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[ Home ](https://mdster.com) 2. [ Pediatrics ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics) 3. RACP RACP Exam Preparation ======================= The Royal Australasian College of Physicians The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) Australia/New Zealand The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) conducts Divisional examinations in Paediatrics & Child Health as part of Basic Training, supporting progression toward Fellowship (FRACP). The Divisional Written Examination tests knowledge at the end of Basic Training, while the Divisional Clinical Examination assesses clinical and interpersonal skills in structured encounters. These examinations are a major milestone for paediatric trainees in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. Divisional Written Examination (Paediatrics & Child Health) Divisional Clinical Examination (Paediatrics & Child Health) 4,216+ Questions 3,300+ Flashcards 60+ Podcasts About the RACP Exam --------------------- The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) Divisional Examinations in Paediatrics & Child Health are the pivotal assessments for basic paediatric trainees in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. Successfully passing both the Written and Clinical components is mandatory to complete Basic Training and progress to Advanced Training. These rigorous exams assess clinical knowledge, diagnostic reasoning, and interpersonal skills across a wide range of real-world paediatric scenarios. ### Eligibility Candidates must be registered medical practitioners in Australia or Aotearoa New Zealand, actively enrolled in the RACP Paediatrics & Child Health Basic Training program, and have completed the prerequisite certified training time (typically 24 months) with approval from their Director of Paediatric Education (DPE). ### Exam Format The assessment is divided into two sequential parts. The Divisional Written Examination (DWE) consists of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Extended Matching Questions (EMQs) delivered via computer-based testing. The Divisional Clinical Examination (DCE) involves structured face-to-face encounters, typically comprising long cases to assess comprehensive clinical synthesis and short cases focused on specific physical examination skills. ### Duration The Written Examination generally consists of two 3-hour papers administered on a single day. The Clinical Examination takes place over a half to full day, depending on the specific hospital roster and rotation of cases. ### Passing Criteria The Written Examination utilizes standard-setting methodologies, such as the Modified Angoff method, to determine a scaled pass mark. Candidates must pass the written component to be invited to the Clinical Examination, which requires achieving an overall passing standard across the combined long and short case clinical encounters. ### Exam Fees Examination fees are substantial. Historically, the Written Examination costs approximately AUD 1,900 to 2,300 (or NZD equivalent), while the Clinical Examination costs approximately AUD 3,200 to 3,800. Candidates should verify the exact current fees on the official RACP website prior to registration. ### Exam Frequency The Divisional Written Examination is typically held once a year, generally in February. The Divisional Clinical Examination is also held annually, usually spanning an examination window in July and August. ### Registration Process Eligible trainees must apply online through the RACP trainee portal during the specified registration window. The process requires confirmation of training status, payment of fees, and sign-off by the candidate's hospital Director of Paediatric Education. RACP Key Syllabus Topics -------------------------- Core topics and subject areas covered in the RACP examination ### Neonatology and Perinatal Medicine Covers neonatal resuscitation, prematurity complications, congenital anomalies, and neonatal infections. ~High yield (10-15%) ### Developmental and Behavioural Paediatrics Assesses knowledge of normal developmental milestones, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and developmental delays. ~High yield (10-15%) ### Neurology Focuses on childhood epilepsies, neurocutaneous syndromes, neuromuscular disorders, and acute neurological emergencies. ~High yield (10-12%) ### Respiratory Medicine Includes management of asthma, bronchiolitis, cystic fibrosis, and congenital lung anomalies. ~High yield (8-10%) ### Cardiology Tests understanding of congenital heart defects, arrhythmias, rheumatic heart disease, and heart failure in children. ~Moderate (8-10%) ### Infectious Diseases and Immunology Covers childhood immunizations, sepsis, common childhood exanthems, primary immunodeficiencies, and antibiotic stewardship. ~Moderate to High yield (8-12%) ### Endocrinology and Metabolism Focuses on type 1 diabetes, growth disorders, thyroid abnormalities, and inborn errors of metabolism. ~Moderate (6-8%) ### Gastroenterology and Hepatology Includes inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, chronic liver conditions, and paediatric nutrition. ~Moderate (6-8%) ### Oncology and Haematology Assesses knowledge of childhood leukaemias, solid tumours, bleeding disorders, and haemoglobinopathies. ~Moderate (5-7%) ### Genetics and Dysmorphology Covers chromosomal abnormalities, inheritance patterns, genetic testing modalities, and common syndromic presentations. ~Moderate (5-7%) ### Renal and Urology Includes nephrotic syndrome, glomerulonephritis, urinary tract infections, and congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT). ~Moderate (5-7%) **11** key topics covered Start Your RACP Preparation Today ----------------------------------- Comprehensive study materials designed to help you pass the RACP with confidence [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • 5-day free trial Everything You Need to Pass the RACP -------------------------------------- A complete preparation platform with tools designed for Pediatrics professionals ### Practice Questions 4,216+ questions across MCQ, SAQ, SOE formats with detailed explanations and references ### Flashcards 3,300+ flashcards for active recall — mark known and unknown cards to focus on weak areas ### Audio Podcasts 60+ audio episodes — learn on the go during commutes, workouts, or ward breaks ### Timed Mock Exams Simulate real exam conditions with timed sessions, customisable question counts, and topic filters ### AI-Powered Q&A Ask follow-up questions on any topic and get instant, contextual answers with references ### Performance Analytics Track your progress, identify weak areas, and monitor your exam readiness with detailed analytics RACP Exam Structure --------------------- Our materials cover all parts of the RACP examination ### Divisional Written Examination (Paediatrics & Child Health) The RACP Divisional Written Examination in Paediatrics & Child Health is a comprehensive assessment undertaken at the end of Basic Training. It evaluates a trainee's knowledge of basic medical sciences and clinical applications to determine their readiness to progress to Paediatric Advanced Training within Australia and New Zealand. The exam is computer-based and comprises two distinct papers: Clinical Applications and Medical Sciences. Across both papers, candidates must answer a total of 170 questions, consisting of A-type Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Extended Matching Questions (EMQs). The total exam time is 5 hours, divided into a 3-hour Clinical Applications paper (100 questions) and a 2-hour Medical Sciences paper (70 questions), with an additional 10 minutes of reading time allocated for each paper and a 1-hour break in between. Pass: The passing standard is determined by expert Fellows using the Modified Angoff method and Rasch modelling, meaning the exact pass percentage fluctuates annually but historically sits between 52% and 65%. The final score is out of 170 total marks combined from both papers, with no negative marking for incorrect answers. Key Topics General Paediatrics Neonatology Paediatric Neurology Paediatric Respiratory and Sleep Medicine Paediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology Paediatric Cardiology +2 more ### Divisional Clinical Examination (Paediatrics & Child Health) The RACP Divisional Clinical Examination in Paediatrics & Child Health is a high-stakes practical assessment undertaken at the end of Basic Training. It evaluates a candidate's clinical skills, diagnostic acumen, and interpersonal communication through interactions with real paediatric patients and their families. Passing this examination demonstrates readiness to progress to Advanced Training. Face-to-face clinical examination consisting of two (2) Long Cases and four (4) Short Cases with real patients, evaluated by two examiners per case. Conducted over a single day. Long Cases typically allow extended time for patient assessment followed by discussion, while Short Cases involve focused direct observation assessments. Pass: Cases are individually rated on a 1-6 scale. Overall pass or fail is determined using a 'Score Combination Grid' where the Long Case scores establish a 'Band', which dictates the specific aggregate score and number of passes required across the four Short Cases. Key Topics ClinicalHistoryTaking Physical Examination Technique Synthesis and Prioritisation Management Planning Interpersonal Skills and Rapport Impact of Illness Assessment How to Prepare for the RACP ----------------------------- A practical guide to help you plan your RACP preparation effectively ### Recommended Timeline 10 to 12 months of structured study for the Written Examination, followed by 4 to 6 months of intensive, supervised clinical practice for the Clinical Examination. ### Study Tips - Form a dedicated study group with fellow paediatric trainees to maintain momentum and discuss complex EMQs. - Complete as many RACP past papers as possible, timing yourself to simulate actual exam conditions. - For the clinical exam, practice long cases under timed conditions and present them to senior consultants for critical feedback. - Regularly review the Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) Melbourne Clinical Practice Guidelines, as they reflect the standard of care expected. - Familiarize yourself with normal developmental milestones across different ages, as this is heavily tested in both written and clinical formats. - In clinical practice, actively seek out short cases with varied physical signs, particularly in neurology and cardiology. - Record your clinical presentations to identify and correct nervous habits or unstructured reporting. ### High-Yield Topics - Normal and abnormal developmental milestones - Neonatal resuscitation and management of the extreme preterm infant - Asthma and bronchiolitis management protocols - Congenital heart disease (cyanotic vs. acyanotic) - Childhood immunisation schedules and catch-up rules - Paediatric fluid and electrolyte management - Recognition and management of paediatric sepsis and meningitis ### Common Pitfalls - Neglecting basic sciences (genetics, immunology, and pharmacology) which frequently appear in EMQs. - Poor time management during the Written