Applying To The Amc

TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Q U I C K G U I D E O N A P P LY I N G
T O T H E A U S T R A L I A N
M E D I C A L C O U N C I L
A u s t r a l i a n M e d i c a l C o u n c i l
“The purpose of the Australian Medical Council is to ensure that standards of education, training
and assessment of the medical profession promote and protect the health of the Australian community.”
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
“The purpose of the Australian Medical Council is to ensure that standards of education, training and
assessment of the medical profession promote and protect the health of the Australian community.”
© 2010 by the Australian Medical Council Limited.

First edition June 2010.
Copyright for this publication rests with the Australian Medical Council Limited.
Published and distributed by:
Australian Medical Council Limited
PO Box 4810
KINGSTON ACT 2604
Email: amc@amc.org.au
Phone: +61 2 6270 7878
Fax: +61 2 6270 9799
Website: www.amc.org.au
ABN: 97 131 796 980
ISBN: 978-1-875440-76-4
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted,in
any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, except as
permitted by the Copyright Act 1968, without the prior permission of the copyright owner.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Foreword..................................................................................................................................1
Important note: Change in registration requirements ..............................................................3
ABOUT THE AUSTRALIAN MEDICAL COUNCIL .........................................................4

Primary Source Verification......................................................................................................4
Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) Examination........................................................................4
Clinical Examination.................................................................................................................5
AMC Pathways overview.........................................................................................................5
Competent Authority Pathway............................................................................................6
Specialist Area of Need Pathway.......................................................................................8
Specialist Pathway.............................................................................................................7
Standard Pathway (AMC Examination) .............................................................................6
Standard Pathway (Workplace-based assessment) .........................................................7
English Language Proficiency requirements............................................................................8
APPLYING THROUGH THE STANDARD PATHWAY (AMC EXAMINATION) .............10

Section 1: Getting started – applying to the AMC and providing the documentation needed..........10
Step 1: Requirements......................................................................................................10
Step 2: Apply online ........................................................................................................10
Step 3: Complete Form P-1 (Non-specialist) ..................................................................11
Step 4: Complete form for Primary Source Verification....................................................11
Step 5: Provide supporting documentation......................................................................12
Step 6: Provide other information that may be needed to support application.................13
Step 7: Send in application forms....................................................................................13
Section 2: Applying to sit for the MCQ Examination in the Standard Pathway (AMC
Examination)..........................................................................................................................15
Candidates scheduled in an Australian or New Zealand (on-shore) venue.....................16
Candidates scheduled in a Non-Australian (off-shore) venue..........................................16
Change of venue..............................................................................................................16
How to Schedule for an MCQ Examination......................................................................16
Overview of the MCQ Examination..................................................................................15
Request for duplicate copies of AMC results...................................................................18
Results.............................................................................................................................17
Verification of Results.......................................................................................................17
Withdrawal fees................................................................................................................16
Section 3: Applying to sit for the Clinical Examination in the Standard Pathway (AMC
Examination)..........................................................................................................................18
AMC Certificate................................................................................................................20
How to apply for the Clinical Examination........................................................................19
Overview of Clinical Examination.....................................................................................18
Primary Source Verification of qualifications....................................................................22
Request for duplicate copies of AMC results...................................................................20
Results – AMC Clinical Examination ...............................................................................19
Scheduling Criteria for the AMC Clinical Examination.....................................................19
Summary of Standard (AMC Examination) Pathway.......................................................20
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
APPLYING IN THE COMPETENT AUTHORITY PATHWAY ........................................23

Step 1: Requirements............................................................................................................23
Step 2: Apply online...............................................................................................................23
Step 3: Complete Form P-1 (Competent Authority) ..............................................................24
Step 4: Complete form for Primary Source Verification.........................................................24
Form P-1 (Competent Authority) checklist.......................................................................24
STEP 5: Provide supporting documentation..........................................................................25
Identity: Personal Identification........................................................................................25
Name Confirmation..........................................................................................................25
Qualifications: Primary Medical Degree/Diploma.............................................................25
Step 6: Provide other information that may be needed to support application......................26
Name and change of address on application forms.........................................................26
Step 7: Send in application forms..........................................................................................26
Eligibility for Advanced Standing......................................................................................27
Eligibility for AMC Certificate............................................................................................27
Summary of Competent Authority Pathway.....................................................................27
Third Party Consent (Authority to Receive Information)...................................................27
APPLYING THROUGH THE AMC SPECIALIST PATHWAY ........................................30

Step 2: Apply online...............................................................................................................30
Step 3: Complete Form P-1 (Specialist) ...............................................................................31
Form P-1 .........................................................................................................................31
Step 4: Complete form for Primary Source Verification.........................................................31
Form SB...........................................................................................................................31
Form SC...........................................................................................................................31
Form P-1 (specialist) checklist ..............................................................................................32
Step 5: Provide supporting documentation along with Form SB............................................33
Documentary evidence of specialist qualifications...........................................................33
Requirements for Lodgement of Form SB.......................................................................33
Step 6: Provide all other supporting documentation..............................................................35
English Language Proficiency..........................................................................................35
Identity: Personal Identification........................................................................................35
Qualifications: ..................................................................................................................35
Advice Regarding Timing of Form SC Lodgement ..........................................................37
Australian or Australasian Specialist Qualifications ........................................................38
Common Errors made when lodging Application Forms .................................................38
Schedule of fees for specialist assessment.....................................................................37
Summary of Specialist Pathway.......................................................................................38
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
APPLYING THROUGH THE AREA OF NEED (AON) SPECIALIST PATHWAY..........41

Action by State and Territory Health Authorities...............................................................42
Step 3: Arrangements relating to the issuing of visas to overseas trained doctors................43
Step 4: Apply online ..............................................................................................................44
Step 5: Complete application forms ......................................................................................44
Attachment to Application Form.......................................................................................45
Form AON-SB..................................................................................................................44
Form P-1 (AON) ..............................................................................................................44
Form P-1 (AON) ..............................................................................................................44
Form P-1 (AON) checklist................................................................................................46
Primary Source Verification..............................................................................................44
Schedule of fees for AON specialist assessment.............................................................45
Step 6: Provide supporting documentation along with Form AON-SB...................................47
Concurrent Area of Need/Specialist assessment.............................................................49
Documentary evidence of specialist qualifications...........................................................47
Requirements for Lodgement of Form AON-SB...............................................................47
Step 7: Provide all other supporting documentation .............................................................49
Qualifications: ..................................................................................................................49
Australian or Australasian Specialist Qualifications ........................................................52
Common Errors made when lodging Application Forms .................................................52
Summary of AON Specialist Pathway..............................................................................52
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS............................................................................55

EICS.......................................................................................................................................55
Standard Pathway (Non-specialist)........................................................................................55
Competent Authority..............................................................................................................55
MCQ Examinations................................................................................................................55
Clinical Examinations.............................................................................................................56
Primary Source Verification....................................................................................................56
APPENDIX A: NEW PROOF OF IDENTITY REQUIREMENTS FOR AMC

ASSESSMENT PATHWAYS..........................................................................................57
Acceptable Documents..........................................................................................................57
Photographs.....................................................................................................................58
Requirements and Common Problems ...........................................................................57
Requirements for Certifying Documentation .........................................................................59
Statutory Declarations/Affidavit Witnessed Overseas......................................................60
Statutory Declarations Witnessed in Australia.................................................................59
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
APPENDIX B: STATUTORY DECLARATIONS.............................................................61

Statutory Declarations Witnessed in Australia.......................................................................61
Statutory Declarations/Affidavit Witnessed Overseas............................................................61
APPENDIX C: CHANGE IN CIRCUMSTANCES...........................................................62

Name change requires a Statutory Declaration/Affidavit Form..............................................62
Change of Address requires a Notification of Change of Address Form................................62
APPENDIX D: PREPARATION FOR THE AMC EXAMINATION .................................63

General References/Textbooks..............................................................................................63
AMC Publications...................................................................................................................63
AMC Anthology of Medical Conditions.............................................................................63
AMC Handbook of Clinical Assessment ..........................................................................64
AMC Handbook of Multiple Choice Questions ................................................................64
The Multi-station Structured Clinical Assessment Video/DVD: A guide to preparation for
the AMC Clinical Examination..........................................................................................64
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
1
FOREWORD
The Australian Medical Council (AMC) has introduced a range of
process improvements and changes in requirements for Primary
Source Verification, Competent Authority assessments and AMC
Examinations for international medical graduates (IMGs).
The changes aim to increase the efficiency of AMC processes,
significantly reduce application processing times; improve services
to IMGs, medical boards and specialist colleges; and support
uniformity of standards and candidate requirements.
The AMC has also introduced changes to the timing of requirements
for English language testing, making them consistent with national
standards set by medical boards. The changes aim to close
gaps in the expectations of candidates between the boards and
specialist colleges in relation to registration through the Specialist
Pathway; and to ensure consistency of standards.
Since January 2009, medical practitioners seeking registration
through the Specialist Pathway must have demonstrated their
English language proficiency before assessment by specialist
colleges. The standard required is set by medical boards and is
nationally consistent.
Introducing the upfront English language test ensures college
assessment resources are focused on candidates who meet
national language standards. For candidates on the Standard
Pathway in Australia, English language proficiency is one of the
prerequisites for medical registration.
Other changes being introduced by the AMC include:
• on-line 24 hour application processing introduced in March
2008. 73% of all applications are now being processed
through this system, with a significant reduction in incomplete
applications. The AMC is now exploring the extension of this
facility to include migration agents and recruiters, subject to
privacy laws
• the introduction of a telephone call centre to provide information
to IMGs. The AMC Call Centre operates during the hours
9am–4.30pm.The AMC Call Centre telephone number is +61
(0)2 6270 7878
• AMC processing changes to enable IMGs to schedule to sit the
MCQ examination as soon as the Primary Source Verification
process has begun
• a new database accessible to medical boards, enabling
tracking status of all Primary Source Verification applications,
to fast track board registration processes
• 24 hour access to the online examination scheduling system –
so candidates can register for AMC Examinations in Australia
and off-shore.
These changes aim to increase flexibility and efficiency for
IMGs and registration boards while maintaining a firm focus on
standards.
While the timing and sequence of AMC processes have been
changed, IMGs seeking registration in Australia must still have
their primary qualifications verified. The 100-point National
Identification check will still be required. False or misleading
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
2 How to Apply
information on medical qualifications and registration data can

incur severe penalties in Australia.
This booklet outlines procedures for applying to the AMC. It should
be read in conjunction with other AMC publications, listed below:
Examination Specifications – These are available at:
www.amc.org.au/images/publications/amc_exam_spec.pdf
• The Anthology of Medical Conditions lists over 130 clinical
presentations of clinical conditions which are classified to
assist IMGs in a problem-solving approach to diagnosis and
management.
• The Annotated Multiple Choice Questions is a selection of MCQ
items with commentaries and explanations on each question.
It provides a comprehensive guide to the format, scope and
standard of the MCQ examination.
• The Handbook of Clinical Assessment is a comprehensive
guide to clinical medical practice in Australia. It is designed
around self-test clinical tasks with accompanying commentaries
and performance guidelines reflecting best practice principles.
• The new Handbook of Multiple Choice Questions. This
publication is based on real examination questions. Included
are chapters on the AMC Examination process, pathways to
medical registration in Australia; over 600 multidisciplinary
MCQ, correct answers and comprehensive commentaries for
each question.
Professor Richard Smallwood

AMC President
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
3
IMPORTANT NOTE: CHANGE IN REGISTRATION

REQUIREMENTS
From 1 July 2010 a new national framework for the registration
of health professions in Australia will come into force. A single
national registration board – the Medical Board of Australia – will
replace the existing state and territory medical boards from that
date. Similarly, a single national law will replace the current state
and territory legislation.
Registration with the Medical Board of Australia will entitle medical
practitioners to practise in all participating state and territories
without having to register in each separate state and territory.
Existing categories of registration and requirements relating to
proof of identity, English language proficiency, and Primary Source
Verification of medical qualifications are expected to continue
under the new national regulatory scheme.
References to the state and territory medical boards in this
publication should be taken to include a reference to the Medical
Board of Australia.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
4 How to Apply
ABOUT THE AUSTRALIAN MEDICAL COUNCIL

The Australian Medical Council (AMC) is an independent national
standards body which undertakes:
• assessment of international medical graduates
• accreditation of medical schools and specialist medical
colleges.
PRIMARY SOURCE VERIFICATION

The Primary Source Verification section of the AMC assesses all
pathway applications received:
• to ensure applications are complete and accurate, and that
supporting documents comply with AMC requirements
• to check candidates’ identity and primary medical qualifications
through the International Credentials Services (EICS) of the
Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates of the
United States of America.
Applications can only be processed when all AMC requirements
are met. It is in the interests of candidates to familiarise themselves
with these requirements before submitting applications, as delays
in the verification process may be costly.
When documentation requirements for Primary Source Verification
are complete, candidates are able to progress along the relevant
AMC Pathway whilst the AMC waits to receive final ECIS
confirmation of verification. The AMC advises candidates of the
outcome of the verification process in writing.
The AMC cannot issue the AMC Certificate until final

confirmation of verification is received through the EICS
process.
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION (MCQ) EXAMINATION

Note: Applicants who submit an For the purposes of the AMC MCQ Examination, the MCQ section
incomplete application will incur an of the AMC maintains and updates file records of candidates
administration fee as per the AMC fee eligible for the MCQ examination.
structure. An application is incomplete The MCQ section works with the Board of Examiners on the
if, for example, required documentation structure and standard of the MCQ examination and also:
is not attached, signatures are missing, • schedules candidates for the MCQ examination (processing
or documentation is incorrectly certified Form C-1 applications)
or illegible. The credentialing process • arranges the examination invigilators in Australia and New
cannot be finalised until the AMC Zealand
receives the correct documentation
• liases with an overseas vendor for all MCQ examinations
and payment of the fee.
• liaises with an overseas vendor for all MCQ examination
venues.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
5
CLINICAL EXAMINATION
The clinical examination section of the AMC oversees the
integrated multidisciplinary structured clinical assessment of the
AMC Examination, consisting of a 16 component multi-station
assessment.
The clinical section works with the Board of Examiners on the
structure and standard of the clinical examination and also:
• maintains and updates clinical candidate records
• schedules candidates for the clinical examination
• arranges the examination venues
• coordinates the release of AMC Certificates.
AMC PATHWAYS OVERVIEW

