Australian Medical Council (AMC) Guide to Become a Doctor in Australia Fees, Eligibility 2024

The Australian Medical Council (AMC) was established to provide guidance to international medical graduates throughout the process of obtaining skilled admissions in Australia. The AMC serves as the official authority in Australia, responsible for assessing the qualifications of medical graduates for the purpose of registration with the Medical Board of Australia.
In September 2021, the Australian Medical Council (AMC) is responsible for assessing the qualifications of international medical graduates (IMGs) who wish to practice medicine in Australia. Becoming a doctor in Australia involves several steps, and the AMC plays a crucial role in the process.

Becoming a doctor in Australia involves several steps, and it's a lengthy and rigorous process. Here is a general overview of the pathway to becoming a doctor in Australia

Australian Medical Council (AMC) Guide Step by Step

Undergraduate Education: Complete a medical degree program at a recognized university. This typically takes about 5-6 years.
Internship: After graduating from medical school, Australian medical graduates must complete a one-year internship at a hospital. During this time, they gain practical experience and rotate through various medical specialties.
Postgraduate Training: After completing the internship, doctors can apply for various specialty training programs. These programs vary in length and depend on the chosen specialty (e.g., surgery, paediatrics, internal medicine, etc.). The training can take several years to complete.
Australian Medical Council Exam: For international medical graduates (IMGs), the AMC conducts assessments to determine their eligibility to work as a doctor in Australia. IMGs may need to pass the AMC exams, including the AMC Clinical Exam and the AMC MCQ Exam.
Medical Board Registration: Once all the required training and assessments are successfully completed, graduates, including IMGs, need to apply to the Medical Board of Australia for registration to practice medicine in the country.
Residency and Fellowship: After gaining registration, doctors can apply for residency positions or fellowship programs to further specialize in a particular area of medicine.

It's important to note that the process may vary for different states or territories within Australia, and there may have been updates or changes in the requirements or processes since my last update. Therefore, for the most up-to-date and accurate information on becoming a doctor in Australia, I recommend referring to the official website of the Australian Medical Council (AMC) and the Medical Board of Australia, as well as consulting with relevant medical schools and licensing authorities.

After becoming a doctor in Australia, there is no specific list of pre-approved occupations. Instead, you can apply to job openings that align with your credentials and experience, typically through healthcare career portals like NSW Health, among others.

The AMC recognizes doctors who excel in their field and are committed to delivering high-quality healthcare services. However, apart from the regular AMC exam and the job search process, success primarily relies on one's talent, hard work, and dedication.

Once you have completed your AMC exam preparation, the next step is to apply for medical positions in Australia.

How to Become a Doctor in Australia

The Standard Pathway is designed for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking to become doctors in Australia with the Medical Board. This option is available for IMGs who do not qualify for the Accountable Authority Pathway or the Specialist Pathway.

To become a registered medical practitioner in Australia through the Standard Pathway, IMGs need to follow three distinct steps:

Primary Source Verification: The first step involves undergoing a Primary Source Verification of their medical qualifications through organizations like the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) or the EPIC (Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials). This verification process ensures that the IMG's medical qualifications meet the required standards.
AMC MCQ-CAT Exam: The second step is to take the AMC Multiple-Choice Question Computer Adaptive Test (MCQ-CAT) Exam. This exam assesses the IMG's medical knowledge and clinical reasoning abilities. The MCQ-CAT format adapts the difficulty of the questions based on the candidate's performance, ensuring a more accurate evaluation.
AMC Clinical Exam: The final step is the AMC Clinical Exam, which evaluates the IMG's practical clinical skills and competence. This exam typically includes simulated patient encounters and assessments to assess the candidate's ability to diagnose and manage medical cases effectively.

Successfully completing these three steps enables IMGs to qualify for registration as medical practitioners in Australia, allowing them to practice medicine in the country.

Eligibility Requirements for the Australian Medical Council

To be eligible to sit for the Australian Medical Council (AMC) exams as an International Medical Graduate (IMG), you need to establish what is called a portfolio. Follow these steps to begin the process:

Create an AMC Registration: Start by creating a registration on the AMC website. Check the website to ensure that your medical school is recognized by the AMC, as they recognize most, but not all, medical schools.
EPIC Account and ECFMG Confirmation: Create an EPIC account and confirm your identity with the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). Once EPIC confirms your credentials to the AMC, you can proceed to request to sit for the AMC Part 1 Examinations.
AMC Part 1 Examination: There is no work experience requirement to sit for the AMC Part 1 Examination. You can start preparing for this exam whenever you feel ready.

