Preparing for the AMC Clinical Examination: A Guide for IMGs

7 May • Working Abroad

The Australian Medical Council (AMC) Clinical Examination is a critical step for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) pursuing general registration to practise medicine in Australia. It tests whether a candidate’s clinical competencies meet the standard expected of final-year Australian medical students.

Exam Structure and Format

Total stations: 16 assessed + 4 rest
Time per station: 10 minutes (2 minutes reading + 8 minutes exam time)

Exam specifications are integrated and multidisciplinary. You’ll rotate through tasks involving simulated patients, clinical charts, images, and diagnostic data, covering hospital and community-based cases. See full details in the AMC Clinical Exam Specifications.

Clinical Domains Assessed

Each station is based on one or more of the AMC’s core assessment areas:

History Taking – Eliciting accurate, relevant patient history
Physical Examination – Demonstrating appropriate techniques
Diagnostic Formulation – Synthesising symptoms, findings, and investigations
Management, Counselling & Education – Advising and planning treatment, including patient education and team communication

Full details are outlined in the AMC Candidate Handbook.

Example Case Types

Interviewing a patient with shortness of breath
Examining a child via third-party history
Counselling an asthma patient on inhaler technique
Interpreting skin lesion presentations

Key Skills to Refine

Success in the AMC Clinical Exam relies on mastering four key areas:

Clinical Communication: Clear, concise, non-technical language
Cultural Sensitivity: Awareness of patient diversity and health literacy
Efficiency: Effective use of time within each station
Professionalism: Confidence, empathy, and respectful clinical conduct

Understanding local protocols and clinical expectations in the Australian healthcare system is essential.

Recommended Study Strategies

Focus on assessment domains and clinical reasoning over memorising past questions
Use AMC-recognised bridging course providers
Simulate exam conditions with timed mock stations
Join study groups or peer role-play sessions for practice

Exam Day Tips

Use reading time wisely to plan your approach
Tailor responses to the setting (e.g., rural clinic vs ED)
Communicate clearly with patients, carers, and examiners
Follow instructions and seek clarification if needed
Maintain professionalism and remain composed throughout

Useful Resources

Planning to Work in Australia?

At Globe Healthcare, we support IMGs through every step of their journey, from AMC preparation and registration to securing your ideal locum, fixed-term, or permanent role in Australia.

Contact our team today to get started.