The AMC assesses IMGs who want to practise medicine in
Australia. The assessment process follows one of four different
pathways currently in place:
1. Competent Authority Pathway
2. Standard Pathway (AMC Examination)
3. Specialist Pathway
4. Specialist Area of Need Pathway.
A further pathway, the Standard Pathway (Workplace-based
Assessment) is currently under development.
The AMC also offers a service to the Australian state and

territory medical boards, by conducting Primary Source
Verification of the primary and specialist medical qualifications
of international medical graduates wishing to register with the
boards (the EICS service). This service is not an alternate
Pathways
assessment pathway, and is facilitated by the AMC to provide
verification only.
COMPETENT AUTHORITY PATHWAY

WORKPLACE
PRIMARY SOURCE ADVANCED STANDING
PERFORMANCE AMC CERTIFICATE
VERIFICATION CERTIFICATE
ASSESSMENT
STANDARD PATHWAY (AMC EXAMINATIONS) Note: May change to ‘Specialist Pathway’ depending on additional qualifications
PRIMARY SOURCE CLINICAL

MCQ EXAMINATION AMC CERTIFICATE
VERIFICATION EXAMINATION
STANDARD PATHWAY (WORKPLACE ASSESSMENT) Note: this pathway is currently under development
PRE EMPLOYMENT
PRIMARY SOURCE WORKPLACE BASED
MCQ EXAMINATION STRUCTURED AMC CERTIFICATE
VERIFICATION ASSESSMENT
CLINICAL INTERVIEW
SPECIALIST (FULL RECOGNITION)
PRIMARY SOURCE SPECIALIST COLLEGE SPECIALIST COLLEGE

AMC REPORT
VERIFICATION ASSESSMENT OUTCOME
SPECIALIST AREA OF NEED Note: may be lodged by employer/agent
SPECIALIST COLLEGE SPECIALIST COLLEGE

ASSESSMENT OUTCOME
PARALLEL PROCESS
AMC PRIMARY SOURCE AMC/COLLEGE

VERIFICATION REPORT
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
6 How to Apply
COMPETENT AUTHORITY PATHWAY

In July 2006, the Council of Australian Governments (COAG)
(a meeting of Australia’s national, state and territory leaders)
announced a new national process to assess international medical
graduates.
The Competent Authority Pathway is for international medical
graduates applying for non-specialist positions who have completed
specified training and assessment through approved overseas
‘competent authorities’. Such graduates are eligible to apply
for 'advanced standing' towards the AMC Certificate. A person
granted advanced standing is not required to sit the AMC MCQ
or Clinical Examinations; but must undertake a workplace-based
performance assessment by an AMC accredited authority while
working under supervision, in order to be eligible for the award of
the AMC Certificate.
STANDARD PATHWAY (AMC EXAMINATION)

The Standard Pathway (AMC Examination) has been available for
some time. In this pathway, the AMC administers national MCQ and
clinical examinations for IMGs to qualify for the AMC Certificate.
Medical boards will then require 12 months of supervised practice
prior to general registration.
The AMC Examinations are designed to assess the medical
knowledge and clinical skills of overseas-trained doctors whose
basic medical qualifications are not recognised by state and
territory medical boards; that is, doctors trained in medical schools
that have not been formally reviewed and accredited by the AMC.
The examinations are set at the level of attainment of medical
knowledge, clinical skills and attitudes required of newly qualified
graduates of Australian medical schools, who are about to begin
intern training.
The AMC Examination is a sequential test consisting of two
sections – a multiple choice question (MCQ) examination and a
clinical examination:
1. The MCQ examination is a test of the principles and practice
of medicine in the fields of general practice, internal medicine
and paediatrics; psychiatry, surgery; and obstetrics and
gynaecology. The examination is administered by computer
and is in two parts (a morning session and an afternoon session
held on the same day), each three and a half hours long.
The MCQ examination focuses on essential medical
knowledge involving understanding of the disease process,
clinical examination and diagnosis; investigation, therapy and
management; as well as on the candidates ability to exercise
discrimination, judgement and reasoning in distinguishing
between the correct diagnosis and plausible alternatives.
2. The clinical examination evaluates clinical competence in
medical knowledge, clinical skills, and professional attitudes
for the safe and effective clinical practice of medicine in the
Australian community. The clinical examination is in the form of
a multi-station structured clinical assessment of clinical skills.
Disciplines covered include medicine and surgery; obstetrics
and gynaecology; paediatrics and psychiatry. Candidates are
scheduled for a single morning or afternoon examination. The
clinical examination also assesses the candidates’ capacity
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
7
to communicate with patients, their families and other health

workers.
The examinations are designed as a comprehensive test of medical
knowledge, clinical competency and performance. Both are
multidisciplinary and integrated. A candidate must pass the MCQ
examination before they can proceed to the clinical examination.
The range of topics covered is based on the clinical curricula of
Australian medical schools, with an emphasis on conditions that
are common in the Australian community. The AMC Anthology
of Medical Conditions lists and classifies over 130 clinical
presentations of clinical conditions to assist IMGs in a problem-
solving approach to diagnosis and management. The AMC’s
Board of Examiners ensures that the format and content of the
examinations are consistent with undergraduate medical courses
and the standard of examinations in Australian medical schools.
Members of the Board have broad expertise over the full range of
disciplines covered in the AMC and medical school examinations.
STANDARD PATHWAY (WORKPLACE-BASED ASSESSMENT)

An alternate Standard Pathway currently under development is the
Standard Pathway (Workplace-based Assessment). This pathway
is intended for IMGs who are not specialists; who are not eligible for
the Competent Authority Pathway; and who are currently appointed
to a hospital or general practice position.
The goal of the Standard Pathway (Workplace-based Assessment)
is to ensure that an IMG possesses an adequate and appropriate
set of clinical skills and other essential attributes to practise safely
within the Australian health care environment and cultural setting.
Workplace-based assessment is additional to normal supervision
requirements that apply to all IMGs and doctors in training, and will
be a more comprehensive assessment than that required for the
Competent Authority Pathway.
SPECIALIST PATHWAY
Specialist medical training and practice in Australia arose from
the model of postgraduate advanced clinical training developed
in the United Kingdom. National specialist medical colleges set
the standards of training and coordinate the education, training
and examination of medical specialists in Australia. The fields of
specialist practice that are recognised for registration purposes
in Australia and are assessed by the specialist colleges are set
out in the approved standard list of specialties and is available for
download at: www.medicalboard.gov.au
The areas of approved medical specialties are listed in the
AMC List of Australian Recognised Medical Specialties. The list
includes those organisations, specialties and qualifications that are
recognised and approved by the Australian Minister for Health and
Ageing.
Candidates for specialist assessment are expected to have satisfied
all the training and examination requirements to practise in their
field of specialty in their country of training. The standard applied to
the assessment of overseas-trained specialists will be a standard
of comparability to an Australian-trained specialist in that field.
Where components of the college’s examination and assessment
procedures are applied, they are the same as, or derived from,
those that apply to local specialist trainees.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
8 How to Apply
SPECIALIST AREA OF NEED PATHWAY

Since June 2002, arrangements have been in place to fast-track
the processing of applications for assessment from overseas-
trained specialists (whose primary medical qualifications are not
recognised in Australia) for Area of Need specialist positions.
The documentation requirements and arrangements for processing
Area of Need applications are broadly similar to those for
applications through the Specialist Pathway for overseas-trained
specialists. However, there are some differences because of the
need to process these applications rapidly and in parallel with the
assessing college.
Candidates considering applying for the AMC Area of Need
Specialist Pathway should note carefully the requirements and the
steps involved.
Before an application can be processed, the applicant must have
been selected by an employer as suitable for consideration for
appointment to a designated Area of Need specialist position.
Details of the position must be provided on the Attachment to
Application for Assessment as Area of Need Specialist Form at
the time the employer lodges the required documentation on the
applicant's behalf.
Full details of the arrangements are set out in the User’s Guide -
Assessment Process for Area of Need Specialists.
Application forms for assessment as an Area of Need specialist
are available on request to the AMC, or from the AMC website at:
www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/aon/apply
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS

From January 2009, medical practitioners seeking registration
through the Specialist Pathway must have demonstrated their
English language proficiency before assessment by specialist
colleges. The standard required is set by medical boards and is
nationally consistent.
The AMC will require proof (IELTS or OET at the agreed national
standard) in accordance with the national policy on English
language proficiency:
• before assessment by colleges for Specialist registration
• before the AMC Certificate is granted.
The AMC advises candidates to undertake English language
testing before undertaking the MCQ examination, in order to
expedite registration through the Standard Pathway (AMC
Examination).
Introducing an upfront English language test in the Specialist
Pathway aims to ensure that college assessment resources are
focused on candidates who meet existing national language
proficiency requirements.
It will also ensure the same standards are expected by the specialist
colleges and medical registration boards for English language
requirements for the Specialist Registration Pathway.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
9
A review of the AMC Examination performance data shows that

most (more than 80%) candidates who pass the MCQ examination
do so within two attempts.
As a result, it is in the best interests of candidates to undertake
English language proficiency testing before they undertake the
MCQ examination, as their language proficiency result will remain
valid for the period required by medical registration boards.
However, given there may be some exceptions, the AMC is
advising, but not requiring candidates applying for registration in
Australia through the Standard Pathway (AMC Examination), to
undertake the English language proficiency and MCQ examination
in sequence. In other words, a candidate who has not completed
the English language proficiency requirement will still be permitted
to commence the MCQ examination, but will not be eligible to
receive the AMC Certificate or apply for registration (including Area
of Need registration) until they have satisfied the national English
language proficiency requirements.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
10 How to Apply
APPLYING THROUGH THE STANDARD

PATHWAY (AMC EXAMINATION)
This first section is relevant to IMGs who are seeking general
registration and wish to apply to undertake the AMC Examinations
through the Standard Pathway. It is structured in three sections:
Section 1: Getting started – Applying to the AMC and providing
the documentation needed.
Section 2: Applying to undertake the MCQ examination.
Section 3: Applying to undertake the clinical examination.
SECTION 1: GETTING STARTED – APPLYING TO THE

AMC AND PROVIDING THE DOCUMENTATION NEEDED
STEP 1: REQUIREMENTS
Credentialing requirements and application procedures may
change at any time without notice. Intending applicants are strongly
advised to check the AMC website: www.amc.org.au and obtain
information on current requirements before lodging an application.
An applicant for non-specialist assessment MUST:
• possess a primary degree in medicine and surgery following
an approved course, and awarded by a medical school listed
in the AVICENNA Directory of the World Health Organization
(WHO); or the International Medical Education Directory (IMED)
of the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical
Education and Research (FAIMER); or in other publications
approved by the Council.
Listing by WHO or FAIMER of medical schools in a particular

country indicates ONLY that qualifications obtained from the
schools are acceptable in that country. It does NOT imply
that the schools provide a standard of education and training
equivalent to that provided in Australian medical schools.
STEP 2: APPLY ONLINE
Candidates who have previously applied with the AMC cannot

apply online.
Those who do not have access to apply online or are previous
AMC candidates must obtain the Form A from the AMC
website at:
http://www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/forms
For those who do apply online, Form P-1 (Non-specialist) will be
generated during the online application and replaces Form A.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
11
Apply online via the AMC Online Application Wizard at:

http://www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/faqs/apply
Application procedures are similar for both Australian and overseas
residents. Applicants should apply online using the AMC Online
Application Wizard and follow the prompts to complete the first
stages of an application under the Standard Pathway (AMC
Examination).
Following the online application process, candidates will receive a
Form P-1 (Non-specialist) by email and an AMC candidate number.
STEP 3: COMPLETE FORM P-1 (NON-SPECIALIST)

This is an application form to determine an applicant’s eligibility to
undertake the AMC Examination and is available for the applicant
to download and print following completion of the AMC Online
Application Wizard process for non-specialist assessment.
Form P-1 MUST:
1. include a signed Declaration by the applicant. This Declaration
MUST be witnessed by one of the persons able to witness
Statutory Declarations/Affidavit. Please see Appendix A.
STEP 4: COMPLETE FORM FOR PRIMARY SOURCE

VERIFICATION
Since January 2006 all applications received by the AMC for Note: The AMC reserves the right
assessment must be verified by the International Credentials to verify the authenticity of formal
Services of the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical qualifications directly with the
Graduates (EICS).
awarding institution through the
1. Complete and sign a Primary Source Verification of Medical recognised international agency,
Qualification – Authorisation for Release of Information Form International Credentials Services
(EICS verification).
of the United States of America
2. This form gives authority to the AMC to electronically send Educational Commission for Foreign
an applicant’s primary degree/diploma to the Educational Medical Graduates (ECFMG).
Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates of the United
States of America (ECFMG) for verification. Form P-1 (Non-
specialist)
The following checklist assists candidates collate the required
application documents to accompany the Form P-1. Failure to
provide these documents may delay the processing of applications.
1. Has the Declaration on Form P-1 (Non-specialist)

been signed in front of an eligible witness? Please
see Appendix A.
2. Are two current colour passport-sized photographs,

with the applicant's name clearly printed on the
back included?
–– One colour photograph attached to Form P-1.
–– One colour photograph attached to Authorisation
for Release of Information Form (EICS
verification).
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
12 How to Apply
3. Is a certified copy of the original primary degree/

diploma attached to the application?
4. Is a certified copy of the English translation

(if required) attached to the application? The
translation should be done by an authorised
translation service.
5. Has proof of identity as per the AMC Identity

Requirements been included by the applicant, as
outlined in Appendix A?
6. Is the name that appears on Form P-1 (Non-

specialist) exactly the same as on all other
supporting documentation? If not, is there a
Statutory Declaration/Affidavit attached?
7. Has all supporting documentation been signed by

the Form P-1 witness?
STEP 5: PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

