IMG Pathways to RANZCOG Fellowship: What AHPRA Requires in 2025

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are vital to the future of women’s health in Australia - and many go on to become respected Fellows of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG).

But the path from overseas training to RANZCOG Fellowship is highly regulated, involving AHPRA, specialist assessments, and potential exam requirements.

According to A/Prof George Eskander, PassGP Chief Examiner and former senior executive in public women’s hospitals:

“IMGs can absolutely succeed in RANZCOG - but you need to understand the rules, map your pathway early, and show that you're aligned with Australian healthcare standards.”

This guide outlines the IMG routes to RANZCOG and what AHPRA expects at each stage.

 Overview of IMG Pathways to RANZCOG

There are two broad routes to becoming a RANZCOG Fellow if you're trained overseas:

1. Specialist Recognition Pathway (SRP)

For IMGs who have completed O&G training outside Australia or NZ, usually with >5 years’ consultant-level experience.

• Assessment via RANZCOG Overseas Trained Specialist (OTS) process
• AHPRA registration depends on college report
• May require partial exams or supervision in Australia

2. Standard Training Pathway

For IMGs without full specialist training, or wishing to enter the full RANZCOG training program (e.g. after AMC + PESCI)

• Must pass AMC MCQ and Clinical
• Secure general AHPRA registration
• Apply for hospital O&G roles and then the FRANZCOG training program

🧾 What AHPRA Requires

Whether you are applying for SRP or general registration, AHPRA's key concerns are:

• Verified primary medical qualification
• English language proficiency
• AMC Part 1 (MCQ) or recognised specialist equivalence
• Clinical recency of practice
• Demonstration of cultural competence and professional behaviour

AHPRA will rely heavily on reports from RANZCOG in SRP applications - and on PESCI reports and employer supervision in standard pathway applications.

RANZCOG’s Role in the IMG Process

RANZCOG is the assessing authority for O&G under the Medical Board’s specialist recognition process.

They will:

• Review your overseas qualifications and training logs
• Compare them to the Australian FRANZCOG standard
• Recommend whether you're substantially, partially or not comparable
• Suggest bridging exams, work-based assessments or clinical experience

A/Prof Eskander notes:

“Many IMGs are found to be partially comparable - this means a shorter, supervised training plan in Australia plus the OSCE or written exam.”

 Common IMG Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)

How PassGP Supports IMGs Entering RANZCOG

PassGP provides tailored support for IMGs at every stage:

• AMC MCQ and Clinical prep (for standard pathway)
• PESCI preparation with role-play and marking
• RANZCOG OSCE and written exam bank
• 1:1 coaching on AHPRA documents and hospital interview readiness

Led by clinicians including A/Prof Eskander, PassGP understands the full IMG journey - and helps you prepare with confidence and credibility.

 Start your IMG preparation journey now at PassGP