Australian Medical Council (AMC) Exam Complete Guide For International Medical Graduates (IMGs)

May 12, 2025 3 min read
AMC Exam

Key Takeaways

  •  The AMC exam evaluates the competence and eligibility of international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking to practise medicine in Australia.
  • The exam consists of two components: the AMC Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) exam and the AMC Clinical Examination (CE).
  • Moving to Australia as a doctor offers many benefits, from a good salary to better living standards, the list goes on.

Australian Medical Council (AMC)

Australia has long been an attractive destination for international medical professionals seeking opportunities to practise medicine.

With its high standards of healthcare, excellent work-life balance, multicultural society, and favourable living conditions, Australia offers numerous advantages for doctors looking to build successful and fulfilling careers. 

But to practise medicine in Australia, doctors need to undergo an exam called the Australian Medical Council Exam (AMC Exam). 

In 2022-23, 4468 IMGs sat for the AMC MCQ exam, with 2987 candidates taking the exam for the first time. The pass percentage for this session was 47%. For the same year, the number of candidates for the AMC Clinical Exam was around 2053, with first-time candidates making up nearly 863 candidates, and a pass percentage of 21%.

What is the Australian Medical Council Exam?

The Australian Medical Council exam, or the AMC exam is a significant milestone for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking to practise medicine in Australia. 

It assesses the competence and eligibility of IMGs, ensuring that they meet the required standards to provide safe and effective healthcare facilities in Australia.

Let us now look at some of the AMC exam details

Why is the AMC Exam Conducted?

The AMC exam is conducted primarily to evaluate the knowledge, skills, and professional attributes of IMGs. Its objectives include:

  • Assessing the clinical knowledge and understanding of medical sciences.
  • Evaluating clinical skills, including history-taking, physical examination, diagnostic reasoning, and clinical management.
  • Determining the communication skills and professionalism of candidates.
  • Ensuring that IMGs meet the requirements for registration and practice in Australia.

When is the AMC Exam Conducted?

The Australian Medical Council (AMC) conducts the AMC MCQ exam multiple times throughout the year to provide flexibility to candidates. 

The exact exam dates can vary each year, and it is important to check the official AMC website for the most up-to-date information.

However, the AMC exam is conducted several times annually, with exams held in various locations across Australia and other countries.

Also Check: AMC Exam Dates 2025

Pearson VUE provides the venues for the AMC MCQ Examination and controls the online scheduling for AMC candidates to obtain an examination event appointment.

Note: You can change examination events and venues without penalty before the closing date for the event, but no changes will be allowed after the closing date.

What is the eligibility for the AMC Exam?

To be eligible for the AMC exam, candidates must meet the criteria:

  • Primary Medical Qualification: You must hold a primary medical qualification obtained from a medical school listed and recognised by the AMC. Alternatively, your medical degree should be deemed comparable to Australian medical standards by the AMC
  • Medical Registration History: You should provide information about your medical registration history.

Must Read: AMC Exam Eligibility Criteria

How is the AMC Exam Conducted?

The AMC exam consists of two main components: the Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) and Clinical Examination (CE).

Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) Exam:

  • Format: Computer-based exam comprising multiple-choice questions.
  • Duration: A total of one 3.5-hour examination consisting of 150 questions
  • Syllabus: Covers medical sciences, clinical knowledge, and principles of clinical practice.
  • Assessment: Tests the candidate's ability to apply medical knowledge in clinical scenarios.

Related Article: AMC CAT MCQ Structure

Clinical Examination (CE):

  • Format: Practical exam conducted in-person or online.
  • Duration: Approximately 8 hours, including a break.
  • Syllabus: Assesses clinical skills, diagnostic reasoning, communication, and professionalism.
  • Assessment: Tests the candidate's ability to apply clinical knowledge and skills in simulated clinical scenarios.

Related Article: AMC Clinical Exam Guide

When will the results be announced?

AMC MCQ Results: AMC candidates will be able to download results via their AMC candidate account once they have been released four weeks following the AMC CAT MCQ Examination.

AMC Clinical Exam Results: Candidate feedback will be available to download from your candidate portal at 4.00 pm next Friday, three weeks following the AMC Clinical examination.

How long will the results be valid?

Once you have passed the AMC CAT MCQ Examination, your results will remain valid indefinitely. Your AMC CAT MCQ examination result will never expire.