QUALIFICATIONS: PRIMARY MEDICAL DEGREE/DIPLOMA
Note: Application forms and Provide a certified copy of the original primary medical degree/
documents which have not been diploma (equivalent to Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery -
correctly witnessed are not legally MBBS) awarded by the medical school or university on completion
of the medical course.
recognised in Australia and will not be
accepted. If the degree awarded is not in English, a certified copy of the
translated document is required. The translation must be carried
out by an approved translation service or professional translator.
Note: A transcript of an academic The translation must be in full; an extract is NOT acceptable.
record, license to practice, registration
The primary medical degree and translation (if required) must
certificate or statement that the be certified by the same person who witnessed Form P-1 (Non-
applicant has qualified for the award of specialist). These documents are to be attached to Form P-1 (Non-
the degree in medicine is NOT sufficient specialist).
proof of formal qualifications. IDENTITY: PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION
An applicant must provide certified documentary evidence of proof
of identity as per the AMC Identification Requirements. Please
Note: Name confirmation see Appendix A for detailed information on acceptable proof of
documentation must be certified by
identification.
the same person who witnessed Form NAME CONFIRMATION
P-1. Please ensure the surname/family
If the name of an applicant is different from that shown on any
name and given name(s) are the same document, or photograph submitted with the application, or in
as stated on Form P-1. any other identification documents including passport; then the
applicant must provide certified documentary evidence of all name
variations (such as: initials, incorrect spelling and name change).
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
13
Name confirmation can be submitted in the form of:

• marriage certificate
• deed of name change
• Statutory Declaration/Affidavit Form stating all variations of
name.
STEP 6: PROVIDE OTHER INFORMATION THAT MAY BE

NEEDED TO SUPPORT APPLICATION
Name and change of address on application forms
The name used in all formal correspondence, including
correspondence with state/territory medical boards, will be
the same as that recorded on the Form P-1. Please see
Appendix C for the documentation required to be submitted to the
AMC as evidence of change of name.
It is important that candidates ensure that any change of personal
contact details is communicated promptly in writing to the AMC
Secretariat (for further information contact the AMC Call Centre.
Ph: +61 (0)2 6270 7878). This will ensure that contact can be
made quickly with candidates as the occasion arises to notify
rule or eligibility changes, or to confirm information provided by
candidates.
When advising a change of address, include the following
details:
• candidate number
• full name
• previous address
• new address
• candidate's signature.
Notification of Change of Address Forms are available for download
from the AMC’s website at:
STEP 7: SEND IN APPLICATION FORMS

The applicant must complete and lodge the following application Note: All documentation included
forms in accordance with the procedures outlined in this booklet: must be legibly certified photocopies.
• Form P-1 (Non-specialist) Original documents are not to be
submitted in place of photocopies. If
• Primary Source Verification of Medical Qualification – original documents are submitted and
Authorisation for Release of Information Form (EICS verification)
subsequently lost, the AMC will not
• supporting documentation. take responsibility for their loss.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
14 How to Apply
POST THE APPLICATION FORMS AND SUPPORTING

DOCUMENTATION TO:
Chief Executive Officer
PO Box 4810
KINGSTON ACT 2604
AUSTRALIA
If the application is found to be incomplete or to contain inadequate
documentation, the applicant will be advised in writing via email
or by post. Assessment will be suspended at this stage. Return of
this documentation to the AMC should be forwarded as soon as
possible to avoid further delays to the Primary Source Verification
process. An administration fee of $110 will be incurred for all
incomplete applications.
If the AMC determines that the applicant is eligible to present for
the MCQ examination, the applicant will be forwarded notification of
this in writing via email or post. The applicant will also be forwarded
information on how to schedule for the MCQ examination via the
AMC Online Scheduling Portal.
Any application that is received by the AMC after the closing date
for an examination will not be accepted for that examination series.
The AMC will not be able to issue a final AMC Certificate until
the EICS verification has been confirmed and acceptable
evidence of English language proficiency; or evidence of an
acceptable exemption, has been submitted to the AMC.
THIRD PARTY CONSENT (AUTHORITY TO RECEIVE

INFORMATION)
Under the Commonwealth Privacy Act 1988, the AMC is generally
not permitted to disclose personal information about an applicant
to a third party (Agent) without the applicant’s formal consent. The
applicant may authorise a third party (Agent) to communicate and/or
act on the applicant’s behalf by completing an Authority to Receive
Information Concerning an AMC Candidate/Applicant Form.
This Authority to Receive Information Concerning an AMC
Applicant/Candidate Form can be found at the AMC website at:
The original document must be recieved by the AMC before
consent is actioned.
The AMC processes all applications strictly in the order they

are received. While every effort is made by the AMC to reduce
the processing time for applications, many applications
submitted to the AMC are incomplete or do not comply with
the prescribed requirements; thereby adding to the processing
times and causing unnecessary delays to the application.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
15
SECTION 2: APPLYING TO SIT FOR THE MCQ

EXAMINATION IN THE STANDARD PATHWAY (AMC
EXAMINATION)
To apply to undertake the AMC Examinations, candidates must
have submitted all of the documentation required in Section 1,
and must have been issued with an AMC candidate number. For
information on the MCQ examination please visit the following
AMC website link:
www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/mcq
OVERVIEW OF THE MCQ EXAMINATION

The AMC MCQ Examination consists of 2 x 3.5 hour examination
sessions – Part 1 in the morning and Part 2 in the afternoon on
the same day. Questions are multiple choice, with one correct
answer to be selected from five. The AMC MCQ Examination is
administered by computer and is not available as a written (pencil
and paper) examination.
The MCQ examination is fully integrated. Questions in each of the
major component subjects are not grouped according to subject,
but are placed throughout the examination. 60 of the 300 questions
are pilot items which are used to test and calibrate new questions
for possible use in future examinations and are not counted towards
the candidate’s overall score.
The MCQ examination is a test of the principles and practise of
medicine in the fields of general practice and internal medicine;
paediatrics, psychiatry and surgery; obstetrics and gynaecology.
The MCQ examination focuses on essential medical knowledge
involving understanding of the disease process, clinical examination
and diagnosis; investigation, therapy and management; as well as
on the candidate’s ability to exercise discrimination, judgement
and reasoning in distinguishing between the correct diagnosis and
plausible alternatives.
Some questions within the MCQ examination represent ‘core
knowledge’; that is, they deal with key or critical issues which are
regarded as critical to the safety, clinical outcome, or threat to life
for the patient; or are based upon important common conditions.
These core knowledge or ‘key issue’ questions are categorised as
‘mastery' questions. Mastery questions are individually identified
in the examination with an asterisk (*). The required standard of
performance reflects the level of attainment of medical knowledge,
clinical skills and attitudes required of newly qualified graduates
of Australian medical schools who are about to commence intern
training. 80 of the 240 scored items in the AMC MCQ Examination
are mastery questions. Candidates are expected to answer a high
proportion of these mastery questions correctly.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
16 How to Apply
HOW TO SCHEDULE FOR AN MCQ EXAMINATION

The MCQ examinations are conducted on-shore (Australia and
New Zealand) and off-shore (Non-Australian).
Candidates with an AMC candidate number can schedule for an
MCQ examination series by:
• using the AMC Online Scheduling Portal:
https://exams.amc.org.au/login
• by completing a Form C-1 (Form C-1 application can be
obtained by submitting a request to formc1@amc.org.au).
Candidates can then apply for the next available AMC MCQ
Examination before the stated closing date for the examination
series. The application, together with the examination fee, must be
received by the AMC before the closing date for the examination.
Application forms received after the closing date for an MCQ
examination will not be processed for the selected examination.
MCQ examination dates and availability of application Form C-1
are listed on the AMC website at:
www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/mcq/dv
For the MCQ examination, candidates are scheduled to undertake
the examination at the venue nominated. A letter confirming
placement in the MCQ examination is forwarded to the candidate
via email.
CANDIDATES SCHEDULED IN AN AUSTRALIAN OR NEW

ZEALAND (ON-SHORE) VENUE
The candidate is forwarded an email confirming the examination
date, venue information and reporting time. An ID entrance ticket
will be mailed to candidates; therefore candidates should provide
the AMC with an Australian or New Zealand address.
CANDIDATES SCHEDULED IN A NON-AUSTRALIAN (OFF-

SHORE) VENUE
The candidate is forwarded an email confirming the examination
date, venue information, reporting time and identity requirements.
For current information on scheduling for an on-shore or off-shore
venue, visit the AMC website at:
www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/mcq/off
CHANGE OF VENUE
A change in venue is not accepted after the examination closing
date. A fee is payable if a candidate wishes to change the nominated
venue for the examination prior to the examination closing date.
WITHDRAWAL FEES
A withdrawal fee is incurred if a candidate elects to withdraw from
an MCQ examination for which the candidate has been scheduled.
A withdrawal is not accepted via telephone or email. An AMC MCQ
Withdrawal Form must be submitted to the AMC Secretariat. AMC
MCQ Withdrawal Forms are available through the AMC website at:
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
17
The AMC will refund the examination fee, less the withdrawal fee
(for administrative costs), when:
• the MCQ Withdrawal Form is received before the close of
business on the closing date for the examination
• the MCQ Withdrawal Form is received by midnight on the
closing date, and acceptable certified evidence is submitted.
If a candidate withdraws from an MCQ examination after the
closing date, the candidate must submit evidence of severe
illness or pressing domestic circumstances, in the form of a
doctor’s certificate or Statutory Declaration.
If the candidate does not attend an examination session, the
candidate cannot claim a refund of the examination fee. Examination
fees cannot be transferred from one MCQ examination to another.
RESULTS
All MCQ examination results are discussed and confirmed by the
AMC Board of Examiners. A candidate’s result is determined on
the basis of the overall result in the scored questions and the score
of correct responses in the identified mastery questions, which are
part of the scored questions. To pass the examination, a candidate
must correctly answer 50% or more of the scored questions and
not less than 66% of the mastery questions. A candidate must
complete both parts of the examination (Part 1 and Part 2) to
obtain an overall score and satisfy the requirements of the MCQ
examination.
Each candidate receives a computer-generated transcript of their
results and feedback on their performance in the MCQ examination.
MCQ results letters are forwarded to candidates approximately
four weeks after an MCQ examination. A listing of successful
candidates will appear on the AMC website four weeks after an
AMC Examination, after which time they will be removed.
VERIFICATION OF RESULTS
AMC candidates who fail the MCQ examination are offered the
opportunity of a verification of their results.
The AMC MCQ examination is computer-administered and a
candidate’s answer to any question is the response keyed by that
candidate at the time of the examination. The computer records this
response and compares it against the specified correct response in
order to determine the overall score for that candidate.
Since there is no answer sheet, there is no ‘manual verification’ of
a written answer sheet for the computer-administered examination.
However, the AMC computer-administered MCQ Examination
produces a log file for each key stroke made by a candidate.
The log file can be accessed to provide a printout of the final key
stroke for each of the question items, as keyed by a candidate. An
application for verification authorises the AMC to check the log file
with a printout of the final keystroke for each item answered. The
printout is viewed by authorised personnel in order to verify the
result.
The verification of results does not provide candidates with the
questions and answers from the examination as the AMC is not in
a position to release examination material to candidates.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
18 How to Apply
REQUEST FOR DUPLICATE COPIES OF AMC RESULTS

For reasons of privacy, the AMC will not send copies of a candidate’s
official examination results to anyone but the candidate. However,
upon request for duplicate copies of results, the AMC will issue
candidates with an application form, which should be completed
and returned to the AMC with the appropriate fee. Application for
Duplicate Copies Forms are available at:
SECTION 3: APPLYING TO SIT FOR THE CLINICAL

EXAMINATION IN THE STANDARD PATHWAY (AMC
EXAMINATION)
To be eligible to sit the clinical examination, candidates must have
passed the MCQ examination. For information on the clinical
examination please visit the AMC website at:
www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/clin
OVERVIEW OF CLINICAL EXAMINATION

The AMC clinical examination is an integrated multidisciplinary
structured clinical assessment consisting of a 16 component multi-
station assessment; including 3 obstetrics/gynaecology stations and
3 paediatrics stations. Candidates are scheduled for the structured
clinical assessment examination in a single morning or afternoon
session; and are required to wait at the venue of the examination
at the direction of the AMC Examination supervisors in attendance.
Candidates will rotate through a series of 20 stations, of which 16
will be marked stations and 4 are rest stations. Rest stations will
not be scored, but will provide candidates with an opportunity to
have a break between the scored stations. In the marked stations,
a variety of clinical tasks will be undertaken. All candidates in a
clinical examination session will be assessed against the same
stations.
Each station will be of 10 minutes duration (8 minutes for the actual
assessment, and 2 minutes for change over and reading of the
written information for the next station). Stations may utilise actual
patients, standardised patients or examiners role-playing patients.
Candidates should regard the actual patients, standardised patients
or role-playing patients as they would treat real patients.
Stations assess clinical skills in medicine, surgery, paediatrics,
obstetrics, gynaecology, general practice and psychiatry. The
structured clinical assessments will make use of examiners from
all disciplines.
To assist in preparation for the clinical examination the AMC has
produced a DVD titled Multi-station Structured Clinical Assessment
and a book titled The AMC Handbook of Clinical assessment. The
book and DVD are available for purchase from the AMC website on
the following link:
https://store.amc.org.au/
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
19
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE CLINICAL EXAMINATION

If an applicant has passed the MCQ examination they are eligible
to apply to attend the AMC Clinical Examination by lodging a Form
C-2. The Form C-2 is available at:
A completed Form C-2 will be needed for the first and each
subsequent attempt at the clinical section of the examination.
The completed Form C-2 must be received by the AMC before the
closing date for the relevant series of the examination. Please DO
NOT lodge the examination fee with Form C-2.
Application forms received after the closing date for a particular
series of the AMC Examination will not be processed for that series.
SCHEDULING CRITERIA FOR THE AMC CLINICAL

EXAMINATION
Placement in the clinical examination is done in accordance with
scheduling criteria (see below). Refer to the AMC website at:
www.amc.org.au for further information.
Candidates should note that where the number of applications
for clinical examination places in a specific examination series
exceeds the availability of examination places, scheduling will be
on a priority basis along the following lines:
• First attempt candidates will have priority over repeat attempt
candidates.
• The scheduling of first attempt candidates will take into
consideration the time since they sat and qualified at the MCQ
examination.
• Candidates will be ranked in merit order of performance at the
MCQ examination.
• Candidates with fewer repeat attempts at the clinical
examination will have priority over candidates with a higher
number of repeats.
The aim of this approach is to ensure that all candidates have
an opportunity to complete the clinical examination as quickly as
possible.
Candidates will be notified by mail if they have successfully
obtained a place in a clinical examination.
RESULTS – AMC CLINICAL EXAMINATION

