AMC- FAQ

Updated on 7 Nov 2019

What is an AMC online account?
If you have not created an AMC online account, you need to do so to view the information and use the available options on your candidate account – use this link.
If you have created an AMC account prior to 1 October 2015, you need to create a new account to view the information and use the available options on your candidate account link.
If you have created an AMC online account after 1 October 2015, you can log in to your account by using this link to view the information and use the available options on your candidate account.

What options do I have available on my AMC online account?
A landing page will be available providing you with several options, including:
Establishing an AMC portfolio
Adding your AMC number to your account (if not done so already)
Proceed with the AMC examinations (Please contact the Medical Board of Australia (AHPRA) to Clarify if you are required to complete the AMC examinations process (AMC certificate) for registration purposes)
View a summary of your qualification(s) submitted for verification by ECFMG (EICS and/or EPIC verifications)
Add more qualification(s) to your AMC portfolio
Nominate an Australian specialist medical college to have access to your qualification and verification information, and to upload the specialist assessment outcome undertaken by the college.

What is an AMC portfolio?
From 1 October 2015, the paper applications system has been replaced with an online applications methods, referred to as the AMC portfolio. All new applicants without an AMC candidate number must establish an AMC portfolio . If you are a returning candidate with an AMC candidate number, please read the information available on the AMC portfolio page before applying to make sure it is required.
If you are an returning candidate with an AMC candidate number, and need to submit qualification(s) for EPIC verification that has not been EICS verified via the AMC, you will have to establish an AMC portfolio and submit the qualification(s) for EPIC verification.

What is an EPIC / EICS verification?
The verification of medical qualifications is undertaken by Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). From 1 October, qualifications are verified through the ECFMG’s Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials (EPIC) process. Prior to 1 October 2015, the AMC processed qualifications through the ECFMG International Credentials Services (EICS) process.

Why is EPIC/EICS verification required?
The primary source verification of medical qualifications is mandated under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law Act 2009 (National Law) for all IMGs seeking registration in any category in Australia.

Does the EPIC/EICS verification of my qualification(s) expire?
No. Once it is completed it will appear on your AMC account.

How do I apply for EPIC verification?
You need to create an EPIC account directly with ECFMG. Please refer to the ECFMG website for further information about the EPIC verifications process.

Why hasn’t the AMC notified me of my EPIC verification progress?
The EPIC process is between yourself and ECFMG. Refer to your EPIC account for progress updates, or contact ECFMG directly if you have any further enquiries or concerns about your EPIC request. The AMC is not involved in the EPIC verifications processes.

Does the AMC issue an EPIC certificate after the verification was completed?
No. However, you can apply for an EPIC report via your EPIC account.

Will the AMC receive an EPIC outsource notification of my qualification(s)?
As you upload each qualification to EPIC verification, request that a report be sent to AMC automatically once the qualification has been verified. If you do this, the AMC will also receive an outsource notification when your qualification is sent for verification.

Will the AMC automatically receive the EPIC report of my qualification once it has been verified?
If you requested a EPIC report be sent to the AMC when you uploaded the qualification to EPIC, a report will be sent automatically once your credential is verified. If you did not request a report to be sent to the AMC when you uploaded the qualification, you will need to request for your report to be made available to the AMC via your EPIC account.

What about the EICS verifications of my qualification(s) previously completed via the AMC?
The verification of those qualifications, if undertaken via the AMC, is still valid and will appear on your AMC account.
If the EICS verification was undertaken by the AMC and still outstanding, you need to resubmit the qualification to ECFMG for EPIC verification. You will have to establish an AMC portfolio as well (if not done so already).
Do note if the EICS has been undertaken not through the AMC, you have to create an EPIC account and provide your EICS number on the account, and submit your qualification for EPIC verification.

Can I obtain a copy/reprint of the EICS verification of my qualification(s)?
Yes. Refer to the Request for reprint of EICS certificate form to be completed, email it to the AMC for processing. The reprint will be mailed by using normal mailing services, however, if you prefer courier collection and delivery, you need to make your own arrangements and provide a completed waybill with your request form to the AMC. If you don’t have a courier account, a pre-paid courier service is available.