What are the benefits of being a doctor in Australia?

High Quality Healthcare System

Australia boasts a renowned healthcare system that consistently ranks among the best globally. As a doctor in Australia, you will have the opportunity to work within a well-structured healthcare system that emphasises patient care, evidence-based medicine, and professional development.

Work-Life Balance

Australia values a healthy work-life balance, allowing doctors to enjoy their personal lives while pursuing a fulfilling medical career. With reasonable working hours, generous leave entitlements, and a supportive work culture, doctors in Australia can have a positive work-life balance.

Professional Development Opportunities

Australia prioritises ongoing professional development, providing doctors with numerous opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge. The country has a robust system of continuing medical education, research programs, and specialty training pathways. 

This commitment to professional growth ensures that doctors in Australia can continuously stay up to date and pursue their desired career progression.

Competitive Salaries and Benefits

Doctors in Australia enjoy a good salary and attractive benefits. The country offers a fair and transparent salary structure, ensuring that doctors are compensated well for their expertise and dedication. 

Also Read: AMC Exam Fees

How to Prepare for the AMC Medical Exam?

Preparing for the AMC exam requires dedication, extensive study, and practice. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare effectively:

  • Familiarise Yourself with the Exam: Understand the format, content, and assessment criteria of both the AMC MCQ and AMC Clinical exams. This knowledge will assist you in developing an effective study plan.
  • Utilise Study Resources: Make use of recommended study resources, including textbooks, online materials, practice questions, and mock exams. The AMC Handbook of Multiple Choice Questions and clinical textbooks are valuable resources to consider.
  • Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that covers all the relevant topics. Allocate sufficient time for revision and practice, ensuring a balanced approach to cover theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
  • Practice Time Management: Time management is critical during the exam. Practice solving MCQs within the allocated time frame and simulate the CE exam conditions to improve your efficiency and decision-making skills.
  • Seek Support: Consider joining study groups or enrolling in coaching programs designed for the AMC exam. Collaborating with peers and receiving guidance from experienced mentors can be beneficial.
  • Self-Assessment and Feedback: Regularly assess your progress and seek feedback from peers, tutors, or mentors. Mock exams and practice scenarios can help identify areas for improvement and enhance your performance.

Must Read Article: AMC Exam Syllabus

Conclusion

The Australian Medical Council test is a significant step toward pursuing a medical career in Australia for international medical graduates. By understanding the purpose, structure, and preparation strategies, you can approach the exam with confidence and increase your chances of success.

Remember, consistent effort, effective study techniques, and a positive mindset are key to conquering challenges.

If you are looking for a good coaching class to ace your exam, check out Academically. An ed-tech that provides a comprehensive course for the doctors preparing for AMC Examination.

Fill up this form for a free one-on-one counselling session.

FAQs

Q. Do I need to take the AMC exam to work in Australia?

A. Yes. If you’ve received your medical degree outside of Australia (International Medical Graduate IIMGs), then you need to take the AMC Exam to work in Australia.

Q. Can I take the AMC Exam in my home country?

A. The AMC exam is tough. Make sure you understand the subject weightage and prepare accordingly. Use resources available online, coaching classes, previous year questions, etc.

Q. What is AMC Exam 1?

A. The AMC Exam consists of two parts. First one is the AMC CAT MCQ, a computer based, theoretical exam. This is the AMC Exam-1. The second is the AMC Clinical Exam.

Q. What are the passing marks for the AMC Exam?

A. For the AMC MCQ Exam, you need 50% marks, or 250 score to pass. For AMC Clinical Exam, you need to clear 9 out of 14 stations to pass the exam.

Q. Is the AMC exam expensive?

A. Taking the AMC exam can be quite expensive. The average cost for registration for AMC Exam 1 is around 3000 AUD ( 1,60,000 INR approx). AMC Clinical exam costs even more.

Dr. Akram Ahmad
Dr. Akram Ahmad
about the author

Dr. Akram Ahmad is a clinical pharmacist and lecturer with over 10 years of teaching and research experience across various subjects of medicine in India, Malaysia and Australia. He is an educationist and a medpreneur with extensive knowledge of the global healthcare diaspora. Through his articles, videos and engaging sessions, he always aims to impart unexplored knowledge about the healthcare world to interested students and professionals.