Examination, resulting in uncompleted questions. - In the Clinical Examination, failing to build rapport with the child and parents, treating them merely as a clinical subject. - Presenting a long case without synthesizing the medical and psychosocial issues into a cohesive management plan. - Over-investigating a clinical case instead of relying on strong history-taking and physical examination skills. ### Recommended Resources - RACP Previous Examination Papers and Official College Resources - Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) Melbourne Clinical Practice Guidelines - Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics - Examination Paediatrics by Wayne Harris - Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health (JPCH) - Advanced Paediatric Life Support (APLS) Australia guidelines Study Pathways ---------------- Choose the pathway that matches your RACP preparation stage ### Pediatrics Core Pathway Core pathway for Pediatrics covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### What's Included 1,396 MCQ Questions 868 SAQ Questions 2,208 Flashcards 30 Podcasts 4,502 total study resources #### Exam Coverage RACP Divisional Written Examination (Paediatrics & Child Health) [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) ### Pediatrics Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Pediatrics covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### What's Included 1,068 MCQ Questions 784 SAQ Questions 100 SOE Questions 1,092 Flashcards 30 Podcasts 3,074 total study resources #### Exam Coverage RACP Divisional Clinical Examination (Paediatrics & Child Health) [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) Last refreshed: April 2026 Flexible Pricing Plans ------------------------ Choose the plan that fits your RACP study schedule ### Try Risk-Free for 5 Days Start your free trial today and get full access to all RACP features. **No credit card required**. Cancel anytime. No Commitment! Full platform access All study materials Analytics & tracking Cancel anytime ### Pediatrics Core Pathway Core pathway for Pediatrics covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $12.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 8% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $11.00 /month Billed $33.00 every 3 months Save 8% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 17% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $10.00 /month Billed $60.00 every 6 months Save 17% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Pediatrics Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Pediatrics covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $15.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 13% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $13.00 /month Billed $39.00 every 3 months Save 13% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 20% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $12.00 /month Billed $72.00 every 6 months Save 20% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Pediatrics Bundle (Core + Advanced) Bundle subscription for Pediatrics: Core + Advanced pathways with all features included. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $20.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 15% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $17.00 /month Billed $51.00 every 3 months Save 15% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 25% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $15.00 /month Billed $90.00 every 6 months Save 25% vs monthly Best value for serious learners Latest RACP Updates --------------------- Recent changes and developments for the RACP examination 2024 ### New Basic Training Curriculum Implementation The RACP is rolling out a new competency-based curriculum for Basic Training. Candidates should verify with the RACP how this impacts exam eligibility and blueprinting for their specific cohort. Recent Years ### Transition to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) The Divisional Written Examination has successfully transitioned to a computer-based format. Candidates are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the testing software interface provided by the RACP. Ongoing ### Clinical Examination Standardization Adjustments continue to be made to the Clinical Examination to ensure equity and standardization across different testing sites in Australia and New Zealand. Candidates should review the latest clinical exam guidance from the College. Updates are based on publicly available information and may not reflect the very latest changes. Always verify with the official The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) website. Related Pediatrics Exams -------------------------- Other examinations in Pediatrics you may be interested in [ ### ABHS Arab Board of Health Specializations Middle East ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/abhs-pediatrics) [ ### ABP American Board of Pediatrics USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/abp) [ ### AOBP American Osteopathic Board of Pediatrics USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/aobp) [ ### EBP-EAP European Board of Paediatrics – European Academy of Paediatrics Examination Europe ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/ebp-eap) [ ### FCPS Fellowship of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan Pakistan ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/fcps-pediatrics) [ ### MRCPCH Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health UK ](https://mdster.com/speciality/pediatrics/mrcpch) Frequently Asked Questions ---------------------------- Everything