What is the OPRA exam?

Key Takeaways

• Through the OPRA exam, ACP checks whether international pharmacists meet Australian standards. 

• Candidates who are following the Knowledge Stream Pathway in Australia and who are following the Non-REQR process in New Zealand can take this exam. 

• Passing the eligibility check is essential before booking for this exam.

• For better preparation, it is essential that you know the OPRA exam structure, syllabus, and dates. 

• In many cities of India, an OPRA exam center is available.

• OPRA exam results come after 4 weeks of the exam; till then, you have to wait.

• You can register for the OPRA exam through the APC official candidate portal.

Quick Summary

OPRA is the computer-based exam, which is run by the Australian Pharmacy Council. In this exam, it is checked that international pharmacists meet the Australian pharmacy standard. This exam is for candidates who want to practice as a registered pharmacist in Australia or New Zealand. 

We are sure that if you are an international pharmacist and want to become a registered pharmacist in Australia or New Zealand, then you know about the OPRA exam. And if you do not, then you are in the right place to know about it. Passing the OPRA exam for international pharmacists is essential to practice legally as a pharmacist in Australia and New Zealand. In this blog, we will know about it in detail. So, let’s dig into the blog.

What Does the OPRA Exam Mean for International Pharmacists?

For the international pharmacist whose dream is to practice as a registered pharmacist in Australia or New Zealand, they have to pass the OPRA exam. It stands for Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment. On behalf of the Pharmacy Board of Australia, the Australian Pharmacy Council runs this exam.

As per APC, the exam makes sure international pharmacists meet Australian standards. It also applies to pharmacists who are registered in New Zealand. The exam does not test local laws or practice standards. Those topics are covered later, during your internship period.

Who can take this exam in Australia and New Zealand?

If you are preparing for Australia, then the OPRA exam is taken by the candidate who is following the Knowledge Stream pathway. And for New Zealand, the candidates who are following the Non-REQR process can take this exam. 

Here is what will give you a good idea. 

What is the eligibility check for the OPRA exam?

Before booking the exam, you must pass an eligibility check. This confirms your degree meets APC's Knowledge Stream criteria.

The eligibility process has clear steps:

1. Confirm you meet the eligibility criteria.

2. Gather your required documents.

3. Apply and pay through the Candidate Portal.

4. Wait for APC's response.

APC aims to process applications within 5 working days. However, they advise allowing up to 4 weeks for delays. There is no expiry date on an approved eligibility check.

Documents You Will Need

The Knowledge Stream page lists the required documents. These include:

• A valid passport or approved alternative ID

• An official photo-bearing identity document

• Your birth certificate

• Your qualification certificate or completion letter

• Your full academic transcript

Non-English documents need NAATI-accredited translation. APC does not accept translations from other sources.

OPRA Exam Structure

The OPRA exam is a closed-book, computer-based test. It is held at approved Pearson VUE test centers worldwide.

OPRA Exam Content Areas

The exam covers five content areas. Each area carries a different weight in the total exam.

Therapeutics and patient care carry the largest weight. This section tests clinical application of all other content areas.

OPRA Exam Dates

APC runs the OPRA exam three times each year. Here are the confirmed sessions from the official site.

Registration windows close about one month before each exam. Late registrations are never accepted. It helps to register as soon as the window opens.

Where Can You Sit the OPRA Exam?

APC delivers the exam through Pearson VUE test centers globally. Test locations span more than 30 countries.

In India, exam centers include 

• Bangalore

• Chennai

• Hyderabad

•  Mumbai

• New Delhi

• Noida

Other major hubs include Dubai, London, Singapore, Toronto, and Kuala Lumpur. Seat availability varies by center and session. It is wise to book early, since popular centers fill up fast.

What Happens After the Exam?

Results come in 4 weeks after your exam session. You'll get an email once your result is ready.

Your result report only states pass or fail. APC does not release raw scores or specific answers. This protects the security of future exam content.

If you don't pass, you may resit in a later session. There is no cap on the number of attempts. You must pay the full fee again for every resit.

After You Pass

Once you pass, you can request your Skills Assessment Outcome. This document supports your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. You can also begin applying for provisional registration through AHPRA.

How to Register for the OPRA Exam

Registration happens entirely through the APC Candidate Portal. Follow these steps to book your exam:

1. Complete and pass your eligibility check first.

2. Wait for APC's confirmation email on your eligibility.

3. Log in to the Candidate Portal during an open window.

4. Select your preferred test center and date.

5. Pay the exam fee immediately to confirm your seat.

APC warns candidates about registration scams. Only apply and pay through the official Candidate Portal. Never send documents or payments elsewhere.

Conclusion

We hope now you understand what the OPRA exam is and everything about it. As you know, for both Australia and New Zealand, an international pharmacist must pass this exam to become a registered pharmacist. So, what’s your destination to become a registered pharmacist? In both countries, you will get good career opportunities in the pharmacy sector. 

Passing the OPRA exam is quite hard; for this, you need an experienced trainer fr the good preparation. And if you are searching for it, then you can contact Elite Expertise; here you have a KAPS-passed-out trainer who himself practices as a clinical pharmacist in Australia. Learn best with an expert.