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  • How to Get AHPRA Registration After Clearing the OPRA Exam?

    If you are an internationally-trained pharmacist who has just cleared their OPRA (Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment) exam, then congratulations! You are now one step closer to achieving your dreams of becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia.

    However, it is important to note that clearing the OPRA exam is just one part of the process. To work and independently practice as a pharmacist in Australia, you need to be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

    As someone who might have appeared for the OPRA exam within their home country, this whole registration process might sound a bit overwhelming. After all, working in a foreign country comes with its sets of pros and cons.

    However, this guide here will outline the full pathway to AHPRA registration, starting right after your OPRA success all the way to ensuring that your general registration pathway has been covered. It will also cover the role of Elite Expertise in the entire process, making sure that you understand the potential that it possesses in fast-tracking your career and opening doors to higher-level roles for you.

    What is the OPRA Exam?

    The OPRA exam, conducted by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC), is an exam that has been specifically designed for overseas-trained pharmacists.

    The purpose behind taking this exam is to ensure that a patient’s knowledge, skills, and competencies are comparable to those of an Australian-trained graduate. The APC wants to evaluate whether a pharmacist who has been trained in a country other than Australia could more or less adjust to or learn how to work properly in their healthcare settings.

    Th exam format of the OPRA exam has been briefed as follows:

      Multiple-choice questions in pharmaceutical sciencesClinical case scenarios covering therapeutics, law, and ethics

    • Assessment of pharmacy practice relevant to Australia

      • Once a candidate has passed their OPRA exam, then they are eligible to apply for provisional registration status in accordance with AHPRA.

    Apply for Provisional Registration with AHPRA

    Once you have your OPRA result and a positive APC assessment, you can apply for provisional registration to begin your supervised practice in Australia.

    Key Requirements:

    Here are a list of documents that you might need to begin with your provisional registration process:

      Certified passport and IDAcademic transcripts and degree certificatesCV/Resume outlining pharmacy experienceEnglish test resultsCertificate of Good Standing from your home country’s pharmacy councilInternational Criminal History Check (ICHC)

    • AHPRA application and registration fees

    Start Supervised Practice (Internship)

    With your status of provisional registration in hand, you must complete 1,571 hours of supervised practice (approximately 12 months full-time) in an approved pharmacy setting. This will add to your experience and further add ease in your registration process ahead.

    Key Points:

      You will be mentored by a registered Australian pharmacistYour training must be logged using the Pharmacy Board’s online system

    • You will gain hands-on experience in patient care, dispensing, legal compliance, and clinical decision-making.

    Enroll in an Intern Training Program (ITP)

    While completing your supervised practice, you must also enroll in a Pharmacy Intern Training Program, which is again, approved by the APC.

    Program Covers:

    This Intern Training Program typically involves 12 months of supervised practice, written assignments, and practical assessments. The purpose of this program is to equip overseas pharmacists with Australian medical standards and get them prepared for working independently within Australia with full confidence. The course usually consists of modules about counseling patients, communicating in the clinical setting, knowledge of dispensing and awareness of local medical regulations. They also focus on understanding cultures and practicing with ethical standards.

    Here is a breakdown of the subjects covered in the program:Pharmacy law and ethicsCommunication skillsCase studies and therapeutic decision-makingClinical reasoning skills

  • Preparation for the intern exams

    • Always choose a trusted provider like PSA, Monash, or The Pharmacy Guild of Australia for the Intern Training Program (ITP).

    Pass the Intern Exams

    Once you have completed your designated hours of supervised practice and the ITP itself, you will then be required to take two final exams:

      Intern Written Exam: This exam comprises clinical scenarios, law, ethics, and practice

    • Oral Examination: Real-world case discussion or structured interview.

      • Both exams are conducted by the Pharmacy Board of Australia, and passing them is mandatory for full registration.

      Apply for General Registration

      Now that you have passed all assessments and completed the internship, you can apply for general registration as a pharmacist in Australia.

      As a candidate applying for general registration, you will be required to submit the following to AHPRA:

      Proof of supervised practice (1,575 hours)Intern exam resultsCompletion certificate of ITPUpdated criminal record checks

    • Updated Certificate of Good Standing (if needed)

      • Once approved, you’ll receive AHPRA general registration, and you can work as a fully licensed pharmacist across Australia.

    How Elite Expertise Supports Your Journey as an International Pharmacist

    Registering as an internationally-trained pharmacist in Australia might seem like an overwhelming and tricky job, but worry not! Elite Expertise will help you every step of the way.

    Elite Expertise helps prepare internationally qualified pharmacists so that they can get licensed in countries of their choice (where they are applying for licensing exams ), such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the Ireland.

    This platform was created by experienced clinical pharmacists, namely Mrs. Harika Bheemavarapu and Mr. Arief Mohammad. The academy uses a mix of formal training and personalized support.

    Mrs. Harika Bheemavarapu has experience in both hospital pharmacy and caring for patients directly.

    Mr. Arief Mohammad helps candidates get ready for the OPRA (formerly KAPS) exams and provides personal mentoring for professional growth.

    Since they have personal insight into the challenges overseas pharmacists deal with, Elite Expertise is a reliable resource for your professional path.

    On the platform, you can find the following benefits:

    • Preparing for OPRA by using ordered and structured lectures (live and recorded), that you can easily avail from the comforts of your home

    • Preparing files and application materials for processes such as eligibility check and for registering with AHPRA

    • Mentoring by professional pharmacists who passed through the same process

    • Keeping up with coaching, practicing mock interviews and understanding what is most important during each step.

    What makes Elite Expertise different is its commitment to good academic content as well as its thoughtful emotional support for those taking the exam.

    Should you have any doubts about your papers, anxiety about your exams, or if you are generally unsure about what to do next, this platform will give you the much-needed support that you want, whenever you need it.

    It is not only a preparation academy; in fact, it also supports you and guides you through your registration process so it is no longer stressful for international graduates.

    Other Key Considerations

    Once you are a fully registered pharmacist, there are still several responsibilities and opportunities you need to be aware of to maintain your license, stay competitive, and grow your career.

    Visa Sponsorship

    Some pharmacists with overseas training obtain the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) or find sponsorship from employers using the Employer-Sponsored Visa (subclass 482) once they have provisional registration.

    Professional Indemnity Policy

    It is required by AHPRA that you always have the appropriate type of insurance while you are practicing.

    Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

    Pharmacists are required to get 40 CPD credits every year to hold their registration.

    Conclusion

    There are a number of steps you need to take after passing the OPRA exam that ensure you are registered and qualified to work independently in Australia. Although it may take time, this process helps you get ready for clinical duties in the real world and start a respected career in Australia.

    Having certifications or participating in specific training programs can sharpen your skills and make you more visible to employers, both in hospitals, rural settings and leadership jobs.

    You should consider consulting a registered migration agent or contacting an AHPRA advisor, though aligning with Elite Expertise is the smarter move. Thanks to Elite Expertise’s well-organized OPRA preparation, detailed mentorship and top-notch guidance from qualified experts, students find the right direction. It helps you succeed not only in your pharmacist exams, but also in your career in Australia.

    This blog is for informational purposes only and represents the views and interpretations of Elite Expertise regarding career opportunities in pharmacy. While we aim to provide accurate and up-to-date insights, pharmacy licensing requirements, immigration policies, and healthcare regulations may vary by country and are subject to change.EliteExpertise does not accept responsibility for any decisions made based on the information provided in this article.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    About the Author

    Sahana Rao

    Sahana Chinthapatla is renowned for her expertise in scientific and medical writing, backed by an MPharm in Pharmacology and years of experience in research analysis and scientific writing.

    As the Head Business Writer at Elite Expertise, she provides insightful and well-researched content on KAPS, OPRA, PEBC, PSI and global pharmacy pathways, guiding aspiring pharmacists in their professional journeys.

    Follow On

    Head Business Writer | Elite Expertise

  • How Long Does It Take to Become a Pharmacist in Australia?

    How long does it take to become a pharmacist

    If you’re considering pursuing a pharmacist career in Australia, you might be curious about how many years of study it will take. Becoming a licensed pharmacist in Australia involves a series of steps. But the timeline? That can vary depending on your path, experiences, and the time you can commit to learning and practice. Four years? Five? Seven, if you’re coming from overseas? There’s a lot of confusing info out there.

    That’s why we’ve broken down the steps for you to become a pharmacist in Australia. In this guide, we’ve covered everything from education and exams to internships and pharmacist registration. By the end, you’ll have a complete picture of what it takes, step by step, to become a qualified pharmacist in Australia.

    How Long Does It Take to Become a Pharmacist in Australia?

