If you’re an international medical graduate (IMG) aspiring to practice medicine in Australia, you’re likely already aware of the Australian Medical Council (AMC) exams. These crucial assessments evaluate your medical knowledge and clinical skills to ensure you meet the standards expected of Australian-trained doctors. But a common question among aspiring candidates is: How often is the AMC exam conducted?
In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the AMC CAT MCQ Examination (AMC-1) and the AMC Clinical Examination (AMC-2), including their frequency, scheduling procedures, and what you need to know to plan effectively for success.
Understanding the AMC Examination Process
Before diving into how frequently the exams are held, it’s important to understand what the AMC exams involve. The process typically includes two main stages:
- AMC CAT MCQ Exam (AMC-1) – A computer-adaptive test focused on theoretical medical knowledge.
- AMC Clinical Exam (AMC-2) – A practical, performance-based exam that evaluates clinical competence through scenarios and interactions with simulated patients.
Each of these stages plays a pivotal role in your journey toward securing medical registration in Australia.
AMC CAT MCQ Examination (AMC-1): Conducted Multiple Times a Year
The AMC CAT MCQ Exam, commonly referred to as AMC-1, is the first and most accessible part of the Australian Medical Council examination process. It is designed to assess your knowledge in clinical subjects such as medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics, and more.
Frequency of the AMC-1 Exam:
The good news is that the AMC MCQ exam is conducted multiple times a year, making it highly flexible for candidates from around the world. After your application is approved, the AMC provides you with a 12-month authorization period. This gives you an entire year to schedule and sit for the exam at a date and location that suits your preparation timeline.
These exams are conducted both in Australia and at selected overseas centers, and because they are computer-based, sessions are offered regularly. This frequent availability ensures that IMGs can plan their exam based on personal readiness and other commitments.
How to Schedule AMC-1:
- Apply online via the AMC candidate portal.
- Once approved, you’ll receive an authorisation letter valid for 12 months.
- You can then choose from the available exam dates listed on the AMC’s official website.
- Booking early is advisable, especially if you’re targeting a specific location or month.
Tip:
Keep checking the AMC website for updated exam schedules, as slots can fill up quickly in popular centers.
AMC Clinical Examination (AMC-2): Conducted Three Times a Year
Once you clear the MCQ exam, you become eligible to appear for the AMC Clinical Exam (AMC-2). This is a more rigorous and hands-on test of your ability to handle real-world clinical scenarios.
Frequency of the AMC-2 Exam:
Unlike the MCQ test, the AMC Clinical Exam is held less frequently. It is typically scheduled three times a year, with exam dates running from February to November. These sessions are held at designated centers in Australia.
Due to its practical nature, the number of seats is limited, and the demand is high. It’s critical to plan ahead and monitor the available dates as they are announced by the AMC.
How to Schedule AMC-2:
- You must first pass the AMC-1 exam.
- Keep an eye on AMC announcements for upcoming clinical exam schedules.
- Once dates are released, register quickly to secure a slot.
- Most clinical exams are conducted at AMC’s National Test Centre in Melbourne.
Key Differences in Exam Scheduling
| Exam | Frequency | Location | Booking Window |
| AMC-1 (CAT MCQ) | Multiple times a year | Australia & Overseas | 12-month authorization |
| AMC-2 (Clinical) | 3 times a year | Australia only (usually Melbourne) | Limited slots; early booking required |
Why This Scheduling Matters
Understanding the frequency and timing of the AMC exams helps you better organize your preparation, travel (if needed), and visa arrangements. It also impacts how quickly you can move forward with provisional registration, supervised practice, and ultimately, general registration with the Medical Board of Australia.
If you’re planning a smooth and efficient transition into the Australian medical system, it’s essential to stay updated on exam availability, book early, and ensure you’re fully prepared.
Get Expert Support Through AMC Preparation Courses
If you’re unsure about how to begin your preparation or when to take the exams, a structured learning plan can make a significant difference. Enrolling in a well-designed AMC Exam Course by Academically can provide you with expert-led guidance, mock test simulations, and updated content aligned with the current exam format. This type of structured support not only improves your chances of passing but also helps you confidently choose the right time to sit the exams.
Final Thoughts
To summarise:
- AMC CAT MCQ Exam (AMC-1) is offered multiple times a year, with a 12-month authorisation period for booking.
- AMC Clinical Exam (AMC-2) is conducted three times annually, from February to November, with limited seating.
- Always check the official AMC website for the most accurate and up-to-date exam dates.
- Early planning and structured preparation are crucial to success.
Whether you’re just beginning your AMC journey or you’re preparing for your next step, knowing how often the AMC exams are conducted helps you build a realistic timeline toward your goal of becoming a registered doctor in Australia.
