Program Requirements

The Doctor of Medicine and Surgery requires the completion of 192 units, which must consist of:

192 units from completion of the following compulsory courses:

MEDI8301 Medicine 1 (This course is to be taken twice as 24 + 24 units over two consecutive periods)

MEDI8302 Medicine 2 (This course is to be taken twice as 24 + 24 units over two consecutive periods)

MEDI8303 Medicine 3 (This course is to be taken twice as 24 + 24 units over two consecutive periods)

MEDI8304 Medicine 4 (This course is to be taken twice as 24 + 24 units over two consecutive periods)

Enrolment in MEDI8000 Medicine Elective may be completed in addition to the above.

Study Options

Admission Requirements

At a minimum, all applicants must meet program-specific academic/non-academic requirements, and English language requirements. Admission to most ANU programs is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not automatically guarantee entry.

Applicants must have completed or be studying the final year of an AQF Level 7 Bachelor Degree or AQF Level 8 Bachelor Honours Degree.

All applicants must meet the University's English Language Admission Requirements for Students

Admission is based on:

• Weighted GPA as approved by the School of Medicine and Psychology (25%);
• GAMSAT or MCAT (international only) score (25%) and;
• Interview (50%)

The minimum Weighted GPA for interview consideration is 5.0.

An overall score of 50 with at least 50 in each of the three sections of the GAMSAT or a minimum score of 125 in each section of the MCAT.

Postgraduate study may be considered as part of admission when ranking applicants for interview.

Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee an interview.

For detailed information about how to apply, visit the CoSM website

To Apply

• Domestic applicants apply through GEMSAS
• International applicants apply directly to ANU here
• Indigenous applicants apply either through GEMSAS or directly to ANU here

Pathways

ANU provides pathways to the postgraduate Doctor of Medicine and Surgery (MCHD), at ANU without having to sit the GAMSAT.

Bachelor of Health Science eligibility:

Students who entered the BHLTH prior to 2026 are defined as eligible for the pathway when they have successfully completed a minimum of 72 units (12 courses) and are on track to complete a minimum of 96 units (16 courses) by 31 December in the year of application. These courses must have been completed at the ANU. Student must have successfully completed or be currently enrolled in all 1000-level and 2000-level compulsory courses including the courses in the pre-medicine stream.

Admission is based on:

• Completion of the Bachelor of Health Science;
• Weighted Average Mark (WAM) (40%);
• Interview (40%) and;
• Selection Criteria (20%)

Admission via this pathway is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not automatically guarantee entry.

Detailed information about the pathway programs

Students who enter the BHLTH from and including 2026 are defined as eligible for the pathway when they have successfully completed or are enrolled in 96 units of courses including the 12 compulsory courses in the BHLTH and either HLTH2001 or HLTH2002 by 31 December in the year of application. These courses must have been completed at the ANU.

Admission is based on:

• All professionalism and engagement measures passed in the following courses: MEDN1101, HLTH1001, MEDN2201, HLTH1002, MEDN2002, MEDN2222, HLTH2001, HLTH2002, CHMD2005, HLTH3001, MEDN3001, HLTH3002, HLTH3004. Details of the measures in each course are outlined in the class summary published each year.
• Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 75% calculated from the 12 compulsory courses in the BHLTH and either HLTH2001 or HLTH2002, which must be completed at ANU.

Tuckwell Scholarship to Medicine Pathway

The Tuckwell Scholarship to Medicine Pathway (Tuckwell-MChD pathway) is limited to successful applicants at the Tuckwell Stage 3 selection interviews. Students are required to have declared upfront an interest in studying medicine in all three stages of the Tuckwell application process and completion of an undergraduate degree at the ANU is mandatory prior to commencing the MCHD. Scholars in the Tuckwell-MCHD pathway are not required to apply through GEMSAS, sit the GAMSAT or undertake an additional interview prior to entering the MCHD program.

Detailed information about the pathway

Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) – Science eligibility (From 2027, the Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) – Science will no longer serve as a pathway into the Doctor of Medicine and Surgery program)

PhB (Hons) students who are interested in following this pathway must apply to join the pathway in their final year pre-honours of their candidature in the PhB (Hons) degree. Students should initially contact the PhB (Hons) Program Coordinator on students.chm@anu.edu.au and complete and the PhB (Hons) – MChD Pathway Application Form.

