 months (47 full time weeks) of supervised medical practice [2] , [10] , [11]. General registration: Apply to AHPRA for general, unrestricted medical registration after supervised practice [2] . Each step builds logically on the previous, enabling structured preparation and confident progression toward your goal of independent medical practice. (For detailed information on supervised practice requirements, see our comprehensive supervised practice guide .) Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed is common, but structured support transforms confusion into confidence. Fellow Academy provides tailored AMC and RACGP aligned learning resources specifically designed for IMGs. With detailed exam notes, high quality AKT and KFP style questions , evidence based flashcards, and practical study guides , you’ll find all you need to succeed. You are capable and deserving of practising medicine confidently in Australia. Let us support you through every stage of your journey. Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the RACGP. Strategies shared are based on personal and peer experiences for general guidance only. Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the RACGP. Strategies shared are based on personal and peer experiences for general guidance only. References [1] Australian Medical Council. (2025). AMC examinations and assessment, Standard Pathway. Canberra, ACT: AMC. Retrieved from https://www.amc.org.au/pathways/standard-pathway/amc-assessments/ [2] Medical Board of Australia. (2024, Oct 20). Standard Pathway for IMGs. Melbourne, VIC: Ahpra, Medical Board of Australia. Retrieved from https://www.medicalboard.gov.au/Registration/International-Medical-Graduates/Standard-Pathway.aspx [3] Australian Medical Council. (2025, Sept 9). Multiple Choice Question Examination Specifications, Version 8. Canberra, ACT: AMC. Retrieved from https://www.amc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2025-09-09-MCQ-Specifications-V8.pdf [4] Australian Medical Council. (2024, Apr 25). Changes to the AMC clinical pass requirement. Canberra, ACT: AMC. Retrieved from https://www.amc.org.au/news-and-updates/change-to-pass-requirement-for-the-clinical-examination/ [5] Australian Medical Council. (2024, Mar 21). Clinical examination, pass requirement update noted on assessment page. Canberra, ACT: AMC. Retrieved from https://www.amc.org.au/pathways/standard-pathway/amc-assessments/clinical-examination/ [6] Medical Board of Australia. (2025, Sept 2). Competent Authority Pathway. Melbourne, VIC: Ahpra, Medical Board of Australia. Retrieved from https://www.medicalboard.gov.au/Registration/International-Medical-Graduates/Competent-Authority-Pathway.aspx [7] Australian Medical Council. (2024, Nov 27). AMC Annual Report 2023–24. Canberra, ACT: AMC. Retrieved from https://www.amc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/AMC-2023-24-Annual-Report.pdf [8] Australian Medical Council. (2024, Feb). Clearing the Way: Initiatives to support international medical graduates. Canberra, ACT: AMC. Retrieved from https://www.amc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/AMC_Clear-Way-Report.pdf [9] Australian Medical Council. (2024, Apr 23). Clinical Examination Specifications, Version 0.6. Canberra, ACT: AMC. Retrieved from https://www.amc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024-04-23-Clinical-Exam-Spec.V0.6-For-Website-update.pdf [10] Medical Board of Australia. (n.d.). Requirements for general registration, supervised practice 12 months, 47 weeks FTE. Melbourne, VIC: Ahpra, Medical Board of Australia. Retrieved from https://www.medicalboard.gov.au/Registration/Types/General-Registration/imgs-with-AMC.aspx [11] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2025, Sept 2). Standard Pathway, complete 12 months, minimum 47 weeks full time supervised practice. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. Retrieved from https://www.racgp.org.au/education/imgs/live-and-practice-medicine-in-australia/standard-pathway 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary If you’re an international medical graduate (IMG) aspiring to practise medicine in Australia, you’ve likely faced moments of uncertainty about your journey ahead. At the heart of this journey lies the AMC Exam for IMGs : Structure, MCQ vs Clinical, and Registration Pathway. Understanding clearly how this works, who must sit it, what exemptions might exist, and what happens afterwards can transform uncertainty into purposeful action. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the AMC Exam for IMGs, clearly comparing the MCQ and Clinical exams, outlining precisely where these exams fit within the registration process, identifying who needs to complete them, and showing you exactly what happens once you succeed. What Is the AMC Exam and Why Do IMGs Need It? The AMC Exam for IMGs is a critical assessment mandated for international medical graduates on Australia's Standard Pathway to medical registration. Its main purpose is simple yet important: ensuring that IMGs possess knowledge, clinical reasoning, and practical skills equivalent to a newly graduated Australian doctor [1] . To practise safely in Australia, the AMC Certificate obtained after successfully passing both AMC Exams is essential [2] . The AMC Exam comprises two key assessments: AMC MCQ Exam , evaluating theoretical medical knowledge. AMC Clinical Exam , assessing practical clinical competencies and communication. Understanding the AMC exam structure clearly helps IMGs prepare confidently and ensures safety for both the practitioner and patients. AMC MCQ vs AMC Clinical: Key Differences in Format and Skills The AMC Exam involves two distinct and complementary tests. Clearly understanding their formats and assessed skills helps you tailor your preparation effectively. AMC MCQ Examination (Part 1) The AMC MCQ Exam is a computer based test of your medical knowledge, comprising 150 multiple choice questions completed within 3.5 hours [1] , [3] . Key facts about the AMC MCQ Exam: 150 multiple choice questions. Completed in 3.5 hours at secure test centres worldwide. Covers medicine, surgery, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, psychiatry, and general practice. The AMC publishes specifications and performance information through official documents and annual reports rather than a single fixed pass rate on the exam page, so trends vary by reporting period and cohort [1] , [7] . Skills assessed: Clinical reasoning. Diagnostic accuracy. Application of evidence based theoretical knowledge. Clinicians often find real world experience advantageous here, particularly in scenario based questions. Regular revision, mock exams, and thorough understanding of Australian clinical guidelines are strongly recommended. AMC Clinical Examination (Part 2) The AMC Clinical Exam, in contrast, evaluates your practical, patient centred clinical skills via an OSCE style assessment. It consists of 16 clinical stations: 14 scored stations plus 2 pilot stations [1] . Key facts about the AMC Clinical Exam: OSCE with 16 stations. 14 scored stations, 2 unscored pilot stations. Must pass 9 out of 14 scored stations to succeed, an updated criterion that took effect 21 March 2024 [4] , [5] . Recent AMC reporting shows the Clinical Examination pass rate is 21 percent in the published analysis and annual reporting context, reflecting the exam’s challenge and the AMC’s standard setting approach [7] , [8] . Skills assessed: Real time clinical reasoning and patient management. Physical examination proficiency. Clear, empathetic, culturally safe patient communication. Professional conduct and medical ethics. For success in the Clinical Exam, consistent OSCE practice, role playing clinical scenarios, and familiarity with Australian clinical protocols are highly beneficial. Clear summary of differences: MCQ assesses theoretical knowledge, Clinical assesses practical patient management. Clinical requires direct patient interaction, while MCQ is purely theoretical. The MCQ must be passed before you can progress to the Clinical exam [9] . Who Must Sit the AMC Exam, and Who May Be Exempt Clearly identifying who must undertake the AMC exam and who might be exempt can streamline your journey significantly. IMGs required to complete AMC exams: Graduates from countries whose medical qualifications are not recognised by Australia. IMGs without recognised specialist qualifications. IMGs potentially exempt from AMC exams: Graduates from Competent Authority countries (United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand), due to reciprocal recognition [6] . IMGs with specialist qualifications assessed by Australian medical colleges (such as RACGP or RACP), via the specialist pathway. Confirming your specific category early helps in accurately planning your Australian medical career. (For further clarity on specialist pathway exemptions, see our specialist recognition pathway guide.) 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. FAQs: AMC Exams and IMG Registration in Australia 1. What exactly are the AMC exams? The AMC MCQ Exam is a 150 question, computer based theoretical test completed within 3.5 hours. The AMC Clinical Exam is an OSCE assessment featuring 16 stations (14 scored, 2 pilot) evaluating clinical skills and communication [1] , [3] , [9] . 2. What is the AMC exam pass rate? The AMC communicates performance through official reports rather than a single fixed MCQ pass rate on the exam page, so outcomes vary by period. The Clinical Examination has a 21 percent pass rate in recent published AMC reporting and analysis contexts [7] , [8] . 3. Can some IMGs skip AMC exams? Yes. IMGs from Competent Authority countries (United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand) or those with recognised specialist qualifications may bypass AMC exams [6] . 4. After passing AMC exams, how soon can I practise independently? After successfully passing AMC exams, you must complete 12 months supervised practice (47 full time weeks) before applying for general registration and practising independently [2] , [10] . 5. What resources should I use to prepare for AMC exams? Recommended resources include official AMC guidelines, AMC exam trial apps, AMC dedicated textbooks, past AMC exam question banks, structured OSCE workshops, and IMG focused study groups. (Visit our AMC preparation resources page for comprehensive support.) 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next

Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now RACGP CCE Cases: High Yield Presentations You Must Practise Last updated, November 2025 Buy Now RACGP CCE Cases: High Yield Presentations You Must Practise Last updated, November 2025 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Many GP trainees and International Medical Graduates, IMGs, understandably feel nervous when facing the RACGP Clinical Competency Exam, CCE. With endless possible scenarios, it can feel impossible to cover every single topic thoroughly. But here is the good news, the RACGP does not test obscure, rare presentations, they focus on everyday situations you will regularly encounter in Australian general practice. By prioritising RACGP CCE Cases: High Yield Presentations You Must Practise, you are strategically focusing your revision to gain maximum results from your study time. In this comprehensive blog, we will walk through five essential areas that regularly feature in the exam, chronic disease management, diabetes, COPD, CKD, women’s health and antenatal care, paediatrics and adolescent scenarios, mental health and risk assessments, and cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients. Each section includes clear clinical priorities, up to date statistics, and practical exam tips. Let us dive in, so you can feel calm, prepared, and exam ready. Chronic Disease CCE Cases, Diabetes, COPD, CKD Chronic diseases dominate Australian general practice consultations, with approximately 50 percent of Australians living with at least 1 chronic condition [1 ]. Examiners frequently test these cases to ensure you have structured, evidence based approaches to ongoing patient management. Diabetes affects approximately 1.3 million Australians, around 1 in 20 [2 ]. RACGP examiners Expect you to clearly demonstrate: - Lifestyle counselling on diet and exercise. - Patient education about home glucose monitoring and hypoglycaemia management - Regular complication screenings, annual foot and eye examinations. - Appropriate medication titration based on RACGP and Diabetes Australia guidelines. COPD impacts about 1 in 20 Australians aged over 45 years [3 ]. Ensure your answers include: - Confirming COPD diagnosis with spirometry. - Checking and reinforcing correct inhaler technique. - Smoking cessation counselling, supported by practical advice. - Annual influenza vaccinations and pneumococcal vaccinations when indicated. - Clear action plans for managing exacerbations at home. CKD, Chronic Kidney Disease, is seen in over 10 percent of Australian adults [4 ]. Essential Management points include: - Routine kidney function tests, eGFR and albumin creatinine ratio. - Medication reviews, particularly ACE inhibitors or ARBs. - Early identification and management of hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular risk factors. - Patient education on lifestyle changes and regular follow ups to prevent progression. For more comprehensive revision, see our chronic disease management notes and case walkthroughs on Fellow Academy. Women’s Health and Antenatal CCE Scenarios Women’s health issues, especially antenatal care, frequently appear in the RACGP CCE. Antenatal care is a core activity in Australian general practice, and national guidance recommends a schedule of around 7 to 10 routine visits for uncomplicated pregnancies [5 ]. Examiners focus on structured, evidence based, and empathetic care. Prioritise the following areas clearly: Routine antenatal schedules and screenings: - Early blood tests, FBE, blood group, infections. - Gestational diabetes screening at 24 to 28 weeks. - Morphology ultrasound at approximately 18 to 20 weeks. - Group B Streptococcus swabs around 36 weeks [6 ]. Antenatal complications: - Early identification and management pathways for gestational diabetes, hypertension, pre eclampsia, and vaginal bleeding. - Clear knowledge of when urgent specialist referral or hospital admission is required. Postnatal care and contraception: - Thorough 6 week postnatal checks, including physical recovery, breastfeeding support, contraception planning, and mental health screening, as postnatal depression affects around 1 in 7 women [7 ]. - Effective contraception counselling, especially promoting Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives, LARCs, which are currently used by only 11% of Australian contraceptive users [8 ]. Consider reviewing Fellow Academy’s women’s health revision guides for deeper insights and quick recall tables. Mental Health, Risk, and Safety Assessments Mental health is a major part of GP workloads, with about 12 percent of Australians seeing a GP for a mental health concern in 2021 to 2022 [10 ]. RACGP examiners frequently present mental health scenarios due to their critical nature, especially regarding patient safety. Critical elements include: Clear and direct risk assessments for suicide and self harm: - Suicide causes approximately 1.6 percent of all deaths in Australia, and accounts for over 20 percent of deaths in young adult men [11 ]. - Ask openly and sensitively about suicidal ideation, intention, and planning. - Immediate safety planning and crisis intervention strategies. Thorough Mental State Examinations, MSE: - Document mood, affect, thought content, insight, and judgement clearly. - Demonstrate structured thinking in your clinical notes and verbal responses. Holistic management plans: - Mental Health Treatment Plans with psychological therapies. - Evidence based pharmacological treatments, such as SSRIs, when appropriate. - Early and regular follow up appointments, involving carers when relevant. Clear ethical and legal considerations: - Know precisely when confidentiality must be breached for safety reasons. - Awareness of your legal responsibilities under relevant Mental Health Acts. For a thorough revision, see Fellow Academy’s mental health assessment toolkit and our OSCE style role play scripts. Frequently asked questions, RACGP exams 1. What is the pass rate for the GP exam? Pass rates vary by sitting and by exam segment, so there is no single number. Recent RACGP public reports show CCE pass rates of 79.66 percent in 2025.1, 89.12 percent in 2024.2, and 89.10 percent in 2024.1 [13 , 14 , 15 ]. For knowledge based exams, AKT had a pass rate of 82.15 percent in 2024.2 and KFP had a pass rate of 67.83 percent in 2024.2 [16 , 17 ]. The RACGP states there are no quotas, and the pass mark is set using recognised standard setting methods for each sitting [13 , 16 , 17 ]. 2. How to pass the RACGP exam? Focus on fundamentals across the curriculum, practise under timed conditions, and align with official marking expectations. Use the RACGP AKT and KFP guide for standard setting and preparation advice, and the CCE preparation and marking pages to understand competencies, case structure, and how performance is judged, then build a study plan that rehearses these exact behaviours [18 , 19 , 20 ]. For targeted practice cases and timing strategies, see our CCE case blueprints and AKT, KFP timing walkthroughs on Fellow Academy. 3. What is the RACGP CCE course? The CCE is not a course, it is the final Fellowship exam, delivered online via Zoom, comprising 9 clinical cases that include case discussions and clinical encounters, each with structured pre case reading and strict timing. Official CCE pages outline the format, competencies, and technical requirements so you can prepare effectively [21 , 22 , 23 ]. For structured preparation resources, see our Fellow Academy CCE study hub and simulation checklists. 4. Is it hard to become a GP in Australia? Becoming a GP requires accredited training, eligibility, and passing all three Fellowship exams, AKT, KFP, CCE. You must also meet professional, ethical, and administrative requirements before Fellowship is awarded. The RACGP pathway and requirements pages outline the steps and timelines, including candidacy limits and eligibility criteria [24 , 25 , 26 , 27 ]. If you want staged guidance, review our Fellow Academy pathway overview and planning worksheets . 5. What are the passing marks for CCE? The CCE pass mark is determined after each sitting using the borderline regression method. The overall pass mark equals the sum of the individual case pass marks. There are no quotas, no negative scoring, and you are not required to pass a minimum number of cases to achieve an overall pass. These details are set out in the CCE candidate guidelines and confirmed in public exam reports [28 , 13 , 14 , 15 ]. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Cultural Safety There remain significant health disparities between Indigenous and non Indigenous Australians, notably an approximately 8 years shorter life expectancy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples [12]. Diabetes prevalence is about 3 times higher in Indigenous populations [12 ]. RACGP examiners test your cultural competency explicitly in these cases. Key competencies include: Respectful, culturally safe communication: - Build trust by actively listening and showing genuine empathy. - Never assume or stereotype, treat each patient as an individual. Understanding historical and social contexts: - Recognise ongoing impacts of historical trauma and healthcare access barriers. - Appropriately adapt your approach and recommendations accordingly. Preventative health and chronic disease screening: - Actively promote annual Medicare Indigenous Health Checks, item 715. - Early identification and intensive management of chronic diseases. Collaboration and use of community resources: - Work alongside Aboriginal Health Workers or Liaison Officers. - Utilise Closing the Gap initiatives and other community based supports. For more detailed advice, review Fellow Academy’s Indigenous health and cultural safety guidelines and case blueprints. Paediatrics and Adolescent CCE Scenarios Paediatric and adolescent health represents a significant portion of general practice, with about 4.8 million children in Australia, many of whom are seen in general practice [9 ]. Most presentations can be managed in general practice, so independent management skills are essential. Examiners expect competency in: Common acute paediatric presentations: - Fever and febrile illnesses. - Asthma exacerbations and respiratory distress. - Gastroenteritis, dehydration, and common childhood rashes. Developmental assessments and immunisation: - Regular milestone checks and understanding when specialist referral is necessary. - Immunisation schedules and catch up planning as part of routine general practice. Adolescent confidentiality and psychosocial care: - Clear use of the HEADSS, Home, Education, Activities, Drugs, Sexuality, Suicide, framework. - Understanding and application of Gillick competence. - Respectful, supportive, and confidential communication with teenagers. Safeguarding and child protection: - Early recognition of potential abuse or neglect. - Clear understanding and application of mandatory reporting obligations in your state or territory. For additional paediatric preparation tips, see our dedicated paediatrics exam strategy guide and consultation checklists on Fellow Academy. If you are feeling overwhelmed by RACGP exam preparation, Fellow Academy can provide practical support to boost your confidence and preparation. Access high quality AKT and KFP questions, concise and comprehensive exam notes, and high yield, evidence based flashcards designed specifically for GP trainees and IMGs. We also offer free KFP case packs, informative webinars, and practical resources to ensure your revision is efficient and effective. 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] Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2023, National Health Survey 2021 to 2022, Health conditions prevalence. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/health-conditions-prevalence/latest-release [2] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2023, Diabetes, Australian facts, summary, prevalence and counts. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/diabetes/diabetes [3] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020 to 2023 updates, Chronic respiratory conditions, COPD, age band prevalence, adults 45 years and older. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/chronic-respiratory-conditions/copd [4] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2023, Chronic kidney disease, Australian facts, prevalence in adults. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/chronic-kidney-disease/chronic-kidney-disease [5] Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, 2023, Pregnancy Care Guidelines, schedule of visits for uncomplicated pregnancy. https://www.pregnancycareguidelines.health.gov.au [6] Australian Pregnancy Care Guidelines and ACSQHC, 2022 to 2024, GDM screening 24 to 28 weeks, morphology ultrasound 18 to 20 weeks, GBS screening 35 to 37 weeks. https://www.pregnancycareguidelines.health.gov.au [7] Healthdirect Australia, 2023, Postnatal depression, national overview and prevalence. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/postnatal-depression [8] Australian Prescriber, 2025, Long acting reversible contraception in Australia, update on uptake, national estimates around 11 percent. https://australianprescriber.tg.org.au/articles/long-acting-reversible-contraception [9] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2024, Australia’s children, national population counts and health service use context. https://www.australiashealth.aihw.gov.au/our-reports/children-and-young-people/health-of-children/contents/summary [10] Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2023, Patient experiences and mental health service use, 2021 to 2022, proportion of Australians who saw a GP for mental health. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-care-use-and-expenditure/patient-experiences-australia/latest-release [11] Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2024, Causes of Death, Australia, Intentional self harm deaths, counts and age specific patterns. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/causes-death/causes-death-australia/latest-release [12] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2023 to 2024, Indigenous life expectancy gap reports and diabetes prevalence comparisons. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/indigenous-health-and-wellbeing [13] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2025, Exam report 2025.1 CCE, public report, pass rate and psychometrics. https://www.racgp.org.au/getmedia/f4fc7ea1-ba17-4eae-86ea-d4369d22e5aa/2025-1-CCE-Public-Exam-Report.pdf.aspx [14] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2024, Exam report 2024.2 CCE, public report, pass rate and psychometrics. https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/2024-2-CCE-Public-Exam-Report.pdf [15] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2024, Exam report 2024.1 CCE, public report, pass rate and psychometrics. https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/2024-1-CCE-Public-Exam-Report.pdf [16] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2024, AKT 2024.2 Public Exam Report, pass mark and pass rate. https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/AKT-2024-2-Public-Exam-Report.pdf [17] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2024, KFP 2024.2 Public Exam Report, pass mark and pass rate. https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/2024-2-KFP-Public-Exam-Report.pdf [18] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2024, AKT and KFP guide, preparation and standard setting. https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/Examinations-guide.pdf [19] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2023, CCE preparation resource, competencies and marking overview. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/racgp-exams/clinical-competency-exam/candidate-guidelines-for-the-clinical-competency-e/cce-preparation/exam-preparation-resources [20] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2023, How CCE cases are marked, competencies and criteria. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/racgp-exams/clinical-competency-exam/candidate-guidelines-for-the-clinical-competency-e/clinical-competency-exam-cce/how-are-cce-cases-marked [21] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2025, Clinical Competency Exam, overview and delivery. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/racgp-exams/clinical-competency-exam [22] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2025, Assessments and examinations candidate handbook, CCE format and components. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/registrars/fellowship-pathways/policy-framework/program-handbooks-and-guidance-documents/assessments-and-examinations-candidate-handbook/part-2/introduction [23] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2025, CCE candidate technical guidelines, online format and timings. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/racgp-exams/clinical-competency-exam/candidate-guidelines-for-the-clinical-competency-e/cce-preparation [24] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2025, The pathway to Fellowship, exam components and steps. https://www.racgp.org.au/the-pathway-to-fellowship [25] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2025, Requirements for Fellowship, assessment and professional requirements. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/gp-training/gp-training/education-policy-and-supporting-documents/training-program-policies/requirements-for-fellowship-policy [26] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2025, Exam eligibility, training time and registration requirements. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/gp-training/gp-training/education-policy-and-supporting-documents/training-program-policies/fellowship-exams-policy [27] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2025, Enrolment information, candidacy time limits and attempts. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/registrars/fellowship-pathways/policy-framework/program-handbooks-and-guidance-documents/agpt-registrar-training-handbook/fellowship-exams/exam-eligibility [28] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2025, CCE Candidate Guide, borderline regression, case pass marks and overall pass calculation. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fracgp-exams/racgp-exams/clinical-competency-exam/candidate-guidelines-for-the-clinical-competency-e/results/determination-of-a-passing-grade 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary Many GP trainees and International Medical Graduates, IMGs, understandably feel nervous when facing the RACGP Clinical Competency Exam, CCE. With endless possible scenarios, it can feel impossible to cover every single topic thoroughly. But here is the good news, the RACGP does not test obscure, rare presentations, they focus on everyday situations you will regularly encounter in Australian general practice. By prioritising RACGP CCE Cases: High Yield Presentations You Must Practise, you are strategically focusing your revision to gain maximum results from your study time. In this comprehensive blog, we will walk through five essential areas that regularly feature in the exam, chronic disease management, diabetes, COPD, CKD, women’s health and antenatal care, paediatrics and adolescent scenarios, mental health and risk assessments, and cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients. Each section includes clear clinical priorities, up to date statistics, and practical exam tips. Let us dive in, so you can feel calm, prepared, and exam ready. Chronic Disease CCE Cases, Diabetes, COPD, CKD Chronic diseases dominate Australian general practice consultations, with approximately 50 percent of Australians living with at least 1 chronic condition [1 ]. Examiners frequently test these cases to ensure you have structured, evidence based approaches to ongoing patient management. Diabetes affects approximately 1.3 million Australians, around 1 in 20 [2 ]. RACGP examiners Expect you to clearly demonstrate: - Lifestyle counselling on diet and exercise. - Patient education about home glucose monitoring and hypoglycaemia management - Regular complication screenings, annual foot and eye examinations. - Appropriate medication titration based on RACGP and Diabetes Australia guidelines. COPD impacts about 1 in 20 Australians aged over 45 years [3 ]. Ensure your answers include: - Confirming COPD diagnosis with spirometry. - Checking and reinforcing correct inhaler technique. - Smoking cessation counselling, supported by practical advice. - Annual influenza vaccinations and pneumococcal vaccinations when indicated. - Clear action plans for managing exacerbations at home. CKD, Chronic Kidney Disease, is seen in over 10 percent of Australian adults [4 ]. Essential Management points include: - Routine kidney function tests, eGFR and albumin creatinine ratio. - Medication reviews, particularly ACE inhibitors or ARBs. - Early identification and management of hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular risk factors. - Patient education on lifestyle changes and regular follow ups to prevent progression. For more comprehensive revision, see our chronic disease management notes and case walkthroughs on Fellow Academy. Women’s Health and Antenatal CCE Scenarios Women’s health issues, especially antenatal care, frequently appear in the RACGP CCE. Antenatal care is a core activity in Australian general practice, and national guidance recommends a schedule of around 7 to 10 routine visits for uncomplicated pregnancies [5 ]. Examiners focus on structured, evidence based, and empathetic care. Prioritise the following areas clearly: Routine antenatal schedules and screenings: - Early blood tests, FBE, blood group, infections. - Gestational diabetes screening at 24 to 28 weeks. - Morphology ultrasound at approximately 18 to 20 weeks. - Group B Streptococcus swabs around 36 weeks [6 ]. Antenatal complications: - Early identification and management pathways for gestational diabetes, hypertension, pre eclampsia, and vaginal bleeding. - Clear knowledge of when urgent specialist referral or hospital admission is required. Postnatal care and contraception: - Thorough 6 week postnatal checks, including physical recovery, breastfeeding support, contraception planning, and mental health screening, as postnatal depression affects around 1 in 7 women [7 ]. - Effective contraception counselling, especially promoting Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives, LARCs, which are currently used by only 11% of Australian contraceptive users [8 ]. Consider reviewing Fellow Academy’s women’s health revision guides for deeper insights and quick recall tables. Mental Health, Risk, and Safety Assessments Mental health is a major part of GP workloads, with about 12 percent of Australians seeing a GP for a mental health concern in 2021 to 2022 [10 ]. RACGP examiners frequently present mental health scenarios due to their critical nature, especially regarding patient safety. Critical elements include: Clear and direct risk assessments for suicide and self harm: - Suicide causes approximately 1.6 percent of all deaths in Australia, and accounts for over 20 percent of deaths in young adult men [11 ]. - Ask openly and sensitively about suicidal ideation, intention, and planning. - Immediate safety planning and crisis intervention strategies. Thorough Mental State Examinations, MSE: - Document mood, affect, thought content, insight, and judgement clearly. - Demonstrate structured thinking in your clinical notes and verbal responses. Holistic management plans: - Mental Health Treatment Plans with psychological therapies. - Evidence based pharmacological treatments, such as SSRIs, when appropriate. - Early and regular follow up appointments, involving carers when relevant. Clear ethical and legal considerations: - Know precisely when confidentiality must be breached for safety reasons. - Awareness of your legal responsibilities under relevant Mental Health Acts. For a thorough revision, see Fellow Academy’s mental health assessment toolkit and our OSCE style role play scripts. 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, RACGP exams 1. What is the pass rate for the GP exam? Pass rates vary by sitting and by exam segment, so there is no single number. Recent RACGP public reports show CCE pass rates of 79.66 percent in 2025.1, 89.12 percent in 2024.2, and 89.10 percent in 2024.1 [13 , 14 , 15 ]. For knowledge based exams, AKT had a pass rate of 82.15 percent in 2024.2 and KFP had a pass rate of 67.83 percent in 2024.2 [16 , 17 ]. The RACGP states there are no quotas, and the pass mark is set using recognised standard setting methods for each sitting [13 , 16 , 17 ]. 2. How to pass the RACGP exam? Focus on fundamentals across the curriculum, practise under timed conditions, and align with official marking expectations. Use the RACGP AKT and KFP guide for standard setting and preparation advice, and the CCE preparation and marking pages to understand competencies, case structure, and how performance is judged, then build a study plan that rehearses these exact behaviours [18 , 19 , 20 ]. For targeted practice cases and timing strategies, see our CCE case blueprints and AKT, KFP timing walkthroughs on Fellow Academy. 3. What is the RACGP CCE course? The CCE is not a course, it is the final Fellowship exam, delivered online via Zoom, comprising 9 clinical cases that include case discussions and clinical encounters, each with structured pre case reading and strict timing. Official CCE pages outline the format, competencies, and technical requirements so you can prepare effectively [21 , 22 , 23 ]. For structured preparation resources, see our Fellow Academy CCE study hub and simulation checklists. 4. Is it hard to become a GP in Australia? Becoming a GP requires accredited training, eligibility, and passing all three Fellowship exams, AKT, KFP, CCE. You must also meet professional, ethical, and administrative requirements before Fellowship is awarded. The RACGP pathway and requirements pages outline the steps and timelines, including candidacy limits and eligibility criteria [24 , 25 , 26 , 27 ]. If you want staged guidance, review our Fellow Academy pathway overview and planning worksheets . 5. What are the passing marks for CCE? The CCE pass mark is determined after each sitting using the borderline regression method. The overall pass mark equals the sum of the individual case pass marks. There are no quotas, no negative scoring, and you are not required to pass a minimum number of cases to achieve an overall pass. These details are set out in the CCE candidate guidelines and confirmed in public exam reports [28 , 13 , 14 , 15 ]. 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next

Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now GP Academy lectures vs exam style KFP questions: which one lifts your mark? Last updated: November 2025 Buy Now GP Academy lectures vs exam style KFP questions: which one lifts your mark? Last updated: November 2025 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Every GP trainee knows the feeling. That quiet pressure in the background. That awareness that the RACGP KFP exam is coming, and that your preparation will determine how confident you feel walking into the room. It is not just about passing. It is about proving to yourself that all the long days in clinic have built something solid. This is exactly why so many registrars and IMGs eventually ask the same question: GP Academy lectures vs exam style KFP questions: which one lifts your mark? You want to know which strategy will genuinely shift your score, which method will strengthen your clinical reasoning, and which approach will help you perform under the very particular pressures of the KFP. This guide breaks that down simply and clearly. You will see what GP Academy lectures offer, why realistic KFP questions matter, and how to use both in a structured, reassuring way that fits around clinic days, after hours revision, and family responsibilities. Think of this as a calm conversation with an examiner who understands exactly what you need. What GP Academy lectures do well (breadth and foundations) GP Academy lectures provide a strong, structured entry point into exam preparation. They help you build the broad foundational knowledge that the KFP expects, before you layer on more complex decision making. A structured lecture pathway helps you systematically revise core topics aligned to the Fellowship curriculum and common Australian primary care presentations, while keeping your study organised and less overwhelming [1], [3] . Key strengths of GP Academy lectures include: Breadth of coverage: You receive guided explanations across a wide range of GP topics that map to the RACGP curriculum and exam blueprint [3] . Strong foundations: Clarifies complex clinical guidelines and decision points so you can move from knowledge to application [1], [3] . Structured progression: A logical order reduces the cognitive load of planning your own sequence and supports steady knowledge consolidation [1] . Guideline alignment: Encourages use of current Australian guidelines and college resources so content remains contemporary and exam relevant [1], [3] . Supportive learning environment: A lower pressure space to understand concepts before applying them under exam conditions [1], [4] . As a GP trainee, these strengths matter. Your clinic work is already mentally demanding. You need your study to feel organised rather than chaotic. GP