About AMC Exam
The Australian Medical Council (AMC) exam assesses the international medical graduates (IMGs) knowledge, clinical skills, and professional attitudes. This is to check if it has what it takes to work in the Australian healthcare system.
There are two parts to the AMC exam:
1. AMC MCQ Exam – A computer-based multiple-choice test that checks your theoretical knowledge.
2. AMC Clinical Exam – A practical, scenario-based exam that tests your communication and clinical decision-making skills in an Australian healthcare setting.
Alternatively, some eligible candidates can opt for Workplace-Based Assessment (WBA) or Pre-employment Structured Clinical Interview (PESCI).
Once you pass both stages, you’re eligible to apply for the AMC Registration with AHPRA, a key requirement to register as a doctor in Australia.
Related Article: AMC Exam Eligibility Criteria
Let’s break down the entire process step by step.
Step 1: Get Your Medical Degree Verified Through EPIC
Before anything else, your medical degree must be verified. This is done through EPIC (Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials), which is managed by the ECFMG.
Here’s what you do:
- Create an EPIC account
- Upload your primary medical qualification
- Request EPIC to send your verified report directly to AMC
Without EPIC verification, you can’t move forward with the AMC process.
Also Read: AMC Australia’s EPIC Verification and AMC Portfolio
Step 2: Open an AMC Portfolio
Once EPIC is done and dusted, your next move is to create an AMC portfolio. This is your official account with the AMC, and you’ll use it to apply for exams, receive results, and track your progress.
- Register on the AMC candidate portal
- Pay the AMC portfolio fee
- Wait for confirmation, then you’re good to go
Also Read: AMC Candidate Account Guide
Step 3: Prepare and Pass the AMC MCQ Exam
Now it’s time for your first big hurdle: the AMC MCQ Exam.
What to expect:
| Number of Questions | 150 multiple-choice (single best answer) |
| Duration | 3.5 hours |
| Exam Format | Online or at approved test centres |
| Passing Score | Minimum 250 out of 500 |
Preparation tips:
- Stick to AMC-suggested resources (handbooks, question banks, guidelines)
- Focus on general medicine, surgery, OBG, paediatrics, psychiatry, and public health
- Practice under timed conditions and analyse your mistakes
Pro tip: Get your basics strong and revise often. For best results, join Academically’s AMC Preparation Course.
Step 4: Clear the AMC Clinical Exam, Workplace-Based Assessment (WBA), or Pre-Employment Structured Clinical Interview (PESCI)
After you pass the MCQ exam, the next step is to demonstrate your clinical skills. You actually have three options to choose from, depending on your situation:
| Option | Description | Key Points | Ideal For |
AMC Clinical Exam
| 16-station (2 rest stations) clinical exam assessing communication, diagnosis, and clinical judgment | Pass 9 out of 14 stations | IMGs are ready to take a formal clinical exam |
Workplace-Based Assessment (WBA)
| 6-month supervised clinical assessment at an AMC-accredited hospital | Requires a job at a participating hospital; includes mini-CEXs, case discussions, and multisource feedback | IMGs are already working clinically in Australia |
| Pre-Employment Structured Clinical Interview (PESCI) | Clinical interview by an AMC-accredited assessor before starting supervised practice | Assesses readiness for supervised practice | IMGs with a job offer, looking to start supervised practice |
Step 5: Get Your AMC Certificate
Once you pass both the MCQ and Clinical (or WBA), you’ll receive your AMC Certificate. This is proof that you’ve met the Australian standards for medical knowledge and clinical skills.
This certificate is your golden ticket to apply for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
Step 6: Apply for Registration with AHPRA
Once you get an AMC certificate, you can now apply for provisional or limited registration to start working under supervision in Australia.
After you complete your supervised practice and meet the other criteria, you’ll be eligible for general registration. This allows you to work independently as a doctor in Australia.
Also Read: What is AHPRA- Role, Functions And Registration Process Explained
Final Words
The AMC exam journey is no walk in the park, but it’s absolutely doable with the right strategy, discipline, and mindset. Every step has its purpose. And once you’re through it, the reward is worth it: a fulfilling medical career in one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the world.
Take it one step at a time. Trust the process. Prepare smartly.
If you need any support or guidance through this journey or want to start your preparation, fill out this form. You will receive free one-on-one personalised guidance from our AMC expert.