Listing of candidates’ results will be available on the AMC website Note: Under NO circumstances
at: will final results be given over the
www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/clin/clinical-results telephone or by e-mail; nor will
examination results be provided to a
from 9am (AEST) on the Thursday following the examination,
third party (Agent) who is authorised
showing which candidates have passed, failed or need to present
for a re-test at a future date. The results will remain for a period of to communicate and/or act on the
four weeks. The candidates’ listing will be shown by AMC candidate candidate/applicant's behalf.
reference number only, in compliance with Commonwealth Privacy
Legislation.
Examination results will be posted to all candidates approximately
two weeks after the examination. All candidates should ensure that
the AMC has their current address details.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
20 How to Apply
AMC CERTIFICATE
Once satisfying the AMC eligibility criteria, including Primary
Source Verification of medical qualifications, candidates who have
passed both the MCQ and clinical examinations are eligible for the
AMC Certificate.
Candidates are sent result letters including the Certificate Request
Form two weeks after the clinical examination date.
The Certificate Request Form and any amendments to a candidate
name or updated photographs must be received four weeks after
the examination date by the AMC. After this date amendments will
not be accepted.
Candidates’ certificates will be sent to the nominated Australian
medical board approximately six to eight weeks after successful
completion of the clinical examination. A candidate who resides
more than 100 km from their nearest Australian medical board
can contact the AMC to make an alternate certificate collection
arrangement.
For candidates who are not residing in Australia, or are not able to
collect their certificates; the AMC Certificate will be stored under
high security conditions at the AMC. Once residing in Australia
the candidate will need to contact the clinical section of the AMC
regarding the collection of their AMC Certificate.
REQUEST FOR DUPLICATE COPIES OF AMC RESULTS

For reasons of privacy, the AMC will not send copies of a candidate’s
official examination results to anyone but the candidate. However,
upon request for duplicate copies of results, the AMC will issue
candidates with an application form:
which should be completed and returned to the AMC with the
appropriate fee.
SUMMARY OF STANDARD (AMC EXAMINATION) PATHWAY

A summary of the Standard Pathway is illustrated on the following
page.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
21
Applying through the Standard Pathway (AMC Examination)

The Standard Pathway (AMC Examination) is relevant to IMGs who are seeking general registration. This summary outlines the steps
necessary to complete this application process.
Section 1: Preparing your documentation to apply for the Standard Pathway (AMC Examination)
Visit the AMC website at www.amc.org.au to find out if you meet current
1 Requirements application requirements.
If you have previously applied with the AMC, you cannot apply online. Previous applicants
2 Apply Online via AMC website and those who cannot apply online can download a form from the AMC website.
Form P-1 must include a signed declaration from the applicant. This declaration also
3 Complete Form P-1 (Non-specialist) needs to be witnessed.
The EICS form gives the AMC authority to send the applicant’s primary
4 Complete EICS Form degree/diploma to the ECFMG for verification.
Provide a Primary Medical Degree or Diploma and identification documents.

5 Provide supporting documentation Documents must be certified and attached to Form P-1 (Non-specialist).
If your personal details are different to those on your identifying documents,

6 Provide additional information provide supporting documents to show why.
7 Send in application forms Send in all completed application forms to the AMC.
i Third Party Consent If you require a third party to communicate with the AMC or act on your behalf regarding
your application, you need to fill out an Authority to Act Form from the AMC website.
Section 2: Applying to sit for the AMC MCQ Examination in the Standard Pathway (AMC Examination)
Make sure you have submitted all the documentation listed in Section 1.
1 Before you start You will also need to have been issued with an AMC candidate number.
2 Examination Scheduling To apply for the next available MCQ examination, use either the AMC Online
Scheduling Portal (available from the AMC website) or apply for a Form C-1 via email.
If you need to change venue, you must declare this prior to the examination closing date.
3 Change of venue There is a fee applicable to changing venue.
If you need to withdraw, fill in a withdrawal form available from the AMC website and
4 Withdrawal Fees pay a fee. You will be unable to do this after the closing date for the examination.
You will receive your results by mail approximately four weeks after the examination. You
5 Examination Results will have the opportunity to verify your results and obtain duplicates.
Section 3: Applying for the AMC Clinical Examination in the Standard Pathway (AMC Examination)
If you have passed the MCQ examination you are eligible to apply for the clinical
1 How to apply examination. Download Form C-2 from the AMC website and lodge it with the AMC.
On recepit and processing of Form C-2, you will be scheduled into an examination
2 Scheduling criteria based on scheduling criteria. To find out more about this process, refer to the AMC website.
On completion of the clinical examination, results are made available to candidates on the
3 Results AMC website from 9am (AEST) on the Thursday following the examination.
Once AMC eligibility criteria have been met and you have passed both the MCQ and
4 AMC Certificate clinical examinations, you will receive your results and an application for a certificate two
weeks after the examination date. Certificates wil be issued six to eight weeks after the
examination date.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
22 How to Apply
PRIMARY SOURCE VERIFICATION OF QUALIFICATIONS

Provided the applicant has submitted the Authorisation for Release
of Information Form and an appropriate qualification, the AMC
will commence EICS verification via Educational Committee for
Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG).
When EICS verification has been requested, the applicant will be
advised of eligibility to schedule for the MCQ examination either
by email or post, as a 'conditional candidate' pending further
assessment of supporting documentation.
If after assessment additional information is required, the AMC
will email a request for further documentation. Incomplete
documentation will incur an administrative fee of $110. The applicant
will be unable to receive the results of their MCQ examination until
all outstanding documentation has been received and assessed.
When all required information is provided, a letter will be posted
(standard mail) advising that the candidate is no longer a conditional
candidate. The candidate will then be able to receive the MCQ
examination results.
EICS verification will continue via ECFMG until the candidate's
medical school has verified their medical degree. This process may
take several months to several years (this is largely determined by
the medical school responding to the EICS request – the AMC is
unable to contact medical schools to speed this process up).
When EICS is verified, a Certificate of Verification is sent to the
candidate's postal address.
The MCQ and clinical examinations can be undertaken while EICS
is being verified.
MCQ examinations are held in Australia and overseas approximately
every two months.
When the AMC MCQ Examination has been completed with
acceptable pass marks, the candidate may approach the state or
territory medical board to apply for registration.
Clinical examination applications can be submitted once a pass
has been obtained in the MCQ examination. Average time to be
accepted and offered a clinical examination position is 18 months.
When the clinical examination has been passed, a results letter will
be sent to the candidate with a form asking which medical board
their final AMC Certificate is to be issued to. Certificates are released
when all eligibility criteria have been met (EICS verification must
be completed). This certificate issue process takes approximately
eight weeks after the form is returned to the AMC.
After delivery to the relevant medical board, a collection letter will
be sent to the candidate. The candidate should contact the relevant
medical board to arrange an appointment for collection.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
23
APPLYING IN THE COMPETENT AUTHORITY

PATHWAY
All international medical graduates are requested to complete Note: Listing by WHO or FAIMER of
the competent authority self-assessment before applying for the medical schools in a particular country
Competent Authority Pathway. indicates ONLY that qualifications
Please go to: www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/ca to check the obtained from the schools are
eligibility requirements to apply under the Competent Authority acceptable in that country. It does
Pathway. NOT imply that the schools provide a
An applicant for Competent Authority Pathway assessment MUST: standard of education and training
1. possess a primary degree in medicine and surgery following equivalent to that provided in
an approved course; and awarded by a medical school listed Australian medical schools.
(WHO); the International Medical Education Directory (IMED)
approved by the council
2. meet the requirements for the Competent Authority Pathway
(see AMC website).

apply online.
AMC candidates must obtain the Form CA:
For those who do apply online, Form P-1 (Competent
Authority) will be generated during the online application and
replaces Form CA.

www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/faqs/apply
stages of an application under the Standard Pathway.
Following the online application process, candidates will receive a

Form P-1 (Competent Authority) by email and an AMC candidate
number.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
24 How to Apply
STEP 3: COMPLETE FORM P-1 (COMPETENT

AUTHORITY)
This is an application form to determine an applicant’s eligibility
for the AMC Certificate via the Competent Authority Pathway;
and is available for the applicant to download and print following
completion of the Online Application Wizard process for Competent
Authority.
Form P-1 MUST:
• include a signed Declaration by the applicant. This Declaration
MUST be witnessed by one of the persons able to witness
Statutory Declarations/Affidavit. Please see Appendix A.

VERIFICATION
Complete and sign a Primary Source Verification of Medical
Qualification – Authorisation for Release of Information Form (EICS
verification).
This form gives authority to the AMC to electronically send an
applicant’s primary degree/diploma to the Educational Commission
for Foreign Medical Graduates of the United States of America
(ECFMG) for verification.
Note: The AMC reserves the right All applications received by the AMC for assessment must be
to verify the authenticity of formal verified by the International Credentials Services of the Educational
qualifications directly with the Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (EICS).
awarding institution through the
FORM P-1 (COMPETENT AUTHORITY) CHECKLIST
recognised international agency,
International Credentials Services The following checklist assists candidates collate the required
application documents to accompany the Form P-1. Failure
to provide these documents may delay the processing of the
Educational Commission for Foreign application.
Medical Graduates (ECFMG).
1. Has the Declaration on Form P-1 (Competent

Authority) been signed in front of an eligible
witness?
See Appendix A.

back included?
verification).


(if required) attached to the application? The
translation should be done by an authorised
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
25

6. Is the name that appears on Form P-1 (Competent

Authority) exactly the same as on all other
supporting documentation? If not, is there a
Statutory Declaration/Affidavit attached?
7. Other documentation required as outlined under

the relevant categories in the self-assessment
which can be found at: www.amc.org.au/index.
php/img/ca


QUALIFICATIONS: PRIMARY MEDICAL DEGREE/DIPLOMA
Provide a certified copy of the original primary medical degree/ Note: A transcript of an academic
diploma (equivalent to Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery – record, license to practice, registration
MBBS) awarded by the medical school or university on completion certificate or statement that the
of the medical course.
applicant has qualified for the award of
If the degree awarded is not in English, a certified copy of the the degree in medicine is NOT sufficient
translated document is required. The translation must be carried proof of formal qualifications.
out by an approved translation service or professional translator.
The translation must be in full; an extract is NOT acceptable.
The primary medical degree and translation (if required) must be
certified by the same person who witnessed Form P-1 (Competent
Authority). These documents are to be attached to Form P-1
(Competent Authority).
IDENTITY: PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION

see Appendix A for detailed information on acceptable proof of
identification.
NAME CONFIRMATION
If the name of an applicant is different from that shown on any Note: Name confirmation
document, or photograph submitted with the application; or in documentation must be certified by
any other identification documents including passport, then the the same person who witnessed Form
variations such as: initials, incorrect spelling, and name change.
Please see Appendix C. name and given name(s) are the same
as stated on Form P-1.
Name confirmation can be submitted in the form of:
name.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
26 How to Apply

NAME AND CHANGE OF ADDRESS ON APPLICATION FORMS
correspondence with state/territory medical boards, will be the
same as that recorded on the Form P-1. Please see Appendix
C for the documentation required to be submitted to the AMC as
evidence of change of name.
candidates.
When advising a change of address, include the following
details:
• full name
• new address
Forms for Notification of Change of Address are available for
downloading from the AMC’s website at:

Note: All documentation included The applicant must complete and lodge the following application
must be legibly certified photocopies. forms in accordance with the procedures outlined in this booklet:
Original documents are not to be • Form P-1 (Competent Authority)
• Primary Source Verification of Medical Qualification –
original documents are submitted and
Authorisation for Release of Information Form (EICS
subsequently lost, the AMC will not verification)
take responsibility for their loss.
• supporting documentation.
POST THE APPLICATION FORMS AND SUPPORTING
DOCUMENTATION TO:
PO Box 4810
KINGSTON ACT 2604
AUSTRALIA
documentation, the applicant will be advised in writing via email
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
27

If the AMC determines that the applicant is eligible for the Advanced
Standing/AMC Certificate the applicant will be forwarded notification
of this in writing via email or post.
ELIGIBILITY FOR ADVANCED STANDING

When the AMC forwards an EICS verification request, the ECFMG
takes approximately 10–14 days to respond to the request by
issuing an EICS number. The EICS number is required for the
issuing of the Advanced Standing Certificate. The AMC cannot
issue an Advanced Standing Certificate without the EICS number.
ELIGIBILITY FOR AMC CERTIFICATE

All candidates are required to submit a letter from their relevant
medical board as evidence of completion of 12 months experience
within Australia to be eligible to be awarded the AMC Certificate.
The AMC will not be able to issue a final AMC Certificate until the
EICS verification has been confirmed

INFORMATION)
Under the Commonwealth’s Privacy Act 1988, the AMC is generally
Applicant/Candidate Form can be found at the AMC website:
The original document must be sent to the AMC before consent is
actioned.

times and causing unnecessary delays to applications.
SUMMARY OF COMPETENT AUTHORITY PATHWAY

A summary of the Competent Authority Pathway is illustrated on
the following page.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
28 How to Apply
Applying through the Competent Authority Pathway

The Competent Authority Pathway is relevant to IMGs who are seeking general registration. This summary outlines
the steps necessary to complete this application process.
Section 1: Preparing your documentation to apply for the Competent Authority Pathway
Visit the AMC website at www.amc.org.au to complete the competent authority
1 Requirements self-assessment. Further information on requirements is also available at this website.
2 Apply Online via AMC website and those who cannot apply online can download Form CA from the AMC website.
3 Complete Form P-1 (Competent Authority) needs to be witnessed.
The EICS form gives the AMC authority to send the applicant’s primary
4 Complete EICS Form degree/diploma to the ECFMG for verification.
Provide all documentation as outlined in the eligibility criteria on the self assessment form
5 Provide supporting documentation and checklist on P-1/CA

6 Provide additional information provide supporting documents to show why.
i Third Party Consent If you require a third party to communicate with the AMC or act on your behalf regarding
your application, you need to fill out an Authority to Act Form from the AMC website.
! Eligibility for Advanced Standing

If the AMC determined you are eligible for advanced standing based on your application, you will be notified of this by post.
! Eligibility for AMC Certificate

A letter of proof from the relevant Australian medical board showing 12 months experience of practice within Australia is necessary before
the AMC will be able to send a certificate to you. EICS verificaton must also have been completed.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
29
If the candidate has provided the Authorisation for Release of

Information Form and an appropriate qualification, the AMC will
commence EICS verification via the Educational Committee for
Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), pending further assessment
of supporting documentation.
documentation will incur an administrative fee of $110.
Eligibility for advanced standing will be assessed. If eligible, an
Advanced Standing Certificate will be posted to the candidate
(standard mail).
When the relevant medical board confirms successful completion
of requirements for AMC Certificate (12 months supervised training
in Australia), eligibility for AMC Certificate is confirmed.
A request form for the AMC Certificate will be sent to the candidate
asking them to identify a medical board which the AMC Certificate
will be issued to for final collection.
Certificates are released when all eligibility criteria have been
met (EICS verification must be completed). This certificate issue
process takes approximately eight weeks after the return of the
request form to the AMC.
After delivery to the relevant medical board, a collection letter will
be sent to the candidate. The candidate should contact the relevant
medical board to arrange an appointment for collection.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
30 How to Apply
APPLYING THROUGH THE AMC SPECIALIST

PATHWAY
Note: Listing by WHO or FAIMER of Assessment requirements and application procedures may change
medical schools in a particular country at any time without notice. Intending applicants are strongly advised
indicates ONLY that qualifications to check the AMC website: www.amc.org.au and obtain information
on current requirements before lodging an application.
obtained from the schools listed are
acceptable in that country. It does The requirements for eligibility to present for assessment for
NOT imply that the schools provide a recognition as a specialist are set out below. An applicant for
specialist assessment MUST:
standard of education and training
equivalent to that provided in • possess a primary degree in medicine and surgery following
Australian medical schools. an approved course; and awarded by a medical school listed
approved by the council
• possess the required specialist degree(s) and have completed
all training requirements in their country of training to be
recognised as a specialist in that country.
A list of medical specialties and the colleges responsible for
assessments can be found on the AMC website at:
www.amc.org.au/index.php/img#table1

apply online.
AMC candidates must obtain the Form SA:
and Form SB:
http://www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/forms from the
AMC website.
For those who do apply online, Form P-1 (Specialist) will be
generated during the online application and replaces Form
SA. A link will be provided to Form SB.

stages of an application under the Specialist Pathway.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
31
Following the online application process, candidates will recieve a

Form P-1 (Specialist) by email, a link to the Form SB and an AMC
candidate number.
STEP 3: COMPLETE FORM P-1 (SPECIALIST)

This is an application form to determine an applicant’s eligibility for
recognition as a specialist. The form is available for the applicant to
download and print following completion of the Online Application
Wizard process for specialist assessment.
FORM P-1
Form P-1 must include a signed Declaration by the applicant. This
Declaration MUST be witnessed by one of the persons able to
witness Statutory Declarations/Affidavit. Please see Appendix A.

VERIFICATION
• Complete and sign a Primary Source Verification of Medical Note: The AMC reserves the right
Qualification – Authorisation for Release of Information Form to verify the authenticity of formal
(EICS verification). qualifications directly with the
• This form gives authority to the AMC to electronically send awarding institution through the
an applicant’s primary degree/diploma to the Educational recognised international agency;
Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates of the United International Credentials Services
States of America (ECFMG) for verification.
All applications received by the AMC for assessment must be Educational Commission for Foreign
verified by the International Credentials Services of the Educational Medical Graduates (ECFMG).
Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (EICS).
FORM SB
This is an application form requiring the applicant to provide
a summary of basic medical training and specialist training and
experience. The form can be downloaded from the AMC website
at: http://http://www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/forms
FORM SC
The applicant will be provided with the Form SC after the AMC
determines that the applicant is eligible to present for assessment
for recognition as a specialist by the relevant specialist medical
college. The Form SC must be completed by the applicant and
returned to the relevant specialist medical college to initiate the
college assessment process.
Applications for assessment by the Adult Medicine Division

or the Paediatrics and Child Health Division of the Royal
Australian College of Physicians will be required by the
College to complete an Application Form for an Overseas-
Trained Physician/Paediatrics Seeking Assessment by the
Royal Australian College of Physicians. Copies will be sent to
candidates at the same time as Form SC.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
32 How to Apply
FORM P-1 (SPECIALIST) CHECKLIST

Note: Medical boards will not issue The following checklist assists candidates collate the required
an exemption for English language application documents to accompany the Form P-1. Failure to
proficiency until the applicant has provide these documents may delay the processing of applications.
applied for registration.
1. Has the Declaration on Form P-1 (Specialist) been
signed in front of an eligible witness?
See Appendix A.
2. Is the Form P-1 (Specialist) accompanied by a

Form SB and copies of the required documents?
The original Form SB is to be sent to the college,
with a copy to the AMC.

back included?
verification).
If applying for assessment through more than one
college please provide one photograph for each
additional college.


(if required) of the primary degree and/or the
specialist qualification attached to the application?
The translation should be done by an authorised

7. Has evidence of English language proficiency,

or evidence of an acceptable exemption been
included by the applicant?
The National Policy on English language
proficiency for registration can be found on the
AMC website at:http://www.amc.org.au/index.php/
img/exam/forms
8. Is the name that appears on Form P-1 (Specialist)

exactly the same as on all other supporting
documentation? If not, is there a Statutory
Declaration/Affidavit attached?

TABLE OF
CONTENTS
33

ALONG WITH FORM SB
REQUIREMENTS FOR LODGEMENT OF FORM SB
A Form SB must be accompanied by documentary proof of
qualifications and experience. Curriculum vitae data attached to
the Form will ONLY be accepted if relevant entries are summarised
on Form SB.
DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE OF SPECIALIST QUALIFICATIONS

To enable the assessing specialist medical college to conduct an
initial assessment of the application; the following documentation,
in the form of certified photocopies – NOT originals, must be
provided by the applicant under the following headings and lodged
with Form SB – Summary of Basic Medical Training and Specialist
Training and Experience:
• proof of completion of 12 months training as an intern and
details of the training program
• certificates of completion of training programs conducted by
the specialist medical body
• details of:
–– basic specialist training (or equivalent) covering
–– advanced specialist training (or equivalent) covering, in
each case, wherever possible:
~~ periods of training
~~ status of hospitals/institutions
~~ number and nature of clinics
~~ levels of appointment
~~ clinical responsibility to inpatients
~~ logbooks of procedures carried out
~~ special studies/research undertaken
~~ forms of supervision and names, positions and
qualification of supervisors
~~ supervisors’ reports for each training period
–– certificates of specialist examination passed and names of
specialist medical bodies conducting the examinations
–– details of specialist examinations, including:
~~ number and type of examination (MCQ, viva voce,
clinical)
~~ subject areas of each examination
–– published research papers and other specialist papers
–– certificates of Fellowship of specialist medical bodies and/
or specialist qualifications
–– post-Fellowship experience, including the location, nature
and duration of specialist practice
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
34 How to Apply
–– Certificate of Good Standing/Registration Status from the

appropriate registration body or bodies covering the most
recent two year period of practice. The Certificate of Good
Standing/Registration Status must be dated within six
months from the date of receipt of the application
–– names and current contact details of (preferably three)
referees
Note: Certificates and reports should • a curriculum vitae. This must include:
be submitted as certified copies. –– list of primary and specialist qualifications including dates
awarded
–– details of primary and specialist training
–– full employment history in chronological order (mm/yy) and
brief description of each job held
–– list of current registering authorities
–– list of publications, research papers, examinations taken
and any other activities
–– minimum of three referee’s
• Please note that any gaps in an applicant's employment history
will require an explanation.
• a description of involvement in MOPS/CME/CPD programs
• other relevant supporting material.
If difficulties are encountered in compiling the documentation
requested in Form SB, the AMC should be advised of the steps
taken to obtain them and be provided with an explanation the
problems encountered.
The key step in the application process is for the applicant to
provide the documentation required by the AMC and the assessing
specialist medical college, both for the initial review of qualifications
and experience, and for the interview.
It is in the interest of the applicant to make every endeavour to
supply as much of the documentation as possible.
Note: All documentation included If the information includes documents issued in a language other
must be legibly certified photocopies. than English they must be accompanied by certified English
Original documents are not to be translations. Professional documents must be provided in the
original language. If they are issued in a language other than English,
they must be translated into English by an authorised translation
original documents are submitted and service or professional translator. Copies of these translations must
lost, the AMC will not take responsibility be verified and both the translation and the certified copy of the
for the loss. professional documents in the original language should be stapled
together and submitted with the application.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
35
STEP 6: PROVIDE ALL OTHER SUPPORTING

DOCUMENTATION
QUALIFICATIONS:
PRIMARY MEDICAL DEGREE/DIPLOMA AND SPECIALIST
QUALIFICATION(S)
A certified copy of the original primary medical degree/diploma
(equivalent to Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery – MBBS)
awarded by the medical school or university on completion of
the medical course; along with a certified copy of the specialist
qualification(s) obtained by the applicant should be provided to the
AMC.
If the degree or qualification awarded is not in English, a certified
copy of the translated document is required. The translation must
be carried out by an approved translation service or professional
translator. The translation must be in full; an extract is NOT
acceptable.
The primary medical degree and translation (if required), and
specialist qualification(s) and translation(s) (if required) must be
certified by the same person who witnessed Form P-1 (Specialist).
These documents are to be attached to Form P-1 (Specialist).

identification.
NAME CONFIRMATION
If the name of an applicant is different from that shown on any Note: Name confirmation
document, or photograph submitted with the application, or in documentation must be certified by
any other identification documents including passport; then the the same person who witnessed Form
variations such as: initials, incorrect spelling, and name change. P-1. Please ensure the surname/family
Please see Appendix C. name and given name(s) are the same
as stated on Form P-1.
NAME CONFIRMATION CAN BE SUBMITTED IN THE FORM
OF:
name.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY

Medical practitioners seeking registration through the Specialist
Pathway must have demonstrated their English language
proficiency before assessment by specialist medical colleges. The
standard required is set by the medical boards and is nationally
consistent.
The AMC will require proof in accordance with the national policy
on English language proficiency before assessment by colleges for
Specialist Registration.
Introducing an upfront English language test in the Specialist
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
36 How to Apply

It will also ensure the same standards are expected by specialist
medical colleges and medical registration boards for English
language requirements for the Specialist Pathway.

correspondence with specialist medical colleges and medical
boards, will be the same as that recorded on the Form P-1. Please
see Appendix C for the documentation required to be submitted to
the AMC as evidence of change of name.
contact details is communicated promptly in writing to the AMC.
This will ensure that contact can be made quickly with candidates
as the occasion arises to notify rule or eligibility changes, or to
confirm information provided by candidates. The assessing
specialist medical college should also be notified at the same time
as the AMC.
WHEN ADVISING A CHANGE OF ADDRESS, INCLUDE THE
FOLLOWING DETAILS:
• full name
• new address
http://http://www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/forms

To determine eligibility to sit the AMC Examination an applicant must
complete and lodge the following application forms in accordance
with the procedures outlined in this booklet:
• Form P-1 (Specialist)
• Form SB
• Primary Source Verification – Authorisation for Release of
Information Form (EICS verification)
POST THE APPLICATION FORMS, SUPPORTING
DOCUMENTATION AND FEE TO:
PO Box 4810
KINGSTON ACT 2604
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
37
AUSTRALIA
documentation, the applicant will be advised in writing, via email or
by post. Assessment will be suspended at this stage. Return of this
documentation to the AMC should be forwarded as soon as possible
to avoid further delays to the Primary Source Verification process.
An administration fee of $110 will be incurred for all incomplete
applications.
The AMC will NOT process applications or forward them to the
relevant specialist medical college for assessment until candidates
have taken all necessary action and returned completed
documentation to the AMC.

times and causing unnecessary delays to applications.
SCHEDULE OF FEES FOR SPECIALIST ASSESSMENT

The AMC’s assessment fee is payable at the time of completion
of the AMC Online Application Wizard. Please refer to the
AMC’s website: www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/fees for current
information. This fee is non-refundable.
A schedule of college fees for specialist assessment is available at
the AMC’s website at:
www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/spec/assessment-mainmenu-
200#Table3
College fees are subject to variation from time to time and
colleges may charge additional fees following the initial specialist
assessment. Further information should be sought direct from the
relevant college.
Information regarding withdrawal fees and refunds that may be
payable in certain circumstances by colleges, is available direct
from the relevant college.
Assessing colleges may not be able to provide a facility for deferring
fees for the interview, nor assist candidates in obtaining financial
assistance to present for assessment.
The AMC and specialist medical colleges reserve the right to
introduce, alter, amend or make other changes to fees at any time
without notice.
Candidates wishing to defer their interview or application process
are required to notify the AMC in writing of their request.
ADVICE REGARDING TIMING OF FORM SC LODGEMENT

After the AMC determines that the applicant is eligible to present for
assessment for recognition as a specialist, and that documentation
requested by the assessing specialist medical college is complete,
the AMC will refer Form SB and documentation to the college.
The AMC will also advise the applicant of this step by letter, and
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
38 How to Apply
enclose a Form SC – Application for assessment by specialist

medical college.
The college is not obliged to initiate its assessment process until it
has received Form SC and the initial assessment and interview fee
(made payable in Australian dollars by bank draft to the assessing
college) has been paid along with any other relevant college
application form.
AUSTRALIAN OR AUSTRALASIAN SPECIALIST

QUALIFICATIONS
A specialist holding a Fellowship of an Australian or Australasian
specialist medical college in a recognised field of specialisation
may apply direct to the relevant state or territory medical board for
conditional registration to practice in their field of specialty only.
If an applicant has been awarded a primary medical degree from
an Australian or New Zealand medical school and are eligible for
registration in Australia, they may approach the relevant specialist
medical college directly, as an assessment by the AMC may not be
required.
COMMON ERRORS MADE WHEN LODGING APPLICATION

FORMS
The most likely cause of delay in the processing of applications
is incorrectly completed application forms and incorrectly certified
documents. It is in the applicant’s interest to ensure that all
application forms and copies of documents are completed correctly.
Declarations and copies of formal documents must be certified in
accordance with the directions given in this booklet. Certified word
for word English translations of foreign language documents must
be provided, and a full description of specialist training must be
given. An incorrect or incomplete application will NOT be processed
until further documentation has been submitted to the AMC.