    Becoming a pharmacist in Australia takes 4 to 6 years of study. Here’s what that timeline typically looks like:

    1. Education: 4 to 5 years

    2. OPRA exam prep (for international graduates): 6-12 months

    3. Internship year: 12 months

    4. Registration and career entry

    Let’s walk through each step in detail.

    Step 1: Your Education – 4 to 5 Years

    The first step in your pharmacy career is obtaining a recognised pharmacy degree. In Australia, this typically involves:

    • Completing a BPharm or PharmD program from an accredited universities offering comprehensive pharmacy education

    • Studying a curriculum that covers crucial areas like:

    1. Pharmaceutical Chemistry

    2. Pharmacology

    3. Clinical pharmacy practices

    4. Medication management

    5. Healthcare system understanding

    Most pharmacy programs in Australia take four to five years to complete. They provide a solid foundation in pharmaceutical sciences and healthcare practices and include supervised clinical placements throughout the degree.

    However, if you completed your pharmacy studies overseas (any country except Australia, the UK, the US, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand), you must verify them through the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC). This is important to assess your eligibility for the OPRA exam preparation and complete other steps of the pharmacist requirements for Australia.

    To check the eligibility criteria, you need:

    • Identity documents, i.e., national ID, passport, birth certificate

    • A valid degree in pharmacy from an APC-recognised university

    • Active registration or eligibility for registration with the state pharmacy council in your Country.

    • Fee: AUD 810 per request

    Step 2: OPRA Exam Preparation (3.5 months)

    If you’re an internationally qualified pharmacist and want to practice in Australia, you must pass the Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA). It evaluates whether your practical pharmacy knowledge meets Australian standards through 120 multiple-choice, scenario-based questions.

    OPRA Exam Format (2025)

    • Mode: Computer-based MCQ exam

    • Duration: 2.5 hours (150 minutes)

    • Total Questions: 120 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)

    • Papers: 1 (Unlike KAPS, which has two papers)

    • Cost: AUD 2,190 per attempt

    How Long Does the OPRA Exam Preparation Take?

    That depends on your background and how much time you can commit to studying. Often, students underestimate the application of theoretical knowledge in practical settings. Therefore, early preparations will help you ace the exam on your first attempt. Some valuable resources for the OPRA Exam preparations are:

    • Online preparation training

    • Refer to practice exams and mock tests

    • Self-study using comprehensive review materials

    • Focusing on Australian pharmacy standards and regulations

    • Australian Medicines Handbook (AMH) for drug therapy guidelines

    • Structured OPRA preparation courses are designed to guide you through the entire syllabus with live classes, notes, practice tests, and mentoring.

    If you’re an international pharmacy graduate gearing up for the OPRA exam, the Elite Expertise OPRA Exam Preparation Course is a standout choice. This highly rated program lasts about 3.5 months and covers the entire OPRA syllabus in depth, including mock exams to simulate real test conditions.

    You’ll be guided by experienced OPRA tutors Arief Mohammad and Harika Bheemavarapu. Both are KAPS-qualified accredited consultant clinical pharmacists with strong hospital-focused pharmacy practice expertise. They will train you through successful OPRA exam preparation.

    Furthermore, you’ll get access to 300+ hours of live lectures and recordings, comprehensive OPRA course materials and practice exams, online mentorship, and regular progress checks. Many course graduates say this boosts their confidence and helps them perform much better on exam day.

    Self-study is also an option, especially if you’re already confident in the material, but most candidates spend 3 to 6 months preparing either way.

    Step 3: The Internship Year – 1,575 Hours of Practical Experience

    After your studies and passing the OPRA exam, the next big step is to get provisional registration, followed by a full-time, supervised internship.

    Provisional registration is done via AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Authority) and may take 1-2 months. To apply for your registration, you must provide:

    1. Certified copies of ID and academic qualifications

    2. English Language Proficiency Test results

    3. Complete the application form and registration fee payment

    Once completed, you are officially eligible to start your Intern Training Program and Supervised Practice in Australia. The internship usually lasts 1 year (full-time) or 1,575 hours, usually at a community pharmacy or hospital pharmacy.

    During this period, you’ll gain hands-on experience in various pharmacy settings and apply your academic knowledge in real-world scenarios, such as dispensing medicines, counselling patients, handling prescriptions, etc. This experience also helps you develop critical professional skills.

    Intern Exam:

    Toward the end of your internship (75% or 1,181 Hours of internship completed, you’ll sit the intern exams and a registration assessment to prove you’re ready for independent practice. This exam evaluates your clinical and pharmaceutical knowledge and your understanding of Australian laws, ethics, and pharmacy practice standards.

    Also Read: How to Find Internships in Australia After Passing the OPRA Exam

    The intern exams consist of two tests:

    • The Intern Written Examination assesses your applied pharmaceutical knowledge. It ensures you can confidently apply theoretical knowledge to real-life/practical scenarios. The test lasts about 2 hours and contains 75 questions.

    Cost: AU$770 per attempt

    Intern Oral Examination (OSCE – Objective Structured Clinical Examination) evaluates your clinical and legal knowledge, communication skills, and ability to handle real-world scenarios through simulated patient interactions.

    Step 4: Registration and Starting Your Career

    Once you’ve completed the OPRA Exam and fulfilled internship requirements, it’s time to apply for general registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia through AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency). You must provide:

    • Completion of the ITP certificate

    • Internship completion certificate

    • Oral and written exam results

    • Updated identity documents

    • Final police clearance

    You must also meet English language proficiency standards.

    As you’ve fulfilled all requirements, you’re officially a registered pharmacist in Australia and can start working independently. You can also pursue higher studies/specialisations. This will significantly boost your earning potential up to AUD 120,000 annually for an experienced pharmacist.

    Also Read: Complete Guide to Pharmacist Registration in Australia for Overseas Candidates

    The complete process to become a registered pharmacist in Australia can take anywhere from five to six years. While the core process remains the same, international grads should budget a few additional months for document evaluation, skill assessment, visa processing, and OPRA scheduling.

    OPRA Exam Dates, Syllabus, & Preparations

    The OPRA exam is held three times yearly (March, July, and November). Here’s a detailed breakdown of registration, exam, and result dates.

    The syllabus aligns with the National Competency Standards Framework and reflects expectations from practising Australian pharmacists. Here’s a breakdown of the OPRA exam scoring criteria by % weightage of the subjects:

    Almost half the exam focuses on therapeutics, patient safety, clinical scenarios, and ethical considerations, mirroring real-life responsibilities in Australian practice.

    OPRA is NOT a memory test. It tests your critical thinking and application skills in a healthcare setting. There is also no negative marking.

    What Comes Next? Career Paths, Salaries & Future Outlook

    Once you’re qualified, pharmacy is anything but a dead-end job. Here are some of the diverse career options available for you as a pharmacist in Australia.

    • Community pharmacists

    • Hospital pharmacists

    • Consultant pharmacist

    • Drug safety officer

    • Research/Academia

    • Pharmaceutical Industries

    • General (non-dispensing) pharmacist

    • Government and NGO sector as an advisor or policy developer

    Pharmacist Salary Expectations in Australia

    Your income will vary based on your setting and experience. Here’s a rough breakdown:

    • Starting salary (interns): Around AUD 55,000– AUD 65,000/year

    • Early career (1–3 years): Around AUD 80,000– AUD 95,000/year

    • Experienced: Can go over AUD 110,000/year, especially in management or hospital roles

    • Pharmacists in rural/remote areas may earn even more due to demand and incentives.

    Pharmacies are coming into their own after COVID changed everything. You’ll see pharmacists doing more than before – vaccination, health checks, sitting down to review your meds. As a result, job growth is steady, and demand remains strong, particularly in regional Australia.

    Final Thoughts

    Becoming a pharmacist in Australia typically takes 6-7 years, including education, exam preparation, and internship. While the path requires dedication and hard work, it offers a rewarding career with a significant impact on healthcare.

    For international students and graduates, careful planning, thorough preparation, and a commitment to continuous learning are key to completing the Australian pharmacy registration process.

    This blog is for informational purposes only and represents the views and interpretations of Elite Expertise regarding career opportunities in pharmacy. While we aim to provide accurate and up-to-date insights, pharmacy licensing requirements, immigration policies, and healthcare regulations may vary by country and are subject to change.EliteExpertise does not accept responsibility for any decisions made based on the information provided in this article.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    About the Author

    Sahana Rao

    Sahana Chinthapatla is renowned for her expertise in scientific and medical writing, backed by an MPharm in Pharmacology and years of experience in research analysis and scientific writing.

