What’s Changing: KAPS Vs OPRA™ Exam

The Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) is set to introduce the Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA) exam in March 2025, replacing the existing Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Sciences (KAPS) exam. This transition aims to streamline the assessment process for internationally trained pharmacists and ensure alignment with contemporary pharmacy practices in Australia.

Here’s a comprehensive look at what’s changing, how it impacts overseas pharmacists, and the key milestones to keep in mind.

Key Differences Between KAPS and OPRA™

The table below highlights the major distinctions between the two exams:

Aspect	KAPS	OPRA™
Exam Format	Two separate papers	Single paper
Duration	2 hours per paper	2.5 hours
Focus Areas	Broad Pharmaceutical sciences	Emphasis on therapeutics and patient care
Cost	AUD 2,290	AUD 2,190
Psychometric Model	Traditional scoring	Rasch methodology for reliable assessment

The shift to a single-paper format and a patient-care-focused curriculum reflects APC’s efforts to prioritize skills that pharmacists need in real-world practice.

Key Dates to Remember

Make sure to register early for the OPRA™ exam Australia during the specified period to secure your spot.

Also Read: What’s the KAPS Exam and Why Does It Matter?

Why This Change Matters

The APC’s introduction of the Australia OPRA™ exam is a strategic step toward modernizing the assessment process for overseas pharmacists. Here’s why this change is significant:

1. 1. Streamlined Assessment: A single paper reduces the overall exam burden while maintaining comprehensive evaluation.
   2. Focus on Patient-Centered Care: Greater emphasis on therapeutics and patient management ensures pharmacists are better equipped for practical roles.
   3. Reliable Scoring: The adoption of the Rasch methodology improves fairness and accuracy in evaluating candidates’ competencies

 

Preparing for the OPRA™ Exam

At Elite Expertise, we are committed to helping international pharmacists’ transition smoothly into this new exam structure. Our resources and expert guidance include:

• Comprehensive Study Materials: Updated to reflect the OPRA™ exam framework.
• Mock Tests: Practice sessions modeled after the OPRA™ exam to build confidence and readiness.
• Focused Mentorship: Personalized support to address individual learning needs.

We aim to ensure you are well-prepared to excel in this new format and achieve your career goals in Australia.

Also Read: How Do You Qualify for the OPRA Exam with Confidence

Conclusion

The shift from KAPS to OPRA™ represents a pivotal moment for overseas pharmacists aspiring to work in Australia. By aligning assessments with current pharmacy practices, the APC is setting a higher standard for professional readiness. With the right preparation and guidance, this change offers a pathway to a fulfilling career in the Australian healthcare system.

For more details about the OPRA™ exam Australia or to access tailored preparation resources, contact us or visit the APC website.