KAPS Exam Eligibility | For International Pharmacy Graduates

The KAPS (Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Sciences) exam tests your knowledge and understanding of pharmaceutical sciences. Passing it confirms that you know enough to practice safely and effectively in an Australian setting. For international pharmacy graduates aiming to practice in Australia, understanding the KAPS exam eligibility criteria and application process is crucial. This guide provides detailed information on KAPS exam eligibility, including document requirements and how to apply.

1. What is the KAPS Exam?

The KAPS exam evaluates your proficiency in pharmaceutical sciences, including pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and pharmaceutical practice. It ensures that international pharmacy graduates meet the standards required for registration as a pharmacist in Australia. By passing the KAPS exam, you demonstrate that you possess the necessary knowledge to provide safe and effective pharmacy practice in Australia.

The KAPS exam is divided into two papers, each focusing on different areas of pharmaceutical sciences:

• Paper 1:

  • Pharmaceutical Chemistry: 30%

  • Physiology and Pharmacology: 70%

• Paper 2:

  • Pharmaceutics: 30%

  • Therapeutics: 70%

Understanding the content distribution will help you focus your preparation effectively.

2. KAPS Exam Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the KAPS exam, you must meet the following criteria:

• Pharmacy Qualification: Your qualification must be from a country other than Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom (UK), or the United States of America (USA). Acceptable qualifications include:

  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm)

  • Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)

  • Master of Pharmacy (MPharm)

  Your qualification must include foundational knowledge relevant to general registration in Australia. The Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) will assess your qualifications to ensure they meet these requirements.
  

• Registration Status: You must also meet one of the following conditions:

  • Be registered as a pharmacist in the country where you graduated.

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

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

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

3. Document Requirements for KAPS Exam

When applying for the KAPS exam, you need to provide the following documents:

• Passport: Submit a clear image of your passport, including both top and bottom pages. If a passport is unavailable, you may use an Australian or New Zealand driver's license, an Australian government-issued ID card, or an ImmiCard.

• Official ID: Provide a photo-bearing ID issued by an official authority.

• Birth Certificate: Include a birth certificate as proof of identity. If unavailable, provide a second photo-bearing document.

• Qualification Certificate or Letter of Completion: Submit your pharmacy qualification certificate or a letter of completion if the certificate has not yet been issued. The document must detail the full degree, not a provisional certificate, and include the issuing date.

• Academic Transcript: Provide a complete academic transcript showing all subjects and examination results for every semester.

• Evidence of Registration: Supply evidence that you are eligible to register as a pharmacist in the country where you completed your qualification. Acceptable documents include your registration document, an endorsement letter, or an eligibility to commence letter.

• Evidence of Name Change (Optional): If applicable, provide proof of any name change.

• Work Experience Verification (Optional): Work experience verification is not required at this time but may be needed in the future.

4. How to Apply for the KAPS Exam

To apply for the KAPS exam, follow these steps:

• Sign in to the Candidate Portal: Access the portal to start your application.

• Start Your Eligibility Check: Complete the online form to begin your eligibility check.

• Upload Your Documents: Ensure all required documents are uploaded, including both original and English-translated copies.

• Pay the Fee Online: Pay the application fee using a card issued by a bank in your country of residence. Contact the APC if you encounter payment issues.

• Application Timeline: Apply at least 8 weeks before the registration closing date to ensure timely processing of your application.

5. After You Apply

• Processing Time: It typically takes 8 - 12 weeks to complete your eligibility check.

• Providing Additional Information: If the APC requests more information, you have 6 months (180 days) to submit it. Failure to provide the requested information within this timeframe will result in the closure of your application, requiring you to reapply and pay the fee again.

• Receiving Your Eligibility Response: You will receive an email from the APC informing you whether you are eligible to sit the KAPS exam.

6. Preparing for the KAPS Exam

To effectively prepare for the KAPS exam:

• Elite Expertise: Seek specialized coaching from Elite Expertise, an online education platform dedicated to providing high-quality education and practice-based experiences for pharmacy professionals. Elite Expertise offers tailored preparation for the KAPS exam, including comprehensive training and resources to help you understand the exam content and format thoroughly.

Conclusion

Understanding KAPS exam eligibility and the application process is crucial for international pharmacy graduates aiming to register as pharmacists in Australia. Ensure your qualifications meet the APC’s standards and follow the application steps carefully for a smooth process. For more information and updates, visit our blog page.

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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