    As the Head Business Writer at Elite Expertise, she provides insightful and well-researched content on KAPS, OPRA, PEBC, PSI and global pharmacy pathways, guiding aspiring pharmacists in their professional journeys.

    Follow On

    Head Business Writer | Elite Expertise

  • How to Pass the OPRA Exam – Best Course for Pharmacists Abroad

    Are you an Overseas pharmacist who wants to pursue a dream career as a pharmacist in Australia? The Overseas Pharmacists Readiness Exam, or OPRA exam, is the gateway to your dream career. Formerly called the KAPS exam, the OPRA exam assesses your pharmaceutical knowledge, skills, and competencies to match the Australian Healthcare standards.

    At Elite Expertise, a centre that has trained thousands of students and led their path to KAPS success, and now with a success rate in March 2025, OPRA exam, we understand the hurdles faced by the OPRA aspirants and have curated this guide to thoughtfully meet the needs of international pharmacists for OPRA exam preparation.

    Key takeaways:
    • OPRA exam and its importance
    • Who can sit the OPRA exam
    • OPRA exam preparation
    • OPRA exam Syllabus
    • Is OPRA exam tough?
    • Tips clear the OPRA exam
    • Best crash course for OPRA exam
    • Why Choose Elite expertise?

    OPRA Exam and Its Importance

    OPRA exam is short for Overseas Pharmacists Readiness Assessment, apt by its name this exam evaluates the readiness of an international pharmacy graduate to practise in Australia due to the difference in standards among the countries on the Healthcare sector.

    This exam conducted by the Australian Pharmacy Council and applies to international pharmacy graduates outside of:

    • Australia

    • New Zealand

    • Ireland

    • Canada

    • United Kingdom or UK

    • United States of America or USA

    Who can Sit the OPRA Exam?

    • International graduates with a minimum of four years degree (B pharm, MPharm or Pharm D)

    • Registered as pharmacist or eligible to be registered as a pharmacist from the country of qualification with no age limit are eligible

    Preparation for OPRA Exam:

    • This is a computer-based exam with 120 multiple choice questioned to be answered in 2.5 hours conducted thrice yearly

    • The main criteria for preparation is understanding the exam syllabus. Considering the vast syllabus the APC has provided with a blue print of the exam with 5 main components or domains:

    1. Therapeutics and Patient Care (45%):

    This domain contributes to the highest percentage of scoring in the exam and a major change from the KAPS exam syllabus thoughtfully included to prepare the Overseas pharmacists to the practical and current Healthacare standards of patient care. This area majorly concentrates on:

    • Dose calculations

    • Screening of the patient’s general parameters, like Body mass index, etc

    • Primary Healthcare

    • Safe and effective use of medicines in general and in special populations like Pregnant women, elderly patients, children, etc.

    • Harm minimisation and confidentiality

    Tip: Calculations are the toughest to prepare for most of the candidates and proper guidance and practicing numerous mocks with calculations will help boost your confidence in the exam

    2. Biomedical Sciences (20%):

    • Understanding the normal and abnormal functioning of the body by studying the physiology and all the systems in the body CNS, cardiovascular, cardiovascular systems etc

    • Aetiology of the disease or the cause of the disease

    • Understanding infections via bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.

    • Immunology

    • Signs and symptoms of the disease

    • Diagnostic tests and lab investigations

    • Blood disorders and other body fluid affecting disorders

    Tip: This covers 20% and is the highest after the Therapeutics and Patient Care but this gives a proper understanding and is the connect between all the content areas. A thorough knowledge in this rae will ease a syllabus to a maximum level.

    3. Medicinal Chemistry and Biopharmaceutics (10%):

    • This deals with ADME- Absorption, distribution, Metabolism, and Elimination of the drug from the body

    • Drug formulations for their delivery

    • Drug and Chemical stability

    • Solubility

    • Drug formulations

    • Pharmaceutical microbiology

    Tip: This part might be be a little complex is most important for understanding the drug formulations

    4. Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics (10%):

    • Understanding how the body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and excretes drugs, as well as their effects at the biological level, is paramount.

    • Use of pharmacokinetics to calculate, evaluate, and individualise drug therapy

    • including monitoring and adjustment of doses in renal and hepatic dysfunction, loading does and time to reach steady state.

    • Drug concentration Vs time curves

    • Kinetics of drug interactions

    Tip: Understanding this content area will give an idea of what happens to the drug in the body, which can be later correlated during the practical times practicing repetitively can make you perfect in this area.

    5. Pharmacology and Toxicology (15%):

    • A thorough understanding of drug mechanisms,

    • Potential interactions and adverse effects is crucial.

    Tip: There are many drug-drug interactions, but a few among them are commonly asked in your exam make sure to understand them thoroughly to better score in the exam.

    Is OPRA exam tough?

    • Yes, it is tough considering the vast portion or syllabus.

    • OPRA aspirants often are confused where to start from and scheduling the syllabus in stipulated time.

    • No clue on topics that are very important and topics with slightly lesser important

    • The stress that creeps in as the exam date approaches.

    • No proper guidance

    • Gap in the education

    • Losing focus easily and no motivation are some of the difficulties that the candidates face while preparing for the OPRA exam

    Tips to Clear OPRA exam:

    • Look for right guidance

    • Join study groups on social media platforms to motivate you constantly and have a peer discussion of the topics

    • Prepare a schedule and divide the content covering the topics as easy to remember and understand the basics

    • Mocks test to understand your strengths and weakness

    • Sharpening the strengths and work on the weak areas based on the scores

    • Proper exam time management through tests simulating the exam conditions

    • Recall and repeat the areas that you are not confident enough practice until perfection

    • Have ample time for multiple revisions

    Why Choose Elite Expertise:

    • Here are few reasons to choose the best online education platform for OPRA exam preparation:

    • Our OPRA exam preparation course provides 300 plus hours of interactive online coaching

    • We also provide offline or recorded sessions incase you missed attending the live lectures, allowing you to study at your own pace

    • Key to any OPRA exam crash course are the mentors or the teachers and Elite Expertise’s directors and Clinical pharmacists, Mr Arief Mohammad and Mrs Harika Bheemavarapu, with years of experience in the field and teaching, provide you with immense knowledge transfer, highlighting their teaching through real-life case studies. This allows the students to not just be exam-ready but for the real-time pharmacy practice too.

    • 10,000-plus curated mock tests for turning you exam-ready.

    • One-to-one doubt-solving sessions. We understand that every student has their own pace, and these sessions allow clearing all the doubts that a student has.

    • Pay once and stay with us until you pass the exam. Enjoy our resources and services until you pass the exam with just a one-time payment. You are our responsibility!

    • We provide guidance for Skills assessment, Intern written and oral exams once you pass the OPRA exam and Ahpra registration guidance too, apart from OPRA exam preparation course, saving time and energy so you don’t have to go searching for all these services elsewhere. So, we are a one-stop destination for the Australian licensing pathway.

    CONCLUSION:

    OPRA exam preparation can be tiring but with the right focus and guidance, this becomes easy to achieve.

    With the busy life, responsibilities, job, and family, maintaining a schedule a sticking to it is next to impossible, so let’s make the job easy for you through our OPRA exam modules covering all the important topics by the best mentors and teachers.

    Therefore, join the best OPRA exam crash course today to begin your journey of becoming a pharmacist in Australia and fulfil your dream of a career abroad with Elite Expertise!

    This blog is for informational purposes only and represents the views and interpretations of Elite Expertise regarding career opportunities in pharmacy. While we aim to provide accurate and up-to-date insights, pharmacy licensing requirements, immigration policies, and healthcare regulations may vary by country and are subject to change.EliteExpertise does not accept responsibility for any decisions made based on the information provided in this article.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    About the Author

    Sahana Rao

    Sahana Chinthapatla is renowned for her expertise in scientific and medical writing, backed by an MPharm in Pharmacology and years of experience in research analysis and scientific writing.

    As the Head Business Writer at Elite Expertise, she provides insightful and well-researched content on KAPS, OPRA, PEBC, PSI and global pharmacy pathways, guiding aspiring pharmacists in their professional journeys.

    Follow On

    Head Business Writer | Elite Expertise

  • Pharmacist Salary Abroad in 2025: Top-Paying Countries Ranked (Australia, Canada, UK & NZ)

    Suppose you are an aspiring pharmacist who wishes to spread their wings wide and explore the skies of unlimited exposure and brilliant career opportunities. In that case, there is a chance that you have asked yourself on multiple occasions.

    Where can I find the best pharmacist job?

    Which country values pharmacists the most?

    What is the easiest way to get work visa as well?

    If you have come across that thought before, then here is some good news for you. In 2025, several developing and well-developed countries not only offer a wholesome pay for your job, but also offer a great quality of life, work-life balance, and additional benefits like tax relief and housing.

