How to study for opra exam 2025-2026

opra exam preparation

Key Points To Remember

OPRA replaced KAPS in 2025
Not only on theory, focus is on clinical reasoning
Preparation starts from 6 to 8 months in advance
Therapeutic carries 45% weightage
Case solving and mock exams are important
Interpretation and accurate calculations boost scores
Elite Expertise offers top OPRA coaching

The Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA) has been officially replaced with the KAPS exam as of March 2025. The first and most important stage of the process to become a licensed pharmacist in Australia is the Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA). In contrast to previous examinations, which typically allowed rote learning to be judged, OPRA focuses on clinical reasoning, decision-making, and the actual use of knowledge

OPRA passing should not be equated with only factual studying. A strategy, a system, and regular practice are required. Candidates are now required to:

Learn the material through clinical scenarios rather than rote memorisation
Create a prep plan that lasts from 6 to 8 months
Work on a case-based daily MCQ to get familiar with exam logic
Improve calculation and interpretation abilities to reach the top scores
Get guided by a mentor and a coach to have a well-directed preparation

The exam has changed its format to a competency-based assessment, so cramming is no longer effective. You can use the following methods to make the most of your opportunity, and also generate confidence for your practice in Australia: Beginning your preparation early, following a methodical practice regime, and utilising the guidance of a professional.

Understand the Exam Format & Syllabus

You have to understand the layout along with how the marks are divided if you want to be truly effective in your preparation. OPRA Exam offers 120 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) where the candidates have to answer in 150 minutes. The score according to the Rasch model takes into account your competence level against the difficulty of the questions, instead of just giving you a raw score.

Key Points:

Single paper, 120 MCQs, 150 minutes
Rasch scoring: competency-focused
Therapeutics is the most important section

Step 1: Build a Realistic Study Timeline

Start preparing for the exam between 6 and 8 months in advance. A well-organized timeline not only allows you to go through the whole syllabus but also gives you a feeling of being in control and avoids the last-minute terror

Time Strategy:

Use 60% of the total study time for Therapeutics & Patient Care.
The study you do in one week will be based on only one system, e.g. Cardiology, Renal, Endocrine etc.
Plan your study so that you cover Biomedical, Pharmacology, and Calculations.

Weekly Goal Example: “Complete Renal system + 30 MCQs this week”

Step 2: Use the Right OPRA Resources

OPRA entails complex clinical reasoning as well as worldwide knowledge; it is not only about recalling Australian guidelines.

Recommended Resources:

APC OPRA syllabus outline
Core pharmacotherapy textbooks
Related biomedical science references
The general pharmacology & toxicology textbooks
Case-based MCQ books
Topic-wise notes
Rasch-style mock exams

Avoid:

Intern-level Australian guidelines (AMH/eTG) for exam-only preparation.
Outdated notes or non-clinical summaries.

Step 3: Study Topic-Wise, Not Randomly

Organize your research with a logical and clinical flow.

Example: Hypertension

Biomedical → Pathophysiology
Pharmacology → Drug classes and mechanisms
Therapeutics → Evidence-based treatment
MCQ Practice → Case-solving

Goal: Weekly targets maintain focus and track progress.

Step 4: Practice Clinical MCQs Early

From day one, solve the OPRA-style MCQs even while learning theory.

MCQ Strategy:

Two-step reasoning questions and focus on case-based
Try to avoid pure recall questions
Fixed it to solve 20 to 30 questions daily
Review all of your mistakes thoroughly

Step 5: Strengthen Calculations & Case Interpretation

Focus Areas:

Dosage adjustments (renal/hepatic)
BSA and CrCl calculations
IV flow rates
ADR recognition
Drug interactions in the Australian case context

Tips: Interpretation and accuracy are important for scoring.

Step 6: Revision Strategy That Works

Getting score 3 phase revision model should be used:

Concept review: Flowcharts, Diagrams, Notes.
Topic-based Practice: Need to focus on weak areas.
Mock Test Recall: Space repetition with flashcards.

Step 7: Take Regular Mock Exams

Regular mock exams simulate real exam conditions and accuracy, improve speed and confidence.

Best Practices:

Times: 150 min (closed book)
Track your performance by the topics
Identify and improve your weaknesses

Step 8: Manage Stress, Confidence & Study Routine

Consistency > intensity.

Tips:

Use Pomodoro blocks
Explain concepts aloud
Join study groups
Focus on active learning, not passive reading

Step 9: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Start preparing late (2 to 3 months before the exam is insufficient)
Using non-clinical or outdated sources.
Skipping mock exams is are test.
Without memorising all the facts.
Ignoring Therapeutics

Step 10: Final 30-Day Strategy

Daily MCQ practice
Focus on Therapeutics and weak areas
Time management drills
Quick revision notes only

Elite Expertise – Most Recommended Coaching For OPRA Exam

One big benefit for the OPRA Exam 2025-26 Coaching is that Elite Expertise brings:

Expert Faculty: Get the knowledge from the two Australian clinical pharmacist experts, Mr. Arief Mohammad and Mrs. Harika Bheemavarapu, who give you the application of theory and exam-focused guidance.
300+ hours live + recorded lectures
Case-based learning
Access for life until you clear
95%+ first-attempt success

Final Words

To break through OPRA 2025, you need not only your brain but also your mind to be on the same page, which means strategy, consistency, and expert guidance. If you want to succeed in this exam, you should start early preparing and organising your study, practice clinical MCQs daily, and do regular mocks.

Expert training like Elite Expertise will definitely help you along your journey with mock exams, clinical reasoning and thus, to meet the expectations of the exam.

Experience the preparation right now – there will be no better opportunity for the success story to be yours. OPRA is more than a test; It is your ticket to a fulfilling career in the Australian pharmacy sector. Be sure that with commitment to planning, practising and seeking professional guidance, you will be walking into the exam hall equipped with strong preparation, tranquillity and ready to succeed.