If you're planning to build a career in the healthcare or research sector, the OPRA Exam is probably already on your radar. It’s one of those exams that everyone talks about but very few actually answer:
- Who can apply?
- What are the fees?
- Is it expensive?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Whether you're a student or a fresh graduate, knowing the eligibility criteria and fee structure beforehand saves you a lot of confusion. In this blog we’ll be diving into the eligibility criteria and whole fee structure of the OPRA exam. Let’s get into it.
OPRA Exam Eligibility Criteria
One of the most important things every aspirant should be crystal clear about is the eligibility criteria. Before you even think about registering for the OPRA Exam, it’s essential to know whether you tick all the required boxes because this is the very first step that decides if you can move forward in the process or not.
Here’s everything you need to know:
1. Educational Qualification
To sit for the OPRA Exam, you must have completed one of the following:
- Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm)
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
And yes, your mark sheets + degree certificate are both required.
Just a degree alone won’t do; you need the complete academic record.
2. Professional Registration
You must have active registration with the pharmacy council or licensing authority in your home country. This confirms that you are a legally recognized practicing pharmacist.
3. Work Experience Requirement
Here’s the best part: No experience is required.
You can apply for the OPRA Exam immediately after completing your B.Pharm/PharmD or equivalent qualification.
4. Who Can Apply?
Pharmacists from any country are eligible there’s no restriction based on nationality.
As long as your degree is recognized and your documents are genuine, you're good to go.
OPRA Exam Required Documents
Before you start your application, make sure all your documents are translated into English. This avoids delays and ensures the APC can verify your credentials without confusion.
Here’s the complete checklist:
- Degree certificate
- Academic transcript
- Birth certificate
- Valid passport
- Government ID proof
- Passport-sized photograph
- Pharmacist Registration Certificate
Tip: Double-check that names, spellings, and dates match across all documents to avoid verification issues.
OPRA Exam Fees Breakdown
Understanding the fee structure is just as important as checking your eligibility. The Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) has simplified the payment system so candidates only pay for the services they actually need.
1. Eligibility Check Fees
The Eligibility Check is the very first step for anyone who wants their pharmacy skills recognised in Australia. Whether you're aiming to work, migrate, or continue your pharmacy career in the country, this check is compulsory.
Candidates must pay for this service before they move to exams or assessments.
Service | Cost | Notes |
| Eligibility Check | AUD 810 (48873 INR) | Non-refundable |
2. Skills Assessment Fees
After completing eligibility and passing the required exam, the next step is getting your skills formally assessed for visa or registration purposes.
Service | Purpose | Cost |
| Skills Assessment Outcome | Needed for visa applications or Pharmacy Board provisional registration | AUD 300 (18101 INR) |
| Updated Skills Assessment | If you've gained new skills or updated experience since last assessment | AUD 610 (36806 INR) |
| Work Experience Reference (Optional) | APC provides comments on work history for migration/visa purposes | AUD 200 (12067 INR) |
3. Exam Fees
Exam Type | Who Should Apply | Cost |
| OPRA® Exam | Overseas-qualified pharmacists meeting Knowledge Stream criteria; must have eligibility notice | AUD 2190 (132140 INR) |
| Australian Intern Written Exam | Candidates holding provisional registration as an intern in Australia | AUD 770 (46460 INR) |
Conclusion
The OPRA Exam is one of the most important steps for overseas pharmacists who dream of building a successful career in Australia. Understanding the eligibility criteria, required documents, fees, and exam structure helps you start your journey with clarity and confidence. With the right guidance and proper preparation, the process becomes far simpler than it looks. If you're committed, focused, and ready to take the next step, the OPRA pathway can open doors to incredible professional opportunities.
If you want expert support throughout the process, Academically’s OPRA Preparation Course is the perfect place to begin. The program is designed specifically for overseas pharmacists, covering everything from eligibility guidance to exam-focused preparation, practice questions, AI mock tests, and personalised mentoring. Whether you’re just getting started or gearing up for the final exam, Academically helps you stay confident, organised, and fully prepared for success.