What is a basic medical qualification (primary qualification / final medical diploma)?
A basic medical qualification (primary qualification / final medical diploma) is the formal qualification awarded after completion of a course of study in medicine (clinical), surgery and associated disciplines that enables the person holding the qualification to work as a medical practitioner in Australia.
General (non-specialist) medical registration in Australia requires a practitioner to complete a comprehensive program of training and examination.
Basic medical training consists of a primary medical degree obtained from a medical school accredited by the AMC after completion of one of the following:
An undergraduate course in any discipline and then a 4-year, graduate entry medical course
An undergraduate medical course of 5 or 6 years duration
A 12-month internship in approved/accredited posts.
This qualification is referred to as a Primary qualification with the AMC, however ECFMG refer to this as the Final Medical Diploma.

What if my medical qualification (primary qualification/final medical diploma) has not been awarded yet?
The Medical Board of Australia (AHPRA) requires for the final “hang on the wall” diploma (for e.g. MBBS, etc). to be verified for medical registration purposes (refer to step 1 below). This qualification is referred to as a Primary Qualification with the AMC, however ECFMG refer to this as the Final Medical Diploma.
Do note that if you have not yet been issued with the final “hang on the wall” diploma, other documentation options are available (refer to below options):
Final Medical Diploma – the diploma issued by your medical school or university after you have completed all requirements for and been awarded your medical degree. The Final Medical Diploma may also be referred to as the Primary Medical Qualification, Carton Degree, Conferral Certificate, or Decorative Degree; this is the credential used for framing and wall-hanging purposes. You may upload only one final medical diploma to EPIC. For the title of the medical credential ECFMG requires as the Final Medical Diploma, please see the Reference Guide for Medical Education Credentials on the ECFMG website.
Alternate Graduation Document – a document, other than a final medical diploma, issued by your medical school or university confirming that you graduated (passed all examinations and completed required internship period) from medical school and are eligible to receive your medical degree.
Final Medical School Transcript – the transcript issued by your medical school or university after you have completed all requirements for and been awarded your medical degree. Transcripts may also be known as mark sheets, time sheets, or hour sheets, and should include a listing of all subjects studied and your grades/marks for each subject.
IMPORTANT: If either a final medical school transcript or alternate graduation document / medical school letter for verification, AHPRA might require you to submit your final medical diploma for verification when applying for registration as well.

What if I don’t have my medical qualification(s) available (lost / damaged etc.)?
Please contact ECFMG directly to enquire what alternative document(s) can be accepted.

Can I apply if I have Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO USA) primary qualification?
The Medical Board of Australia (the Board) has agreed to accept the degree Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO USA) a primary medical qualification for the purposes of medical registration provided that the DO USA was awarded by a medical school which has been accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation of the American Osteopathic Association and recognised by both the Australian Medical Council and the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDoMS) if listed on the AMC website as an eligible medical school. For more information, refer to the Medical Board of Australia’s website.

What is a specialist medical qualification?
Contact the relevant specialist medical college for information about the specialist medical qualification requirements. All colleges are listed on the Medical Board of Australia’s website.

Which specialist qualification(s) should be added to my AMC account and submitted for EPIC verification?
Contact the relevant specialist medical college for information about the specialist medical qualification requirements. All the colleges are listed on the Medical Board of Australia’s website.

Why do I still require verification of my qualification if I’m already registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)?
Please contact the Medical Board of Australia to enquire if verification of your medical qualification/s is still required.

How long does the AMC take to process my portfolio application?
Once you have submitted your portfolio, please allow approx. 1-3 working days for the AMC to process, but it may take longer if there are unforeseen circumstances. If you are a new applicant, your AMC candidate number will be confirmed in an email once your application has been processed, with further instructions.

How do I find out about the progress of my application?
Access your AMC account for options available on the landing page to provide you with information and/or status updates.

Did the AMC receive my email?
You will receive an automated response to confirm that the AMC has received your email. Please allow 1-3 working days for a response, but it may take longer if there are unforeseen circumstances. If you do not receive an email, your email address may not be valid and you should contact the AMC (Monday to Friday from 10 am to 4 pm AEST).

Can I change my address details over the telephone or by email?
Yes. The AMC will change your address details over the phone, but if the AMC representative is unable to hear you clearly on the phone, you might be requested to complete a Change of address form to ensure that the correct information is recorded. Change of address details cannot be amended via email unless a completed Change of Address form has been included.

Can the AMC answer questions about registration to practise medicine?
No. You should contact the Medical Board of Australia for information about registration.

Can the AMC answer questions about internships?
No. You should contact the Medical Board of Australia for information.

Can the AMC answer questions about Competent Authority eligibility requirements and application?
No. You should contact the Medical Board of Australia for information.

Can the AMC answer questions about Specialist pathway (specialist recognition / training / area of need / short-term training)?
No. You should contact the relevant specialist medical college for information. All the colleges are listed on the Medical Board of Australia’s website.

