Are you wondering what the OPRA exam is, who can take it, and whether you’re eligible? If you’re feeling confused, don’t worry, Elite Expertise has the answers! In this guide, we’ll focus on the eligibility criteria for the OPRA exam, while also covering its format, importance, and how we can help you succeed.
What is the OPRA Exam?
The Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA) is a mandatory exam for pharmacists trained outside Australia who want to work here. It’s a computer-based test designed to assess your knowledge in key areas like biomedical sciences, pharmacology, and patient care, skills essential for practising pharmacy in Australia.
Passing the OPRA exam is the gateway to provisional registration with the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC). Once you pass, you can begin your supervised practice and take the next step toward becoming a fully registered pharmacist.
At Elite Expertise, we specialise in helping overseas pharmacists clear the OPRA exam on their very first attempt. And if you don’t pass the first time, we give you unlimited course access until you succeed.
Who Can Take the OPRA Exam?
The OPRA exam is for pharmacists trained outside Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, and the USA.
You’re eligible if you are from countries such as:
- India
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Nepal
- Bhutan
- African nations
To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a B Pharm, M Pharm, or Pharm D degree.
- Your qualification must cover the core subjects needed for pharmacy practice in Australia.
- If obtained after 1 January 2006, your qualification must be at least 4 years of full-time study.
- If obtained before 1 January 2006, at least 3 years of full-time study is required.
- You must be registered (or eligible for registration) as a pharmacist in your home country, or eligible to start the registration process.
Tip: At Elite Expertise, we help assess your eligibility so you can confidently begin your OPRA journey.
OPRA Exam Format & Fee
Here’s what you need to know before test day:
- Number of questions: 120 multiple-choice
- Duration: 150 minutes (2.5 hours)
- Type: Computer-based, closed book
- Cost: AU$2,190
- Extras:
- 5 minutes for a non-disclosure agreement
- 10 minutes for a tutorial (not counted in exam time)
What’s on the OPRA Exam?
The exam covers five main content areas designed to test your readiness for Australian pharmacy practice. These ensure you have both the scientific knowledge and clinical skills to deliver safe and effective patient care.
Scoring & Results
The OPRA exam australia uses a scaled scoring system based on psychometric analysis.
- Passing standard: Reflects the minimum required for provisional registration.
- Of the 120 questions, 90% are scored, while 10% are unscored and used for calibration. You won’t know which ones are unscored, so treat every question seriously.
Why is the OPRA Exam Important?
For overseas-trained pharmacists, passing OPRA is the key step toward working in Australia. It ensures you meet the same high standards as local graduates, protecting patient safety and maintaining the quality of healthcare.
With a growing demand for pharmacists across both cities and regional areas, passing the OPRA exam preparation course opens doors to exciting career opportunities and may also support your pathway toward permanent residency in Australia.
How Elite Expertise Can Help
At Elite Expertise, we offer:
- Comprehensive study materials
- Exam strategy coaching
- Skills assessment guidance
- Unlimited access until you pass
With our proven approach, you’ll have everything you need to clear OPRA and start your rewarding pharmacy career in Australia.
Start your OPRA journey with Elite Expertise today. Your future in Australian pharmacy begins here.