INFORMATION)
Applicant/Candidate Form can be found at the AMC website at:
actioned.
SUMMARY OF SPECIALIST PATHWAY

A summary of the Specialist Pathway is illustrated on the following
page.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
39
Applying through the Specialist Pathway

The Specialist Pathway is relevant to IMGs who are seeking registrationto practise as a specialist. This summary outlines the steps
necessary to complete this application process.
Section 1: Preparing your documentation to apply for the Specialist Pathway

2 Apply Online via AMC website and those who cannot apply online can download Forms SA and SB from the AMC website.
3 Complete Form P-1 (Specialist) needs to be witnessed.
The EICS form gives the AMC authority to send the applicant’s specialist qualifications to
4 Complete EICS Form the ECFMG for verification.
5 Provide supporting documentation Provide documentary evidence of specialist qualifications attached to Form SB.
Provide additional Provide a Primary Medical Degree or Diploma and Identification documents.
6 supporting documentation Documents must be certified and attached to Form P-1 (Specialist).
Provide further If your personal details are different to those on your identifying documents,
7 supporting documentation provide supporting documents to show why.
If you require a third party to communicate with the AMC or act on your behalf regarding
i Third Party Consent your application, you need to fill out an Authority to Act Form from the AMC website.
After the AMC determines you are eligible for recognition as a specialist, you will be sent
i Lodging Form SC Form SC. This form needs to be sent to the relevant specialist college for processing.
! Schedule of Fees
The AMC’s assessment fee is payable on completion of the Online Wizard application. This fee is non-refundable. For more information, refer to
the AMC website. A listing of college fees is also available on the AMC website, and further information on college fees, processes and particulars
can be found by contacting colleges directly or through their website.
! Australian or Australasian Specialist Qualifications

If you hold a Fellowship with an Australian or Australasian Specialist College, the process you will go through to practice in your field of specialty
is different. Please refer to page 37 of this book for more details.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
40 How to Apply
If the applicant has provided the Authorisation for Release of

documentation will incur an administrative fee of $110.
Assessment of supplied documents will take approximately two–
four weeks.
When the assessment is complete and all required information
is supplied, the AMC will refer the candidate's application to the
relevant specialist medical college for assessment.
Specialist college assessment may take approximately 12 weeks.
The specialist college will report the outcome of a specialist
assessment to the AMC via a pro forma standard Report 1, which
is then distributed to state and territory medical boards and the
applicant directly by the AMC. The Report 1 will outline one of three
possible outcomes:
• substantially comparable
• partially comparable
• not comparable.
When EICS is verified, a certificate of verification is sent to the
candidate's postal address.
Once an applicant is found to be substantially comparable and
granted specialist recognition, they may apply to the relevant state/
territory medical board for registration.
Application with the AMC/specialist medical college is now
complete.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
41
APPLYING THROUGH THE AREA OF NEED

(AON) SPECIALIST PATHWAY
Assessment requirements and application procedures may change
at any time without notice. Intending applicants are strongly advised
to check the AMC website: www.amc.org.au and obtain information
on current requirements before lodging an application.
The requirements for eligibility to present for assessment for
recognition as an AON specialist are set out below. An applicant for
AON specialist assessment MUST:
• possess a primary degree in medicine and surgery following
an approved course, and awarded by a medical school listed
approved by the Council
• possess the required specialist degree(s) and have completed
Listing by WHO or FAIMER of medical schools in a particular

country indicates ONLY that qualifications obtained from the
schools listed are acceptable in that country. It does NOT
imply that the schools provide a standard of education and
training equivalent to that provided in Australian medical
schools.
all training requirements in their country of training to be

recognised as a specialist in that country.
A list of medical specialties and the colleges responsible for
assessments can be found on the AMC website at:
www.amc.org.au/index.php/img#table1
The employer identifies a position requiring to be filled and contacts
relevant specialist medical colleges for assistance with preparing
a detailed position description and key selection criteria, in terms
of clinical responsibility and qualifications, or experience required.
Responsibility for identifying positions to be filled under Area of
Need (AON) provisions rests, in the first instance, with employers.
When approaching the relevant state or territory health authority for
declaration of a position as AON, an employer will be expected to
demonstrate that advertising has failed to attract a suitably qualified
local applicant and that, unless the position is filled, service delivery
will be affected adversely.
If access to Medicare is required, the employer will need to contact
the Department of Health and Ageing to confirm that the position
identified as an AON is also in a District of Workforce Shortage.
A detailed position description must be prepared (wherever
possible) with the assistance of the relevant college.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
42 How to Apply
The position description should include the following information

such as:
• the position title
• a comprehensive statement of duties
• qualifications and experience – identifying and distinguishing
between what selection criteria are regarded as ‘essential’ or
‘desirable’; and clarifying whether candidates must demonstrate
either that they have practical experience, or show they have
aptitude in a particular aspect of clinical practice
• special requirements of the position, which may be due to the
geographic location or specific nature of the medical services
to be provided
• clinical practice privileges or appointments relating to the
position
• any special conditions of employment
• the remuneration package for the position, including whether
the applicant will be providing services that need to attract
Medicare rebates.
A number of colleges have documents available that describe
their own internal AON application processes (which will be
consistent with the agreed assessment process as set out in this
guide). Employers should approach the relevant college to check
whether such documents are available, and comply with college
arrangements.
Contact details for all colleges can be found on the AMC website at:
www.amc.org.au/images/SpecialistCollegeReports/
SpecialistCollegeDetails.pdf
STEP 2: POSITION DECLARED AS AREA OF NEED

The employer then contacts the state/territory health authority
to have the position declared as Area of Need. If the position is
approved as such, the following process can proceed.
ACTION BY STATE AND TERRITORY HEALTH AUTHORITIES

These authorities are responsible for approving positions for the
purpose of AON designation (in the Northern Territory, the medical
board has this responsibility). An AON refers to a geographic area
(in New South Wales, a medical position) in which the general
population's need for health care is not met. It is determined by
examining a range of factors, including Medicare statistics, health
workforce data and evidence of unsuccessful attempts to recruit an
Australian doctor to a position.
As part of their applications to health authorities, employers will be
required to provide evidence of reasonable efforts to recruit locally
– for example:
• copies of job advertisements and the dates and publications in
which they were placed
• the outcome of placing the advertisements
• an explanation as to why particular applicants (if any) were not
suitable
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
43
• details of the health services to be provided; strategies that have

been developed to explore other avenues of service provision;
and an explanation of the progress of implementation of those
strategies
• details of the impact (for example, on service delivery and staff
rostering arrangements) of leaving the position unfilled – for
example, necessity for additional rostering of existing staff and
high cost of locum services.
Judgement will be made by the health authority concerning whether
service delivery will be affected to the extent that the position must
be filled. This will be based on information such as epidemiological
and workforce analysis; and details provided by the employer.
Inquiries relating to AON approvals can be directed to the AON/
health workforce unit of the relevant state or territory health
authority.
IF A POSITION IS APPROVED AS AON, THE EMPLOYER CAN
PROCEED WITH THE PROCESS AS DESCRIBED IN THIS
GUIDE.
The employer matches applicants for Area of Need positions
against the position description and selection criteria, and selects a
suitable applicant. The applicant and employer complete the relevant
documentation, including visa application, where necessary.
STEP 3: ARRANGEMENTS RELATING TO THE ISSUING

OF VISAS TO OVERSEAS TRAINED DOCTORS
Employers and candidates will be expected to comply with the
requirements of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship
(DIAC) regarding respective responsibilities of candidates and
employers; applications for entry visas, and permanent residency.
For more information regarding visas, the contact details for the
Department of Immigration and Citizenship can be found on the
AMC website at:
http://www.amc.org.au/index.php/australian-government

apply online.
AMC candidates must obtain Form AON-SA at:
and Form AON-SB at:
http://www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/forms from the
AMC website.
For those who do apply online, Form P-1 (Specialist) will be
generated during the online application, and replaces Form
AON-SA. A link will be provided to Form AON-SB.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
44 How to Apply

stages of an application under the Specialist Pathway.
Following the online application candidates will receive a Form P-1
(specialist) by email, a link to the Form AON-SB; and an AMC
candidate number.
STEP 5: COMPLETE APPLICATION FORMS

FORM P-1 (AON)
This is an application form to determine an applicant’s eligibility
for recognition as an AON specialist. The form is available for the
applicant to download and print following completion of the Online
Application Wizard process for AON specialist assessment.
FORM P-1 (AON)

Form P-1 MUST include a signed Declaration by the applicant.
This Declaration MUST be witnessed by one of the persons able to
witness Statutory Declarations/Affidavit. Please see Appendix A.
When applications are submitted, the original Form P-1 should be
sent to the AMC, with a copy to the relevant college.

Note: The AMC reserves the right Complete and sign a Primary Source Verification of Medical
to verify the authenticity of formal Qualification – Authorisation for Release of Information Form (EICS
qualifications directly with the verification).
awarding institution through the This form gives authority to the AMC to electronically send an
recognised international agency, applicant’s primary degree/diploma to the Educational Commission
International Credentials Services
for Foreign Medical Graduates of the United States of America
(ECFMG) for verification.
Educational Commission for Foreign All applications received by the AMC for assessment must be
Medical Graduates (ECFMG).
verified by the International Credentials Services of the Educational
Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (EICS).
FORM AON-SB
This is an application form requiring the applicant to provide a
summary of basic medical training, and specialist training and
experience. When applications are submitted, the original Form
AON-SB should be sent to the relevant college, with a copy to the
AMC. The form can be downloaded from the AMC website at:
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
45
ATTACHMENT TO APPLICATION FORM

The application to the college and the AMC must be accompanied
by the following documents:
• Attachment to Application for Assessment as Area of Need
Specialist Form
• letter of offer
• job description
• Area of Need declaration.
SCHEDULE OF FEES FOR AON SPECIALIST ASSESSMENT

The AMC’s assessment fee is payable at the time of completion of
the Online Application Wizard. Please refer to the AMC’s website:
www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/fees for current information. This
fee is non-refundable.
Applications must be accompanied by the college’s interview/
assessment fee (details available from the relevant college).
Payment details must be given in the Attachment to Application
for Assessment as Area of Need Specialist Form. A schedule of
college’s fees for AON specialist assessment is available at the
AMC’s website at:
www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/spec/assessment-mainmenu-
200#Table3
Further information should be sought direct from the relevant
college.
Payment of fees is the responsibility of the employer or applicant.
Information regarding withdrawal fees and refunds that may be
payable in certain circumstances by colleges, is available direct
from the relevant college.
Assessing colleges may not be able to provide a facility for deferring
fees for the interview, nor assist candidates in obtaining financial
assistance to present for assessment.
The AMC and specialist medical colleges reserve the right to
introduce, alter, amend or make other changes to fees at any time
without notice.
Candidates wishing to defer their interview or application process
are required to notify the AMC in writing of their request.
Applications MUST be lodged to the relevant specialist medical

college and the AMC simultaneously, accompanied by the
supporting documentation.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
46 How to Apply
FORM P-1 (AON) CHECKLIST

The following checklist assists candidates collate the required
application documents to accompany the Form P-1. Failure to
provide these documents may delay the processing of applications
1. Has the Declaration on Form P-1 (AON) been

signed in front of an eligible witness?
See Appendix A.
2. Is the Form P-1 (AON) accompanied by a Form

AON-SB and copies of the required documents?
The original Form AON-SB is to be sent to the
college, with a copy to the AMC.

back included?
verification).
If applying for assessment through more than one
college please provide one photograph for each
additional college.


(if required) of the primary degree and/or the
specialist qualification attached to the application?
The translation should be done by an authorised

7. Has evidence of English language proficiency,

or evidence of an acceptable exemption been
included by the applicant?
The National Policy on English language proficiency
can be found on the AMC website at:
8. Is the name that appears on Form P-1 (AON)

exactly the same as on all other supporting
documentation? If not, is there a Statutory
Declaration/Affidavit attached?

TABLE OF
CONTENTS
47
10. Has the Attachment to Application for Assessment

as Area of Need Specialist Form and the following
documentation supplied by the employer, been
included by the applicant:
• letter of offer
• job description
• Area of Need Declaration.

ALONG WITH FORM AON-SB
REQUIREMENTS FOR LODGEMENT OF FORM AON-SB
A Form AON-SB MUST be accompanied by documentary proof of
qualifications and experience. Curriculum vitae data attached to
the form will only be accepted if relevant entries are summarised
on Form AON-SB.
DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE OF SPECIALIST QUALIFICATIONS

To enable the assessing specialist medical college to conduct an Note: Certificates and reports should
initial assessment of the application, the following documentation, be submitted as certified copies.
in the form of certified photocopies – NOT originals, must be
provided by the applicant under the following headings and lodged
with Form AON-SB – Summary of Basic Medical Training and
Specialist Training and Experience:
• proof of completion of 12 months training as an intern and
details of the training program
• certificates of completion of training programs conducted by
the specialist medical body
• details of:
–– basic specialist training (or equivalent), and
–– advanced specialist training (or equivalent) covering, in
each case, wherever possible:
~~ periods of training
~~ status of hospitals/institutions
~~ number and nature of clinics
~~ levels of appointment
~~ clinical responsibility to inpatients
~~ logbooks of procedures carried out
~~ special studies/research undertaken
~~ forms of supervision and names, positions and
qualification of supervisors
~~ supervisors’ reports for each training period
• certificates of specialist examination passed; and the names of
specialist medical bodies conducting the examinations
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
48 How to Apply
• details of specialist examinations; including:

–– number and type of examination (MCQ, viva voce, clinical)
–– subject areas of each examination
• published research papers and other specialist papers
• certificates of Fellowship of specialist medical bodies and/or
specialist qualifications
• post-Fellowship experience, including the location, nature and
duration of specialist practice
• Certificate of Good Standing/Registration Status from the
registration body/bodies covering the most recent two
year period of practice. The Certificate of Good Standing/
Registration Status must be dated within six months from the
date of receipt of the application
• names and current contact details of (preferably three) referees
• a curriculum vitae, this must include:
–– a list of primary and specialist qualifications including dates
awarded
–– details of primary and specialist training
–– a full employment history in chronological order (mm/yy)
and brief description of each job held
–– a list of current registering authorities
–– a list of publications, research papers, examinations taken
and any other activities
–– a minimum of three referees
• Please note that any gaps in an applicant's employment history
will require an explanation.
• a description of involvement in MOPS/CME/CPD programs
• other relevant supporting material.
If difficulties are encountered in compiling the documentation
requested in Form AON-SB, the AMC should be advised of the
steps taken to obtain them and provided with an explanation of the
problems encountered.
The key step in the application process is for the applicant to
provide the documentation required by the AMC and the assessing
specialist medical college; both for the initial review of qualifications
and experience; and for the interview.
It is in the interest of the applicant to make every endeavour to
supply as much of the documentation as possible.
Note: All documentation included
must be legibly certified photocopies.
If the information includes documents issued in a language other
than English, they must be accompanied by certified English
Original documents are not to be translations. Professional documents must be provided in the
submitted in place of photocopies. If original language. If they are issued in a language other than English,
original documents are submitted and they must be translated into English by an authorised translation
subsequently lost, the AMC will not service or professional translator. Copies of these translations must
take responsibility for their loss.
be verified, and both the translation and the certified copy of the
professional documents in the original language should be stapled
together and submitted with the application.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
49
CONCURRENT AREA OF NEED/SPECIALIST ASSESSMENT

