Neurology
Royal Australasian College of Physicians
Competition
Very high
Qualification
FRACP (Neurology)
Training duration
3 years BPT + 3 years Advanced Training in Neurology (36 months FTE: minimum 2 years core training + 1 year non-core/elective) = approximately 6 years total
Applications
BPT: state/hospital network selection, typically September–November for February start. Advanced Training: register with RACP by 28 February or 31 August (annual re-registration). Neurology AT positions are applied for directly at accredited departments and are highly competitive.
Selection format
BPT selection is hospital-based. Neurology AT positions are secured at the department level. Research output and neurology exposure during BPT are key differentiators. Core training must be completed at more than one accredited site.
When to apply
FRACP Written and Clinical Examinations must be completed. Neurology rotations during BPT are essential. The 3-year Advanced Training program requires core training at more than one accredited site (exceptions require approval).
Competition
Neurology is one of the most competitive FRACP subspecialties. Research publications and dedicated neurology exposure during BPT are near-expected for competitive Advanced Training applications.
Selection criteria
Clinical experience
Rotations, logbooks, procedures, and exposure
- Neurology rotations during BPT — inpatient neurology, neurology outpatient clinic exposure
Rural & regional
Rural, regional, and remote experience
Nothing captured yet — verify with RACP.
First Nations
Selection points and pathways for Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and Māori applicants
Nothing captured yet — verify with RACP.
Academic
Exams, qualifications, courses, and teaching
- FRACP Divisional Written Examination — sat during Basic Training (sitting early is strongly recommended)
- FRACP Divisional Clinical Examination — both Divisional exams must be passed to complete Basic Training and become eligible for Advanced Training
Publications & research
Papers, impact factor, audits, and QI
- Research publications — first-author publication in a neurology or neuroscience journal is near-expected
Extracurricular
Leadership and roles beyond clinical work
Nothing captured yet — verify with RACP.
Distinction
Prizes, awards, and academic standing
Nothing captured yet — verify with RACP.
Eligibility & application
Prerequisites, referees, interviews, and fees
- 36 months FTE Advanced Training: at least 24 months core (must be at more than one accredited site) + 12 months non-core/elective
- Minimum 24 months of Advanced Training in Australia or New Zealand
Entry tips
Sourced from Australian medical community discussion. Always verify with RACP.
Recent updates
New curriculum for Advanced Training in Neurology implemented from 2026. Trainees starting AT from 2026 follow new curricula; those already in training continue under PREP.
Indicative only. Check the RACP website for current information.
Official resources
RACP Neurology Advanced Training
Neurology AT program page — duration, core/non-core structure, and accredited sites
ANZAN Neurology Training
Australian and New Zealand Association of Neurologists — training and recruitment information
RACP Application Dates
RACP registration deadlines: 28 February and 31 August
State workforce data
Queensland Health’s medi-nav is the only state health department currently publishing the workforce and selection figures this section shows. We have not verified equivalent data for Western Australia yet — the selection criteria and requirements above apply Australia-wide regardless of state. See the Queensland figures.
Community discussions
Recent discussion about Neurology training from Australian doctors.
Search r/ausdocs and r/doctorsofaustraliaRequirements, windows, and criteria change annually. Verify with Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) before making career decisions. Report an error on this page.