Mastering the New Format KFP Exam for FRACGP

The Key Feature Problem (KFP) Exam is a critical step toward obtaining Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP). With the new 2025.2 format changes, candidates must adapt their preparation strategies to tackle the multiple selection question (MSQ) format, which replaces the previous short-answer response system. As someone who has successfully navigated this journey, I’d like to share key insights to help you excel.

• Understanding the New KFP Format

What’s Changed?

Shift to Multiple Selection Questions (MSQs): Instead of short-answer responses, each case now presents a structured selection-based question.

70 Individual Scenarios: Candidates will face 70 clinical cases, each requiring selection of correct responses from a given list.

Bubble Sheet Answering: The transition to a paper-based multiple-choice style format eliminates the need for handwritten responses, reducing concerns about handwriting clarity and grammar.

Emphasis on Clinical Reasoning: The core assessment remains unchanged—your ability to recognize key clinical features and make appropriate management decisions remains paramount.

• How to Prepare Effectively

Master Clinical Guidelines & Evidence-Based Medicine
The RACGP KFP exam is heavily based on Australian general practice guidelines. Ensure you study:
RACGP Red Book (Preventive activities in general practice), Therapeutic Guidelines, Australian Medicines Handbook (AMH), HealthPathways (State-specific but useful for common GP presentations), National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule, and Check & AFP Journal Articles.

Develop Strong Clinical Reasoning Skills
The KFP isn’t just about recalling information—it’s about selecting the most relevant clinical decisions. Practice recognizing key diagnostic features in patient presentations, prioritizing investigations and management steps, and avoiding non-essential or misleading choices in multiple selection questions.

Practice MSQs with Exam-Style Cases
Since the new format requires structured selection of correct answers, practicing with authentic case-based MSQs is crucial. Consider timed mock exams to improve speed and accuracy, analyzing why each option is correct or incorrect, and using study groups or coaching programs to discuss tricky cases and get feedback.

Improve Time Management
With 70 scenarios to complete, time pressure is significant. Strategies to help: spend no more than 3-4 minutes per scenario, flag difficult cases and return to them later if time permits, and avoid second-guessing—stick to your initial clinical instincts unless you spot an obvious error.

Focus on Commonly Tested Topics
The RACGP KFP exam consistently tests high-yield areas. Make sure you’re confident in chronic disease management (Diabetes, Hypertension, COPD, Asthma), emergency presentations (Anaphylaxis, Stroke, Chest Pain, Sepsis), pediatrics (Growth and development, Vaccinations, Common infections), mental health (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Suicide risk assessment), women’s health (Antenatal care, Menopause, PCOS, Contraception), and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health.

• Exam Day Tips

Stay calm and read the question carefully—ensure you understand what is being asked before selecting answers. Think like an Australian GP—apply general practice principles relevant to primary care in Australia. Avoid overthinking—the correct answers will usually align with standard clinical guidelines. Use elimination techniques—rule out obviously incorrect options to improve your chances of selecting the right answers.

• Final Thoughts

The transition to the MSQ-based KFP format presents both challenges and opportunities. With the right preparation—structured study, guideline-based practice, and strong clinical reasoning skills—you can confidently approach this exam and move closer to your FRACGP Fellowship.

At AME Academy, we provide exam-focused preparation, high-quality MSQ cases, and personalized coaching to ensure you’re ready for success. Join us to gain the knowledge, confidence, and strategy needed to excel in the new KFP format!

Best of luck with your KFP preparation!

Dr. Charan Jeet
GP & Medical Educator, AME Academy