The Australian Medical Council (AMC) Exam is a key requirement for international medical graduates who wish to practice medicine in Australia. For Indian MBBS graduates, this exam is part of the Standard Pathway used to obtain medical registration in the country.
Before starting preparation, it is important to understand the exam structure and syllabus. This guide provides a simple overview of the AMC exam format, stages, and subjects covered in 2026.
AMC Exam Structure
The AMC examination process consists of two stages, and candidates must clear the first stage before moving on to the next.
The two stages of the AMC exam include:
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AMC MCQ Examination (Part 1)
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AMC Clinical Examination (Part 2)
These assessments are designed to ensure that international doctors possess the knowledge and clinical skills necessary to work safely in the Australian healthcare system.
AMC MCQ Exam Pattern (Part 1)
The AMC MCQ exam is the first step for international medical graduates. It is conducted as a computer-based test at authorized testing centers worldwide.
Important details of the AMC MCQ exam:
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150 multiple-choice questions
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Single best answer format (one correct option out of five choices)
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Exam duration of approximately 3.5 hours
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Conducted on a computer-based testing platform
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Evaluates clinical knowledge and decision-making ability
The exam assesses knowledge at the level expected from final-year medical students in Australia.
Results are reported on a scale from 0 to 500, and the approximate passing score is around 250. While some scoring standards have been updated for 2026, the overall exam format remains unchanged.
AMC Clinical Exam Pattern (Part 2)
Candidates who pass the MCQ exam are eligible to apply for the AMC Clinical Examination.
This stage focuses on assessing a doctor's practical clinical abilities and patient management skills.
Key aspects of the AMC Clinical Exam:
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Multiple clinical assessment stations
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Realistic patient scenarios with simulated patients
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Each station lasts about 10 minutes
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Includes time for reading instructions and completing the task
During the exam, candidates rotate through several stations where they may be required to perform tasks such as:
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Taking a patient’s medical history
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Conducting physical examinations
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Making clinical diagnoses
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Communicating effectively with patients
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Planning treatment and patient management
To pass the clinical exam, candidates must demonstrate competence in handling realistic clinical situations across different stations.
AMC Exam Syllabus
The AMC exam syllabus focuses on core medical knowledge and clinical practice required for safe and effective patient care.
Basic Medical Sciences
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Anatomy
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Physiology
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Pathology
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Pharmacology
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Microbiology
Clinical Subjects
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Internal Medicine
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Surgery
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Pediatrics
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Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Psychiatry
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Emergency Medicine
In addition to theoretical knowledge, the exam also evaluates clinical reasoning, diagnosis, investigation planning, and patient management skills.
Conclusion
The AMC exam plays a crucial role for Indian doctors planning to pursue a medical career in Australia. It assesses both theoretical medical knowledge and practical clinical competence to ensure that international doctors meet the standards of the Australian healthcare system.
By understanding the exam format and focusing on key clinical concepts, Indian MBBS graduates can prepare effectively, clear the AMC exam, and move closer to practicing medicine in Australia.
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