What is the format of the OPRA exam?

The OPRA exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) completed in a single sitting of 2 hours and 30 minutes. Outside Australia, it is conducted by PearsonVUE at approved physical test centres.

Can I take the OPRA exam outside Australia?

Yes. The OPRA exam is delivered globally through Pearson VUE test centers in countries including India, the UAE, the UK, and the Philippines.

Understanding the OPRA Exam Format & Syllabus Domains

Q: What is the purpose of the OPRA exam?

It assesses knowledge of the biomedical, pharmaceutical and clinical sciences relevant to pharmacy practice. Passing OPRA is one step in the pathway towards pharmacist registration. Candidates must also meet the applicable registration requirements of the Pharmacy Board of Australia.

OPRA Exam Format

The Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA) is conducted by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC). It is a computer-based, multiple-choice examination for eligible overseas-qualified pharmacists.

Questions: 120 multiple-choice questions
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Delivery: At approved test centres by APC and the ones outside Australia, conducted by PearsonVUE
Purpose: Assesses knowledge of the biomedical, pharmaceutical and clinical sciences relevant to pharmacy practice.
Exam Fee: AUD $2,245 per attempt.

Biomedical & Pharmaceutical Sciences Foundation

Weighted across Pharmaceutical Chemistry (~30%) and Pharmacology/Physiology (~30%). You must navigate organic nomenclature, identify stereocenters attached to drug activity, and understand intricate hepatic/renal physiological processes.

Pharmacokinetics — The High-Yield Sub-Domain

Expect advanced pharmacokinetic calculations encompassing half-life, volume of distribution, and clearance mechanisms. Master these formulas using the on-screen calculator — physical calculators are not permitted.

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Pro Tip

Dedicate sufficient study time to pharmacokinetics. Questions in this area appear consistently across domains and are high-yield marks.

Are you ready for the OPRA Exam?

Test your knowledge with our free 20-question practice quiz with explanations to identify areas for revision.

Take the Free OPRA Readiness Quiz

Clinical Sciences & Therapeutics

Focuses on Pharmaceutics and Therapeutics (~40%). This area presents multi-variable patient case studies. You must identify the safest, most efficacious Australian drug choice based on the AMH and eTG.

First-line vs second-line drug selection for chronic diseases.
Drug dosage adjustments in renal/hepatic impairment.
Identifying and managing adverse drug reactions.
Patient counseling on medications (from APF guidelines).

The exam assesses practical application: understanding both "How does this drug work?" and "When and how should this drug be safely given to this specific patient?" Passing OPRA is one step in the pathway towards pharmacist registration. Candidates must also meet the applicable registration requirements of the Pharmacy Board of Australia.