We understand that receiving disappointing exam results can be incredibly challenging. Failing any exam is hard. Failing your college exams can feel particularly hard as these exams are often the final hurdle on your path to completing your GP training. It can feel particularly grim to fail these after many years of time and effort. Remember, you’re not alone in feeling this way.

After receiving the results, it is important to practise self-compassion and look after yourself. You have worked hard in the lead up to exams, probably juggling all your usual work commitments and spending additional hours studying. In that final burst of effort to get across the line, many of us start to let all our healthy habits and self-care slide.

So how does one recover after failing an exam?

Here are some steps to help you recover and move forward:

Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s normal to feel disappointed, upset, or even angry. Allow yourself to process these emotions.

Avoid Self-Blame: Exam results don’t define your worth or your career. Successful doctors have overcome failures and built thriving careers. Focus on how you respond.

Practise Self-Compassion: Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Revisit healthy habits like exercise, proper nutrition, and quality sleep. Spend time with loved ones—they provide essential support.

Reflect: Consider the factors that contributed to your results. Learn from this experience and decide on your next steps.

Seek Support:

• Supervisor or Mentor: Reach out to someone who knows you well for personalised advice and encouragement.
• Medical Educators: Explore options based on your college’s rules for resitting exams or alternative pathways.
• Registrar Advisors: Contact GPRA for advice and support. We’re here to assist you.
• Registrar Liaison Officers: Your college can connect you with these officers, who provide support on various issues, including exam challenges.
• Mental Health Resources:
  • Drs4Drs: They offer nationwide, confidential crisis and non-urgent mental health support. Call 1300 374 377 or visit drs4drs.com.au
  • State-Based Services: Check GPRA’s website for additional resources

It is important to remember that your exam results – failures or successes – don’t define you or your career. What distinguishes those who have gone on to have successful careers, is how they have responded to the failure.