About The OPRA Exam
The OPRA exam is a standardised test for foreign-trained pharmacists to assess whether they can practice in Australia competently and effectively. The current exam now provides a more streamlined and clinically concentrated evaluation.
Eligibility Criteria for the OPRA Exam 2026
To be eligible for the OPRA exam, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Qualifications: Possess a pharmacy degree (e.g., B.Pharm, M.Pharm, or Pharm.D) from a recognised institution.
- Professional Registration: Hold current registration or be eligible for registration as a pharmacist in the home country where the qualification was obtained.
- English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English through standardised tests such as IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or OET, as mandated by the Pharmacy Board of Australia.
OPRA Exam Fees 2026 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 | In US Dollars | In Indian Rupees |
| 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 2026
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%): Emphasises clinical decision-making and patient management.
OPRA Exam Dates 2026
The OPRA exam is conducted three times a year. The 2026 schedule is as follows:
| Registration period | Exam Dates | Results released |
| 6 January - 23 February 2026 | 23 - 25 March 2026 | 21 April 2026 |
| 28 April - 15 June 2026 | 13 - 15 July 2026 | 11 August 2026 |
| 18 August - 19 October 2026 | 23 - 25 November 2026 | 22 December 2026 |
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 practising in Australia.
- Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics by Roger Walker: Widely used for therapeutic decision-making and patient-centred care.
- AI-Based Mocks & Live Practice: The Overseas Pharmacists’ AI Mocks & Live Practice Programme is here to help you turn what you know into the confidence you need to ace the licensure exam on your first shot! We blend adaptive, AI-powered mock tests with super helpful live sessions run by our experienced mentors. These sessions are all about tackling tricky spots and sharpening up your test strategies. Get ready to study smarter and grab your spot now.
To Conclude with…
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.