Here are the general steps to become a professional medical doctor in Australia:

Meet High School Prerequisites: Ensure you meet the high school prerequisites, especially in science subjects like biology and chemistry.
Attend an Accredited 4-Year University: Enroll in and complete a medical degree program at a recognized and accredited Australian university, which typically takes 4 years.
Take an Entrance Exam: For IMGs, this may involve taking the AMC exams, including the Part 1 and Part 2 Clinical Examinations.
Internship: After graduating from medical school, undertake a one-year internship at a hospital to gain practical experience.
Medical Registration: Apply for medical registration through the Medical Board of Australia after successfully completing the necessary exams and requirements.
Specialty Medical Training: If you wish to specialize in a specific field of medicine, you can obtain fellowship through a specialty medical training program.

It's important to note that there is no age limit for medical school or becoming a doctor in Australia. Regardless of your age, focus on acquiring the necessary qualifications and skills to be a competent and compassionate doctor.

Please keep in mind that the information provided is a general overview, and specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances and the current policies of the AMC and relevant authorities. Always refer to the official AMC website and other relevant sources for the most up-to-date information.

BECOMING A DOCTOR IN AUSTRALIA: HOW TO PASS THE AMC CLINICAL EXAM

The AMC Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) MCQ Examination is a computer-based, fully integrated multi-choice question exam that takes place in examination centers worldwide. It is a 3.5-hour session designed to assess candidates' medical knowledge and clinical reasoning abilities.

The examination comprises 150 A-type MCQs (Multiple-Choice Questions) where you need to select one correct response from five options. Among these questions, 120 are scored items, and 30 are non-scored pilot items. Candidates are required to attempt all 150 items, but it is crucial to complete the 120 scored items to obtain a reliable result on the AMC adaptive scale. Failure to complete the scored items may result in the recording of the outcome as 'Fail—Insufficient data to obtain result.'

The content blueprint for the examination determines the number of questions allocated to each patient group, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of various medical domains.

How to apply for Australian Medical Council (AMC) Exam

To apply for the AMC Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) MCQ Examination, follow these step-by-step instructions:

Visit the AMC Website: Go to the official Australian Medical Council (AMC) website at https://candidates.amc.org.au/users/login.

Create an Account: If you do not have an account on the AMC website, you will need to create one. Provide the required information to register as a candidate.
Log In: Use your registered credentials to log in to your candidate account on the AMC website.
Application Form: Once logged in, locate the application form for the CAT MCQ Examination. You can find this form under the relevant section or menu on the website.
Complete the Form: Fill out the CAT MCQ Examination application form with accurate and up-to-date information. Ensure that you provide all required details and complete the form thoroughly.
Submission: After completing the form, submit it online through the AMC website.

Alternatively, if you prefer to request a paper form for the CAT MCQ Examination, follow these steps:

Send an Email: Compose an email to mcq@amc.org.au, requesting a CAT MCQ Examination Form.
Provide Information: In your email, include your full name, contact details, and any other necessary information as requested by the AMC.
Form Delivery: Wait for the AMC to send you the CAT MCQ Examination Form to the email address you provided.
Complete the Form: Once you receive the paper form, fill it out completely and accurately.
Submission: Send the completed paper form back to the AMC using the provided instructions.

After successfully submitting your application, the AMC will process it, and if approved, you will receive authorization to schedule the CAT MCQ Examination within a 12-month period. It's essential to carefully review the AMC's guidelines and requirements during the application process to ensure a smooth and successful application.