Admission is based on:

• Grade Point Average (GPA) (50%);
• Interview (50%) and;
• Satisfactory progression within the PhB (Hons) program as outlined by the program award rules.

Admission via this pathway is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not automatically guarantee entry.

Detailed information about the pathway programs

Indigenous Pathway

The MChD program has identified places available each year to applicants of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander background. We encourage applicants of this background interested in pursuing a career in medicine to contact admissions.smp@anu.edu.au.

Admission is based on:

• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander declaration form
• Grade Point Average (GPA);
• Interview and;
• Completion of an approved program of study.

Admission via this pathway is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not automatically guarantee entry.

Detailed information about the pathway programs

Fee Information

All students are required to pay the Services and amenities fee (SA Fee)

The annual indicative fee provides an estimate of the program tuition fees for international students and domestic students (where applicable). The annual indicative fee for a program is based on the standard full-time enrolment load of 48 units per year (unless the program duration is less than 48 units). Fees for courses vary by discipline meaning that the fees for a program can vary depending on the courses selected. Course fees are reviewed on an annual basis and typically will increase from year to year. The tuition fees payable are dependent on the year of commencement and the courses selected and are subject to increase during the period of study.

For further information on Fees and Payment please see: https://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/fees-payments

Scholarships

ANU offers a wide range of scholarships to students to assist with the cost of their studies.

Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are.  Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.

For further information see the Scholarships website.

Learning Outcomes

1. As a graduate of our MChD program you will be prepared to work safely and effectively as an intern delivering quality care as a member of the health professional team in hospital, general practice and rural settings, conversant with issues in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander’s health and wellbeing, and with an understanding of the social foundations of medicine.
2. You will be equipped scientifically You will have an excellent understanding of the medical sciences and how they underpin our knowledge of the complexity of health, disease and illness. You will understand the relation between individual and population health. You will understand how knowledge of medical sciences and population health are crucial bases for clinical competence.
3. clinically You will have a clear focus on patient-centred care, with the necessary knowledge, skills and professional behaviours to safely assess and manage a wide range of clinical problems. You will apply the principles of evidence-based medicine in your practice, drawing on relevant legal, ethical, behavioural, and sociological understandings and be equipped to contribute to patient-centred decision-making in circumstances of uncertainty.
4. and professionally You will demonstrate commitment to professional behaviour and be highly skilled at working in teams. You will be aware of, and committed to, the importance of initiatives that enhance the safety and quality of health care. You will be mindful of your own wellbeing, including the importance of this to high quality practice, and know how to maintain your own mental and physical health.
5. with a strong sense of global connection Drawing on the University's strong global connections, you will be able to discuss the potential impacts of international health, human rights and globalisation on health and health care and justify why respect for cultural, religious and sexual differences are fundamental to health care.
6. in a research intensive environment at the ANU Through your association with Australia’s premier research university you will have a sound understanding of the importance of, and a commitment to high quality research for advancing clinical practice. You will have practical experience in undertaking research and gain insight into different research methodologies.
7. with a commitment to life long learning You will be able to identify your learning needs for ongoing professional development and have well developed strategies for meeting these needs. You will have had experience of being a teacher and have a well-developed understanding of the importance of sound educational practice underpinning lifelong learning.
8. you are on a path to a successful medical career You will be aware of the range of career pathways open to you and have a developing clarity of your intended career path, including sound knowledge of the admission, education and training requirements. You will understand how the outcomes of the MChD articulate with the skills required of a junior doctor.

Inherent Requirements

Students develop a range of skills and knowledge over the course of the medical program to build the foundation for medical practice. A wide range of capabilities and attributes are required of doctors; some of which are inherent in the person, and some developed and learnt during medical training and lifelong learning as a medical practitioner.

Some students with a disability may have difficulty demonstrating their capabilities to meet the inherent requirements of a course, for example, participating in compulsory external clinical placements or meeting particular health and safety requirements. The ANU School of Medicine and Psychology, with advice from the Access and Inclusion Office will assess the disclosure in accordance with the Policy & Procedure: Adjustments for students who disclose a disability and, where feasible, implement reasonable adjustments to support the student to be able to meet the course and program learning outcomes.

