CCE Exam Tips: How to Stay Calm Under Pressure

Introduction

The Clinical Competency Exam (CCE) is the final hurdle to RACGP Fellowship. Unlike written exams, the CCE tests live consultations under examiner scrutiny — making it a uniquely stressful experience.

Why Anxiety Matters

In a 2025 PassGP survey, 72% of CCE candidates reported anxiety as their biggest barrier, ahead of content knowledge. Anxiety impacts fluency, rapport, and time management — all crucial for passing.

Top Tips to Stay Calm

1. Structure First
   Use a fixed consultation framework (ICE, red flags, diagnosis, management, safety-netting).
2. Practice Under Pressure
   Simulate 15-minute consults with actors or peers.
3. Breathing & Grounding
   Brief mindfulness before stations reduce cortisol spikes.
4. Reframe the Exam
   Think of the examiner as a colleague checking for safety, not perfection.

As A/Prof George Eskander reminds candidates:

“You’re not marked on perfection — you’re marked on safety, structure, and reasoning.”

Evidence on Stress Reduction

Cognitive-behavioural rehearsal has been shown to reduce exam performance anxiety by up to 40% (AJGP, 2023).

Final Thoughts

Passing the CCE requires not just knowledge but resilience. With structured practice and anxiety management, candidates can thrive under pressure.

Reference: RACGP Fellowship Exam Candidate Handbook, 2025.