Payment Assistance for CAT Exam-

If you require financial assistance for the AMC Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) MCQ Examination, you can apply for the Assessment Subsidy for Overseas Trained Professionals Program (ASDOT). Here's how the process works:

ASDOT Application: Apply for ASDOT assistance, but please note that you can only apply for assistance for one CAT MCQ examination event.
Authorization to Schedule: Once your application for ASDOT assistance has been processed and approved, you can then apply for an authorization to schedule the CAT MCQ examination.
Submission of Documents: Submit both the CAT MCQ Examination Form: Application for Authorisation to Schedule for a CAT MCQ Examination Event and the original 'Agreement to Pay' letter to the AMC. The 'Agreement to Pay' letter will specify the examination event authorized for payment.
ASDOT Funding Conditions: There are certain conditions that apply to ASDOT funding:
ASDOT funding is available only for candidates scheduling for examination events in Australian venues.

The 'Agreement to Pay' letter will indicate the authorized examination event for payment.

Candidates must schedule for the examination event specified in the 'Agreement to Pay' letter before the event's closing date. If a candidate cannot schedule for the identified event, they should contact Australian Education International for alternative options, ensuring that ASDOT eligibility criteria are met.

If a candidate fails to attend the CAT MCQ examination event or cancels after the closing date, the AMC will claim full payment from the ASDOT program, and the candidate will not be eligible for further ASDOT funding for a CAT MCQ examination event. For detailed information on ASDOT assistance and the application process, you can visit the Australian Education International (AEI) website at www.aei.gov.au. Be sure to thoroughly review the guidelines and requirements to ensure a successful application for financial assistance for the CAT MCQ Examination.

Events and dates for AMC- CAT Exam

The AMC CAT MCQ Examination events and dates are organized by Pearson VUE, which also handles online scheduling for candidates. Here are some key points to consider regarding the exam events:

Venue and Scheduling: Pearson VUE provides venues for the AMC CAT MCQ Examination, and candidates can schedule their examination event appointments online through Pearson VUE.
12-Month Authorization: Once authorized by the AMC, candidates have a 12-month period during which they can select the most suitable CAT MCQ examination event.
Changes Before Closing Date: Candidates are allowed to change their examination events and venues without penalty as long as the changes are made before the closing date of the selected event.
No Changes After Closing Date: However, no changes to the selected examination event or venue are permitted after the closing date for that event.

To access the available CAT MCQ examination dates, candidates should visit the official AMC website at www.amc.org.au. On the website, you will find information about upcoming examination dates and venues. It's essential to keep track of the website for any updates or changes to the examination schedule.

Candidates are advised to plan their examination date selection carefully and consider their preparation level to ensure the best chance of success on the AMC CAT MCQ Examination.

Venues for AMC CAT MCQ Exam

The AMC CAT MCQ Examination events are conducted at various venues in Australia and New Zealand. Here are some important details about the venues:

Examination Events in Australia and New Zealand: In Australia and New Zealand, the examination events are large-scale, and there is typically only one appointment time for candidates to sit for the exam.
Examination Events in Other Countries: For examination events held in countries other than Australia and New Zealand, there may be multiple appointment times available, depending on the regulations of the Pearson VUE center in that location. Candidates should check the confirmation notice forwarded by Pearson VUE to determine their specific appointment time.
Arrival Time: Regardless of the venue, all candidates must arrive at the examination center at least 30 minutes before their appointment time. This ensures sufficient time for check-in procedures and preparation before the examination begins.

For specific information about CAT MCQ examination venues in Australia and New Zealand, candidates can refer to the official AMC website or the communication provided by Pearson VUE during the scheduling process.

It's crucial for candidates to be well-prepared and familiar with the examination format before the exam day. Arriving early at the venue allows for a smooth and stress-free experience, ensuring that candidates can focus on performing at their best during the AMC CAT MCQ Examination.

How to Prepare AMC CAT MCQ Exam-

The AMC has developed a range of publications, which serve not only as study aids for international medical graduates preparing for the AMC examinations but also as invaluable resources for clinical practice.

To access these resources, you have the option to purchase AMC textbooks directly from our online store. Additionally, you can explore a suggested reading list that includes other beneficial publications.

As you gear up for the CAT MCQ examination, it is crucial to follow these steps to enhance your preparation:

Familiarize Yourself with the CAT MCQ Examination User's Guide, available at: www.amc.org.au/images/publications/exam-users-guide.pdf. This guide provides essential information about the structure and format of the examination.
Take Advantage of the MCQ Online Trial Examination, accessible at: www.amc.org.au/index.php/ass/catex/mcq-trial. This trial examination allows you to practice and become comfortable with the CAT MCQ format.

