The Old Pathway for Overseas Physiotherapists in Australia
The Standard Assessment Pathway involved multiple in-person stages, including:
| Stage | Description | Mode |
| Eligibility Assessment | Document verification | Online |
| Cultural Safety Training | Training module on culturally safe care | Online |
| Written Assessment | MCQ-based theoretical test | Online |
| Clinical Assessments | 3 practical physiotherapists exams: musculoskeletal, neurology & cardiorespiratory | In-person (Australia) |
| Final Certificate | Issued after passing all assessments | – |
Limitations of the Old Pathway
- 2 - 3 mandatory visits to Australia
- Clinical exams are tested in each domain
- Long wait times between each stage
- Minimum feedback or peer interaction
- Overall, high cost and completion time (9–12 months)
If you are still in the standard pathway, you can consult with our experts to determine your next steps according to the new APEP model.
What has Changed under the New APEP Pathway?
With APEP, the process becomes faster, better, and more relevant to the physiotherapy practice in Australia.
Structural Upgrades of the APEP Pathway
- Replaces the in-person Clinical Assessment with:
- Capability Assessment: a 1:1 remote oral exam
- Clinical Workshop: a one-day group assessment in Melbourne
- Remote-first model
- Detailed feedback
- Emphasis on cultural understanding & communication
APEP vs Standard Assessment Pathway: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Element | Standard Pathway | APEP (2025) |
| Clinical Exams | 3 separate exams | 1 oral (remote) + 1 workshop (in-person) |
| Mode | Mostly in-person | Mostly remote |
| Travel | 2–3 times | Once (Clinical workshop) |
| Duration | 9–12 months | 6 months |
| Candidate Support | Minimal | Feedback from evaluators |
| Focus | Academic knowledge | Real-world capability |
| CST Module | Yes | Updated and mandatory |
| Final Certificate | Yes | Yes |
| Interim Certificate | Yes | Still available |
Benefits of APEP Over the Previous Standard Pathway
- Shorter total duration (6 months)
- Cost-effective, less paperwork and admin
- Remote-friendly with reduced travel
- Real-world, case-based assessment
- Personalised examiner feedback
- Higher relevance to clinical practice in Australia
APEP Pathway: Step-by-Step Guide
| Stage | Name | Mode | Duration |
| 1 | Eligibility Assessment | Online | 2–3 weeks |
| 2 | Cultural Safety Training | Online (self-paced) | 1–2 weeks |
| 3 | Written Assessment | Online/in test centres | Every few months |
| 4 | Capability Assessment | Remote oral exam | From Oct 2025 |
| 5 | Clinical Workshop | In-person (Melbourne) | Monthly sessions |
Total time: Can be completed in 6 months if you're consistent.
Are Express & FLYR Pathways Still Available?
Yes. These fast-track options remain open for eligible physiotherapists from approved countries with similar healthcare standards.
| Pathway | For Whom | Process |
| Express FLYR | Approved countries + streamlined credentials | Fastest |
| FLYR | Countries with partial equivalence | Moderate |
| APEP | All other international physiotherapists | Standard route from Oct 2025 |
Transitional Arrangements for Current Candidates
Already started the Standard Assessment Pathway? Here’s what you need to know:
| Key Date | What Happens |
| Aug 2025 | Transition options sent via email |
| Sep 2025 | Candidate portal updated with new resources |
| 1 Oct 2025 | APEP registration will open |
| Late Oct 2025 | Final Clinical Assessments (old model) end |
You can stay on the old path (if you’ve cleared the Written Assessment) or switch to APEP. Choose wisely based on where you are in the process.
What does this change mean for you?
Should you wait or start now?
- Haven’t applied yet? → Wait and apply for APEP.
- Midway in the old pathway? → You’ll get the option to switch. If you haven’t done clinicals yet, switching is recommended.
Planning to Start the APEP Journey: Here’s the Checklist
| Requirement | Notes |
| Qualification | Physiotherapy Diploma or higher degree |
| Valid License | Must be registered in the home country |
| Passport | Up-to-date |
| English Proficiency | Required for AHPRA registration (not for APC) |
| Supporting Docs | Degree, transcripts, ID, etc. |
| Internet Access | For remote exams |
| Travel Plan | For Clinical Workshop (Melbourne only) |
Estimated Fees & Timeline
| Stage | Fee (AUD) | Time |
| Eligibility + CST | $1,136 + $228 (₹64,446.48 + ₹12934.68) | 3–4 weeks |
| Written Exam | $1,958 (₹111079.42) | 1–2 months |
| Capability Assessment | $2,842 (₹161229.67) | From Oct 2025 |
| Clinical Workshop | $1,421 (₹80614.840 | Monthly |
| Total | $7,585 (₹430305.09) | 6 months |
Note: Additional costs may apply for travel and accommodation during the Clinical Workshop in Melbourne.
Prepare for the APEP Pathway
At Academically, we’ve designed a complete APC preparation course to help you confidently navigate this new pathway.
What we offer:
- Expert-led training for the Written and Capability Assessments
- AI-powered mock tests with detailed feedback
- Help with documents, DataFlow, and AHPRA registration
- Ongoing mentorship by registered Australian physiotherapists
- Access to a global peer support group through Discord and Telegram
Want to fast-track your Australian physiotherapy career?
Already in the Old Process? Here’s What to Do Next
Still unsure whether to finish or switch? Use this flowchart:
Have you completed the Written Assessment?
|
Yes → Finish clinicals before Oct 2025
|
No → Switch to APEP for faster, remote completion
Note: Contact APC early to confirm eligibility if you want to switch.
Conclusion: Why the APEP Shift Matters
The Australian Physiotherapy Entry Pathway (APEP) is a major turn for internationally trained physiotherapists with the aim of making a career in Australia. With a strong focus on short time limit, remote assessment, and real-world clinical readiness, APEP is a better, more accessible alternative to the traditional standard pathway.
At Academically, we keep ourselves aligned with the latest changes. Our APC Preparation Course is tailored specifically for this new pathway. Whether you're switching from the Standard Pathway or starting with the new APEP pathway, Academically is your trusted partner for success.
