What to expect in the MCQ exam

You sit the MCQ exam remotely using an internet-connected device. This means you don't have to be in Australia to sit this exam.

We use an external provider, Excel Psychological & Educational Consultancy (EPEC), to manage the MCQ exam.

You need a computer or device

To sit the MCQ exam, you'll need your computer, laptop or tablet device. It must have a camera and internet access. Chromebook devices are not suitable as they are not compatible with the exam software.

You'll need to install our secure proctoring software so a remote supervisor can watch your exam via webcam.

There's a trial exam first

Around 2 weeks before your MCQ exam, you need to sit a trial exam. This is to test the software on your device and make sure you know how to use our exam program.

Someone from EPEC will contact you to arrange your trial exam.

You can't use any reference materials

You can't use any reference materials during the exam.

You can use a blank piece of paper and a non-programmable calculator. Your calculator can't make noise or have an alphabet keyboard.

We'll monitor your exam

During your exam, a virtual proctor will check you using our secure WebLock software. This is to make sure there is no cheating or dishonesty during our exams.

If your proctor sees any dishonest behaviour, they will end your exam and let us know.

Your exam is confidential

You aren't allowed to tell other people what questions were in your exam. This includes taking screenshots or telling people the questions from your memory. Before you sit your exam, we ask you to sign a declaration saying you won't share the questions.

MCQ exam format

The MCQ exam is a 150-minute written exam with 120 questions.

All questions are multiple-choice. You should choose the correct answer from the list given.

Types of questions

There are 3 types of questions in your MCQ exam:

• stand-alone questions
• case-based questions
• extended matching questions

Stand-alone questions cover a specific topic.

Case-based questions give a detailed scenario and ask you to choose the correct answer based on the information.

Extended matching questions have several questions based on a list of answer options.

Only 1 correct answer to each question

Each question will have a list of potential answers. You should read all questions and answers to make sure you understand the question.

While more than one listed answer might sound possible, there is only 1 correct answer to each question. Our expert panel ensures each question has only 1 correct answer.

If you think a question has more than 1 correct answer, choose the answer you think is most correct. Knowing the 'most correct' answer shows us your level of knowledge and critical thinking in dietetic practice.

MCQ exam scope

The MCQ exam assesses your ability to practise dietetics in Australia. Exam questions can cover any area of dietetic practice and the National Competency Standards.

This means we expect you to have the same dietetic knowledge and understanding as an entry-level dietitian.

Our questions could cover settings and scenarios such as:

• assessment and planning
• community and public health nutrition
• food service management
• implementation and evaluation
• individual case management

Some questions might test your understanding of a concept or topic. Other questions might test how you apply your knowledge.

Assessing your MCQ exam

We base our MCQ questions on what we expect from an entry-level practitioner in Australia. You can show us your competency in dietetic practice by choosing the correct answers.

Exam pass score

Every year, we develop new versions of our MCQ exam. Your exam's pass score depends on the difficulty level of the questions in your version of the MCQ exam.

Your MCQ exam will test your competency to the same standard as previous MCQ exams.

Preparing for your MCQ exam

Before your exams, you should study to refresh your dietetic knowledge and learn how dietitians practise in Australia.

To help you study for your exam, we've created a handy list of DSR exam preparation resources.

Sample MCQ exam questions

We don't have copies of previous exams for you to study. But we do have sample MCQ questions and answers for you to read.

This sample shows you the style of the exam and gives you an idea of the type and depth of knowledge we expect.

These questions and answers are a sample only. The questions in your exam might be more difficult and cover topics other than those you'll find in our sample.

Download our sample MCQ exam questions.

Important dates

To find out dates for the next MCQ exams, visit our exam dates and details page.

Top tips for your MCQ exam

• Revise your dietetic knowledge.
• Review and complete our sample questions.
• Ensure you have a device with a camera and internet connection.
• Test your device with our trial exam 2 weeks before your MCQ exam.
• Read all questions and answers carefully.
• Choose the most correct answer based on the information given.

We have many study resources to help you prepare for your exam.

The DSR process

Read our DSR process to learn about:

• DSR assessments
• applying for your MCQ exam
• applying for your oral exam
• getting your exam results
• appealing your DSR outcomes
• next steps after you get your DSR

Read more about our DSR process.

Get in touch

If you have questions about your MCQ exam, contact us at dsr@dietitiansaustralia.org.au