Academy lectures provide this, giving you a reliable base to build on. For many trainees, this structure is the first step in transforming overwhelm into clarity. For more ways to structure your exam preparation, see our guide on effective KFP study planning. Limitations of simplified or modified KFP MSQs Despite their appeal, simplified or modified MSQs often do not come close to the authentic complexity of real KFP exam questions. These questions are sometimes shorter, easier, or less clinically nuanced. While they can feel reassuring early in your study, they rarely prepare you for high level reasoning under pressure. Common limitations include: Overly short vignettes that remove contextual detail needed for clinical reasoning, unlike the fuller stems used in RACGP KFP style tasks [1]. Obvious answer choices that do not force you to discriminate between plausible options or prioritise actions [1]. No clear instruction on answer count, even though KFP tasks specify the number of responses required and expect concise, relevant answers [1], [2]. Weak explanations that do not reference authoritative Australian guidelines or articulate examiner style rationale [1], [4]. These simplified questions may create an impression that the exam is straightforward, when in reality the KFP requires depth, accuracy, and nuanced decision making. When trainees rely heavily on these types of questions, exam performance often plateaus because core exam skills have not been built. If you want to explore exam technique further, see our detailed breakdown of RACGP KFP exam structure. Fellow Academy’s highest quality KFPs (correct answer count, nuanced distractors, guideline screenshots) Fellow Academy’s KFP questions are designed to replicate real exam conditions as closely as possible. This authenticity matters for exam readiness. It ensures that the skills you practise are the ones you will need on exam day. Complex vignettes, precise answer counts, and carefully designed distractors mirror the reasoning challenges used in the RACGP KFP. This approach aligns with RACGP guidance that candidates should practise applying knowledge through clinical reasoning and engage with practice style assessments to build familiarity and technique [1], [2] . Fellow Academy’s questions include: Realistic clinical scenarios that reflect exam level detail and complexity, including comorbidity and prioritisation [1], [2]. Clear answer count instructions, training accuracy in response structure and brevity [1]. Nuanced distractors that reflect genuine clinical errors candidates commonly make, improving decision discrimination [1]. Detailed explanations with guideline referencing, helping you understand and apply current Australian guideline logic in context [1], [4]. The emphasis here is not on passive exposure to content, but on the active application that the college emphasises. RACGP explicitly recommends using practice style resources to understand format, timing, and the expectations around concise, relevant answers that address key features [1], [2]. You can explore more high quality cases in our free KFP sample case pack. RACGP KFP format essentials for study focus Knowing the format you are working towards helps you study with purpose. RACGP guidance explains how KFP tasks expect candidates to identify key features, prioritise safe and relevant actions, and provide concise responses within strict time limits [1], [2] . Practical implications for your study: Prioritise key features: Train yourself to extract the main clinical problems and safety issues from a stem before you list actions [1] . Practise concise responses: Aim for brief, relevant statements rather than long narratives. This mirrors exam expectations and saves time [1] . Rehearse timing: Use timed sets to build a steady rhythm for reading, extracting features, and writing answers within the allowed period [2] . Use Australian guidelines: Anchor choices to current national guidance to reduce indecision and keep actions defensible [3] . For a deeper understanding of how to target the marking expectations, see our explainer on RACGP KFP exam structure. FAQs: GP Academy lectures vs exam style KFP questions 1. Are GP Academy lectures enough to pass the RACGP KFP exam? GP Academy lectures provide important foundational learning but generally require complementing with realistic KFP questions. The KFP is an exam of clinical reasoning and application, and RACGP guidance highlights the importance of applying knowledge in a clinical context and using practice style tasks to build technique [1], [2] . Trainees who combine both theory and practice consistently report greater improvement in confidence and performance [4] . 2. How can I prepare effectively for the RACGP KFP exam? Use a balanced combination of content learning, realistic question practice, structured revision, and regular guideline review. RACGP recommends familiarising yourself with format and timing using practice style assessments, then focusing on concise, relevant answers to key features [1], [2] . Add retrieval practice and spaced repetition to strengthen retention [5] , [6] . 3. Should my study emphasise notes or practice questions? Start with notes early if topics feel unfamiliar, then shift emphasis to realistic KFP questions as the exam approaches to build exam technique, timing, and decision making. This aligns with RACGP guidance to practise applying knowledge and with GPRA advice to use active, evidence based strategies [1] , [4] . 4. What study strategies help trainees perform well in the KFP exam? Combine spaced repetition, flashcards, peer based case discussions, and regular timed KFP practice. Review Australian guidelines after each session to close knowledge gaps and refine concise, relevant answers. This blends learning science with RACGP exam expectations [1] , [4] , [6] . 5.1GP Academy vs Fellow Academy, which is better for KFP preparation? GP Academy builds strong foundational knowledge. Fellow Academy builds strong exam technique through realistic KFP practice. The best outcomes come from integrating both, consistent with RACGP’s emphasis on applied knowledge, practice assessments, and familiarity with exam expectations [1], [2], [4] . Weekly study plan that fits a registrar schedule A plan that respects your clinic workload is more likely to be followed. Blend short active sessions on busy days with longer, structured blocks when you are off roster [1], [4], [6]. A simple template you can adapt: On clinic days: 20 to 30 minutes of hard KFP questions at lunch or after clinic, followed by a quick targeted guideline read and 10 minutes of flashcards [6] . On study days: Two focused 60 to 90 minute blocks. Start with a timed KFP set, then do a guided review against Australian guidelines, close with a short flashcard session [1], [3] . End of week: One full timed mini paper, brief reflection on missed marks, update your flashcards and priority list for the next week [2], [4] . For more ways to structure your exam preparation week, see effective KFP study planning. Best study order: hard KFP questions, notes, then flashcards Your study sequence matters as much as your study materials. Using a thoughtful structure helps you retain information longer and apply it more accurately. The cycle of hard KFP questions first, followed by notes, then flashcards, is grounded in strong education evidence on retrieval practice and spaced repetition, which improve retention and exam performance compared with passive study [5], [6]. This sequence also matches RACGP and GPRA guidance to move beyond reading into active application and timed practice [1], [4]. Here is how the cycle strengthens your learning: Start with hard KFP questions Activate retrieval and surface knowledge gaps before reviewing. This improves long term retention and highlights exactly what to study next [5], [6]. Review notes and guidelines Target the gaps you identified. Revisiting RACGP aligned notes and Australian guidelines after attempting questions makes study time efficient and clinically grounded [1], [3], [4]. Reinforce using flashcards Use spaced repetition and active recall to convert fresh learning into dependable memory that stands up under exam timing [6]. When repeated consistently, this study cycle transforms how you approach exam preparation. You are no longer passively consuming information. You are actively identifying what you do not know, strengthening it, then reinforcing it. This is one of the most powerful ways to build exam day confidence. For a deeper look at retention techniques, see our guide on spaced repetition for KFP success. If you feel uncertain or overwhelmed by your RACGP preparation, you do not have to navigate it alone. Fellow Academy offers high quality AKT and KFP questions, clear and comprehensive notes, and high yield flashcards designed to support you in studying with confidence and clarity. You will also find free KFP case packs, webinars, and step by step guidance designed to walk with you through the entire journey. 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). AKT and KFP examination guide, preparing for the FRACGP exams, expectations, answer format, timing, and preparation advice. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fellowship/gp-fellowship-exams [2] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2024). Exam support, practice assessments for AKT and KFP, format familiarisation and timing guidance. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/fellowship/exams/preparation-resources [3] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2022). RACGP curriculum and syllabus for Australian general practice. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/education/education-providers/curriculum [4] General Practice Registrars Australia. (2025). Study strategies for GP trainees, active learning, timed practice, feedback, and guideline alignment. Melbourne, VIC: GPRA. https://gpra.org.au/resources [5] Clemmons, K. R., Vuk, J., & Jarrett, D. M. (2023). Educational videos versus question banks, maximising medical student performance on a high stakes exam. Cureus, 15(4), e38110. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.38110 [6] Augustin, M. (2014). How to learn effectively in medical school, test yourself, learn actively, and repeat in intervals. Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 87(2), 207 to 212. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4031794/ 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary What GP Academy lectures do well (breadth and foundations) GP Academy lectures provide a strong, structured entry point into exam preparation. They help you build the broad foundational knowledge that the KFP expects, before you layer on more complex decision making. A structured lecture pathway helps you systematically revise core topics aligned to the Fellowship curriculum and common Australian primary care presentations, while keeping your study organised and less overwhelming [1], [3] . Key strengths of GP Academy lectures include: Breadth of coverage: You receive guided explanations across a wide range of GP topics that map to the RACGP curriculum and exam blueprint [3] . Strong foundations: Clarifies complex clinical guidelines and decision points so you can move from knowledge to application [1], [3] . Structured progression: A logical order reduces the cognitive load of planning your own sequence and supports steady knowledge consolidation [1] . Guideline alignment: Encourages use of current Australian guidelines and college resources so content remains contemporary and exam relevant [1], [3] . Supportive learning environment: A lower pressure space to understand concepts before applying them under exam conditions [1], [4] . As a GP trainee, these strengths matter. Your clinic work is already mentally demanding. You need your study to feel organised rather than chaotic. GP Academy lectures provide this, giving you a reliable base to build on. For many trainees, this structure is the first step in transforming overwhelm into clarity. For more ways to structure your exam preparation, see our guide on effective KFP study planning. Limitations of simplified or modified KFP MSQs Despite their appeal, simplified or modified MSQs often do not come close to the authentic complexity of real KFP exam questions. These questions are sometimes shorter, easier, or less clinically nuanced. While they can feel reassuring early in your study, they rarely prepare you for high level reasoning under pressure. Common limitations include: Overly short vignettes that remove contextual detail needed for clinical reasoning, unlike the fuller stems used in RACGP KFP style tasks [1]. Obvious answer choices that do not force you to discriminate between plausible options or prioritise actions [1]. No clear instruction on answer count, even though KFP tasks specify the number of responses required and expect concise, relevant answers [1], [2]. Weak explanations that do not reference authoritative Australian guidelines or articulate examiner style rationale [1], [4]. These simplified questions may create an impression that the exam is straightforward, when in reality the KFP requires depth, accuracy, and nuanced decision making. When trainees rely heavily on these types of questions, exam performance often plateaus because core exam skills have not been built. If you want to explore exam technique further, see our detailed breakdown of RACGP KFP exam structure. Fellow Academy’s highest quality KFPs (correct answer count, nuanced distractors, guideline screenshots) Fellow Academy’s KFP questions are designed to replicate real exam conditions as closely as possible. This authenticity matters for exam readiness. It ensures that the skills you practise are the ones you will need on exam day. Complex vignettes, precise answer counts, and carefully designed distractors mirror the reasoning challenges used in the RACGP KFP. This approach aligns with RACGP guidance that candidates should practise applying knowledge through clinical reasoning and engage with practice style assessments to build familiarity and technique [1], [2] . Fellow Academy’s questions include: Realistic clinical scenarios that reflect exam level detail and complexity, including comorbidity and prioritisation [1], [2]. Clear answer count instructions, training accuracy in response structure and brevity [1]. Nuanced distractors that reflect genuine clinical errors candidates commonly make, improving decision discrimination [1]. Detailed explanations with guideline referencing, helping you understand and apply current Australian guideline logic in context [1], [4]. The emphasis here is not on passive exposure to content, but on the active application that the college emphasises. RACGP explicitly recommends using practice style resources to understand format, timing, and the expectations around concise, relevant answers that address key features [1], [2]. You can explore more high quality cases in our free KFP sample case pack. RACGP KFP format essentials for study focus Knowing the format you are working towards helps you study with purpose. RACGP guidance explains how KFP tasks expect candidates to identify key features, prioritise safe and relevant actions, and provide concise responses within strict time limits [1], [2] . Practical implications for your study: Prioritise key features: Train yourself to extract the main clinical problems and safety issues from a stem before you list actions [1] . Practise concise responses: Aim for brief, relevant statements rather than long narratives. This mirrors exam expectations and saves time [1] . Rehearse timing: Use timed sets to build a steady rhythm for reading, extracting features, and writing answers within the allowed period [2] . Use Australian guidelines: Anchor choices to current national guidance to reduce indecision and keep actions defensible [3] . For a deeper understanding of how to target the marking expectations, see our explainer on RACGP KFP exam structure. 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. FAQs: GP Academy lectures vs exam style KFP questions 1. Are GP Academy lectures enough to pass the RACGP KFP exam? GP Academy lectures provide important foundational learning but generally require complementing with realistic KFP questions. The KFP is an exam of clinical reasoning and application, and RACGP guidance highlights the importance of applying knowledge in a clinical context and using practice style tasks to build technique [1], [2] . Trainees who combine both theory and practice consistently report greater improvement in confidence and performance [4] . 2. How can I prepare effectively for the RACGP KFP exam? Use a balanced combination of content learning, realistic question practice, structured revision, and regular guideline review. RACGP recommends familiarising yourself with format and timing using practice style assessments, then focusing on concise, relevant answers to key features [1], [2] . Add retrieval practice and spaced repetition to strengthen retention [5] , [6] . 3. Should my study emphasise notes or practice questions? Start with notes early if topics feel unfamiliar, then shift emphasis to realistic KFP questions as the exam approaches to build exam technique, timing, and decision making. This aligns with RACGP guidance to practise applying knowledge and with GPRA advice to use active, evidence based strategies [1] , [4] . 4. What study strategies help trainees perform well in the KFP exam? Combine spaced repetition, flashcards, peer based case discussions, and regular timed KFP practice. Review Australian guidelines after each session to close knowledge gaps and refine concise, relevant answers. This blends learning science with RACGP exam expectations [1] , [4] , [6] . 5.1GP Academy vs Fellow Academy, which is better for KFP preparation? GP Academy builds strong foundational knowledge. Fellow Academy builds strong exam technique through realistic KFP practice. The best outcomes come from integrating both, consistent with RACGP’s emphasis on applied knowledge, practice assessments, and familiarity with exam expectations [1], [2], [4] . 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next

Buy Now Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Buy Now High Yield and Surprise AMC Topics IMGs Should Not Skip Last updated: November 2025 Buy Now High Yield and Surprise AMC Topics IMGs Should Not Skip Last updated: November 2025 Home AKT/KFP CCE Cases CCE Coaching Clinical Team Topics Summary Testimonial Blogs Exam notes Menu Close Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP International Medical Graduates often feel the pressure of preparing for an exam that tests not only medical knowledge but also deep familiarity with Australian guidelines . The primary goal of this blog is to outline clearly the high yield and surprise AMC topics IMGs should not skip. It covers essential public health guidelines, ethical and legal obligations, occupational health scenarios, antenatal care specifics, paediatric developmental red flags, frequently examined dermatology and psychiatry conditions, and how a high quality AMC question bank can significantly boost exam readiness. Public Health, Screening, and Immunisation in the AMC Exam Public health scenarios frequently appear in AMC exams, yet candidates often underestimate their scoring weight. These questions test your grasp of Australian specific screening schedules , immunisation guidelines, and mandatory communicable disease reporting . Australia’s National Immunisation Program was updated in 2023, with Shingrix replacing Zostavax for adults aged 65 and 70 [1] . Cervical screening uses primary HPV testing with a Cervical Screening Test every 5 years for ages 25 to 74 [2] . The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program sends kits by mail to people aged 50 to 74 every 2 years, and from 45 to 74 you can also request a free kit [3] , [13] . BreastScreen Australia invites women aged 50 to 74 for a mammogram every 2 