Medical Board of Australia Skills Assessment

International medical graduates (IMGs) seeking registration to practise medicine in Australia can choose from three assessment pathways. These pathways evaluate the knowledge and clinical skills of IMGs to qualify for medical registration in Australia.

1. Competent Authority pathway: The Competent Authority pathway is available to overseas-trained non-specialists and specialists, leading to general registration. IMGs who have passed recognised examinations or completed training through a Board-approved competent authority can apply for provisional registration directly to the Medical Board of Australia (the Board).
2. Standard pathway: Designed for IMGs seeking general registration, the Standard pathway applies to those ineligible for the Competent Authority or Specialist pathways. IMGs with a primary qualification in medicine and surgery from a recognized institution can apply for assessment directly to the Australian Medical Council (AMC). Successful completion of the AMC CAT MCQ Examination is a prerequisite for registration with the Board.
3. Specialist pathway: The Specialist pathway is for overseas-trained specialists seeking recognition or an area of need position in Australia. IMGs with a primary qualification in medicine and surgery, recognised by both the Australian Medical Council and the World Directory of Medical Schools, can apply for assessment directly to the relevant specialist medical college. This pathway requires satisfying training and examination requirements in the specialty field in the country of training.

Short Term Training in a Medical Specialty Pathway:

The Short Term Training in a Medical Specialty Pathway caters to overseas-trained specialists or specialists-in-training seeking brief, specialised training (typically up to 24 months) in Australia. Unlike other pathways, this does not lead to specialist registration in Australia. IMGs with a primary qualification in medicine and surgery, recognised by the Australian Medical Council and the World Directory of Medical Schools, and who meet training and examination requirements in their home country, can apply for assessment under this pathway.

Applicants, intending to register through the specialist recognition pathway, must apply directly to the relevant specialist medical college for assessment using the Board application form (AAMC-30) before seeking registration from the Medical Board of Australia.

IMGs seeking registration may undergo a Pre-employment Structured Clinical Interview (PESCI) based on the position's nature and inherent risk. The PESCI aims to evaluate whether an IMG possesses the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to practise safely and effectively in the specific role for which registration is sought.

Further Information:

Regarding assessment pathways, the Board and the AMC do not:

1. Provide advice on IMGs' qualifications, training, or experience.
2. Offer information on specialist medical colleges' training, examination requirements.
3. Issue visas or provide migration advice (Visit Australian Government Department of Home Affairs for immigration information).
4. Have any involvement in employing doctors in Australia (For employment, contact Australian state and territory health authorities).
5. Issue Medicare provider numbers (Information available from Medicare Australia)

For those considering our services, we provide an initial meeting. In this session, we will simplify the legal aspects of the visa, explain the process ahead, and address any questions you may have.

To set up an initial discussion with us, please reach out to one of our experienced immigration lawyers at (02) 9590 3987.