What Is the AMC and Why Does It Matter?

The Australian Medical Council (AMC) is the national body responsible for assessing international medical graduates (IMGs) who wish to practise medicine in Australia. For most overseas doctors, passing the AMC examinations is a mandatory step on the path to full medical registration with AHPRA.

The AMC assessment process consists of two main components: the AMC MCQ (Computer Adaptive Test) and the AMC Clinical Examination. Together, these exams verify that your medical knowledge and clinical skills meet Australian standards. Successfully completing both is a core requirement of the Standard Pathway, which is the most common route for overseas doctors who do not hold a qualification from a recognised Competent Authority country.

Understanding how the AMC process works — and planning your preparation accordingly — is one of the most important steps you can take early in your journey to Australia.

The AMC MCQ Examination

The AMC MCQ is a computer-adaptive test that assesses your core medical knowledge across a broad range of clinical disciplines. It is the first exam most overseas doctors will sit, and passing it is a prerequisite for the clinical examination.

Key facts about the AMC MCQ:

  • Format: Computer-adaptive multiple-choice test with 150 questions.
  • Content: Covers medicine, surgery, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, psychiatry, and public health, among other disciplines.
  • Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours.
  • Availability: Offered at Pearson VUE test centres worldwide throughout the year.
  • Eligibility: You must hold a primary medical qualification listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools.

Preparation is critical. Many candidates use a combination of AMC-specific question banks, standard medical textbooks, and peer study groups. For a detailed breakdown of study strategies, recommended resources, and exam-day tips, visit our AMC MCQ page.

The AMC Clinical Examination

After passing the MCQ, you must complete the AMC Clinical Examination. This is a practical assessment that tests your ability to take a history, perform a physical examination, interpret investigations, and manage clinical scenarios in an Australian healthcare context.

Key facts about the AMC Clinical Exam:

  • Format: Multi-station OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) with 16 stations.
  • Content: Covers the same broad clinical disciplines as the MCQ, with an emphasis on clinical reasoning, communication, and procedural skills.
  • Location: Held at the AMC National Test Centre in Melbourne, with some sessions at additional locations.
  • Duration: A full day of examination.

The clinical exam requires hands-on preparation. Many candidates undertake structured clinical courses, practise with standardised patients, and form study groups with other IMGs. For comprehensive guidance on preparing for and passing the clinical exam, see our AMC Clinical Exam page.

After the AMC: Your Next Steps

Passing both AMC examinations is a major milestone, but it is not the final step. Once you hold your AMC certificate, you will need to:

  • Apply for AHPRA registration — Submit your application through AHPRA to obtain medical registration in Australia. See our AHPRA registration page for full details.
  • Complete an internship or supervised practice — Depending on your pathway, you may need to complete a period of supervised practice in an approved Australian hospital. The Standard Pathway page explains the requirements.
  • Meet English language requirements — Ensure your English test scores remain valid. Visit our English Requirements page for accepted tests and score thresholds.
  • Secure a visa — You will need a valid work visa to practise in Australia. Explore the 482 visa, 186 visa, or other options in our Visas section.
  • Find employment — With your registration and visa in place, you can begin applying for medical positions. Our job search guide and salary guide will help you navigate the Australian medical job market.

For an overview of all available registration routes — including the Competent Authority pathway, Specialist pathway, and GP pathway — visit our Pathways section.

Important Planning Note

This page is designed as practical guidance for overseas doctors and should be used alongside official requirements published by AHPRA, the AMC, relevant specialist colleges, and the Department of Home Affairs.

Rules, fees, and processing times can change. Before lodging any application, verify current criteria directly with official sources listed on our Resources page.