For many Indian medical graduates, Australia represents more than just an overseas destination. It represents better training exposure, structured work-life balance, global recognition, and long-term career stability. But the moment you start researching how to practice medicine in Australia, one acronym appears everywhere: AMC.
The Australian Medical Council (AMC) exam process can seem confusing at first, eligibility rules, multiple pathways, document verification, exams, registration authorities, all layered together. The truth is, the process is systematic, transparent, and achievable, if you understand it correctly from the beginning.
This blog explains the AMC exam eligibility, required documents, and the different registration pathways for Indian medical graduates.
What Is the AMC and Why Is It Important?
The Australian Medical Council (AMC) is the national body responsible for assessing the qualifications and knowledge of international medical graduates (IMGs) who wish to practise medicine in Australia.
It’s important to understand one key point early on:
The AMC does not give you medical registration. Instead, it assesses your credentials and exams. Final registration is granted by the Medical Board of Australia (AHPRA).
For Indian MBBS graduates, the AMC process is the gateway to entering Australia’s medical workforce.
Who Is Eligible for the AMC Pathway?
You are generally eligible to apply through the AMC if:
- You hold a primary medical qualification (MBBS/MD)
- Your medical college is recognised by the AMC
- You have completed (or will complete) a 12-month internship
- Your qualification can be primary source verified
Indian MBBS degrees from recognised institutions are widely accepted, making most Indian graduates eligible for the AMC Standard Pathway.
AMC Pathways for Indian Medical Graduates
Australia offers multiple pathways for IMGs, depending on qualifications and experience.
Overview of AMC Pathways
| Pathway | Who It Is For | AMC Exams Required |
| Standard Pathway | Medical graduates trained outside Australia For example: Indian MBBS graduates | AMC MCQ + Clinical Exam or WBA |
| Competent Authority Pathway | Doctors trained/worked in the UK, USA, Canada, etc. | No AMC exams (if eligible) |
| Specialist Pathway | Doctors with overseas specialist qualifications | Specialist assessment |
| Short-Term Training Pathway | Temporary specialty training | Case-dependent |
Indian medical graduates fall under the Standard Pathway.
The Standard Pathway: Step-by-Step Explanation
Step 1: Primary Source Verification (PSV)
Before anything else, your medical degree must be verified directly from your university through AMC’s verification system (currently via MyIntealth / EPIC).
This step confirms:
- Authenticity of your degree
- Date of graduation
- Awarding institution
Step 2: Create Your AMC Account & Portfolio
Once verification begins, you create an AMC candidate account, which becomes your central dashboard for:
- Exam applications
- Credential tracking
- Pathway progress
Step 3: AMC Examinations
To obtain the AMC Certificate, you must pass:
AMC Examination Structure
| Exam | Description |
| AMC CAT MCQ Exam | 150 computer-adaptive MCQs testing clinical knowledge across medicine, surgery, paediatrics, OBG, psychiatry, and ethics |
| AMC Clinical Exam (OSCE) | Practical assessment of clinical skills, communication, diagnosis, and management |
| Workplace-Based Assessment (WBA) | A 6–12 month supervised clinical assessment conducted in an Australian workplace in case you don’’t want to take the AMC Clinical exam |
You must pass the MCQ plus either the Clinical Exam or WBA to receive the AMC Certificate. The best way to pass the AMC exam could be to enrol in Academically’s AMC Preparation Course. You will get live and recorded lectures, study materials, practice questions, AI-based mock tests, and personalised guidance.
Documents Required for the AMC Process
Having documents ready, correctly formatted and certified can significantly reduce delays.
Essential Document Checklist
| Document | Purpose |
| Passport (photo page) | Identity verification |
| MBBS/MD Degree Certificate | Core qualification |
| Internship / CRRI Certificate | Proof of 12-month internship |
| EPIC / MyIntealth verification | Degree authentication |
| Recent passport-size photograph | Profile creation |
| English language test (IELTS/OET/PTE)* | Registration requirement |
| Medical registration certificate (if available) | Professional standing |
| Good standing certificate (if applicable) | Registration history |
* English language proof is assessed by AHPRA, not the AMC but preparing early avoids last-minute hurdles.
English Language Requirements (AHPRA)
While AMC focuses on assessment, final registration is handled by AHPRA, which requires:
- IELTS Academic or OET Medicine
- Meeting minimum scores in one sitting or approved combinations
- Compliance with recency of practice standards
These requirements are mandatory before starting work as a doctor in Australia.
How Long Does the AMC Pathway Take?
The timeline varies based on preparation, exam availability, and verification speed.
Estimated Timeline
| Stage | Approximate Duration |
| Degree verification (PSV) | 2–4 months |
| MCQ preparation | 3–6 months |
| MCQ to Clinical/WBA | Variable (mostly 1-2 months) |
| Clinical Exam or WBA | 3–6 months |
Once you pass the AMC exams, you have to register with the AHPRA. After that you can start applying for jobs and get your work permit. If you are worried about where to find jobs as a doctor, you can check out Jobslly. It is a platform especially for healthcare professionals looking for jobs.
Is the AMC Pathway Worth It?
The AMC pathway is structured, merit-based, and globally respected. While it demands time, preparation, and patience, it offers Indian medical graduates a clear, achievable route into one of the world’s most stable and doctor-friendly healthcare systems.
If you approach it with the right information, early documentation, and realistic timelines, Australia is not a distant dream, it’s a well-planned career move.
For more information and guidance you can reach out to the experts at Academically.