By utilizing these resources, you can optimize your readiness for the CAT MCQ examination and significantly enhance your chances of success. The AMC is committed to supporting your journey towards becoming a proficient medical professional.

How to get AMC CAT MCQ Exam Results

The AMC CAT MCQ Examination results are managed and issued directly by the AMC, not by Pearson VUE. For candidates who have achieved a pass in the CAT MCQ examination event, their candidate numbers will be made public on the AMC website. This publication typically occurs about four weeks after the examination and will remain available for another four weeks, after which the information will be removed.

Candidates can expect to receive their AMC examination results (AMC results letter and candidate feedback sheet) by mail at the address provided in the candidate tracking system. To ensure the delivery of results to the correct address, it is essential to notify the AMC of any address changes. This can be done by contacting the AMC Call Centre at +61 2 6270 7878 at least one week before the scheduled date for result mail-out. Alternatively, candidates can complete a Notification of Change of Address Form, available on the website: www.amc.org.au.

The AMC is dedicated to providing candidates with accurate and timely examination results, enabling them to stay informed about their performance and progress in their medical journey.

AMC MCQ Exam Pass Rate Statistics

Based on recent data, the MCQ Exam had a total of 569 applicants during a weeklong period (18th – 23rd November 2019). Out of these, 264 candidates took the exam at non-Australian venues, while the remaining applicants were Australian.

A total of 323 candidates passed the exam during this evaluation period, resulting in a pass rate of 56.76%, which is now above half.

According to legitimate reports, the annual pass rate for the years 2018 – 2019 was 62.6%, showing a slight decrease of 1.7% compared to the 64.3% pass rate in 2017 – 2018.

These statistics indicate that Australian doctors often find themselves competing with International Medical Graduates (IMGs) for residency and course-work positions required to secure licenses in their chosen specialty.

The AMC website contains records of all examination takers, a suggestion also made by a successful candidate. With the information provided, you should now have a better understanding of the process to become a doctor in Australia.

Having gained insights into the AMC MCQ exam, it's essential to share tips on how best to prepare for this crucial examination.

Effective preparation is crucial for success in the AMC exam. Here are some useful tips to help you get ready:

Time Dedication: Determine how much time you can commit to daily study sessions. Ideally, dedicating 8-10 hours of sincere study per day can be effective. However, the duration ultimately depends on your dedication and hard work.
Study Duration: With consistent effort, 4 months may be sufficient for preparation. Create a study schedule that suits your needs and stick to it diligently.
Schedule Management: Allocate specific hours of the day for solving recalls and dedicated time for self-study. Organize a proper study schedule to stay on track.
Recommended Books: Utilize the best AMC MCQ Exam preparation handbooks, recommended by the Australian Medical Council. These books provide valuable content and insights for your exam preparation.
Recall Practice: Solve recall questions for MCQs, covering at least the past 5 years, and if possible, up to 10 years. Collaborate with study partners for faster and engaging practice sessions.

For additional unconventional study methods to maximize your learning potential, explore further resources to prepare for the AMC MCQ exam. This will help you enhance your readiness and gain valuable information about the Australian Medical Council.

By combining these tips with a focused and determined approach to your studies, you can ensure that your preparations are on track, increasing your chances of success in the AMC exam.

The Australian Websites for jobs

Both the Australian Government and private placement agencies have established various online portals to assist in job applications and job searches. Some of the most popular websites for finding medical job opportunities are:

health.qld.gov.au
health.nsw.gov.au
jobs.health.wa.gov.au
doctorconnect.gov.au
search.jobs.wa.gov.au

While these portals can be beneficial, it's important to remember that competition for medical positions can be fierce. Merely applying online may not be sufficient to secure a job. Consistent practice and improvement of your skills and qualifications are crucial to stand out among other candidates.

Continuously practicing and refining your medical expertise can make a significant difference in your job search. As the job market is competitive, it's essential to showcase your strengths and commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare services.

Keep in mind that getting a job in the medical field may require patience and persistence. Stay dedicated to enhancing your abilities, and take advantage of the available resources and job portals to maximize your chances of finding a suitable medical position.

Australian Medical Council (AMC) Guide to Become a Doctor in Australia