Key Takeaways
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You can check OPRA exam dates on the APC official’s website.
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The OPRA exam dates for 2027 have also been updated on the website.
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It is essential that you first complete the eligibility requirements before registering for the ORA exam.
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You can register for the OPRA exam through the APC candidate portal.
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You can also find information about the OPRA exam fee on the official website.
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The OPRA exam is scheduled three times a year, and you can choose any date based on your preparation and availability.
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After the OPRA exam, you have to wait at least 4 to 6 weeks for the result.
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You can choose your center at the time of registration.
Quick Summary
The OPRA exam is scheduled three times a year. This exam basically happens for the two countries, New Zealand and Australia. And these fall in March, July, and November 2026. You can find important information about the OPRA exam date on the APC official website. Even the 2027 OPRA exam dates are disclosed on the official website. Before registering for the OPRA exam, you have to complete your eligibility check-up.
Overseas-trained pharmacists seeking registration in Australia or New Zealand must first pass the OPRA exam. This exam is scheduled three times a year. And if you are an OPRA exam aspirant, then it is essential that you know the exam dates. And in this blog, we will learn about the OPRA exam dates in detail.
OPRA Exam Dates 2026
APC confirms three dates for the OPRA exam every year. And for 2026, here in below we have prepared a table of ORA exam dates from the official website.
| Sitting | Registration Period | Exam Dates | Results Released |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 2026 | 6 Jan - 23 Feb | 23 - 25 March | Around 21 April |
| July 2026 | 28 April - 15 June | 13 - 15 July | 11 Aug |
| Nov 2026 | 18 Aug - 19 Oct | 23 - 25 Nov | 22 Dec |
See, register for the OPRA exam one month before because the registration window closes after that. And APC does not accept late registrations at all. So mark these dates on your calendar for the OPRA exam registration.
2027 Sittings for OPRA Exam
APC has already released provisional dates for the following year. This helps candidates plan further ahead than the current cycle.
| Sitting | Registration Period | Exam Dates |
|---|---|---|
| March 2027 | 5 January – 22 February 2027 | 22–24 March 2027 |
| July 2027 | 11 May – 28 June 2027 | 26–28 July 2027 |
| November 2027 | 14 September – 11 October 2027 | 8–10 November 2027 |
Results dates for 2027 are still marked TBC on the official APC page. Check the exam dates table periodically for updates as the year progresses.
Why is eligibility essential before registration for the OPRA exam?
You cannot book an OPRA sitting without first passing an eligibility check. This confirms your overseas pharmacy qualification meets Australian standards for assessment. Eligible qualifications must come from outside
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Australia
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Canada
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Ireland
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New Zealand
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UK
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USA
The degree must be earned after four years of full-time study completed after January 2006. Degrees completed before 2006 only need three years of full-time study.
APC aims to process eligibility applications within five working days of receipt. However, unforeseen circumstances can extend this wait to up to four weeks. APC recommends lodging your application at least eight weeks before registration closes. This buffer protects your ability to register for your preferred exam sitting.
Documents You Need for the Eligibility Check
| Document | Key Requirement |
|---|---|
| Passport | Uncropped image showing top and bottom pages |
| Official Photo ID | Overseas or Australian authority-issued, with photo |
| Birth Certificate | Or a second photo-bearing identity document |
| Qualification Certificate | Full pharmacy degree details, including issue date |
| Academic Transcript | All subjects and results, every semester included |
Non-English documents need translation by a NAATI-accredited translator only. Full details appear on the official eligibility check documents page.
How to Register for Your OPRA Sitting
Once APC confirms your eligibility, registration opens through the Candidate Portal. Follow these steps carefully, since APC allows absolutely no late entries.
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Sign in to the APC Candidate Portal using your existing account.
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Confirm you received the eligibility approval email from APC beforehand.
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Select your preferred test center and an available exam date slot.
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Pay the registration fee
What are the OPRA Exam Fees for 2026
Budgeting properly avoids last-minute payment stress during a tight registration window.
| Stage | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Check | $810 |
| OPRA Exam Registration | $2,245 |
| Skills Assessment Outcome | $300 |
These figures come directly from the official fees and payments page. Payment cards must be issued by a bank in your country of residence.
Choosing Between March, July, and November Sittings
Each sitting will suit different people, depending on how much time they have to prepare and their personal situation, so consider these factors when choosing when to register.
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March sitting suits candidates who finished eligibility checks the previous year.
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July sitting often draws higher demand, so register the moment it opens.
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November sitting gives working candidates a longer runway for structured study.
There is no restriction on which seat you may choose. Just ensure your eligibility check clears well before registration closes.
What Happens After You Sit OPRA?
Results appear in your Candidate Portal in roughly four to six weeks. You will only see a pass or an unsuccessful outcome listed. APC does not release individual scores or detailed performance feedback to candidates. If unsuccessful, you may resit during any future exam period, without limits. Full fees apply again for every resit attempt you make.
After passing, request your Skills Assessment Outcome through the same portal. This document supports visa applications lodged with the Department of Home Affairs. Next, you can apply for provisional registration through AHPRA and the Pharmacy Board. Learn more on the official next steps and provisional registration guide.
Where Can You Sit the OPRA Exam?
APC delivers OPRA at Pearson VUE test centers worldwide. Locations include major Australian cities, as well as India, the UAE, Pakistan, and more. Seat availability varies by center and can reach capacity quickly. Check the current list of test centers before choosing your preferred sitting location.
Conclusion
You must know the right dates of the OPRA exam if you are preparing for Australia or New Zealand as a registered pharmacist. The best thing is that this exam is offered three times a year, so if you miss one, you can take another. And always confirm the exam date fee on the official website.
OPRA exam is not an easy exam to crack on the first attempt, so if you need help with OPRA exam course preparation, you can contact Elite Expertise. We have a passing rate of 95% every year, so do not wait; enroll now.
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