    However, before you get too excited, there is a lot that you need to consider before packing your bags and moving forward – and that is the consideration of important and mandatory factors like licensing exams, costs of living, and salary that differ by region and/or experience level.

    So, to make things sound less complicated, here is your all-in-one global guide to pharmacist salaries in different countries around the world. It will also educate you on what to expect before starting your international journey. So, are you up for it?

    Why Are Pharmacists In Demand Globally?

    There is no doubt about the fact that globally, there is a high trend of hiring pharmacists from all over the world.

    This rule is set into action only after the said internationally-trained pharmacists (that is, if they belong from any other country apart from the country that is offering the job to them), have completed all their necessary licensing exams and other legal requirements that allow them to practice freely and as independent pharmacists in that state.

    Here are a few reasons why pharmacists seem to be in global demand in all the popular, developing countries:

      The presence of ageing populations in every country, along with the rising incidences of chronic diseases are putting such a pressure on healthcare systems that requires more healthcare professionals and workforce to be present at all times to ensure that all problems are dealt with effectively in a smart manner.

      Highly developed countries like Canada, Australia, and the Gulf nations are actively recruiting healthcare professionals, including pharmacists. Their healthcare sector seems promising, and with state-of-the-art technologies being present there for patient care, it is expected that ultimately, they would be needing more professionals to take care of the healthcare department and ensure its effective operations in the days to come.

      Gone by are the days when pharmacists used to be considered as mere ‘dispensers’ only. In today’s world, pharmacists are now considered to be clinical advisers, vaccination providers, and patient counsellors. In some settings, they are also seen to be working alongside doctors as decision makers, and guiding the consultants regarding which medicine to prescribe to the patient.

      The competitive salaries, provision of tax-free income, especially in Gulf countries, and several government perks such as housing, transport, and healthcare make it an attractive choice for international pharmacists who struggle with some or all of the facilities mentioned, back in their home country.

    • A promising future, which includes exposure to advanced healthcare systems, along with flexible schedules and better work-life balance, make it ideal for internationally-trained pharmacists to seek career opportunities in foreign lands.

    What Is The Salary Comparison Between Top-Most Countries Providing Pharmacist Jobs

    So, before you jump right onto the bandwagon and start researching which country to opt for as your next home – here is a country by country comparison of the salaries that they offer for the role of a pharmacist.

    Now, it is up to you to pick which country suits you and your requirements the best – not only in terms of salaries, but also related to work-life balance, flexibility, and career growth.

    Australia

    Australia has always had a growing demand for pharmacists, especially in rural and regional areas where access to the healthcare sectors is limited.

    In Australia, pharmacists are seen and expected to work in community pharmacies, public and private hospitals, aged care facilities, pharmaceutical companies, and in academia and research roles as well.

    The country offers a balanced work environment, often with 38 – 40 hours per week and flexible schedules, especially in retail settings.

    Average Salary: AUD 60,000 – 100,000 (₹32 – ₹57 lakhs)

    Salary By Experience:

    Canada

    Approximately 70% of Canadian pharmacists work in community pharmacies, 15% in hospitals, and the remainder in academia, industry, or government roles.

    International candidates must pass the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) exam and complete a structured practical training program.

    When it comes to understanding what the whole PEBC exam and its requirements are about, Elite Expertise provides comprehensive support to all the candidates struggling to get hold of these requirements, along with providing preparation material for the exam itself.

    Average Salary: CAD 80,000 – 120,000 (₹48 – ₹72 lakhs)

      Cities: Toronto, Vancouver, CalgaryProvincial Variation: Salaries vary depending on the province and licensing authority.In Canada, pharmacists can specialize in geriatrics, oncology, psychiatry, or pharmacogenomics. Hospital pharmacists may transition into clinical educator or director roles.The typical working week comprises around 35–40 hours. Occasionally, overtime and night shifts may apply, especially in 24/7 community pharmacies or hospitals.

      Pharmacist Abroad Exam Requirement for Canada:

      Pass the PEBC Evaluating ExamPass the PEBC Qualifying Exams (MCQ + OSCE)

    • Complete structured practical training (internship).

      • Some provinces may also require language proficiency tests (e.g., IELTS), bridging programs and Juriprudence exam.

      Refer to : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ChY63EcggI

    United Kingdom

    The UK provides various pathways for advancement. Pharmacists can find jobs for various roles, such as independent prescribing courses (IPs), that allow pharmacists to prescribe medications, as consultant roles in hospitals, in public health and medication safety positions.

    The UK’s cost of living varies. London and the South East are expensive, but regions like Wales, the North East, and Scotland offer affordable housing and commuting options.

    Work-life balance is generally good, especially in NHS settings with fixed working hours and generous annual leave (27–33 days/year).

    NHS Pay Bands

    The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) employs a banding system to determine salaries for pharmacists:

      Band 6 (Newly Qualified): £35,392 – £42,618Band 7 (Clinical Pharmacist): £43,742 – £50,056Band 8a–8d (Senior Roles): £50,952 – £96,376

    • Band 9 (Chief Pharmacist): Up to £114,949

      • What is Locum Pharmacist?

      Locum pharmacists, which means pharmacists who are working on temporary contracts, can earn between £25 and £60 per hour, depending on their relevant experience and location.

      Pharmacist Abroad Exam Requirement for UK

      For foreign-trained pharmacists, it is required to:

      Take the OSPAP (Overseas Pharmacists Assessment Programme)Complete pre-registration training (52 weeks)

    • Pass the GPhC registration exam

      • English language tests (OET or IELTS) are required unless your education was in English.

    New Zealand

    Pharmacists in New Zealand are paid well relative to the country’s cost of living and work fewer hours on average.

      Community Pharmacists: NZD 70,000 – NZD 110,000Clinical Pharmacists: NZD 90,000 – NZD 130,000+

    • Academic/Research Pharmacists: NZD 80,000 – NZD 120,000+

      • The overall salaries can be slightly lower than in Australia, but so are living expenses.

      New Zealand’s healthcare system encourages the growth of clinical roles, especially in rural areas where pharmacists are vital for community care. Job settings include community and hospital pharmacies, Māori health services, aged care facilities, and pharmaceutical companies

      New Zealand also offers vaccination authority to trained pharmacists, expanding their clinical role.

      Pharmacist Abroad Exam Requirement For New Zealnd

      To register:

      Have your qualifications assessed by the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand.Complete the PSNZ Intern Training Programme (ITP) (requiring a minimum of 1450 hours).

    • Pass the New Zealand’s OPRA exam.

      • Applicants may also need to complete the English language test (OET/IELTS) if applicable.

    Summary Table

    Here is a simple breakdown of all the countries and their pharmacist salaries for your better ease and understanding.

    Meet the Team Behind Your Global Pharmacy Career: Elite Expertise!

    Starting a career abroad as a pharmacist isn’t easy – it’s a journey filled with licensing exams, document processing, visa paperwork, and a whole lot of stress. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it alone.

    That’s where Elite Expertise steps in—an educational and support platform that’s become a lifeline for hundreds of overseas pharmacists aiming to practice in Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.

    Elite Expertise is an international pharmacy career coaching which is started by two real clinical pharmacist kaps qualified from India working in Australia and exam training platform. It’s trusted by candidates across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa,Australia ,newzealand who are looking to start their professional lives in top-tier healthcare systems.

    Whether you’re preparing for abroad pharmacy licensing exams or struggling with AHPRA applications, Elite Expertise walks you through every step.

    Elite Expertise was co-founded by two highly respected professionals:

    • Mrs. Harika Bheemavarapu, a seasoned pharmacist working with Monash Health in Australia. She brings deep, real-world insight into hospital-based pharmacy practices and shares practical knowledge you won’t find in typical prep books.

    • Mr. Arief Mohammad, a training specialist known for helping candidates crack the OSPAP, KAPS, and OPRA exams. He is also an expert in building professional communication skills, which is important for passing interviews and adapting to Australian healthcare environments.

    Together, they’ve developed a rigorous, case-based learning model that helps overseas pharmacists not just memorize, but master their exams and clinical communication.

    Final Thoughts

    Pharmacists of all experience levels can find attractive salaries, career advancement and support for immigration in countries such as Australia, Canada, Ireland, US, UK and New Zealand.

    Australia and Canada offer the highest average salaries, while the UK provides clear NHS career progression and opportunities for prescribing. New Zealand is the ideal place for professionals who want a relaxed lifestyle and great satisfaction from their careers.

    Elite Expertise provides comprehensive training for pharmacists seeking a new life abroad, helping with exam preparation and general guidance regarding the whole process. Foreign pharmacists looking forward to kickstart their career in any of the countries mentioned above should definitely give this educational platform a try!

