ACRRM Fellowship Examination (FACRRM) Format Explained
Overall structure
The ACRRM Fellowship Examination (FACRRM) consists of AAMK (MCQ) and StAMPS (structured assessment) components.
The FACRRM uses the AAMK (Annual Academic Multiple-choice Knowledge examination, 150 MCQs over 3.5 hours) and the StAMPS (Structured Assessment using Multiple Patient Scenarios, 8 structured viva stations of 20 minutes each).
What the format means for your preparation
The single most common preparation mistake is studying as if the examination only had an MCQ component. Format-aware preparation looks like this:
- MCQ components reward high question volume and pattern recognition. Read explanations, not just answers, and revisit weak domains with spaced repetition.
- Short answer / SAQ components reward a prioritised, structured response under time pressure. Practise writing complete answers in the available time, not just outlining points.
- Viva or OSCE components reward verbalised structured reasoning. Practise aloud, ideally with feedback, rather than rehearsing silently.
- Practical or image-based components reward repeated exposure under time pressure. Build a routine that includes timed slide or image interpretation.
What separates pass from fail under this format
Across multiple sittings, these failure modes recur:
- AAMK under-preparation: 150 MCQs over 3.5 hours demands strong pattern recognition across all 8 ACRRM curriculum domains: high question volume is non-negotiable.
- StAMPS station anxiety: each 20-minute station requires structured problem-solving under observation; practising viva-style responses is essential.
- Gaps in rural-specific presentations: emergency management in resource-limited settings, retrieval medicine, and Indigenous health are all examinable.
- Insufficient breadth across the 37 Learning Areas: candidates who focus on common GP presentations often fail domains like anaesthesia, surgery, or obstetrics.
How PRIMEX maps to the format
- AAMK MCQ bank mapped to all 8 ACRRM curriculum domains and 37 Learning Areas, with spaced repetition.
- StAMPS viva simulation for each station type, with structured feedback on clinical reasoning and communication.
- Curriculum coverage analytics showing which of the 37 Learning Areas need more revision time.
Start your 7-day free PRIMEX trial for the ACRRM Fellowship Examination (FACRRM) and practise in the format you will actually sit.
Start free trialFrequently asked questions
What is the format of the ACRRM Fellowship Examination (FACRRM)?
The FACRRM uses the AAMK (Annual Academic Multiple-choice Knowledge examination, 150 MCQs over 3.5 hours) and the StAMPS (Structured Assessment using Multiple Patient Scenarios, 8 structured viva stations of 20 minutes each).
How many components does the ACRRM Fellowship Examination (FACRRM) have?
The examination comprises AAMK (MCQ) and StAMPS (structured assessment) components. Each component is examined and weighted as the college specifies; consult the official examination guide for the current marking schedule.
Which component is hardest?
Difficulty varies by candidate. Most fail-tier outcomes trace back to underprepared structured-answer technique or insufficient question practice volume rather than to one specific component.
How should the format change how I prepare?
Match your practice mode to the format. SAQ paper means write structured timed answers; viva or OSCE means rehearse speaking aloud under time pressure; MCQ means build pattern recognition through high-volume practice.
Does PRIMEX cover every component?
PRIMEX covers each component of the ACRRM Fellowship Examination (FACRRM) with format-specific practice: MCQ banks, AI-graded SAQ practice, and viva or OSCE simulation as the format requires.