FRACP
Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians
Overview
The Royal Australasian College of Physicians examinations (RACP Exams) are designed to determine whether doctors undertaking Basic Training have reached the standard required to progress toward advanced physician training. Assessment of competence occurs through a two-part examination process, which evaluates both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills.
The first component is the Divisional Written Examination (DWE), which focuses on assessing a trainee’s understanding of medical science and clinical medicine. This is a theory-based examination that uses formats such as Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Extended Matching Questions (EMQs). The DWE examines a broad range of topics relevant to physician practice, including pathophysiology, diagnosis, investigation, and management of common and important medical conditions. It tests not only factual knowledge but also the ability to apply that knowledge to clinical scenarios and make sound, evidence-based decisions.
The second component is the Divisional Clinical Examination (DCE), often referred to as the “clinical exam.” This practical assessment evaluates how trainees perform in real patient-based settings. Candidates are required to examine and assess two Long Case patients, where they take a comprehensive history, perform a detailed physical examination, synthesise findings, and present a coherent diagnosis and management plan. In addition, candidates complete four Short Cases, which are more focused assessments designed to test specific examination skills, recognition of clinical signs, and diagnostic reasoning across different body systems.
Together, the Long and Short Cases allow examiners to assess a trainee’s clinical competence, communication skills, professionalism, and ability to manage patients effectively. The DCE places strong emphasis on safe practice, clear clinical reasoning, and the capacity to interact appropriately with patients and examiners.
Overall, the combination of the Divisional Written and Clinical Examinations provides a comprehensive evaluation of whether a trainee has the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours expected of a physician at the completion of Basic Training.
Other Exams:
AFOEM Exam
The AFOEM (Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine) Stage B Written Examination consists of two 3-hour papers featuring 10 scenario-based short-answer questions, designed to test the application of knowledge in occupational health, rehabilitation, and environmental medicine. It is a high-stakes summative assessment, usually requiring Stage A completion, with a pass mark set via the Modified Angoff method.
AFPHM Exam
The Australasian Faculty of Public Health Medicine (AFPHM) Oral Examination is a critical component of RACP advanced training, typically involving scenario-based questions that assess a candidate’s ability to apply public health principles—such as epidemiology, policy, and health promotion—to practical, simulated situations. It focuses on systematic analysis, ethical reasoning, and strategic decision-making.
Preparation
RACP exam preparation requires a structured, multi-resource approach focusing on both written and clinical components. Key strategies include using MKSAP, question banks (e.g., Passmedicine), and RACP Learning Series, creating a detailed study timetable, joining prep courses, and practicing long/short cases with peers. Early, consistent study—even during work—and using techniques like the Pomodoro method are highly recommended.
RACP Exam Eligibility
Eligibility to sit the RACP Divisional Written Examination (DWE) is determined by a set of training, registration, and administrative requirements that ensure candidates are appropriately prepared and in good standing before attempting this key assessment.
To be eligible, trainees must be formally registered with the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) as Basic Physician Trainees. This includes trainees who are currently active in the program as well as those who are on an approved period of interruption, provided they maintain their eligibility status. In addition, candidates must have completed a minimum of 24 months of certified Basic Training, measured as full-time equivalent (FTE). This requirement ensures that trainees have accumulated sufficient supervised clinical experience across a broad range of medical settings before being assessed on their theoretical knowledge.
Beyond time-based training, candidates must have successfully completed all mandatory training requirements associated with Basic Training. These may include workplace-based assessments, supervisor reports, rotations across required specialties, and satisfactory progression reviews. Candidates must also remain within the permitted limits on examination attempts, as set by RACP policy, to ensure fairness and progression within the training program.
Finally, eligibility is contingent on being financially up to date with the College, including payment of all relevant training and examination fees by the specified deadlines. Together, these criteria ensure that only trainees who have completed the required clinical experience, met professional and educational standards, and complied with administrative obligations are permitted to sit the Divisional Written Examination.
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