    This blog is for informational purposes only and represents the views and interpretations of Elite Expertise regarding career opportunities in pharmacy. While we aim to provide accurate and up-to-date insights, pharmacy licensing requirements, immigration policies, and healthcare regulations may vary by country and are subject to change.EliteExpertise does not accept responsibility for any decisions made based on the information provided in this article.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    About the Author

    Sahana Rao

    Sahana Chinthapatla is renowned for her expertise in scientific and medical writing, backed by an MPharm in Pharmacology and years of experience in research analysis and scientific writing.

    As the Head Business Writer at Elite Expertise, she provides insightful and well-researched content on KAPS, OPRA, PEBC, PSI and global pharmacy pathways, guiding aspiring pharmacists in their professional journeys.

    Follow On

    Head Business Writer | Elite Expertise

  • A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding the OPRA Exam

    This is a guide for beginners who want to understand what OPRA exam is, and let Elite Expertise break it down for you:

    What is OPRA exam?

    Overseas Pharmacists Readiness Assessment or OPRA exam is an Overseas pharmacist licensure exam for someone who wants to practise as a pharmacist in Australia. This exam is conducted by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) to check if the candidates meet the Australian Healthcare standards.

    OPRA exam eligibility:

    All the candidates who have:

    • Completed a 4 year pharmacy degree in their home country, and

    • Is registered as a pharmacist in their home country or is eligible to practise in the country of qualification other than Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, UK and US are eligible for the OPRA exam

    • Candidate must complete the skills assessment where all their documents are checked by the APC

    OPRA exam format:

    • The exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions

    • Conducted for a duration of 2.5 hours

    • It is a computer based closed book exam meaning no reference books are allowed in the exam centre.

    • With no negative marking for the wrong answers given

    • And Scored on the basis of Rasch methodology.

    OPRA Exam Validity:

    The OPRA exam is valid for 3 years from the date of the results released.

    When is the next OPRA exam or OPRA exam dates?

    The next OPRA exam is in July and now is the right time to prepare for the exam so start immediately.

    Where can I write the OPRA exam?

    OPRA exam can be written in various countries globally. Here is a list please check if your city is mentioned here or you can move to the nearest city to take the exam.

    Number of attempts for the OPRA exam:

    If a candidate fails the OPRA exam then they could retake the exam as many times as possible until they pass the exam, according to APC. But it is always better to pass in the first attempt as there is a fee of AUD 2190 involved for every attempt.

    OPRA exam age limit:

    There is no age limit for giving the OPRA exam and you are flexible to give the exam at any age.

    Next Steps After OPRA Exam:

    Once done with the OPRA exam you need to get yourself provisionally registered with the Ahpra and apply for visa. Once visa is approved you migrate to Australia and find an internship which is a mandate under a registered pharmacist or a preceptor. Once 75% of the internship is done there arw two more exams to be covered Australian Intern written and Oral exams. Once these are done you can register yourself as a pharmacist in Australia and practise with out any further supervision.

    Conclusion:

    It is a lengthy process and the exams may be stressful but with proper planning and guidance, you path would be made easy by Elite Expertise. Elite Expertise provides srvise at every step from skills assessment, to OPRA exam and Internship exams to Ahpra registration. So, choose wisely and start your global career with us!

    This blog is for informational purposes only and represents the views and interpretations of Elite Expertise regarding career opportunities in pharmacy. While we aim to provide accurate and up-to-date insights, pharmacy licensing requirements, immigration policies, and healthcare regulations may vary by country and are subject to change.EliteExpertise does not accept responsibility for any decisions made based on the information provided in this article.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    About the Author

    Sahana Rao

    Sahana Chinthapatla is renowned for her expertise in scientific and medical writing, backed by an MPharm in Pharmacology and years of experience in research analysis and scientific writing.

    As the Head Business Writer at Elite Expertise, she provides insightful and well-researched content on KAPS, OPRA, PEBC, PSI and global pharmacy pathways, guiding aspiring pharmacists in their professional journeys.

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    Head Business Writer | Elite Expertise

  • PEBC Evaluating Exam Update: May 2025 Eligibility Changes for IPGs

    Are you someone preparing for the PEBC Evaluating exam then here are the changes you need to know. The Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada or in short, PEBC has announced a few changes to the eligibility criteria of the International Pharmacy Graduates (IPGs) in order to streamline the Certification for Entry-to -practice licensure in Canada.

    The PEBC has reviewed the steps that are required by IPGs to achieve certification for Entry-to -practice on this 13th May 2025. According to this announcement the IPGs who are eligible will be excluded from giving the PEBC Evaluating exam. The change do not include the Qualifying exam and like earlier the candidates or the IPGs need to clear or pass the Qualifying exam. The IPGs must pass the MCQ exam that is the part 1 first gives the eligibility of the candidate to clear the OSCDE or the part 2 exam.

    The eligible candidates can apply for the November 2025 Pharmacist Qualifying exam Part I or the MCQ exam. It is estimated that the application will open this late May.

    How does this help the IPGs:

    The preparation time and the time attempting the Evaluating exam is saved with this latest change for the IPGs. This change also portrait’s the commitment of PEBC towards the continuous improvement of the licensure process and allowing it to be current and unbiased considering if the IPGs are accredited and meeting the standards of the international pharmacy programs by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) or the Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP).

    Who is eligible for this pathway:

    Are all the IPGs eligible for this latest update? Let’s find out:

    The first step in this journey to become registered pharmacist in Canada is Document Evaluation and this step is a mandate for all the IPGs.

    After this there are two pathways to consider:

    PATHWAY 1: The IPGs of the International pharmacy programs with accreditation from the CCAPP or ACPE

    In this pathway the IPGs from who received a pharmacy degree and was granted a International Accreditation status (or equivalent) are eligible.

    Please follow these links of ACPE and CCAPP and lets you check your eligibility according your country:

    ACPE: Programs with International-Accreditation Status By Country – Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education

    CCAPP: International Programs – CCAPP

    PATHWAY 2: The following category falls in this pathway 2:

    · If you are an IPG from a college or pharmacy school outside of Canada and is recongnised by the national, regional or international body and,

    · That country where you have graduated from or practised recently worked as a pharmacist has similar rules, regulations and responsibilities as of Canadaian standards,

    Then PEBC you will be accepted by the PEBC matching the Canadian pharmacist standards in qualification and education.

    So, according to this two types of IPGs are that might be allowed for the Pathway 2:

    First, if you are a pahramcist in any of the following countries:

    • Australia

    • New Zealand

    • Ireland

    • South Africa

    • UK

    Then you will be accepted by the PEBC directly.

    Secondly,

    • If you do not graduate from any of the above mentioned contries but have an unrestricted full icense as a pharmacist from any of the above mentioned countries along with US and ,

    • Worked in any of these countries in the patienty care department for atleast an year then you’ll still be considered eligible according to your work experience.

    To check the eligibility for one these pathways here is a link which consists of a set of questions for you to answer which decides your eligibility: Streamlined Pathway – Eligibility Survey | 1/6

    Conclusion:

    The PEBC exam is one of the toughest licensure exams when it comes to pharmacy. With this latest change in the eligibility the PEBC is ensuring fairness and transparency among all the IPGs if they maintain the standards required by the PEBC. So, why wait go ahead and check your eligibility today and start your preparation for the PEBC exams accordingly. To make this journey easy Elite expertise is providing assistance for the document evaluation and a crash course for PEBC Evaluating exam. Join us to make your Canadian dream career true!

    This blog is for informational purposes only and reflects our views and interpretations. While we strive for accuracy, licensing requirements and regulations may change. Readers are advised to verify information with official sources such as the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) and the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) before making any decisions. We do not assume responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    About the Author

    Sahana Rao

    Sahana Chinthapatla is renowned for her expertise in scientific and medical writing, backed by an MPharm in Pharmacology and years of experience in research analysis and scientific writing.

    As the Head Business Writer at Elite Expertise, she provides insightful and well-researched content on KAPS, OPRA, PEBC, PSI and global pharmacy pathways, guiding aspiring pharmacists in their professional journeys.

    Follow On

    Head Business Writer | Elite Expertise

  • Can You Skip the OPRA Exam with an MPharm in Australia?

    Australia is one of the most attractive countries when choosing a place that will allow your career and personal life to prosper freely. The high-quality education system, well-regulated healthcare environment, and significant career opportunities make Australia the ultimate top choice for all aspiring pharmacists from all over the world to come and try their luck here. For all those candidates who opt to study Master of Pharmacy (M. Pharm) in Australia, a common question that arises is – Do you need to pass the OPRA exam after completing an MPharm in Australia?