How do I apply for a visa for entry to Australia?
The AMC does not handle visas. If you are outside Australia, you should contact the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.

How can I obtain employment in Australia?
The AMC does not process applications for employment in Australia. Information about employment is available from Australian state and territory health authorities, including Doctor Connect.

How can I obtain a Medicare provider number?
The AMC does not have information about Medicare provider numbers. Information about Medicare provider numbers is available from the Australian Government Department of Health.

How can I authorise an agent (third party nominee) to act on my behalf?
Under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the AMC is generally not permitted to disclose personal information about a candidate to a third party (e.g. agent, employer) without the candidate’s consent. A candidate may authorise a third party to communicate or act on the candidate’s behalf by completing the Authority to Receive Information Concerning an AMC Candidate Applicant form.

What is an MCQ authorisation?
When you apply and make your payment, you are issued with an authorisation to schedule for one MCQ examination event covered in the MCQ authorisation period. You are also issued with a receipt and list of examination event dates into which you can schedule. The authorisation covers a 12-month period starting from the time of payment. You must schedule and undertake one of the MCQ examination events within your authorisation period. Failure to do so will result in your forfeiting the fee.

How do I get an MCQ authorisation?
You can apply online via the candidates portal. You can also apply by requesting an MCQ Authorisation Form using the Contact Form.

What is the cost of an MCQ authorisation?
All fees are listed on the fees and charges page.

What are the dates and venues for the MCQ examinations?
All dates and venues are on the AMC website. The AMC may include additional MCQ examination dates throughout a calendar year. Therefore, it is important that you view the AMC website to be informed of any additional dates that you may not have been initially informed about in your MCQ authorisation period.

Can a candidate reschedule their MCQ examination?
A candidate can reschedule their current MCQ examination as long as it is before the closing date. Once a closing date has passed, rescheduling, cancellations or extensions will not be permitted. To reschedule a CAT MCQ examination, the candidate will have to contact Pearson VUE to reschedule to another examination date and/or venue.

Can I get an extension on my authorisation?
The AMC does not give extensions for authorisations. Candidates have a 12-month authorisation period in which to sit an MCQ examination, which gives them time to sort out any visa issues. It also gives them plenty of time for rescheduling.

Can I cancel my authorisation?
A candidate may cancel their authorisation, but only under exceptional circumstances. The MCQ section manager must approve every cancellation, and only if the cancellation application has supporting documentation, (a statutory declaration explaining why you must cancel or a medical certificate with the medical condition stated for the reason of cancellation). A cancellation fee will apply. All fees are listed on the website.

How do I apply for a visa for entry to Australia?
The AMC does not handle visas. If you are outside Australia, you must contact an Australian embassy or high commission. The 12-month authorisation period gives candidates time to not only schedule and sit an MCQ examination, but also to obtain a visa. The MCQ section cannot advise on any visa issues. If your visa has still not arrived by the closing date of the current scheduled MCQ examination, you may reschedule your examination. The AMC does not allow cancellation of an authorisation due to a visa issue. For further information, visit the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website.

I haven’t received my entrance ticket yet?
The AMC no longer issues entrance tickets to candidates for MCQ examinations.

What identity documentation do I need to take to the examination?
The email from Pearson VUE and the AMC website state the required identification needed to sit the MCQ examination.

When will my results be sent to me?
The result dates for all CAT MCQ examinations are on the AMC website.

I haven’t received my results yet?
Results are sent from the AMC on the date specified on the AMC website. Candidates who reside in Australia need to allow up to four weeks for the results to be delivered and candidates who reside overseas need to allow up to six weeks for the results to be delivered. If you have changed addresses, you will need to complete a change of address form before the results are posted. The AMC will send results to the address currently on the database, so if you have not changed your address you may not receive your results and you will be charged for a duplicate copy of your results.

Can I get a copy of my results?
You can request a duplicate copy of your results if you have not received your results by the following times:
4 weeks after the date specified on the AMC website (candidates residing in Australia)
6 weeks after the date specified on the AMC website (candidates residing overseas).
To obtain a copy you have to email the MCQ section of the AMC and complete a duplicate copy of results form.
If this is your first request for a copy of your results, it will be processed free of charge; however, if you have requested a copy previously, you will be charged a fee. This request can take up to four weeks to process. Your copy will be emailed to you and it will also be sent to your residential address.

How long are my results valid for?
Once you have passed the AMC CAT MCQ Examination, your results will stay valid indefinitely. Your CAT MCQ result will never expire.

Where can I sit a trial MCQ examination?
The AMC has a trial MCQ examination on its website.

How often are the questions changed on the trial exam?
The trial examination is updated four times a year.

How much does it cost to do the MCQ trial examination?
The trial examination costs AUD25.

What is Pearson VUE?
Pearson VUE is the venue provider for the AMC CAT MCQ Examination. Pearson VUE also controls the online scheduling for AMC candidates to obtain an examination event appointment.

How do I find out when Clinical examinations are held and when applications open and close?
All available Clinical examination dates are found at Clinical examination dates and venues.

How do I apply for the Clinical examination?
Apply online through the AMC Candidates Portal.

When can I apply for the Clinical examination?
Once you have passed the MCQ examination you are eligible to apply for the Clinical examination, provided all eligibility criteria have been met.

What is the examination fee?
The current examination fees are available on the fees and charges web page.

How many Clinical examination positions are available in each calendar year?
About 2,500 places are available in each calendar year.

Why is the wait so long and why are available positions limited?
Currently there is no wait time to get a placement in the AMC Clinical examination and places are allocated on a first come, first served basis.

How long is my MCQ result valid for?
There is no time limit on any part of the AMC examination process.

What is the scheduling process for the examination?
The Clinical examination scheduling process includes –
Scheduling is on a first come first serve basis as candidates apply through the candidate portal.
Candidates will be able log into their candidate portal and view the morning and afternoon sessions for each available examination date. Once an examination is open for scheduling, candidates can directly apply for their preferred examination date and make payment by credit card. Please note payment of the examination fee is ONLY accepted by credit card.
Once payment has been successfully processed, a placement letter and receipt confirming candidate examination details will be available immediately to download from the candidate portal.

Can I apply for the Clinical examination via a paper form?
Paper applications for the Clinical examination are not available.

How will I know if my application was correctly submitted online?
Your Candidate portal status will change to – Scheduled in a Clinical examination. Your placement letter and payment receipt will be available to download after confirmation of payment transfer.

How do I make payment?
After you have scheduled your position online you will be prompted to a payment screen where you will be able to make the payment by credit card.

What if I can’t make payment immediately or on time?
You will have 15 minutes to process your payment by using a credit card otherwise your placement will be forfeited.

Will I receive a receipt for my payment and the Placement letter?
Yes. If your payment is successful you will be able to download your payment receipt and the Placement letter through your AMC candidate portal.

What should I do if I am unable to download my Placement letter or payment receipt for the Clinical examination?
You should contact the AMC Clinical Examination Section using the Contact Form, for your Placement letter or payment receipt to be sent through email.

Can I apply for two series at a time?
No. The new online scheduling system will not allow you to make more than one application at a time.

What is the AMC doing to reduce the waiting period?
We have reviewed the AMC Clinical Examination to streamline the format and accommodate more candidates. In the past 10 years, we have doubled the number of candidates examined per year.

If I fail, how long will I have to wait before I can sit again?
Once you have received your results from the scheduled examination, you can apply for the next available Clinical Examination at which you wish to appear.

If I withdraw from the AMC Clinical Examination, will it count against me in future series?
No.

How do I place myself on the waiting list?
Once the examination placements have been filled, the AMC will compile a cancellation list. To be put on this list, candidates must email via the Contact Form. (Please note telephone requests will not be accepted).
In the event that a candidate is unable to proceed with their examination, candidates on the cancellation list will be contacted to fill the available position. The cancellation list does not guarantee an examination placement and is only valid for the month that is open for scheduling.

What if I want to change the Clinical examination date after confirmation of my placement?
The AMC does not allow transfers to alternate examination dates; however you can withdraw from the Clinical examination any time prior to the examination – fees will apply.

How do I apply for the withdrawal from the Clinical examination?
In order to withdraw from the Clinical examination you are required to complete the Clinical Examination withdrawal form and send it back to the AMC prior to the examination.

If I withdraw from the AMC Clinical Examination, will I get any refund?
Once you have been scheduled in the Clinical examination and then subsequently withdraw, there will be no refund – except in an exceptional circumstance as determined by the AMC Chief Executive Officer or nominee. Such applications must be made in writing, accompanied by a Doctor’s certificate or Statutory Declaration. Please note that a withdrawal due to personal circumstances, such as minor illness or travel arrangements that are the responsibility of the candidate will not be accepted as exceptional circumstances. Any refund granted following consideration, will incur an administrative fee of $300.00.