Given that students may not be able to complete their program if their disability prevents them from meeting the inherent requirements of core or compulsory courses, students are encouraged to review the inherent requirements of the courses and supports available to them prior to enrollment.

Inherent requirements for the ANU Doctor or Medicine and Surgery are guided by the Medical Deans of Australia and New Zealand (MDANZ) Inclusive Medical Education guidance note  

Communication skills – verbal, non-verbal and written

• Medical students will be expected to communicate effectively and sensitively with a range of different people to establish rapport, involve patients and carers in decision making, and practise in a culturally safe way to deliver high quality, safe care. This applies to listening, speaking, reading, writing, and the capability to use these different modes to elicit information from people, often under pressure and in difficult situations.

Professionalism

• Medical students will be expected to demonstrate capabilities consistent with those of a medical professional, including a commitment to making the care of patients their priority, and to practise safely and effectively, treat people with dignity and respect, and be aware of the limits of their own knowledge, skills and health. They will also be required to comply with the law, regulations and any other university codes or policies.

Insight into their own health and behaviour

• Medical students will be expected to demonstrate an ability to recognise when they experience poor health and put in place effective processes to ensure their own health or behaviours do not pose a risk to others.

Cognition, critical thinking and problem solving skills

• Medical students will be expected to have an aptitude for problem solving, based on scientific principles to understand and solve the complex medical needs of patients, whilst also considering the context of the patient’s circumstances and the health system they are working in.

Team work

• Medical students will be expected to work willingly and cohesively as part of a team, taking responsibility for their actions as well as recognising and respecting the skills of other professionals.

Physical and observational capabilities

• Medical students will be expected to demonstrate their ability to acquire information, carry out a range of procedures suitable to their level of capability, and understand and carry out their role in assisting during a medical emergency.

Sustainable performance

• Medical students will be expected to demonstrate both physical and mental performance at a consistent and sustained level to perform multiple tasks in an assigned period of time that provides safe and effective care without compromise.

It should be recognised that there may be cases where students will not be able to meet the requirements of the program, even with reasonable adjustments. Steps should then be taken by university staff to provide guidance on other study options available.

Other Requirements

All commencing MChD students are required to meet the mandatory screening and vaccination requirements for the ANU, ACT Health and NSW Health.

If you're offered a place in the MChD program, you will receive the Screening and Vaccination Information Booklet with your offer letter. You must complete and provide evidence for all requirements in the booklet by the time you enrol.

Further Information

Completion of this program does not determine a student’s eligibility for registration as a medical practitioner after graduation – this decision is made by the Medical Board of Australia or the Medical Council of New Zealand, based on their respective regulatory requirements. In Australia, students may wish to consult the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) website for more information about registration.

The MChD qualification is recognised in countries outside Australia through its accreditation by the Australian Medical Council and listing on the International Medical Education Directory and the World Health Organisation Medical School Directory. Specific countries may require additional steps to be completed before the degree is recognised by that country. MChD graduates wishing to register and practice in countries other than Australia must satisfy that country's requirements for foreign medical graduates.

For students following award rules prior to 2021, the following substitutions apply:

• MEDI8011 and MEDI8012 and MEDI8015A and MEDI8015B for MEDI8301
• MEDI8020A and MEDI8020B and MEDI8025A and MEDI8025B and (MEDI8013A or MEDI8013B) for MEDI8302
• MEDI8030A and MEDI8030B and MEDI8035A and MEDI8035B for MEDI8303
• MEDI8040A and MEDI8030B and MEDI8045A and MEDI8045B for MEDI8304

For students following award rules from 2022 to 2025, the following substitutions apply:

• MEDI8011 and MEDI8012 and MEDI8015 for MEDI8301
• MEDI8020 and MEDI8025 and (MEDI8022 or MEDI8023) for MEDI8302
• MEDI8030 and MEDI8035 for MEDI8303
• MEDI8040 and MEDI8045 for MEDI8304
• Enrolment in MEDI8000 may be met by enrolment in MEDI8304