Are you an international medical graduate (IMG) preparing for the AMC Part 1 MCQ Exam? We know how overwhelming it can be. The exam tests your knowledge and skills to check if you are ready to practice medicine in Australia.
For this exam, one of the most trusted preparation tools is the AMC Handbook of Multiple Choice Questions. This official handbook is given by the Australian Medical Council (AMC). It provides practice questions and detailed explanations. This is an essential resource for any IMG preparing for the exam.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the AMC Handbook of MCQs. All you need to know about its features, benefits, pricing, how to use it, and preparation tips.
What is the AMC Part 1 MCQ Exam?
Before getting into the details of the AMC MCQ handbook, it’s important to understand the exam it supports.
Feature | Details |
Exam Name | AMC Part 1 – Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) Exam |
Format | Computer-based test at Pearson VUE centres |
Questions | 150 Single Best Answer (SBA) MCQs |
Duration | 3.5 hours |
Subjects Covered | Medicine, Surgery, Paediatrics, OBGYN, Psychiatry, General Practice |
Passing Score | 250 out of 500 |
The AMC Part 1 exam is a critical step for IMGs seeking registration to practice medicine in Australia. Do you think you can take the AMC MCQ exam?
About the AMC Handbook of Multiple Choice Questions
The AMC Handbook of Multiple Choice Questions is a major publication designed to support IMGs in their preparation for the AMC Part 1 MCQ Exam.
- It contains nearly 600 practice questions sourced from the AMC’s official exam banks.
- Covers all medical disciplines and clinical categories.
- Includes a complete 150-question multidisciplinary MCQ paper to simulate real exam conditions.
- Available in print and eBook formats, purchasable from the AMC online store or other online stores.
Key Features of the AMC Handbook of MCQs
Here’s why this handbook is highly recommended for AMC Part 1 aspirants:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Includes questions from all medical specialties.
- Exam-Style Questions: It is similar to the actual single-best-answer (SBA) format of AMC.
- Detailed Explanations: Each question comes with an explanation for better understanding.
- Full-Length Practice Paper: A 150-question multidisciplinary paper to simulate exam conditions.
- Official Source: Developed by the Australian Medical Council, so that its authentic and reliable.
How to Use the AMC Handbook Effectively
Simply owning the handbook isn’t enough. You need a strategic approach:
- Start Early: Use the handbook once your start preparing for the exam, not just a few weeks before the exam.
- Simulate Exam Conditions: Practice 150 questions in one sitting to replicate the 3.5-hour exam duration.
- Track Weak Areas: Review incorrect answers and revisit related theory.
- Multiple Revisions: Go through all questions 2–3 times for mastery.
- Combine with Other Resources: Include the AMC Trial Exam, textbooks, and online question banks for a comprehensive approach.
AMC Handbook Pricing and Availability
You can purchase the AMC Handbook directly from the official AMC online store.
Version | Approx. Price | Availability |
AUD 150–200 | AMC Store and other online stores | |
eBook | AUD 120–150 | AMC Store and other online stores |
Avoid free PDFs online. They are often outdated or pirated. Always buy from the official AMC website to ensure authenticity.

Tips to Maximize Success Using the AMC Handbook
- Focus on Clinical Reasoning: AMC questions assess safe and effective medical practice, not rote memorization.
- Practice Time Management: Allocate ~80 seconds per question during timed sessions.
- Identify Patterns: Recognize recurring themes and frequently tested conditions.
- Revise Incorrect Answers: Don’t just move on; understand why an answer was wrong.
- Use Multiple Resources: Combine the handbook with textbooks, online question banks, and the AMC preparation resources.
AMC MCQ Preparation Resources
Many IMGs look for ways to practice before the AMC Part 1 MCQ Exam. There are several trusted resources to help you prepare effectively:
Resource | Description | Format | Benefit |
AMC Handbook of Multiple Choice Questions | Nearly 600 practice questions covering all medical disciplines; includes a full 150-question multidisciplinary paper | Print / eBook | Helps candidates understand exam style, practice questions, and simulate real exam conditions |
MCQ Preparation App | Free online tool with 210 practice questions; immediate feedback on answers | Online / Mobile | Practice anytime, get instant feedback, follow actual AMC MCQ style |
MCQ Examination Specifications | Official guide outlining exam structure, content, and sample questions | PDF / Online | Understand exam requirements, content areas, and question types |
Apart from this, you can also enroll in Academically’s AMC Preparation course. You will get:
- Live and recorded lectures
- Books and Study materials
- AMC Practice question
- AI-based mock tests
- Personalised Guidance from AMC Experts
Pick the AMC Handbook Now
The AMC Handbook of Multiple Choice Questions is a must-have resource for any IMG preparing for the AMC Part 1 MCQ Exam. It helps you:
- Understand the exam format and style
- Practice real exam questions
- Identify weak areas and improve
- Gain confidence before sitting for the actual exam
Are you ready to boost your AMC Part 1 preparation? Get your copy of the AMC Handbook of Multiple Choice Questions today from the official AMC online store and start practicing with confidence!
If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to our experts at Academically. They will be happy to help you.