years [4] . Frequent exam triggers Patients who missed a scheduled cervical screen and need catch up guidance [2] . Clarifying HPV testing versus historic Pap testing [2] . Immunisation recommendations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in some regions, including pneumococcal and hepatitis A considerations [1] . Requests for early bowel screening at ages 45 to 49, explain mailed kits at 50 to 74 and request pathway at 45 to 49 [3] , [13] . When to escalate an abnormal screening result for specialist assessment [2] , [4] . Mandatory notification requirements for tuberculosis or hepatitis based on jurisdictional rules [1] . Practical GP example You are consulting a patient aged 52 who has never participated in bowel screening. The correct response is to provide and encourage FOBT every 2 years for ages 50 to 74 and explain that people 45 to 49 can request a free kit through the program [3] , [13] . Examiners expect this level of confidence and clarity. Ethics, Consent, and Mandatory Reporting in Australia Ethical scenarios test whether you communicate safely, ethically, and lawfully in the Australian context. They combine clinical reasoning with professional judgement to protect vulnerable patients. One crucial legal fact is that all Australian states require medical practitioners to report suspected child abuse [5] . This obligation applies even when the situation is uncertain or emotionally difficult. You must also understand mandatory notifications to AHPRA for impaired practitioners and professional conduct issues, alongside core principles of consent, confidentiality, and culturally safe practice captured in the national code of conduct [6] . All states legislated voluntary assisted dying by 2023, which requires sensitive, lawful responses aligned with local pathways [6] . Common exam scenarios A 15 year old requesting contraception without parental involvement, assess Gillick competence and provide confidential, safe care [6] . An elderly patient with cognitive impairment refusing treatment, assess decision making capacity and act in the patient’s best interests [6] . A presentation involving domestic violence, prioritise safety planning and privacy while following legal obligations [6] . A colleague with signs of impairment, follow mandatory notification requirements to protect patients [6] . A family seeking unproven therapy, provide evidence based advice and document shared decisions [6] . Practical GP example A teenager seeks emergency contraception and demonstrates maturity and understanding. Your duty is to assess competence, ensure safety, and provide appropriate care without breaching confidentiality, reflecting exactly what AMC examiners assess. Dermatology and Psychiatry Questions That Often Appear Dermatology and psychiatry appear more often than many IMGs expect. Australia’s disease patterns shape what examiners want you to recognise without delay. Dermatology focus Australia has one of the highest global skin cancer burdens. More than 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime, and melanoma is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer nationally [9] , [10] . AMC stems often include lesion images. Recognise asymmetry, border irregularity, colour variation, change over time, and choose timely excision or urgent referral. Psychiatry focus Australian surveillance shows about 22 percent of people aged 16 to 85 had a 12 month mental disorder in 2020 to 2022 and that suicide is the leading cause of death among Australians aged 15 to 24 years [11] , [12] . These realities underpin why psychiatry is consistently examined in the AMC. Key psychiatry topics Identifying depression and anxiety and initiating first line treatments with safe follow up [11] . Structured suicide risk assessment and immediate safety planning in primary care [12] . Recognising bipolar features and arranging urgent assessment when indicated [11] . Using Medicare funded Mental Health Treatment Plans to coordinate care [11] . Practical GP example A young adult describes hopelessness and passive suicidal ideation. Examiners expect a clear safety plan, risk assessment, and immediate follow up. This is non negotiable knowledge for safe Australian practice. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. What are the most important AMC public health topics IMGs must study Focus on the National Immunisation Program, cervical, bowel, and breast screening programs, and communicable disease reporting pathways. Know that HPV screening is every 5 years for ages 25 to 74 and that bowel kits are mailed to ages 50 to 74 every 2 years, with eligibility to request a kit from 45 to 74 [2] , [3] , [13] . 2. How does mandatory reporting affect AMC preparation Mandatory reporting laws, particularly that all Australian states require doctors to report suspected child abuse, are frequently tested. You must demonstrate accurate, timely decisions that protect patient safety [5] . 3. What dermatology conditions appear most frequently in AMC exams Skin cancers are dominant. More than 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime, and melanoma is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer. Expect lesion recognition and safe referral decisions [9] , [10] . 4. Why is understanding Australian psychiatry essential for AMC candidates Psychiatry appears consistently due to prevalence and risk. About 22 percent of Australians had a 12 month mental disorder in 2020 to 2022, and suicide is the leading cause of death among 15 to 24 year olds. Competent risk assessment and follow up are essential [11] , [12] . 5. Are AMC recalls enough to pass Recalls are helpful but not sufficient. Combine them with current Australian guidelines, screening schedules, ethics, and consistent practice with a high quality AMC question bank to ensure comprehensive coverage [1] , [2] , [3] , [4] , [5] , [6] . How a Good AMC Question Bank Prevents Unknown Exam Questions Practising AMC style question banks provides structured exposure to the exact patterns examiners rely on. This shifts you from passive reading to active problem solving in line with Australian guidance. What strong question banks deliver Repeated exposure to screening and immunisation rules aligned to current Australian programs [1] , [2] , [3] , [4] . Realistic legal and ethical scenarios covering child safety, capacity, and mandatory notifications [5] , [6] . Dermatology pattern recognition for melanoma and non melanoma skin cancers [9] , [10] . Paediatric and antenatal care mapped to local timelines and safety standards [8] . Confidence built through deliberate practice and feedback under time pressure. Practical GP example If you practise enough melanoma stems, you start noticing decisive patterns and lose hesitation when managing suspicious lesions. This confidence is exactly what examiners look for. Occupational Health, Antenatal Care, and Paediatric Red Flags Occupational medicine, antenatal care, and paediatrics often surprise candidates because Australian expectations differ from other systems. Examiners assess whether you apply structured, safety oriented protocols. Needlestick and blood, body fluid exposure Protocols expect immediate wound care, source risk assessment for HIV, hepatitis B and C, baseline testing, and documented follow up. Management should follow current national and jurisdictional post exposure guidance, including consideration of prophylaxis where indicated [7] . Antenatal care A major exam tested rule is universal screening for gestational diabetes with a 75 g OGTT at 24 to 28 weeks for all pregnancies [8]. You should know visit schedules, routine testing windows, and the recommendation for pertussis vaccination in each pregnancy per Australian guidance [1] . Paediatric mental health and development Almost 1 in 7, 13.9 percent, Australian children aged 4 to 17 experience a mental disorder in a given year which influences early detection and referral decisions [8] . High yield paediatric red flags No eye contact by 6 months. No words by 18 months. Regression in milestones at any age. Limping or refusal to bear weight. Persistent feeding difficulties or failure to thrive. Parental concern about development which must always be taken seriously. Practical GP example A 2 year old with no spoken words and persistent poor eye contact presents with parental concern. The correct approach is early referral for developmental assessment, hearing tests, and autism screening. AMC examiners repeatedly test recognition of these early red flags. If you are feeling overwhelmed by AMC or RACGP preparation, Fellow Academy offers structured AKT and KFP questions, concise exam notes , evidence based flashcards, free KFP cases, webinars, and guided study strategies to support 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. It is general study guidance only. Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, RACGP. It is general study guidance only. References [1] Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. 2023. National Immunisation Program Schedule. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia. https://www.health.gov.au/news/national-immunisation-program-changes-to-shingles-vaccination-from-1-november-2023 [2] Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. 2025. About the National Cervical Screening Program. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia. https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/national-cervical-screening-program/about-the-national-cervical-screening-program [3] Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. 2025. About the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia. https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/national-bowel-cancer-screening-program/about-the-national-bowel-cancer-screening-program [4] Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. 2025. BreastScreen Australia Program. