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RACGP releases AKT 2021.1 exam results
The first Applied Knowledge Test for 2021 took place on 6 February, and the public report is now available.
Due to a small cohort comprising a high number of candidates sitting the exam for the first time, the 2021.1 AKT had a higher-than-usual pass rate.
Each RACGP Fellowship (FRACGP) exam is followed by a public report outlining candidates’ performance and outcomes, covering pass marks and rates, mean scores and the reliability of the exam.
The latest report covers the 2021.1 Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) exam.
From the example clinical scenarios in the AKT 2021.1, the RACGP identified areas that some candidates found challenging. Feedback provided for areas of improvement include having an understanding of:
- current guideline recommendations for appropriate screening and management, including for ‘red flags’ and ongoing management of an emergent situation
- appropriate investigations, follow up and referral pathways
- medication management and prescription monitoring
- different presentations of disease and epidemiology in patients from a wide range of backgrounds.
From a total of 748 candidates who sat the 2021.1 AKT, the exam had an overall pass mark of 62% and a pass rate of 86.1%. The pass rate is the percentage of candidates who achieved the pass mark.
Historically the pass rate is stable, with only small variation across exams. However, the 2021.1 AKT exam has a higher-than-usual pass rate and candidate mean score. All other exam parameters, including pass mark, remain consistent with previous exam cycles.
The higher-than-usual pass rate and candidate mean score was reportedly due to the smaller size of the cohort and the high number of candidates within this cohort who were sitting the exam for the first time, as the rate of passing typically decreases with increased attempts at the exam.
The RACGP recommends the following advice for candidates when preparing for and sitting the exam:
- Read each clinical scenario and accompanying question thoroughly – although more than one option may be plausible, only the most appropriate option for the clinical scenario provided should be selected.
- Learning only the first step in an investigation or management may not demonstrate depth of knowledge – for example, a first-line blood pressure medication may be contraindicated, requiring knowledge of the second- or third-line choice.
- Ensure up-to-date clinical knowledge through reading journals, medical textbooks, and a broad range of general practice guidelines (including those published by the RACGP).
- Identify any gaps or areas of weakness in day-to-day clinical practice, through self-reflection and feedback, then develop a learning plan to improve areas of need.
This guidance may also support candidates who are preparing for the Key Feature Problem (KFP) 2021.2 on 9 July, the AKT 2021.2 on 10 July, and the
Remote Clinical Exam (RCE) 2021.1 on 3, 4, 15 July.
The RACGP has a suite of resources to assist FRACGP exam candidates:
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