When assessing candidates for suitability for Area of Need positions,
those colleges who are in a position to do so will determine
at the same time (or soon thereafter), what is required to meet
standards for specialist recognition/Fellowship, in accordance with
the Guidelines on the Specialist Assessment Pathways document
endorsed by the COAG IMG Technical Committee and available on
the AMC website.
This means that some candidates for Area of Need assessment
will also undertake a specialist assessment to determine their
comparability to the standard of an Australian-trained specialist in
that field.
Colleges will report the outcome of a concurrent assessment to the
AMC via a pro forma standard Combined Area of Need/specialist
assessment report, which is then distributed to state and territory
medical boards and the applicant directly by the AMC.
STEP 7: PROVIDE ALL OTHER SUPPORTING

DOCUMENTATION
QUALIFICATIONS:
PRIMARY MEDICAL DEGREE/DIPLOMA AND SPECIALIST
QUALIFICATION(S)
All candidates must provide a certified copy of the original primary
medical degree/diploma (equivalent to Bachelor of Medicine,
Bachelor of Surgery - MBBS) awarded by the medical school or
university on completion of the medical course; along with a certified
copy of the specialist qualification(s) obtained by the applicant.
If the degree or qualification awarded is not in English, a certified
copy of the translated document is required. The translation must
be carried out by an approved translation service or professional
translator. The translation must be in full; an extract is NOT
acceptable.
The primary medical degree and translation (if required), and
specialist qualification(s) and translation(s) (if required) must be
certified by the same person who witnessed Form P-1 (AON).
These documents are to be attached to Form P-1 (AON).
identification.
NAME CONFIRMATION
If the name of an applicant is different from that shown on any
document, or photograph submitted with the application, or in
any other identification documents including passport; then the
variations; such as: initials, incorrect spelling, and name change.
Please see Appendix C.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
50 How to Apply
Note: All name confirmation NAME CONFIRMATION CAN BE SUBMITTED IN THE FORM
documentation must be certified by OF:
the same person who witnessed Form
name and given name(s) are the same • deed of name change
as stated on Form P-1. • Statutory Declaration/Affidavit Form stating all variations of
name.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
Medical practitioners seeking registration through the AON
Specialist Pathway must have demonstrated their English language
proficiency before assessment by specialist colleges. The standard
required is set by the medical boards and is nationally consistent.
The AMC will require proof in accordance with the national policy
on English language proficiency before assessment by colleges for
AON Specialist Pathway.
Introducing an upfront English language test in the AON Specialist
It will also ensure the same standards are expected by specialist
colleges and medical registration boards for English language
requirements for the AON Specialist Pathway.

correspondence with specialist medical colleges and medical
boards, will be the same as that recorded on the Form P-1. Should
an applicant's name change, please see Appendix C for the
documentation required to be submitted to the AMC as evidence.
candidates. The assessing specialist medical college should also
be notified at the same time as the AMC.
WHEN ADVISING A CHANGE OF ADDRESS, INCLUDE THE
FOLLOWING DETAILS:
• full name
• new address
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
51

To determine eligibility to sit the AMC Examination, an applicant
must complete and lodge the following application forms in
accordance with the procedures outlined in this booklet:
• Form P-1 (AON)
• Form AON-SB
• Primary Source Verification – Authorisation for Release of
Information Form (EICS verification)
POST THE APPLICATION FORMS, SUPPORTING
DOCUMENTATION AND FEE TO:
PO Box 4810
KINGSTON ACT 2604
AUSTRALIA
documentation, the applicant will be advised in writing, via email
The AMC processes all applications for AON specialist

assessment strictly in the order they are received. While
every effort is made by the AMC to reduce the processing
time for applications, many applications submitted to the
AMC are incomplete or do not comply with the prescribed
requirements; thereby adding to the processing times and
causing unnecessary delays for other candidates.
The AMC will not process applications or forward them to
the relevant specialist medical college for assessment until
candidates have taken all necessary action and returned
completed documentation to the AMC.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
52 How to Apply
AUSTRALIAN OR AUSTRALASIAN SPECIALIST

QUALIFICATIONS
A specialist holding a Fellowship of an Australian or Australasian
specialist medical college in a recognised field of specialisation
may apply direct to the relevant state or territory medical board for
conditional registration to practice in their field of specialty only.
COMMON ERRORS MADE WHEN LODGING APPLICATION

FORMS
The most likely cause of delay in the processing of applications
is incorrectly completed application forms and incorrectly certified
documents. It is in the applicant’s interest to ensure that all
application forms and copies of documents are completed correctly.
Declarations and copies of formal documents MUST be certified in
accordance with the directions given in this booklet. Certified word
for word English translations of foreign language documents must
be provided; and a full description of specialist training must be
given. An incorrect or incomplete application will not be processed
until further documentation has been submitted to the AMC.

INFORMATION)
Applicant/Candidate Form can be found at the AMC website:
actioned.
SUMMARY OF AON SPECIALIST PATHWAY

A summary of the Specialist Area of Need (AON) Pathway is
illustrated on the following page.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
53
Applying through the Area of Need Specialist Pathway

The Area of Need Specialist Pathway is relevant to IMGs who are seeking registration in geographic areas in which general population
healthcare needs are not being met. This summary outlines the steps necessary to complete this application process.
Section 1: Preparing your documentation to apply for the Area of Need Specialist Pathway
Apply for an advertised position in a geographical area declared an Area of Need by the
2 Position declared as Area of Need State Health Authority.
Overseas-trained doctors need to be issued visas to work in Australia. For information

3 Visas and overseas-trained doctors regarding this process, visit the AMC website.
4 Apply online and those who cannot apply online must download Forms AON-SA and AON-SB
from the AMC website.
5 Complete application forms Provide documentary evidence of specialist qualifications attached to Form SB.
6 Provide supporting documentation Provide a Primary Medical Degree or Diploma and identification documents.
Documents must be certified and attached to Form P-1 (Specialist).
Provide additional
7 supporting documentation
provide supporting documents to show why.
Send in all completed application forms to the AMC.
Provide further
8 supporting documentation
If you require a third party to communicate with the AMC or act on your behalf regarding
i Third Party Consent your application, you need to fill out an Authority to Act Form from the AMC website.
After the AMC determines you are eligible for recognition as a specialist, you will be sent
i Lodging Form SC Form SC. This form needs to be sent to the relevant specialist college for processing.
! Schedule of Fees
The AMC’s assessment fee is payable on completion of the Online Wizard application. This fee is non-refundable. For more information, refer to
the AMC website. A listing of college fees is also available on the AMC website, and further information on college fees, processes and particulars
can be found by contacting colleges directly or through their website.
! Australian or Australasian Specialist Qualifications

If you hold a Fellowship with an Ausralian or Australasian Specialist College, the process you will go through to practice in your field of specialty
is different. Please refer to page 37 of this book for more details.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
54 How to Apply
If the applicant has provided the Authorisation for Release of

will email a request for further documentation to the applicant.
Incomplete documentation will incur an administrative fee of $110.
Assessment of supplied documents will take approximately two
weeks.
When the assessment is complete and all required information
supplied, the AMC will refer the candidate's application to the
relevant specialist medical college for assessment.
Specialist college assessment may take approximately eight weeks.
Specialist colleges in a position to do so, will report the outcome of
an AON specialist assessment via a pro forma standard combined
AON/specialist assessment Report, which is then distributed to
state and territory medical boards and the applicant directly by
the AMC. Colleges not conducting a concurrent assessment will
report an outcome of an AON specialist assessment directly to the
applicant.
When EICS is verified, a certificate of verification is sent to the
applicant's postal address.
Once an applicant is found to be suitably qualified for the AON
position the candidate may apply to the relevant state/territory
medical board for registration.
Application with AMC/specialist medical college is now complete.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
55
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

EICS
QQ How long/why is it taking so long?
AA The AMC submits EICS verification request within three
working days of receiving complete applications.
Assignment of EICS numbers by ECFMG may take
approximately 10-14 days.
Verification is sent to universities/medical schools – this is
usually where delays are encountered.
Contact with your medical school may be required to arrange
administrative payments before they finalise the EICS
verification.
QQ ECFMG have received the verification from my medical
school. How long until I get notified?
AA ECFMG have advised that verification will occur approximately
two weeks after receiving the documentation.
STANDARD PATHWAY (NON-SPECIALIST)

QQ I have a public health/traditional medicine degree – can I
apply?
AA The AMC will not accept qualifications in public health medicine
as they are not a primary medical degree in medicine and
surgery.
See www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/appinfo for additional
information regarding what is deemed an approved course of
study.
QQ Did the AMC receive my mail?
AA All AMC candidates who have a valid email address will receive
an email to advise their documents have been received.
COMPETENT AUTHORITY
QQ How long before my Advanced Standing Certificate is
sent?
AA Advanced Standing Certificates are issued approximately four
weeks after all required documents have been submitted with
your application.
QQ I have been exempted from PLAB 1 and 2 by the General
Medical Council (GMC). Am I eligible for the Competent
Authority Pathway?
AA If you have been exempted from partaking in the PLAB 1 and 2
by the General Medical Council (GMC) you are not eligible for
the Australian Medical Council Competent Authority Pathway.
You may wish to apply for the Standard Pathway (non-
specialist).
MCQ EXAMINATIONS
QQ I have applied for an examination, and now need to
withdraw?
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
56 How to Apply
AA Please complete the Withdrawal Form available on the Forms

page of the AMC website at www.amc.org.au
If withdrawing after the examination closing date, you must
provide a medical certificate or Statutory Declaration with
your withdrawal form – these documents must be original, and
cannot be faxed.
If withdrawing before the examination closing date, a faxed
Withdrawal Form is acceptable (no Statutory Declaration or
medical certificate is required if withdrawing before closing
date).
QQ How should I enrol for the MCQ examination?
AA Please use the AMC Online Scheduling Portal at: https://
exams.amc.org.au/login. If you cannot pay by credit card, email
your name, venue location, date and AMC candidate number
to formc1@amc.org.au to obtain a paper application form.
CLINICAL EXAMINATIONS
QQ I have applied for an examination, and now need to
withdraw?
AA Please complete the Withdrawal Form available on the Forms
page of the AMC website at:
http://www.amc.org.au
QQ When is workplace-based assessment coming in (non-
specialist)?
AA Elements of the Standard (Workplace-based Assessment)
Pathway, such as the screening MCQ examination and
the Pre-employment Structured Clinical Interview (where
applicable) became available from July 2008. Roll out of the
workplace-based assessment (alternative to the AMC clinical
examination) will be subject to accreditation by the AMC.

QQ What will happen if I only need the Primary Source
Verification application?
AA When EICS is verified, a certificate of verification is sent to your
postal address.
Application with the AMC is now complete.
Please note – this pathway does not allow you to sit AMC
Examinations. Please contact your state medical board to
ensure this is the correct pathway before submitting your
application.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
57
APPENDIX A: NEW PROOF OF IDENTITY

REQUIREMENTS FOR AMC ASSESSMENT
PATHWAYS
All applicants applying through the Australian Medical Council

(AMC) must satisfy the AMC of their identity. Applicants will
need to provide proof of personal identity by way of submission
of two (2) types of identification documentation and two (2)
current passport-sized colour photographs.
The Medical Board of Australia is responsible for the registration

of medical practitioners in Australia. All applicants for medical
registration will be required to satisfy the Proof of Identity
Framework and Requirements of the Medical Board of Australia,
which is separate to the AMC’s requirements, in order to obtain
medical registration.
Please note that some of the identification requirements set out
by the Medical Board of Australia cannot be met by applicants
applying from overseas. The AMC has therefore developed its own
proof of identity requirements that can be met by doctors applying
from overseas for assessment through the AMC.
ACCEPTABLE DOCUMENTS
You MUST provide: Note: Application forms and
• A certified copy of your Passport documents not correctly certified by
an eligible witness, are not legally
PLUS ONE of the following documents (issued in Australia or
overseas)
accepted.
• A certified copy of your Drivers Licence
• A certified copy of your Credit Card (front and back)
• A certified copy of your International English Language Testing
System Test Report Form (IELTS-TRF) (with photograph only)
• A certified copy of your Current registration/Certificate of Good
Standing from relevant medical regulatory authority
REQUIREMENTS AND COMMON PROBLEMS

• All documents must be:
–– certified copies of the original documents following the
AMC’s requirements for document, AND
–– current/valid at the date of submission
• At least ONE document must:
–– include a recent photograph
–– include a signature
–– be in the applicant’s current name
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
58 How to Apply
• You must submit a Statutory Declaration if:

–– your passport, drivers licence or credit card does not
contain a signature
OR
–– your signature differs to the signature on your application
form (you will need to explain the reason why)
OR
–– a document contains a previously used name (you will
need to explain the name variation)
If a document submitted is not in English, then an English
translation must be attached. It must be a translation conducted by
an authorised translation service or professional translator.
PHOTOGRAPHS
Applicants must provide two (2) current passport-sized colour
photographs with name clearly printed on reverse
Please attach:
• One (1) photograph to the application form
• One (1) photograph to the Authorisation for Release of
Information Form (EICS) verification
• If you are applying to be assessed through more than one
Specialist College, you will need to provide one photograph for
each additional College.
The AMC has set out requirements relating to photographs provided
by applicants under the assessment pathways. Please ensure that
your photographs meet the AMC requirements before submitting
your application.
All passport-sized photographs MUST be:
• in colour
• good quality
• not more than twelve months old
• not smaller than 35 x 45 mm and not larger 40 x 50 mm
• good quality with no ink or marks on the edge
• not too dark and not too light
Note: Applicants who do not provide
• not scanned or homemade photographs
documentation that satisfies the AMC
Proof of Identity requirements will • in front of a plain light coloured background
be determined to have submitted an • sharply focused, clear-not blurred
incomplete documentation and will
• full-front view of head and shoulders with eyes open and clearly
be required to pay the incomplete visible.
documentation fee of $110.00 and
The AMC certificate will include the submitted photograph and
submit complete documentation should represent a true likeness of the candidate. The AMC will
before the application will be provide one of these photographs to the assessing Specialist
processed. Medical College (if applicable) and Medical Board of Australia at
appropriate points in the application process.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
59
REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTIFYING DOCUMENTATION