When will my Clinical examination results be available?
Results for all clinical examinations will be available on the AMC website at 4:00 pm on the Friday two weeks following the examination. Candidate result letters and certificate request forms will also be dispatched on this day. AMC candidates will now be able to download their Feedback sheet via their AMC candidate portal.
Results are shown by candidate reference number to comply with Commonwealth privacy legislation. The AMC will always endeavour to have results for all clinical examinations available on the AMC website at 4:00 pm, however where it is necessary to delay notification of results, a notice will be placed on the AMC website. The results will remain on the website for approximately four weeks.

What is workplace based assessment?

Workplace based assessment tests a doctor’s performance in everyday clinical practice. The Standard Pathway (workplace based assessment) allows you to complete the clinical component of your assessment in a workplace setting rather than through the AMC Clinical Examination.

How do I know whether I am eligible for the Standard Pathway (workplace based assessment)?

• You are eligible to apply to the AMC for assessment through the Standard Pathway (workplace based assessment), if you meet the following requirements:
• You have authorised the AMC to begin the primary source verification process through the EICS.
• You have passed the AMC CAT MCQ Examination (onshore or offshore).
• You have obtained limited registration from the Medical Board of Australia.
• You are working in an AMC-accredited workplace based assessment program.

If I am registered (under area of need or similar provisions) and employed, can I take part in the workplace based assessment program?

If you have sat and passed the AMC CAT MCQ Examination (onshore or offshore) and you are employed in a clinical position at an AMC accredited workplace based assessment authority, you are eligible to apply for workplace based assessment. The accredited authority has the final responsibility for offering places in its workplace based assessment program.

Why is workplace based assessment available at so few sites?

The workplace based assessment pathway is a relatively new development. At present, only a limited number of authorities have been accredited to undertake workplace based assessment on a pilot basis. If the pilot programs prove to be successful, the AMC hopes that other authorities will apply to have similar programs approved.

Do I have to be working in a clinical position to be eligible for workplace based assessment?

Yes. The workplace based assessment option is available only to international medical graduates already working in clinical positions at AMC-accredited sites.

If I cannot get a clinical position or limited registration with the Medical Board of Australia, can I sit for the AMC Clinical Examination?

Yes. The Standard Pathway (AMC examinations) is available to you if you satisfy the eligibility requirements.

If I am working in a non-clinical position in the health sector, am I eligible for workplace based assessment?

No. You must be working in a clinical position. If you are working in a clinical position, you can proceed through either the Standard Pathway (AMC examinations) or, where available, through the AMC Standard Pathway (workplace based assessment).

Can I apply for the AMC Clinical Examination once I have started the workplace based assessment program?

No. Once you have paid for and started the workplace based assessment program, you cannot apply for the AMC Clinical Examination. If you withdraw from the workplace based assessment program, you can apply to sit for the clinical examination or reapply to do workplace based assessment at a later date. Withdrawal fees may apply depending on the time you withdraw from either program (workplace based assessment or clinical examination).

How much will it cost?

The cost of completing the workplace based assessment varies for the different authorities. Please check with your employing authority to determine the cost of the assessment.

Where authorities have implemented their own assessment fee, there is also an additional AMC fee. You can find out the current AMC fee via our Contact Form. Be sure to include in your email the name of the authority that will be employing you.

For authorities who have yet to implement their own assessment fee, the cost of completing the workplace based assessment for the Standard Pathway will be the same as the current fee for the AMC Clinical Examination.

Do I get the AMC Certificate if I pass the workplace based assessment program?

Yes. If you pass the workplace based assessment program at an AMC-accredited site, you will receive an AMC Certificate once the results have been verified by an AMC examiner results subgroup and all other eligibility requirements have been met.

If I fail the workplace based assessment, can I reapply?

If you fail the workplace based assessment, you may be able to reapply to the accredited authority to repeat it, provided you continue to be registered by the Medical Board of Australia. Alternatively, you can apply or reapply to the AMC to sit for the AMC Clinical Examination.

If I do my workplace based assessment in one state, is it recognised in another state?

Satisfactory completion of the workplace based assessment and award of the AMC Certificate will be recognised in all states for registration purposes. Partial completion cannot be recognised in another accredited workplace based assessment site.

What Changes to Specialist Pathway at 1 July 2014?
Please refer to the Medical Board of Australia (MBA) website.

What Changes to Competent Authority Pathway at 1 July 2014?
Please refer to the Medical Board of Australia (MBA) website.