OPRA Exam Fees Breakdown
Understanding the fee structure before planning your journey toward applying for a registered pharmacist in Australia. The OPRA exam fees are as follows:
| Categories | Australia | USA | India |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eligibility Check | 810 AUD | $527.96 | ₹44818.90 |
| Skills Assessment Outcome Fee | 300 AUD | $195.54 | ₹16599.59 |
| Updated Skills Assessment Request Fee | 610 AUD | $397.66 | ₹33752.50 |
| OPRA Exam Fee | 2,190 AUD | $1427.45 | ₹121177.01 |
These fees are payable through the APC candidates' portal during the application and registration process.
OPRA Exam Syllabus and Structure
The OPRA exam is designed to assess the knowledge and skills required for pharmacy practice in Australia. The examination includes 120 multiple-choice questions in 2.5 hours. The course is divided into the following domains:
Biomedical Sciences (20%): Focuses on the understanding of human biology and pathology.
Medicinal Chemistry and Biopharmaceutics (10%): Covers drug design, development, and delivery.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics (10%): Evaluates the body's effect on drugs and vice versa.
Pharmacology and Toxicology (15%): Assesses knowledge of drug actions and adverse effects.
Therapeutics and Patient Care (45%): Emphasizes clinical decision-making and patient management.
OPRA Exam Dates 2025
The OPRA exam is conducted three times a year. The 2025 schedule is as follows:
| Exam Dates | Registration Dates | Result Dates |
|---|---|---|
| 3 - 5 March 2025 | 9 January - 3 February 2025 | 1 April 2025 |
| 14 - 16 July 2025 | 8 April - 16 June 2025 | 12 August 2025 |
| 24 - 26 July 2025 | 19 August - 27 October 2025 | 22 December 2025 |
It's important to complete the eligibility check at least 8 to 12 weeks before the registration closing date for the selected exam.
OPRA Exam Passing Marks and Scoring Methodology
The APC uses the Rasch methodology for the OPRA examination scoring, which does not determine a certain pass percentage. Instead, the candidates achieve "successful" or "unsuccessful" results based on the overall performance. This approach ensures fairness and stability in various examination versions.
On passing the exam, candidates receive a pharmacist skill evaluation letter, which is an important document for progress towards provisional registration with Australia's Pharmacy Board.
Preparing for OPRA Exam
Effective preparation for the OPRA exam requires strategic studies using reliable resources. Here are some of the most recommended books and materials:
“Rang and Dale's Pharmacology” – molecular understanding of receptors and drug actions to the clinical uses of the most important groups of drugs.
“Australian Medicines Handbook (AMH)” – A core text for all pharmacists practicing in Australia.
APC’s OPRA Sample Paper & Exam Guide – Official guide that outlines exam format and includes sample questions.
“Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics” by Roger Walker – Widely used for therapeutic decision-making and patient-centered care.
Conclusion
In addition, mock tests, coaching, and staying updated with the timelines can be provided to prepare by joining OPRA-specific coaching or appearance courses. Australia involves careful planning and preparation to start the journey to become a registered pharmacist.
Understanding the composition, fees, and requirements of the OPRA exam is essential for success. For further assistance and resources, consider checking official guides and initial courses to pass the OPRA exam on the first attempt.
