Key Takeaways
- For international pharmacists, the process of How to Become a Pharmacist in Australia is managed by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) and the Pharmacy Board of Australia via AHPRA.
- The first exam an overseas pharmacist should attempt is the Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA) exam, which replaced the previous KAPS exam.
- After successfully clearing OPRA, they have to attempt English proficiency tests such as PTE, IELTS, and OET.
- After provisional registration and visa procedures, start an internship under the supervision of a registered pharmacist in Australia.
- The final step is to successfully clear the Australian Intern written and oral exam after the internship and get general registration as a pharmacist in Australia.
Introduction:
For international graduates seeking to launch their pharmacy careers in Australia, understanding the process is crucial. The entire process is simple. There is a set of examinations that candidates must clear, which will ultimately grant them the right to work as a pharmacist in Australia. Overseas applicants have to clear the skills assessment, OPRA exam, complete the supervised practice, and get registered with the Pharmacy Board of Australia. This guide outlines the step-by-step process for becoming a pharmacist in Australia from India in 2025. Step 1: Clear the skills assessment conducted by APC The first step in the process of becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia is a skills assessment done by the APC. This process is to verify that the qualifications of international graduates are equivalent to those of Australian standards Documents required are:- Degree certificate from a recognised university (B. Pharm, M. Pharm, or PharmD)
- Academic transcripts of all years or mark lists
- Birth certificate or any other valid acceptable ID proof
- Passport copy
- An active license of registration with the home country’s pharmacy council or at least eligible to register
- The exam result is valid for 2 years
- Enroll in a relevant coaching centre and practice mock tests
- APC Skills Assessment Outcome
- OPRA exam results
- English proficiency test scores
- Identity documents
- Community pharmacy
- Hospital pharmacy
- Approved healthcare sites
- Learn to apply academic knowledge to practical experience
- Build strong communication skills for patient counselling
- Maintain a report book to note the progress
- After completing 75% of the internship hours, candidates can sit for the intern Oral & written Examination, which is a comprehensive assessment conducted for pharmacists seeking final registration.
- The written exam is a 2-hour session consisting of 75 MCQ, of which 67 are scored and 8 are unscored (pilot) questions.
- While in the oral exam, practice-based scenario setups are given as stations to evaluate candidates on various competencies
What happens after the general registration as a pharmacist in Australia?
The general registration allows:- Pharmacist to work legally as an independent healthcare professional
- They can counsel patients, dispense medication, and manage operations without any supervision
- They have better employability in hospitals, community settings, and research in clinical pharmacy
Pathway to becoming a pharmacist in Australia: at a glance
What are the fees for the whole process?
Conclusion:
If you are looking for exciting opportunities to work and live in a developed country, Australia can be an option. Becoming a pharmacist in Australia is a rewarding journey that requires careful planning, dedication, and the proper support. From skills assessment to successfully passing your OPRA exam & PTE examination, Elite Expertise is here to guide you in every step. Our Expert assistance ensures that our pharmacists navigate through each step with confidence. With Elite expertise, your dream of becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia is secure and safe. Let’s help you turn your aspiration into reality and embark on a successful career in the Australian healthcare system.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the OPRA Exam
Usually 2–3 years, depending on exam preparation, visa processing, and internship.
Yes, holders of B.Pharm, PharmD, and M.Pharm degrees are eligible if the APC approves their qualifications.
It’s the Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment, replacing KAPS in 2024, testing clinical and professional readiness.
Approx. AUD 5,000–8,000 for APC assessments, exams, and registration (excluding visa and coaching costs).
Yes. Communication is essential – IELTS, OET, PTE, or TOEFL are accepted.
You can work in non-pharmacist roles, but dispensing requires provisional or general registration.
Minimum 1,575 hours (approx. 40 weeks full-time).
Not mandatory, but registered migration agents can simplify the process.
Yes – pharmacists earn AUD 70,000–110,000/year on average.
Yes. Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is compulsory for annual license renewal.