you need to know about RACP preparation Who is eligible to sit the RACP Paediatric Divisional Written Examination? To be eligible, candidates must be registered medical practitioners enrolled in the RACP Paediatrics & Child Health Basic Training program. They generally must have completed at least 24 months of certified basic training and receive approval from their Director of Paediatric Education (DPE). What is the historical pass rate for the Written Examination? Historically, the pass rate for the Divisional Written Examination in Paediatrics fluctuates but generally sits between 65% and 75%. This reflects the rigorous standard-setting methodologies used by the College to ensure candidates are ready for Advanced Training. How many attempts are allowed for the RACP exams? The RACP has strict progression rules that limit the maximum training time and the number of examination attempts. Generally, trainees have a maximum of three or four attempts, but policies undergo regular review. Candidates should strictly verify the current Progression Through Training policy directly with the RACP. Can I sit the Clinical Examination before passing the Written Examination? No, passing the Divisional Written Examination is a strict prerequisite for attempting the Divisional Clinical Examination. Trainees must clear the written component first to demonstrate foundational knowledge. What happens if I fail the Clinical Examination? If a candidate fails the Clinical Examination, they must wait until the next available examination window (typically the following year) to re-sit. They may be required to undertake additional supervised clinical training in the interim as advised by their DPE. How much does it cost to sit the RACP examinations? Examination fees are significant. The Written Exam typically costs around AUD 1,900 to 2,300, while the Clinical Exam costs around AUD 3,200 to 3,800. These fees are subject to annual increases, so candidates must check the RACP website for exact, up-to-date pricing. What is the difference between a long case and a short case in the Clinical Examination? A long case assesses a trainee's ability to take a comprehensive history, perform a tailored physical examination, and synthesize complex medical and psychosocial issues into a management plan over an extended period (typically 45-60 minutes). A short case is a focused, 10-15 minute encounter assessing specific physical examination techniques and immediate clinical reasoning. Are New Zealand trainees assessed differently than Australian trainees? The examination standard, syllabus, and written papers are identical across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. While the clinical cases are sourced locally in respective hospitals, the grading rubrics and examiner expectations are standardized across both countries. How much time should I dedicate to preparing for the Written Exam? Most successful candidates recommend dedicating 10 to 12 months of consistent study for the Written Examination. This allows enough time to cover the broad syllabus, participate in study groups, and complete numerous past papers. Is there negative marking in the Written Examination? Generally, the RACP Divisional Written Examination does not use negative marking. Candidates are strongly encouraged to attempt every question, as there is no penalty for an incorrect guess. Specialty reading hub Related Pediatrics Articles ----------------------------- Reinforce your RACP preparation with specialty-specific guides, exam strategy articles, and clinical revision insights from the MDster blog. [ Browse all Pediatrics articles ](https://mdster.com/blog?speciality=pediatrics) [ ![Congenital Hypothyroidism: Screening, Levothyroxine, Outcomes](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/congenital-hypothyroidism-screening-levothyroxine-outcomes.jpg) Medical Education / 6 min read ### Congenital Hypothyroidism: Screening, Levothyroxine, Outcomes High-yield review of congenital hypothyroidism for Pediatrics trainees, covering newborn screening pitfalls, urgent levothyroxine treatment, and developmental follow-up. Apr 04, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/congenital-hypothyroidism-screening-levothyroxine-outcomes) [ ![How to Pass the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (Pediatrics Applied/Oral Examination)](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/how-to-pass-the-royal-college-of-physicians-and-surgeons-of-canada-pediatrics-appliedoral.jpg) Study Tips / 5 min read ### How to Pass the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (Pediatrics Applied/Oral Examination) Practical, exam-specific strategies for the RCPSC Pediatrics Applied/Oral Examination, including case priorities, mock-orals, and a realistic six-week plan. Mar 31, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/how-to-pass-the-royal-college-of-physicians-and-surgeons-of-canada-pediatrics-appliedoral) [ Medical Education / 5 min read ### Antibiotic Stewardship in the NICU: Stop Early, Narrow Fast A practical NICU guide to stopping empiric antibiotics on time, narrowing by culture, and using fluconazole prophylaxis selectively in preterm infants. Mar 28, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/antibiotic-stewardship-in-the-nicu-stop-early-narrow-fast) Ready to Pass the RACP? ------------------------- Join medical professionals who are preparing for the The Royal Australasian College of Physicians with MDster [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • Cancel anytime [ ](/) Master your medical exams with evidence-based learning. 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