    The following student-friendly guide will help you find all your answers to the question. It will not only clearly explain the entire registration process, eligibility criteria, and all other details, but also provide a very realistic view of what to expect once you graduate.

    By going through this article, you will also learn how the role of Elite Expertise, a trusted platform for pharmacists’ guidance, helps graduates navigate each step, starting from their very initial step all the way down to finally becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia.

    Understanding The Master Of Pharmacy (MPharm) In Australia

    The Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm) is a postgraduate qualification designed for students with a background in pharmaceutical sciences or any other relevant discipline. Several accredited universities across Australia offer the Master of Pharmacy program. Each program is designed in such a manner that the coursework meets the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) standards easily.

    Some of the top accredited universities offering M.Pharm include:

    All the M.Pharm programs are typically 2 years in duration and include a unique blend of classroom teaching sessions, laboratory sessions, and supervised clinical placements as well. These degree programs have been structured to develop a student’s ability to engage in safe and effective pharmaceutical practices that are in line with the Australian standards.

    Course Highlights

    The general course outline of an M.Pharm degree program comprises the following:

    • Pharmacotherapeutics And Clinical Pharmacy

    • Pharmacy Law And Ethics

    • Dispensing And Compounding

    • Patient Counselling And Interprofessional Care

    • Evidence-Based Medicine

    The M.Pharm degree qualifies all the students for provisional registration, provided they meet all admission requirements and have successfully completed the internship and exams required for general registration.

    Admission Requirements for M.Pharm

    To enter an M.Pharm degree program in Australia, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

      A recognized undergraduate degree in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, biology, or health sciencesProof of academic transcripts and a degree certificate

    • Fulfilment of all requirements in human biology and chemistry (varies by university; candidates can check each university’s requirements to understand better)

      • It is also very much possible that each Australian university may have its unique application steps, so before you apply for any university, it is essential to check the university website for its specific requirements.

      Following this way, your application will not only get completed in due time, but you will also have a grip on what to expect from the particular university in the future.

    Tuition Fees and Study Locations

    M.Pharm students should expect to pay between AUD 40,000 and 55,000 annually for their tuition fees, depending on both the institution and the campus location.

    Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane’s bigger universities connect students to state-of-the-art teaching facilities and work in collaboration to offer internships for the students.

    OPRA Students

    Do You Need to Pass the OPRA Exam After Completing an MPharm in Australia?

    A short and official answer to this question is: No.

    If you complete an M.Pharm from an accredited Australian university, then you are not required to sit the OPRA exam. This is because your degree is already aligned with Australian pharmacy standards, as verified by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC).

    Instead, your path to becoming a registered pharmacist in Australia will involve the following steps:

    • Apply for provisional registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia via AHPRA

    • Complete a supervised internship (A minimum of 1,575 hours)

    • Pass the oral exams – Intern Written Exam and Oral Assessment

    • Apply for general registration

    This is known as the Intern Pharmacist Registration Pathway and is considered to be the standard route for pharmacy graduates from Australian institutions.

    OPRA Exam: Format and Focus

    For the candidates who will require appearing in the OPRA exam, here is what to expect from this exam:

    • 120 multiple-choice questions (MCQs)

    • 150-minute computer-based test

    • Closed-book

    Content Areas:

    The content that is covered in the OPRA exam includes the following subjects:

    • Biomedical Sciences

    • Medicinal Chemistry and Biopharmaceutics

    • Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics

    • Pharmacology and Toxicology

    • Therapeutics and Patient Care

    The candidates must prepare using approved and trusted study materials, case studies, and real-world examples to ensure that they are ready for effective practice in Australia.

    This is where the role of Elite Expertise is seen to spring into action! Of course, what else than to trust an educational platform that is being run by two maestros, Mr. Arief Mohammad and Mrs. Harika Bheemavarapu.

    Apart from pharmacy exam training, such as for OPRA, this wonderful organization also serves to provide comprehensive assistance during every step of the registration procedure to overseas-trained pharmacists.

    Elite Expertise supports pharmacists and helps them with AHPRA applications to provide comprehensive assistance throughout the registration journey.

    Required Documents for Provisional Registration

    Whether you studied in Australia or overseas, documentation at every step is a critical part of the process.

    Here is what you will be needing as an M.Pharm graduate:

    • Proof of identity (passport, visa)

    • M.Pharm degree certificate and academic transcript

    • Letter of offer or contract for supervised internship

    • Online application form via AHPRA

    • Payment of applicable registration fees

    OPRA vs. M.Pharm: A Cost Perspective

    It is important to know that completing an M.Pharm degree in Australia is a significantly more expensive route compared to passing the OPRA exam, with the preparation process included. The tuition fees for M.Pharm programs, combined with the living expenses and university costs, can make this option financially challenging for many students, who already come from struggling backgrounds.

    In contrast, the OPRA pathway offers a more budget-friendly alternative, provided that it will also give you the choice to prepare for the exam from the comfort of your home, within your home country. Once you clear the OPRA exam, you can relocate to Australia just for appearing in the internship and final assessments, thereby saving yourself both time and money.

    A Cost-Effective Alternative: Study While You Prepare

    Students who are financially struggling and are in search of cost-effectiveness but still want to move to Australia may consider applying for a Master of Public Health or Health Management degree. It is a viable and affordable option. These programs are not as costly as the M.Pharm and yet still provide a good reason for your student visa.

    Simultaneously, you can study for the OPRA exam at the same time, and this is a smart and financially affordable road to pharmacist registration.

    How Elite Expertise Can Help You?

    Elite Expertise is an educational consultancy platform that focuses on students, and assists M.Pharm graduates and overseas trained pharmacists to smoothly pursue their pharmacy registration process in Australia under guidance of their mentors.

    Established by two experienced professionals, Mrs Harika Bheemavarapu, who is a Clinical Pharmacist at Monash Health, and Mr Arief Mohammad, who is a Clinical Pharmacist at Northern Health, Elite Expertise provides personalised support at every step of your career.

    Key Services:

    Apart from the obvious exam preparation and training, here is a list of services that the expert mentors at Elite Expertise can provide you:

    • OPRA and other foreign pharmacy exam preparation with updated study materials and mock tests

    • Support with document review and AHPRA applications

    • Pharmacist mentorship by seasoned professionals

    Whether you are completing your M.Pharm in Australia or preparing to pass the OPRA exam from your home country, Elite Expertise ensures you are never lost in the process.

    Summary Table: Do You Need to Take OPRA?

    Final Words Of Wisdom

    To become a registered pharmacist in Australia, your path will eventually depend and start from where you gained your degree of qualification.

    • If you are completing an M.Pharm from an accredited Australian university, you will not need to appear in the OPRA exam. Instead, your focus should totally be on your supervised internship and all oral and written assessments instead.

    • If you are an internationally educated pharmacist, you must already be aware that appearing in the OPRA exam is a non-negotiable deal for you.

    However, no matter the circumstances, with the right assistance all pathways are doable. If you are provided with the right guidance and mentoring along the way, then nothing would seem like a hard task.

    That is exactly why so many international pharmacy graduates turn to Elite Expertise. We don’t just help you with eligibility and the OPRA exam — we also offer targeted preparation courses for the internship written and oral exams, ensuring you’re ready for for every phase of the process.

    This blog is for informational purposes only and represents the views and interpretations of Elite Expertise regarding career opportunities in pharmacy. While we aim to provide accurate and up-to-date insights, pharmacy licensing requirements, immigration policies, and healthcare regulations may vary by country and are subject to change.EliteExpertise does not accept responsibility for any decisions made based on the information provided in this article.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    About the Author

    Sahana Rao

    Sahana Chinthapatla is renowned for her expertise in scientific and medical writing, backed by an MPharm in Pharmacology and years of experience in research analysis and scientific writing.

    As the Head Business Writer at Elite Expertise, she provides insightful and well-researched content on KAPS, OPRA, PEBC, PSI and global pharmacy pathways, guiding aspiring pharmacists in their professional journeys.

    Follow On

    Head Business Writer | Elite Expertise

  • How Much Does a Pharmacist Earn in Australia? (2025 Salary Guide by Role & Location)

    How Much Does a Pharmacist Earn in Australia?

    Australia is one of the dream destinations to all the Healthcare professionals especially the Pharmacists overseas. It has become the choice or a dream destination considering various reasons like good work-life balance, lucrative salaries, expanded roles etc. Understanding the salary potential or earning possibilities at different levels is important and will help us make better decisions regarding whether Australia is the final place we wish to work overseas. The salary may vary based on various factors like role, experience, location etc, lets quickly understand the salary structure keeping these factors in mind:

    Summary Table

    Intern Pharmacist Salary or pharmacist salary at an entry level:

    • It is a mandate for every overseas pharmacist to understand the Australian Healthcare system before they independently practise in Australia and the internship allows supervised experience of about an year before applying for general registration.

