OPRA™ Exam Pathway: Steps to Becoming a Registered Pharmacist in Australia

Becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia involves meeting specific qualifications, passing assessments, and navigating the registration processes outlined by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC). This guide outlines the steps for overseas-trained pharmacists to achieve registration, particularly those whose pharmacy qualifications were obtained outside countries like Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, or the USA.

If you don’t meet these criteria, explore other pathways through APC’s Skills Assessments.

Steps to Registration

Step 1: Eligibility Check

The eligibility check verifies whether your qualifications align with APC standards.

Important: All documents must be translated into English by NAATI-accredited translators.

Step 2: Skills Assessment (Exam)

To demonstrate your knowledge and competency, candidates must pass the KAPS exam (available until November 2024) or the OPRA™ exam (from March 2025).

Candidates failing the KAPS exam in its final session may re-sit or opt for the OPRA™ exam in 2025.

Step 3: Skills Assessment Outcome

Upon passing the exam, you can request a Skills Assessment Outcome from the APC.

Step 4: Provisional Registration and Supervised Practice

Once you receive your Skills Assessment Outcome, proceed with provisional registration and supervised practice.

Conclusion

The transition to the OPRA™ exam simplifies the process for overseas pharmacists, focusing on therapeutics and patient care while maintaining rigorous assessment standards. By following these steps—from eligibility checks to supervised practice—you can achieve your goal of becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia.

For personalized guidance and resources to prepare for the OPRA™ exam and beyond, contact Elite Expertise. We're here to support you every step of the way!