Navigating the RACGP Fellowship Exams: A Guide for Future GPs

Becoming a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP) is a significant milestone for any doctor pursuing a career in general practice in Australia. The RACGP Fellowship exams are designed to assess your readiness for unsupervised, comprehensive general practice across the country. But what do these exams involve, and how can you best prepare for them?

Understanding the RACGP Fellowship Exams

The RACGP Fellowship assessment comprises three key exams, each targeting different aspects of clinical competence:

1. Applied Knowledge Test (AKT)

• Format: 150 multiple-choice questions (single best answer)

• Duration: 3.5 hours

• Focus: Clinical knowledge applied in the context of Australian general practice

• Tip: This exam tests breadth of knowledge, so a wide reading base is essential. [racgp.org.au]

2. Key Feature Problem (KFP)

• Format: 70 multiple-selection questions linked to clinical scenarios

• Duration: 3.5 hours

• Focus: Clinical reasoning and decision-making

• Tip: Precision matters—selecting more options than specified can result in penalties. [acegp.com.au]

3. Clinical Competency Exam (CCE)

• Format: Nine clinical cases over two days, including:

  • Four case discussions with an examiner

  • Five clinical encounters with role players

• Focus: Real-time clinical reasoning, communication, and professionalism

• Tip: Delivered remotely via Zoom, so practice in a similar format is beneficial. [gpexams.com]

Eligibility Requirements

To sit the RACGP Fellowship exams, candidates must be enrolled in one of the approved training programs:

• AGPT (Australian General Practice Training)

• RVTS (Remote Vocational Training Scheme)

• FSP (Fellowship Support Program)

• PEP (Practice Experience Program)

Additional requirements include:

• Current AHPRA medical registration

• Active RACGP membership

• Completion of required training time and education milestones

Preparing for Success

Preparation is key to passing the RACGP exams. Here are some proven strategies:

1. Start Early

Begin your study at least 6–12 months before the exams. This allows time to integrate learning into your clinical practice and avoid burnout.

2. Use High-Yield Resources

The best study support is to use the excellent https://www.passgp.au/passgp-academy where you can access:

• Mock exams

• Flashcards

• Case banks

• Structured study notes aligned with RACGP standards

3. Practice Under Exam Conditions

Simulate real exam scenarios with timed mock tests. This builds stamina, improves time management, and helps identify weak areas. [racgpexam.com]

4. Join Study Groups

Collaborative learning helps with case discussions, challenging questions, and motivation. It’s also a great way to share resources and insights. [racgp.org.au]

5. Watch RACGP Webinars

RACGP offers webinars and videos led by exam advisors that explain exam formats, preparation tips, and common pitfalls. [racgp.org.au]

Final Thoughts

The RACGP Fellowship exams are rigorous but achievable with the right preparation and mindset. They are not just a test of knowledge but a reflection of your readiness to serve communities across Australia with competence and compassion.

Whether you're a local graduate or an international medical professional, passing these exams opens the door to a fulfilling career in general practice. So plan wisely, study smart, and embrace the journey toward Fellowship.