Your Pathway to Becoming a Psychiatrist in Australia: A Guide for International Medical Graduates

Pathways to Fellowship of the RANZCP (FRANZCP)

For international specialist psychiatrists, there are three main pathways to attaining Fellowship of the RANZCP:

1. Substantial Comparability Pathway

• Assessment: Begin by undergoing the RANZCP specialist assessment process. If your qualifications and experience are deemed substantially comparable to Australian standards, you'll be eligible for this pathway.
• Supervised Placement: This pathway involves a 12-month supervised work placement where you'll gain practical experience in the Australian healthcare system and complete workplace-based assessments to demonstrate your competency.

2. Partial Comparability Pathway

• Assessment: If your specialist assessment shows partial comparability, you'll be invited to complete this pathway.
• Modified Training: This pathway is a tailored version of the RANZCP Fellowship Program, designed to address any gaps in your skills or experience. It involves at least two years of supervised training, including rotations in various psychiatric subspecialties, exams to assess your knowledge, and workplace-based assessments to evaluate your clinical skills.

3. Fellowship Program

• Direct Entry: If you're not eligible for specialist assessment or your assessment is not comparable, you can apply directly to the RANZCP Fellowship Program. This is a comprehensive training program consisting of three stages:
• Stage 1 (Basic Level): 12 months of core training in adult psychiatry, providing a foundation in clinical practice and psychiatric principles.
• Stage 2 (Advanced Level): Further training in specialised areas of psychiatry, such as child and adolescent psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, or addiction psychiatry.
• Stage 3 (Advanced Training): Focuses on developing advanced skills in your chosen area of specialisation and preparing for independent practice.

Entry Requirements for the Fellowship Program:

• Medical Degree: You must have a recognised medical degree.
• General Medical Training: Two years of full-time equivalent general medical training is required for applicants commencing in 2025 onwards.
• Medical Registration: You must hold current general registration as a medical practitioner in Australia or New Zealand.

Application Process for the Fellowship Program:

• Submit Application: Complete the application form and pay the required fees. more info here
• Document Training: Ensure all training requirements are complete and documented.
• Provide Registration: Provide evidence of current medical registration.
• Obtain Support: Have your application proposed and seconded by two RANZCP Fellows.
• Complete Requirements: Complete all necessary rotations, assessments, and examinations as outlined in the Fellowship Program curriculum.
• Pay Fees: Pay the Fellowship application fee and initial subscription fee.

Upon successful completion of all requirements and approval by the RANZCP Board, you will be admitted to Fellowship and can use the FRANZCP post-nominal.

Blugibbon: Supporting Your Journey to Becoming a Psychiatrist in Australia

Relocating to a new country and navigating the registration process can be challenging. Blugibbon is here to support you every step of the way. Our experienced team can assist with:

• Understanding the RANZCP pathways and requirements
• Gathering the necessary documentation
• Preparing your application
• Finding the perfect job opportunity
• Visa applications and relocation logistics

Ready to pursue your psychiatry career in Australia?

Register with Blugibbon today, and let's explore the possibilities together.