4 Steps to KAPS Exam Eligibility

For pharmacists looking to practice in Australia, passing the Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Sciences (KAPS) exam is an essential milestone. Administered by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC), the KAPS exam ensures that international pharmacists possess the necessary knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective pharmacy services. This blog will guide you through the KAPS exam eligibility process, helping you understand what it takes to begin your professional journey in Australia.

Understanding KAPS Exam Eligibility

The KAPS exam eligibility check is a crucial step for international pharmacists aiming to practice in Australia. Here’s a detailed overview of the process, costs, and requirements involved:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you apply for the KAPS exam, it’s important to verify that you meet the eligibility criteria set by the APC.

Eligibility Criteria

Pharmacy Qualification: You must have completed a pharmacy qualification in a country other than:

• Australia

• Canada

• Ireland

• New Zealand

• United Kingdom (UK)

• United States of America (USA)

Your qualification should cover the foundational knowledge of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences necessary for general registration in Australia.

Registration Status: You must be one of the following:

• Registered as a pharmacist in the country where you graduated.

• Eligible to register as a pharmacist in the country where you graduated.

• Eligible to start the registration process in the country where you graduated.

• Registered as a pharmacist in another country where the registering authority is recognized by the APC.

If you do not meet any of the above conditions, this eligibility process does not apply to you, and you should refer to the Skills Assessments process.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Collect all necessary documents to support your eligibility check application. These documents will help the APC verify your qualifications and registration status.

Document Checklist:

• Proof of pharmacy qualification

• Evidence of registration or eligibility to register as a pharmacist

• Identification documents with consistent name display

• Evidence of name change, if applicable

You can also nominate someone else, such as a migration agent or family member, to communicate with the APC on your behalf by completing the Agent Authorisation form.

Step 3: Apply in the Candidate Portal

To apply for the eligibility check, follow these steps:

1. Sign in to the Candidate Portal

2. Start Your Eligibility Check: Complete the online application.

3. Upload Your Documents: Ensure all required documents are uploaded.

4. Pay the Fee Online: The application fee is AU$810, payable online using a card issued by a bank in your country of residence.

Apply at least 8 weeks before your preferred exam registration closing date to ensure your application is processed in time.

Step 4: Wait for the Outcome

The APC will take about 8 - 12 weeks to complete your eligibility check. If any documents are missing or incorrect, the process may take longer.

Additional Information: If the APC requires more information, they will contact you via email. You will have 6 months (180 days) to provide the necessary information. If you do not provide the correct information within this timeframe, your application will be closed, and you will need to reapply and pay the fee again.

Receive Your KAPS Eligibility Response: You will be notified via email whether you can sit for the KAPS exam. If you have nominated an agent, they will receive the notification on your behalf.

Conclusion

Navigating the KAPS exam eligibility process is a critical step towards practicing pharmacy in Australia. By thoroughly understanding and meeting the requirements set by the APC, you can streamline your application and move closer to achieving your professional goals. For comprehensive guidance and support throughout this process, Elite Expertise is here to help you every step of the way.

For more information and expert assistance, visit Elite Expertise’s website. Good luck on your journey to becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia!

Mr. Arief Mohammad is renowned for his excellent teaching skills and practice-based experience which can contribute to developing practice-based knowledge for a learner. He has been a practicing pharmacist in Australia for the last 5 years and has been a preceptor to several students and intern pharmacists.

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Arief Mohammad

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