    • The average Salary of an inter pharmacist is approximately AUD60,000 – $65,000 per year per year

    • Per hour salary: Intern pharmacists can earn anywhere between AUD 25 to 30 per hour in Australia.

    • It is quite an advantage in Australia that the candidates can actually start earning from the stage of internship which is not the same in many countries.

    Fresh Graduate Salary or Overseas Pharmacists With No Experience:

    • Experince, location, employer, and job responsibilities are some of the areas that majorly impact your salary. Greater the experience higher the salary.

    • Usually, a fresh graduate or a pharmacist without experience earns AUD 32 to 40 per hour.

    • A fresher or an inexperienced overseas graduate earns on average AUD 75,000 to 85,000 annually.

    • Similarly is the condition with the area or location of work place. Australia enjoy higher salary structure in the Rural and regional areas. Not just that there are additional perks like incentives due to shortage of pharmacists in these regions.

    Pharmacist-in-Charge Salary:

    • A pharmacist-in-charge (PIC) is a registered pharmacist who is responsible for overall day to day activities in a pharmacy with an average salary of AUD 90,000 – 114,000 per year approximately.

    • Pharmacist-in-charge comes with higher experience and with experience comes the responsibilities too. The PIC makes sure that the pharmacy complies with the laws professionally and ethically, they also look into inventory and supply chain management, maintaining professional standards, team supervision etc.

    • When it comes to a per hour earning range, they earn somewhere between AUD 45 to 55 per hour approximately, but again this might be influenced by the experience and location of work.

    Consultant Pharmacist & Specialized Roles

    • Specialized roles like Consultant Pharmacists, Clinical Pharmacists, Oncology pharmacists, Geriatric pharmacists, Cardiology pharmacists, industrial pharmacists can earn significantly higher.

    • This category could earn anywhere from AUD 110,000 – 130,000+ per year on an average.

    • Opportunities in hospitals, research institutions, and government sectors contribute to higher packages with experience.

    Factors Influencing Salary: As mentioned earlier there are many factors influencing the salary earned by the pharmacists and to name a few:

    • Area of work or Location: The competition is high in the cities and on the contrary the pay, other facilities, incentives and relocation bonuses etc, are higher in the rural and regional areas due to the shortage of the pharmacists here.

    • Experience & Specialization: Not just in the field of pharmacy, all the fields evidently shoe a shift in the higher packages with experience. More experience and additional certifications (e.g., immunization, medication review) increase salary potential. Your salary could differ with specialization too.

    • Sector: The pay scale differs widely among the sector of work, for example, Hospital pharmacists and those in the private sector may have different pay scales compared to community pharmacists. The pay scale widely differs with the sector of work so be mindful in choosing the sector that you work.

    Final words:

    Pharmacy is not just a job it’s a responsibility towards the society and the job satisfaction that this field provides is tremendous. Pharmacy offers a fulfilling career in Australia with a clear career advancement in roles and pay structure.

    With growing demand for healthcare professionals and government support for regional workforce programs, pharmacists can expect stable and lucrative career opportunities in 2025. Not just that the work life balance, expanded roles, cultural inclusivity, shortage in the rural areas make Australia the ultimate destination for Pharmacists overseas.

    💡 Related Read:

    Overseas Pharmacists Readiness Examination – Everything You Need to Know

    The salary figures mentioned in this blog are based on our independent research and analysis of current market trends. These figures are accurate as of May 2025, but may vary over time due to changes in demand, location, experience levels, and industry developments. Readers are encouraged to verify the latest information through official and trusted sources.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    About the Author

    Sahana Rao

    Sahana Chinthapatla is renowned for her expertise in scientific and medical writing, backed by an MPharm in Pharmacology and years of experience in research analysis and scientific writing.

    As the Head Business Writer at Elite Expertise, she provides insightful and well-researched content on KAPS, OPRA, PEBC, PSI and global pharmacy pathways, guiding aspiring pharmacists in their professional journeys.

    Follow On

    Head Business Writer | Elite Expertise

  • IS CANADIAN PHARMACIST PEBC EXAM EASY TO CLEAR?

    IS CANADIAN PHARMACIST PEBC EXAM EASY TO CLEAR?

    The Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada exam is a major milestone for internationally trained pharmacists aiming to practice in Canada. It is a critical step in obtaining licensure and ensuring the foreign pharmacy professionals meet country’s high quality healthcare standards. One common question among the international pharmacy graduates is: “Is the PEBC exam easy to clear?

    The short answer to this question is –It depends primarily on preparation, academic background & the support system each candidate have.

    Understanding the Canadian Pharmacist PEBC Exam

    This exam has two parts. The PEBC Evaluating exam & qualifying examination evaluates both the academic knowledge and practical competencies. The examination structure includes:

    1. The PEBC Evaluating examination (for international graduates)-focuses on foundational pharmaceutical science and knowledge

    2. PEBC qualifying exam (Part 1): A multiple –choice exam assessing knowledge and clinical decision-making

    3. PEBC qualifying exam (Part 2): an OSCE (Objective structured clinical examination) that evaluates communication, patient interaction, and problem-solving in real-life pharmacy scenarios

    These are rigorous, standardized exams that reflect real-world expectations of pharmacists in Canada

    Is the PEBC exam actually easy?

    What makes the PEBC Exam challenging?

    • In-Depth syllabus pattern: the exam covers topics ranging from pharmacology and therapeutics to patient care, pharmacy law, and ethics.

    • OSCE format of the qualifying exam: Many candidates find the part 2 particularly challenging due to its practical, timed format that demands excellent communication skills and clinical judgement.

    • Cultural and system differences: International pharmacy graduates often need to bridge the gap between their home country’s pharmacy system and Canadian practices.

    • Time pressure during the examination (mainly part 2): each part of the exam is time-bound and demands quick, accurate decision making.

    How to makes the PEBC exam achievable?

    • Set a Strong academic background: pharmacists with a solid grasp of pharmaceutical science have a head start.

    • Focus on the targeted preparation: Those who follow a structured study plan, use PEBC-specific preparation resources, practice mock test s are more likely to succeed

    • Get Support & Coaching: Enrolling in coaching program or review courses, especially ones tailored for international candidates, can significantly improves outcomes

    • · how Commitment and maintain a clear mind-set: Discipline, resilience, and a growth mind-set often make the difference between passing and failing.

    The Elite Expertise for PEBC Exam coaching: A real Game changer

    One of the most effective ways to succeed in the PEBC journey is through structured coaching, and Elite Expertise stands out as a top-tier institute dedicated to helping international pharmacy graduates excel.

    Why a PEBC aspirant should choose Elite Expertise?

    Tailored training: Focused programs designed with targeted study plans

    • Provide Real clinical insights: Curriculum designed to reflect Canadian pharmacy practice

    • Provide Live and recorded lectures: Personalized targeted study in each lecture, validity to attend classes will be active until the candidate clears the examination

    • Set Personalized support: 24*7 support from the admin team through students whatsapp group and accurate feedback from seasoned professionals.

    Our Educators

    • Mr. Arief Mohammad, accredited clinical consultant pharmacist, Australia

    • Mrs. Harika Bheemavarpu, accredited clinical consultant pharmacist, Australia

    • Mrs. Shyama, licensed Canadian Pharmacist

    Our educators bring hands-on clinical experience from both Australia & Canada, providing students with a global perspective and practical edge. Their guidance helps to bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and real world expectations.

    Final thought:

    Is the PEBC Exam easy to clear? With right mindset, smart preparation and the expert support of institution like Elite Expertise, the answer is strong yes. Thousands of international pharmacists have successfully made their way into Canadian healthcare system-and you can too.

    This blog is for informational purposes only and reflects our views and interpretations. While we strive for accuracy, licensing requirements and regulations may change. Readers are advised to verify information with official sources such as the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) and the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) before making any decisions. We do not assume responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    About the Author

    Krupa Karamchand

    Krupa Karamchand is a B. Pharm graduate and KAPS-qualified pharmacist with over 7 years of experience in the pharmaceutical field. As an experienced SEO content writer, she combines her in-depth healthcare knowledge with proven digital strategies to create informative, engaging, and search engine–optimized blogs. Krupa is passionate about making complex medical topics easy to understand and accessible to all readers.

