For internationally trained pharmacists dreaming of a successful career in Australia, the Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA) Exam is the key milestone that opens the door. OPRA ensures that overseas pharmacists meet Australia’s professional and competency standards before entering clinical practice.
In this blog, you’ll find, step-by-step guide to the OPRA exam registration process, including eligibility criteria, required documents, exam format, and what to expect after registration everything you need to confidently plan your journey toward becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia.
What is the OPRA Exam?
The Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA) Exam is a computer-based examination consisting entirely of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). It assesses the knowledge of internationally qualified pharmacists in biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, and clinical pharmacy practice.
The OPRA Exam is a mandatory step for pharmacists seeking provisional registration in Australia, as regulated by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC).
OPRA Exam Eligibility Criteria
The Australian Pharmacy Council has kept the eligibility requirements straightforward to allow skilled global pharmacists to apply without unnecessary hurdles.
To be eligible for OPRA exam registration, candidates must:
- Hold a Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) or Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree
- Have active registration with the pharmacy council in their home country
Documents Required for OPRA Exam Registration
Before starting the registration process, ensure all documents are translated into English. Submitting only a degree certificate is not sufficient; academic transcripts are mandatory.
The required documents include:
- Pharmacy degree certificate
- Academic transcript
- Birth certificate
- Valid passport
- Government-issued ID proof
- Passport-size photograph
- Pharmacist registration certificate
OPRA Exam Registration Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Initial Skills Assessment by the Australian Pharmacy Council
The registration process begins with an initial eligibility assessment conducted by the Australian Pharmacy Council. Your academic qualifications and professional registration details are reviewed to determine if you are eligible to appear for the OPRA Exam.
Once approved, you will receive confirmation to proceed with exam registration.
Step 2: Register for the OPRA Exam
After eligibility approval, candidates can register for the OPRA Exam. The exam is conducted three times a year:
- March
- July
- November
The OPRA Exam is computer-based and can be taken at an authorized test center in your home country.
Step 3: Appear for the OPRA Exam
The OPRA Exam consists of:
- 120 multiple-choice questions
- Single paper format
- 2.5 hours duration
- No negative marking
The exam evaluates both theoretical knowledge and clinical decision-making ability.
Step 4: Meet English Language Proficiency Requirements
In addition to OPRA registration, candidates must satisfy English language requirements set by the Pharmacy Board of Australia.
Accepted tests are IELTS, OET, and PTE.
Step 5: Provisional Registration and Internship
After clearing the OPRA Exam and meeting English requirements, candidates receive provisional registration. This allows them to begin a paid pharmacy internship in Australia.
Candidates must independently search for internship opportunities that provide visa sponsorship, enabling them to live and work in Australia.
Step 6: Intern Written and Oral Examination
After completing 1,575 internship hours (or at least 75%), candidates can appear for the Australian Intern Written and Oral Examination, which assesses readiness for independent practice.
Step 7: Final Registration as a Pharmacist in Australia
Upon passing the intern examinations, candidates can complete their final registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia and work independently as a licensed pharmacist.
OPRA Exam Format and Syllabus Overview
The OPRA Exam follows a single-paper format with subject-wise weightage:
- Biomedical Sciences – 20%
- Medicinal Chemistry and Biopharmaceutics – 10%
- Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics – 10%
- Pharmacology and Toxicology – 15%
- Therapeutics and Patient Care – 45%
OPRA Exam Testing Methodology
The OPRA Exam uses Rasch adaptive testing methodology, meaning there is no fixed passing score. Question difficulty adjusts based on candidate performance, and results are calculated based on overall ability.
- Computer-based MCQ exam
- No breaks allowed
- Results declared within 4 weeks
OPRA Exam Test Centres in India
The OPRA Exam is conducted at multiple centers across India, including:
Bangalore, Chandigarh, Chennai, Hyderabad, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Mumbai, New Delhi, Pune, and Noida.
Conclusion
The OPRA exam registration process offers a systematic and transparent pathway for overseas pharmacists aspiring to practice in Australia. With clear eligibility criteria, no experience requirement, and multiple exam sessions each year, OPRA opens the door to rewarding career opportunities in the Australian healthcare system. To help you navigate this journey with confidence, our OPRA Preparation Course is designed to provide structured guidance, in-depth syllabus coverage, exam-focused strategies, and expert mentorship ensuring you are fully prepared to clear the OPRA exam on your first attempt and move one step closer to your Australian pharmacy career.
