The RACGP Applied Knowledge Test is the primary knowledge exam for Australian GP registrars — testing clinical knowledge, evidence-based medicine, population health, and professionalism within the Australian general practice context.
Format
Computer-based examination. Covers the RACGP curriculum across four content areas: clinical medicine, evidence-based medicine, population health, and professionalism/ethics.
Content Areas
Clinical medicine (largest component). Covers the full breadth of general practice: cardiovascular, respiratory, mental health, musculoskeletal, women's health, paediatrics, dermatology, elderly care, sexual health, palliative care. Australian guidelines apply — which may differ from UK (NICE), US (USPSTF), or other international guidelines on some conditions. PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) formulary knowledge is essential — knowing which medications are PBS-listed and their prescribing restrictions is directly tested.
Evidence-based medicine. Biostatistics, epidemiology, critical appraisal of clinical evidence, screening principles, NNT/NNH. Similar in scope to the EBM component of the MRCGP AKT.
Population health. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health — a significant content area unique to Australian GP practice. Public health, health promotion, immunisation (Australian National Immunisation Program schedule — differs from UK and US schedules), preventive care. Environmental health relevant to Australian practice.
Professionalism. Medical ethics, medicolegal framework (Australian medical law — differs from UK/US), Medicare system, Australian healthcare structure, cultural safety.
How It Compares to MRCGP AKT (For UK-Trained Doctors)
Significant clinical overlap — the core medicine is shared. Key differences: Australian clinical guidelines (not NICE), PBS formulary (not BNF), Australian screening recommendations (not NICE or USPSTF), Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health content (substantial — no UK equivalent), Australian medicolegal framework, and Australian immunisation schedule.
Study Plan (8-12 Weeks)
Systematic coverage of RACGP curriculum content areas. Daily Q-bank practice: iatroX Australia Q-bank (adaptive, spaced repetition). AFP (Australian Family Physician) journal articles for current Australian guidelines and clinical updates. RACGP curriculum documents as your revision map. For UK-trained doctors: allocate extra time to Aboriginal health, Australian guidelines, PBS formulary, and Australian medicolegal content.