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    Content Writer | Elite Expertise

  • Pharmacist Registration in Australia: Step-by-Step Guide for Overseas-Trained Pharmacists

    Fully licensed pharmacist eligibility in Australia remains an ambition that all aspiring internationally trained pharmacists should actively pursue. The healthcare system in Australia provides its professionals and patients with advanced world-class quality care. The healthcare sector maintains its development and evolution by meeting rising healthcare professional demand so it can uphold its current exceptional healthcare standards.

    The Australian healthcare system has a challenging registration process, mainly for overseas-trained healthcare professionals whose degree belongs to their home country, and not Australia. Therefore, before securing a legal status and the rights to practice within the country independently, the aspiring candidate must complete various required steps.

    Aspiring or current pharmacists from your home country can follow this approach to achieve Australian pharmacist registration through Elite Expertise as their trusted partner across each step including eligibility checks, OPRA exam preparation, Australian Intern oral and written exam preparation, document evaluation to check if they are complete as per the requirements or not, and complete AHPRA registration guidance as well.

    This guide aims to provide detailed instructions enabling all applicants regardless of their nationality from India, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, or other countries to understand the preparation process for both provisional and general registration exams.

    Step 1: Eligibility Check – Who Can Register?

    The first and foremost step, before you get into any paperwork, is to determine whether you are eligible to apply for pharmacist registration in Australia or not. There is a certain criterion that needs to be met before applying for registration status.

    Eligibility criteria include:
      A recognized degree in pharmacy from your home country

    • Meeting Australian standards in theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical practice, which is assessed through exams such as the OPRA exam (previously conducted as the KAPS exam).

      • If you have all the requirements as mentioned above, you can proceed by creating an account on the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) portal and uploading all the required documents as mentioned there. The documents will include your passport, qualifications, and transcripts etc.

      Once you are done with this step, you can consider yourself as officially entering the skills assessment phase.

    Step 2: Choose Your Assessment Pathway

    Depending on your background and the foundation of your qualification, there are two assessment streams available that you might want to opt for:

    If you are unsure which stream to apply for, you can always consult the APC website to sort out this issue for you.

    Step 3: Register and Prepare for the OPRA Exam (Knowledge Stream)

    The OPRA exam has officially replaced the KAPS exam starting from March 2025. This OPRA exam is conducted by the Australian Pharmacy Council and serves to evaluate your readiness and understanding of pharmaceutical sciences.

    Appearing in the OPRA exam is a part of the process for applying for a Skills Assessment Outcome under the Knowledge Stream.

    The OPRA exam (Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment) is one of the most essential steps for candidates wishing to appear in the knowledge stream.

    Exam Focus Areas:

    The exam focus areas include:

      Pharmaceutical chemistryPharmacology and physiologyTherapeutics and pharmacologyUnderstanding the Australian healthcare setting through clinical scenarios.

      Tips:

      Plan at least 3 – 6 months for dedicated and thorough preparation

    • Do not ever underestimate the importance of communication skills and case-based reasoning!

      • Elite Expertise offers structured OPRA exam preparation programs, complete with mock tests, up-to-date resources, and one-on-one mentoring to help you clear the exam on your very first attempt.

    Step 4: Apply For Provisional Registration

    Once you have successfully cleared your OPRA exam, you can apply for provisional registration via AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency).

    Required documents:

    Here is a list of the documents that will be required to complete your registration application:

      Certified copies of ID and qualificationsEnglish proficiency test resultsCriminal record check

    • Completed forms and registration fee payment

      • With the completion of this step, you will officially be eligible to start your intern training program and supervised practice in Australia.

    Step 5: Begin Supervised Practice And Intern Training

    In the next step that follows after the completion of your provisional registration, you officially begin applying your practical knowledge in real healthcare settings and test your boundaries to see how good you are with your clinical knowledge and skills.

    Internship requirements:

    For landing yourself a good internship opportunity, here is what you need to have in your hands:

      Completion of an approved Intern Training Program (ITP)Supervised practice hours under a licensed pharmacist (minimum 1575 hours)

    • Regular performance evaluations

      • This phase of your career will help you develop your skills in ethical practice, clinical reasoning, dispensing, and primary healthcare delivery.

    Step 6: Take the Intern Written And Oral Exams

    Once you are almost done with your internship, you will face two final assessments:

      Intern Written Exam
      This assessment serves to test your understanding of pharmaceutical sciences, patient safety, and clinical decision-making.
      Intern Oral ExamThis assessment focuses on communication skills, legal knowledge, and your ability to handle real-world clinical scenarios.

      Both exams are organized by the Australian Pharmacy Council, and passing both of them is the final step before acquiring full registration status in Australia.

      Elite Expertise provides last-minute exam coaching and personalized checklists so that you are fully ready to apply for general registration and begin your pharmacy career.

    Step 7: Apply for General Registration

    Once you have successfully completed all exams and fulfilled the supervised practice requirement, you can now apply for general registration status in Australia.

    Steps:
      Submit your final documents and proof of exam completionPay the applicable registration feeTrack your provisional registration expiry date

    • Receive confirmation and be listed as a registered pharmacist on the public register.

      • Once all of this has been completed, it officially marks the start of your pharmacy licence in Australia.

    Estimated Timeline (Knowledge Stream Pathway)

    Given below is an estimated timeline to help you understand the overall Knowledge Stream Pathway journey. The actual time that it takes can vary from person to person.

    Things like document issues, exam seat availability, visa processing, or changes in official procedures can affect how fast or slow the process goes. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the latest info on the APC and AHPRA websites before making any plans.

    💡 Related Read:

    Overseas Pharmacists Readiness Examination – Everything You Need to Know

    Why Choose Elite Expertise For Your Pharmacy Registration Journey?

    The education platform Elite Expertise offers specialized training and support to hundreds of pharmacists from abroad who seek to register successfully in the pharmacist profession of Australia and New Zealand, and also multiple other countries.

    Elite Expertise was founded by professionals, Mrs. Harika Bheemavarapu and Mr. Arief Mohammad. Both these mentors provide complete exam preparation materials, performance tracking, and mock tests with real case-based questions.

    Beyond exam training, the organization also serves to provide comprehensive assistance during every step of the registration procedure.

    Elite Expertise supports pharmacists and helps them with AHPRA applications to provide comprehensive assistance throughout the registration journey.

    Through her work at Monash Health, Mrs. Harika Bheemavarapu provides exceptional knowledge of hospital-based pharmacy practice along with Mr. Arief Muhammad who specializes in preparing candidates for OPRA examinations and professional interview capability development.

    Elite Expertise works with specialized mentors to provide support for overseas pharmacists through services which help process documents and assist in developing Australian healthcare professional communication competencies.

    Their organizational purpose focuses on delivering practical evidence-based educational programs which increases confidence levels while helping pharmacists from abroad succeed throughout their process for Australian pharmacy licensure and career development.

    So, with Elite Expertise by your side, you do not need to worry about your application and journey anymore. They are here to guide you on every step, so that you can easily steer your way through the challenging pathway.

    Final Tips for Aspiring Pharmacists

      Stay connected with the Pharmacy Board, Pharmaceutical Society, and Pharmacy GuildUse the APC website for up-to-date info, dates, and feesKeep records of all your documents, applications, and supervised practice hoursPractice English communication skills regularly. This is a key requirement

    • Set clear career aspirations to stay motivated during the lengthy process

      • A Fulfilling Career Awaits

      Regardless if you are submitting your application from India, Dubai, or any other location in the world, becoming a licensed pharmacist in Australia is achievable with meticulous planning, an unwavering commitment, and proper direction.

      This overwhelming yet greatly rewarding journey will not only help you achieve your career goals but also allow you to contribute meaningfully to primary healthcare in a world-class setting, like that of Australia.

      So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and claim your first step towards accomplishing your career endeavors – head over to the APC website, reserve your eligibility assessment, and commence your journey towards a satisfying career in Australian pharmacy. It surely looks like a tough job, but it is really simple if you look at it after gaining significant insights from trusted academics such as Elite Expertise.

    This blog is for informational purposes only and reflects our own views and interpretations. While we strive for accuracy, guidelines and requirements may change. Readers are advised to verify information with official sources such as the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) and Ahpra before making any decisions. We do not take responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided.

    ⚠️ Disclaimer

    About the Author

    Krupa Karamchand

    Krupa Karamchand is a B. Pharm graduate and KAPS-qualified pharmacist with over 7 years of experience in the pharmaceutical field. As an experienced SEO content writer, she combines her in-depth healthcare knowledge with proven digital strategies to create informative, engaging, and search engine–optimized blogs. Krupa is passionate about making complex medical topics easy to understand and accessible to all readers.

    Follow On

    Content Writer | Elite Expertise