RACP Paediatrics Written Examination Dates 2026 and 2027
Confirmed examination dates
- DWE Oct 2026: 2026-10-20 (applications close 2026-06-17).
- DWE Feb 2027: 2027-02-09 (applications close 2026-12-08).
- DCE Paediatrics 2026 (AU): 15-31 May 2026 - Australia (applications close 2026-03-19).
- DCE Paediatrics 2026 (NZ): 22-24 May 2026 - New Zealand (applications close 2026-03-19).
- DCE Paediatrics 2027 (AU): 14-30 May 2027 - Australia (applications close 2027-03-18).
- DCE Paediatrics 2027 (NZ): 28-30 May 2027 - New Zealand (applications close 2027-03-18).
DCE Paediatrics 2027 (AU): applications 12-18 Mar 2027, exam 14-30 May 2027, results week commencing 14 Jun 2027; NZ exam 28-30 May 2027 (applications as for Australia). Verified against the RACP DCE Paediatrics page on 2026-09-02. RACP is implementing reforms to the Paediatric Clinical Examination following its Jan 2025 Review Report. NZ dates verified against the same page on 2026-09-26.
Always verify your exam date and deadlines against the official RACP page before making travel or leave arrangements.
How to plan around the examination calendar
Whichever sitting you target, plan three concentric calendars:
- Sitting date. The day of the examination itself. Everything else works backwards from here.
- Registration window. Typically opens months before and closes weeks before the sitting. Late registration is often impossible or attracts a surcharge.
- Study leave window. Request leave for the final 4 to 8 weeks before sitting, with shorter blocks for protected revision earlier in preparation.
Registration deadlines - what to watch for
- Registration windows close weeks before the sitting itself; check the closing date as carefully as the sitting date.
- Some examining bodies require evidence of training-program eligibility submitted by a separate earlier deadline.
- Identification, address verification and supervisor sign-off can take longer than expected. Start the paperwork early.
- Confirm the test centre or examination venue is reachable before the registration window closes, particularly for candidates outside major cities.
How to plan your preparation around a confirmed date
Once your exam date is confirmed, work backwards:
- Set the date of a full timed practice paper or simulated viva for 8 to 12 weeks before the sitting.
- Block the final 2 to 3 weeks for consolidation and rehearsal only - no new content.
- Reserve the final week for tapering, sleep recovery and exam-day logistics rehearsal.
- Pre-book any travel, accommodation and identification documents as soon as your date is confirmed.
How PRIMEX adapts to your timeline
- Progress analytics show your trajectory relative to your exam date so you can adjust effort in real time.
- Spaced-repetition scheduling automatically intensifies in the final weeks before the examination.
- Timed practice modes let you simulate the format of the RACP Paediatrics Written Examination as your date approaches.
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Frequently asked questions
Where can I find confirmed dates for 2026 and 2027?
Confirmed dates, registration deadlines and any changes are published by RACP. See the link above for the source of truth.
How far in advance should I register?
Registration windows typically open months before each sitting and close weeks before the examination date. Late registration is often not permitted or attracts a surcharge.
How should I plan study leave around the exam?
Most candidates take the bulk of study leave in the final 4 to 8 weeks before sitting, with shorter blocks earlier in preparation. Speak to your training program early because leave allocation is finite.
What if the date changes after I register?
Reschedule policies vary. The official examination page sets out the current policy for date changes, fee transfers and any extenuating circumstances provisions.
Does PRIMEX adjust to my sitting date?
PRIMEX progress analytics and spaced-repetition scheduling adapt to your remaining time, so revision intensity scales with your countdown to the RACP Paediatrics Written Examination.