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia. https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/breastscreen-australia-program [5] Bird, S. 2011. Child abuse mandatory reporting requirements. Australian Family Physician, 40 (11), 921 to 926. https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2011/november/child-abuse [6] Medical Board of Australia and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. 2020. Good medical practice, a code of conduct for doctors in Australia. Melbourne: AHPRA. https://www.medicalboard.gov.au/Codes-Guidelines-Policies/Code-of-conduct.aspx [7] Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. 2023. Australian Immunisation Handbook, Post exposure prophylaxis for blood borne virus exposures. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia. https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/resources/tables/table-post-exposure-prophylaxis-for-non-immune-people-exposed-to-a-source-that-is-positive-for-hepatitis-b-surface-antigen-or-has-an-unknown-status [8] Lawrence, D., Johnson, S., Hafekost, J., et al. 2015. The Mental Health of Children and Adolescents: Report on the second Australian child and adolescent survey of mental health and wellbeing. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia. https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/the-mental-health-of-children-and-adolescents?language=en [9] Cancer Council Victoria, SunSmart. 2025. Skin cancer facts and stats. Melbourne: Cancer Council Victoria. https://www.sunsmart.com.au/skin-cancer/skin-cancer-facts-stats [10] Cancer Council Australia. 2023. Skin cancer, incidence and mortality. Sydney: Cancer Council Australia. https://www.cancer.org.au/about-us/policy-and-advocacy/prevention/uv-radiation/related-resources/skin-cancer-incidence-and-mortality [11] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. 2025. Prevalence and impact of mental illness. Canberra: AIHW. https://www.aihw.gov.au/mental-health/overview/prevalence-and-impact-of-mental-illness [12] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. 2025. Suicide and self harm monitoring, Young people. Canberra: AIHW. https://www.aihw.gov.au/suicide-self-harm-monitoring [13] National Cancer Screening Register. 2025. Request a free bowel test kit, program eligibility and participation. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia. https://www.ncsr.gov.au/bowel-program/manage-your-participation-in-the-bowel-program/request-a-free-bowel-test-kit 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) Trial Fellow Academy for Free Complete the Form to Access 30 FREE KFP MSQs & AKTs + Invite to Our Free 2026.1 RACGP Exam Prep Webinar Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP Summary International Medical Graduates often feel the pressure of preparing for an exam that tests not only medical knowledge but also deep familiarity with Australian guidelines . The primary goal of this blog is to outline clearly the high yield and surprise AMC topics IMGs should not skip. It covers essential public health guidelines, ethical and legal obligations, occupational health scenarios, antenatal care specifics, paediatric developmental red flags, frequently examined dermatology and psychiatry conditions, and how a high quality AMC question bank can significantly boost exam readiness. Public Health, Screening, and Immunisation in the AMC Exam Public health scenarios frequently appear in AMC exams, yet candidates often underestimate their scoring weight. These questions test your grasp of Australian specific screening schedules , immunisation guidelines, and mandatory communicable disease reporting . Australia’s National Immunisation Program was updated in 2023, with Shingrix replacing Zostavax for adults aged 65 and 70 [1] . Cervical screening uses primary HPV testing with a Cervical Screening Test every 5 years for ages 25 to 74 [2] . The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program sends kits by mail to people aged 50 to 74 every 2 years, and from 45 to 74 you can also request a free kit [3] , [13] . BreastScreen Australia invites women aged 50 to 74 for a mammogram every 2 years [4] . Frequent exam triggers Patients who missed a scheduled cervical screen and need catch up guidance [2] . Clarifying HPV testing versus historic Pap testing [2] . Immunisation recommendations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in some regions, including pneumococcal and hepatitis A considerations [1] . Requests for early bowel screening at ages 45 to 49, explain mailed kits at 50 to 74 and request pathway at 45 to 49 [3] , [13] . When to escalate an abnormal screening result for specialist assessment [2] , [4] . Mandatory notification requirements for tuberculosis or hepatitis based on jurisdictional rules [1] . Practical GP example You are consulting a patient aged 52 who has never participated in bowel screening. The correct response is to provide and encourage FOBT every 2 years for ages 50 to 74 and explain that people 45 to 49 can request a free kit through the program [3] , [13] . Examiners expect this level of confidence and clarity. Ethics, Consent, and Mandatory Reporting in Australia Ethical scenarios test whether you communicate safely, ethically, and lawfully in the Australian context. They combine clinical reasoning with professional judgement to protect vulnerable patients. One crucial legal fact is that all Australian states require medical practitioners to report suspected child abuse [5] . This obligation applies even when the situation is uncertain or emotionally difficult. You must also understand mandatory notifications to AHPRA for impaired practitioners and professional conduct issues, alongside core principles of consent, confidentiality, and culturally safe practice captured in the national code of conduct [6] . All states legislated voluntary assisted dying by 2023, which requires sensitive, lawful responses aligned with local pathways [6] . Common exam scenarios A 15 year old requesting contraception without parental involvement, assess Gillick competence and provide confidential, safe care [6] . An elderly patient with cognitive impairment refusing treatment, assess decision making capacity and act in the patient’s best interests [6] . A presentation involving domestic violence, prioritise safety planning and privacy while following legal obligations [6] . A colleague with signs of impairment, follow mandatory notification requirements to protect patients [6] . A family seeking unproven therapy, provide evidence based advice and document shared decisions [6] . Practical GP example A teenager seeks emergency contraception and demonstrates maturity and understanding. Your duty is to assess competence, ensure safety, and provide appropriate care without breaching confidentiality, reflecting exactly what AMC examiners assess. Dermatology and Psychiatry Questions That Often Appear Dermatology and psychiatry appear more often than many IMGs expect. Australia’s disease patterns shape what examiners want you to recognise without delay. Dermatology focus Australia has one of the highest global skin cancer burdens. More than 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime, and melanoma is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer nationally [9] , [10] . AMC stems often include lesion images. Recognise asymmetry, border irregularity, colour variation, change over time, and choose timely excision or urgent referral. Psychiatry focus Australian surveillance shows about 22 percent of people aged 16 to 85 had a 12 month mental disorder in 2020 to 2022 and that suicide is the leading cause of death among Australians aged 15 to 24 years [11] , [12] . These realities underpin why psychiatry is consistently examined in the AMC. Key psychiatry topics Identifying depression and anxiety and initiating first line treatments with safe follow up [11] . Structured suicide risk assessment and immediate safety planning in primary care [12] . Recognising bipolar features and arranging urgent assessment when indicated [11] . Using Medicare funded Mental Health Treatment Plans to coordinate care [11] . Practical GP example A young adult describes hopelessness and passive suicidal ideation. Examiners expect a clear safety plan, risk assessment, and immediate follow up. This is non negotiable knowledge for safe Australian practice. 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 (FAQ) 1. What are the most important AMC public health topics IMGs must study Focus on the National Immunisation Program, cervical, bowel, and breast screening programs, and communicable disease reporting pathways. Know that HPV screening is every 5 years for ages 25 to 74 and that bowel kits are mailed to ages 50 to 74 every 2 years, with eligibility to request a kit from 45 to 74 [2] , [3] , [13] . 2. How does mandatory reporting affect AMC preparation Mandatory reporting laws, particularly that all Australian states require doctors to report suspected child abuse, are frequently tested. You must demonstrate accurate, timely decisions that protect patient safety [5] . 3. What dermatology conditions appear most frequently in AMC exams Skin cancers are dominant. More than 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime, and melanoma is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer. Expect lesion recognition and safe referral decisions [9] , [10] . 4. Why is understanding Australian psychiatry essential for AMC candidates Psychiatry appears consistently due to prevalence and risk. About 22 percent of Australians had a 12 month mental disorder in 2020 to 2022, and suicide is the leading cause of death among 15 to 24 year olds. Competent risk assessment and follow up are essential [11] , [12] . 5. Are AMC recalls enough to pass Recalls are helpful but not sufficient. Combine them with current Australian guidelines, screening schedules, ethics, and consistent practice with a high quality AMC question bank to ensure comprehensive coverage [1] , [2] , [3] , [4] , [5] , [6] . 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) Which exam are you sitting next?* AKT only KFP only Both AKT and KFP Next