Each page of the documentary evidence lodged must be certified
by the same person witnessing the Declaration on the application
form. This person must meet the requirements specified for
Statutory Declarations/Affidavit witnessed in Australia and overseas
(see below).
The certification on each page must read:
I certify this document to be a true copy of the original sighted

by me
...........................................................................................
Signature of witness
...........................................................................................
Please print title and number of witness (if applicable)
...........................................................................................
Date (dd/mm/yyyy)
If the certification does not read with the exact wording shown Note: Certification must be made
above, the documentation will not be accepted by the AMC, which on each page of supporting
will determine your application to be incomplete until the correct documentation. Certifications made
certification is provided to the AMC. Applications deemed to be
on adhesive labels are not accepted.
incomplete will incur the incomplete documentation fee of $110.00.
STATUTORY DECLARATIONS WITNESSED IN AUSTRALIA

The AMC accepts the following persons as eligible to witness
Declarations in Australia:
• Chief Magistrate
• Police Magistrate
• Resident Magistrate
• Special Magistrate
• Justice of the Peace
• Person appointed under the Commonwealth Statutory
Declarations Act 1959 as amended, or under a State Act to be
a Commissioner for Declarations
• Notary Public
• Person appointed as a Commissioner for Declarations under the
Statutory Declarations Act 1911, or under that Act as amended,
and holding office immediately before the commencement of
the Statutory Declarations Act 1959
• Person before whom a Statutory Declaration may be made
under the law of the State in which a Declaration is made.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
60 How to Apply
STATUTORY DECLARATIONS/AFFIDAVIT WITNESSED

OVERSEAS
declarations in countries other than Australia:
• Notary Public
• Commissioner of Oaths (South Africa and Canada only)
• Person appointed to hold, or act in the office in a country or
place outside Australia
• in an Australian Embassy, High Commission, Legation or other
post as:
• Australian Consul-General, Consul or Vice-Consul
• Australian Trade Commissioner or Consular Agent
• Australian Ambassador or High Commissioner
Note: Application forms and

• Australian Minister, Head of Mission, Commissioner, Charge
d’affaires or Counselor
documents not correctly certified by
an eligible witness, are not legally • Australian Secretary or Attaché
recognised in Australia and will not be • Person authorised to perform notarial duties.
accepted.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
61
APPENDIX B: STATUTORY DECLARATIONS

In the event that a candidate is required to complete a Statutory
Declaration to progress their application during the specialist
assessment process, the AMC will only accept the following
persons as eligible witnesses.
STATUTORY DECLARATIONS WITNESSED IN

AUSTRALIA
The AMC accepts the following persons as eligible to witness Note: Application forms and
Declarations in Australia: documents not correctly certified by
• Chief Magistrate an eligible witness, are not legally
• Police Magistrate accepted.
• Resident Magistrate
• Special Magistrate
• Justice of the Peace
• person appointed under the Commonwealth Statutory
Declarations Act 1959 as amended, or under a State Act to be
a Commissioner for Declarations
• Notary Public;
• person appointed as a Commissioner for Declarations under the
Statutory Declarations Act 1911, or under that Act as amended,
and holding office immediately before the commencement of
the Statutory Declarations Act 1959
• person before whom a Statutory Declaration may be made
under the law of the state in which a Declaration is made.
STATUTORY DECLARATIONS/AFFIDAVIT WITNESSED

OVERSEAS
Note: A Justice of the Peace
declarations in countries other than Australia: registered outside Australia is NOT
accepted by the AMC for witnessing
• Notary Public
documentations.
• Commissioner of Oaths (South Africa and Canada only)
• person appointed to hold, or act in the office in a country or
place outside Australia
• in an Australian Embassy, High Commission, Legation or other
post as:
–– Australian Consul-General, Consul or Vice-Consul
–– Australian Trade Commissioner or Consular Agent
–– Australian Ambassador or High Commissioner
–– Australian Minister, Head of Mission, Commissioner, Charge
d’affaires or Counsellor
–– Australian Secretary or Attaché
–– person authorised to perform notarial duties.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
62 How to Apply
APPENDIX C: CHANGE IN CIRCUMSTANCES

The AMC recognises that a change in an applicant’s individual
circumstances may arise during an AMC Pathway assessment
process. It is important that candidates ensure that any change of
personal contact details is advised promptly in writing to the AMC
Ph: +61 (0)2 6270 7878).
These changes will not be accepted over the telephone, facsimile
or via email.
Candidates should be aware that the following changes in
circumstances will require formal notification to the AMC so that
unnecessary delays to an application can be avoided:
NAME CHANGE REQUIRES A STATUTORY

DECLARATION/AFFIDAVIT FORM
correspondence with the AMC and medical boards, will be the
same as that recorded on the application form.
Should an applicant's name change, they are required to submit
a Statutory Declaration/Affidavit Form stating all variations of their
given and family name(s) and that (if it is true) the applicant is
known by all of these name(s).
This Statutory Declaration/Affidavit form can be found at:
www.ag.gov.au/www/agd/agd.nsf/Page/Statutory_declaration
This documentation must be certified by the same person who has
witnessed the Form A.
Please ensure the surname/family name and given name(s) are
the same as stated on the application form.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS REQUIRES A NOTIFICATION OF

CHANGE OF ADDRESS FORM
Note: Change of address details It is important that candidates ensure that any change of personal
cannot be accepted via email. This contact details is advised promptly in writing to the AMC Secretariat
will ensure that the AMC can contact (for further information contact the AMC Call Centre. Ph: +61 (0)2
candidates quickly, as the occasion
6270 7878).
arises, to notify rule or eligibility To advise the AMC of change of address details, the applicant must
changes, or to confirm information complete the Notification of Change of Address Form including:
provided by candidates. • AMC number
• full name
• new address
• new contact telephone number/s
• email address
• signature.
Notification of Change of Address Forms are available from the
AMC website: http://www.amc.org.au/index.php/img/exam/forms,
or by contacting the AMC Secretariat.
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
63
APPENDIX D: PREPARATION FOR THE AMC

EXAMINATION
GENERAL REFERENCES/TEXTBOOKS
Candidates preparing for the AMC Examination may find it useful
to review major textbooks in the clinical disciplines covered by
the examination. A list of textbooks, which are in common use
in Australian medical schools, is set out in the AMC publication
Examination Specifications. This list also identifies medical journals
which candidates may find useful.
Many of the Australian teaching hospitals hold regular seminars
and clinical meetings, which may be attended with prior approval
from the hospital administration.
AMC PUBLICATIONS
The AMC has published the following publications to assist
candidates to prepare for the AMC Examination.
AMC ANTHOLOGY OF MEDICAL CONDITIONS

An expert multidisciplinary editorial committee and contributors
have prepared the AMC publication Anthology of Medical
Conditions, to assist problem solving based on presenting clinical
conditions. Produced to assist international medical graduates in
preparation for the AMC Examinations; and as an essential tool for
clinical practice.
The publication lists over 130 Clinical Presentations of clinical
conditions and classifies them to assist in a problem-solving
approach to diagnosis and management. It contains:
• an integrated multidisciplinary index of clinical conditions and
presentations
• guidelines for clinical problem solving
• legal, ethical AMC Annotated Multiple Choice and organisational
aspects of clinical medicine.
It is essential for all doctors to be familiar with the laws of the society
in which they practise medicine and the ethics underpinning medical
practice. It is also important to understand the organisational
aspects of medicine in the Australian context. The Anthology of
Medical Conditions contains a separate section dealing with
these important issues, entitled 'Legal, Ethical and Organisational
Aspects of the Practice of Medicine' (LEO). The publication is
enhanced throughout with medical illustrations.
All AMC multiple choice questions and clinical examination stations
are linked to the clinical conditions and key objectives listed in the
AMC Anthology of Medical Conditions. The Anthology of Medical
Conditions is recommended to candidates preparing for the MCQ
and clinical examinations.
The Anthology of Medical Conditions can be ordered from AMC
website: https://store.amc.org.au
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
64 How to Apply
AMC HANDBOOK OF MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

This book, which continues the AMC series; contains in total almost
600 MCQ for self-testing, selected from the AMC International
Medical Graduate (IMG) Examination Bank covering all disciplines
and clinical categories; and containing a complete multidisciplinary
150 question MCQ paper.
Annotated commentaries for each question have been prepared
by an expert editorial committee and additional multidisciplinary
contributors.
The range of questions extends over the entire curriculum and
covers the following disciplines:
Medicine Surgery Paediatrics

Gynaecology Psychiatry Population health
Community and Epidemiology Ethics and the Law
General practice
The AMC Handbook of Multiple Choice Questions can be ordered

from the AMC Store at: https://store.amc.org.au
AMC HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL ASSESSMENT

The handbook is intended to prepare international medical
graduates (IMGs) for the AMC Examination, but also to facilitate
integration into the medical workforce in Australia. The publication
is a comprehensive guide to clinical medical practice in Australia
and contains a selection of over 150 case scenarios selected
across all of the clinical disciplines, with full commentaries on each
of the cases. It is designed around self-test clinical tasks with trial
examinations, and a trial re-test assessment. The commentaries
and performance guidelines reflect best practice principles and are
designed to assist IMGs and local medical graduates preparing for
clinical assessments. The AMC Handbook of Clinical Assessment
is regarded as an essential tool for clinical practice.
The AMC Handbook of Clinical Assessment can be ordered from
the AMC Store at: https://store.amc.org.au
THE MULTI-STATION STRUCTURED CLINICAL ASSESSMENT

VIDEO/DVD: A GUIDE TO PREPARATION FOR THE AMC
CLINICAL EXAMINATION.
The AMC, in association with the Educational Resource Centre
of the Royal Children’s Hospital, has produced a videotape of
the Multi-station Structured Clinical Assessments. The video
shows three sample stations with two candidates performing at
each station of the new clinical examination and complements
the AMC Examination Specifications Booklet Clinical Supplement
2004 Series Examinations. The video/DVD has a running time of
approximately 130 minutes.
Copies of the DVD can be purchased from the AMC online store at:
https://store.amc.org.au/dvds/multi-station-structured-clinical-
assessment
Further information regarding all AMC publications may be found
at: www.amc.org.au/index.php/pub
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
65
TABLE OF
CONTENTS

Applying To The Amc

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Applying To The Amc

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

TABLE OF

© 2010 by the Australian Medical Council Limited.

ABOUT THE AUSTRALIAN MEDICAL COUNCIL .........................................................4

APPLYING THROUGH THE STANDARD PATHWAY (AMC EXAMINATION) .............10

APPLYING IN THE COMPETENT AUTHORITY PATHWAY ........................................23

APPLYING THROUGH THE AMC SPECIALIST PATHWAY ........................................30

APPLYING THROUGH THE AREA OF NEED (AON) SPECIALIST PATHWAY..........41

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS............................................................................55

APPENDIX A: NEW PROOF OF IDENTITY REQUIREMENTS FOR AMC

APPENDIX B: STATUTORY DECLARATIONS.............................................................61

APPENDIX C: CHANGE IN CIRCUMSTANCES...........................................................62

APPENDIX D: PREPARATION FOR THE AMC EXAMINATION .................................63

information on medical qualifications and registration data can

Professor Richard Smallwood

IMPORTANT NOTE: CHANGE IN REGISTRATION

ABOUT THE AUSTRALIAN MEDICAL COUNCIL

PRIMARY SOURCE VERIFICATION

The AMC cannot issue the AMC Certificate until final

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION (MCQ) EXAMINATION

AMC PATHWAYS OVERVIEW

The AMC also offers a service to the Australian state and

COMPETENT AUTHORITY PATHWAY

PRIMARY SOURCE CLINICAL

SPECIALIST (FULL RECOGNITION)

PRIMARY SOURCE SPECIALIST COLLEGE SPECIALIST COLLEGE

SPECIALIST AREA OF NEED Note: may be lodged by employer/agent

SPECIALIST COLLEGE SPECIALIST COLLEGE

AMC PRIMARY SOURCE AMC/COLLEGE

COMPETENT AUTHORITY PATHWAY

STANDARD PATHWAY (AMC EXAMINATION)

to communicate with patients, their families and other health

STANDARD PATHWAY (WORKPLACE-BASED ASSESSMENT)

SPECIALIST AREA OF NEED PATHWAY

ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS

A review of the AMC Examination performance data shows that

APPLYING THROUGH THE STANDARD

SECTION 1: GETTING STARTED – APPLYING TO THE

Listing by WHO or FAIMER of medical schools in a particular

STEP 2: APPLY ONLINE

Candidates who have previously applied with the AMC cannot

Apply online via the AMC Online Application Wizard at:

STEP 3: COMPLETE FORM P-1 (NON-SPECIALIST)

STEP 4: COMPLETE FORM FOR PRIMARY SOURCE

1. Has the Declaration on Form P-1 (Non-specialist)

2. Are two current colour passport-sized photographs,

3. Is a certified copy of the original primary degree/

4. Is a certified copy of the English translation

5. Has proof of identity as per the AMC Identity

6. Is the name that appears on Form P-1 (Non-

7. Has all supporting documentation been signed by

STEP 5: PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

Name confirmation can be submitted in the form of:

STEP 6: PROVIDE OTHER INFORMATION THAT MAY BE

STEP 7: SEND IN APPLICATION FORMS

POST THE APPLICATION FORMS AND SUPPORTING

THIRD PARTY CONSENT (AUTHORITY TO RECEIVE

The AMC processes all applications strictly in the order they

SECTION 2: APPLYING TO SIT FOR THE MCQ

OVERVIEW OF THE MCQ EXAMINATION

HOW TO SCHEDULE FOR AN MCQ EXAMINATION

CANDIDATES SCHEDULED IN AN AUSTRALIAN OR NEW

CANDIDATES SCHEDULED IN A NON-AUSTRALIAN (OFF-