OPRA Registration - Dates, Testing Centres, and More

Eligibility Criteria for the OPRA Exam

To be eligible to take the OPRA Exam, international pharmacist must meet the following requirements:

Educational Qualifications:

Pharmacists must possess either a Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) or a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree. Additionally, candidates must provide their mark sheets and degree certificates to verify their educational background.

Professional Registration:

Candidates must have active registration with the state pharmacy council in their home country as a practising pharmacist. This ensures that they are recognised professionals within their field and have met the necessary local standards for pharmacy practice.

Steps for Registration for OPRA™

These are the detailed steps you have to follow to take the OPRA exam and get registered as a pharmacist in Australia. 

1. Verify Your Eligibility

The first step in registering for the OPRA™ exam is to ensure you meet all eligibility requirements. This involves two key actions:

• Complete Your Eligibility Check with the APC: The Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) must verify that you have the necessary qualifications and experience to sit for the OPRA™ exam. This process typically involves submitting your educational and professional credentials for review.
• Receive Confirmation Email: After the APC has reviewed your documents and determined your eligibility, they will send you an email confirming that you are eligible to sit for the OPRA™ exam. Keep this email safe, as it is crucial for the next steps in the registration process.

2. Register for the OPRA™ Exam

Once your eligibility is confirmed, you can proceed to register for the exam. Here are the details you need to know:

• Registration Timing: The registration portal opens at 9 am and closes at 5 pm AEDT/AEST. Since these times are specific to Australian Eastern Time zones, it is important to use a time zone converter to match these times with your local time zone to avoid any confusion.
• Registration Window: The registration period closes approximately one month before the exam date. Please make sure to register within this window as late registrations are not accepted. Missing the registration deadline could mean waiting until the next exam session.
• Key Registration Dates:
  • OPRA™ Exam Registration: Opens on 9 January 2025 and closes on 3 February 2025.
  • First OPRA™ Exam Session: Scheduled for 3 - 5 March 2025.

3. Upload a Photo

During the registration process, you will need to upload a recent headshot. Here are some tips to ensure your photo meets the requirements:

• Photo Type: The photo can be a selfie, but it should be clear and professional.
• Background: Use a plain background to ensure your face is the focal point.
• Lighting: Make sure the photo is well-lit, with no shadows obscuring your face.
• Format: Follow any specific format guidelines provided by the registration portal.

4. Pay the Registration Fee

The registration fee must be paid at the time of registration. If payment is not received, your seat will be released, and you will need to go through the registration process again. Make sure to have your payment method ready when you start your registration to avoid any delays.

Important Exam Dates

As you prepare for the OPRA™ exam, keeping track of important dates is essential. Here are the key dates to remember:

• Final KAPS Exam Session: 25 - 27 November 2024
• First OPRA™ Exam Session: 3 - 5 March 2025
• OPRA™ Exam Registration Period: 9 January - 3 February 2025

Mark these dates on your calendar and set reminders to ensure you don't miss any critical deadlines.

OPRA™ Exam Test Centres

The OPRA™ exam is offered at various test centres worldwide to accommodate candidates from different regions. Here's a detailed list of test centres in India and other countries:

In India

India has 10 test centres for the OPRA™ exam:

• Bangalore: A major tech hub, Bangalore offers a convenient location for candidates in the southern part of India.
• Chandigarh: Known for its modern architecture, Chandigarh serves as a central point for candidates in the northern regions.
• Chennai: A coastal city known for its cultural heritage, Chennai is another important test centre in the south.
• Hyderabad: Famous for its historic landmarks, Hyderabad offers a central location for candidates.
• Jalandhar: Located in Punjab, Jalandhar is accessible for candidates from the northern states.
• Ludhiana: Another key city in Punjab, Ludhiana provides additional options for northern candidates.
• Mumbai: The financial capital of India, Mumbai is a central hub for candidates from the west.
• New Delhi: As the capital city, New Delhi is a prime location for candidates from across the country.
• Pune: Known for its educational institutions, Pune is a convenient location for candidates in Maharashtra.
• Noida: Close to New Delhi, Noida offers an alternative test centre for candidates in the northern region.

Other Countries

The OPRA™ exam is also available in numerous countries worldwide. Here’s an extensive list of test centres by country:

Having multiple test centres across different countries ensures that candidates have access to convenient locations to take the OPRA™ exam.

Conclusion

The transition to the OPRA™ exam represents a significant change for aspiring pharmacists. By understanding the registration steps, keeping track of important dates, and knowing the available testing centres, you can ensure a smooth and successful registration process. Prepare well and take the first step towards your future in pharmacy with confidence.

Academically offers comprehensive preparation course especially designed for the OPRA™ exam. Our experienced instructors with years of industry experience provide personalised guidance, detailed study plans, and practice tests to help you excel.

Remember to share this guide with fellow candidates and stay updated on any further announcements regarding the OPRA™ exam. 

Good luck on your journey to becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia!