Knowledge Stream vs Competency Stream: Which Pathway is Right for You?

One of the first things international pharmacists ask is "which exam do I need to take?" The answer depends entirely on where you qualified.

The Two Pathways

Australia has two distinct skills assessment pathways:

1. Knowledge Stream – for most international pharmacists
2. Competency Stream – for pharmacists from specific countries

You don't get to choose. Your country of qualification determines your pathway.

Knowledge Stream (OPRA Exam)

Who It's For

The Knowledge Stream applies to pharmacy graduates from all countries except:

• Australia
• Canada
• Ireland
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States

So if you qualified in India, Philippines, Egypt, South Africa, Pakistan, or most other countries – this is your pathway.

The Process

Stage 1: Eligibility Check ($810) Submit your qualifications for assessment. You need:

• Pharmacy qualification (4+ years post-2006, or 3+ years pre-2006)
• Evidence of registration/eligibility in your home country
• Academic transcripts
• ID documents
• NAATI translations if documents aren't in English

Processing target: 5 working days (can take up to 4 weeks)

Stage 2: OPRA Exam ($2,190) The main assessment:

• 120 MCQs
• 2.5 hours
• Computer-based at Pearson VUE centres
• Focus on therapeutics and practical application

Stage 3: Skills Assessment Outcome ($300) Final documentation once you pass.

Total: $3,300 AUD

Results Validity

OPRA results are valid for 3 years for visa applications.

Competency Stream (CAOP Exam)

Who It's For

The Competency Stream applies to pharmacists who:

• Completed qualifications in Canada, Ireland, UK, or USA
• Are currently registered in one of these countries

Note: You need current registration – past registration doesn't count.

The Process

Stage 1: Eligibility Check ($810) Similar documentation requirements:

• Proof of qualification
• Evidence of current registration in qualifying country
• ID documents

Processing target: 5 working days

Stage 2: CAOP Exam ($2,050) Competency Assessment for Overseas Pharmacists:

• 70 questions
• 2 hours
• Pass/Fail only (no scores provided)
• Available in-person or online (OnVUE proctored)

Stage 3: Skills Assessment Outcome ($300) Final documentation.

Total: $3,160 AUD

2026 CAOP Exam Dates

Window	Registration Period	Exam Window
April 2026	Jan 13 - Mar 17	April 2026
August 2026	May 12 - Jul 20	August 2026
November 2026	Sep 10 - Oct 19	November 2026

Key Differences

Aspect	Knowledge Stream	Competency Stream
Exam	OPRA (120 Qs, 2.5 hrs)	CAOP (70 Qs, 2 hrs)
Fee	$2,190	$2,050
Focus	Pharmaceutical sciences + therapeutics	Competency-based
Results	Score provided	Pass/Fail only
Online option	No	Yes (OnVUE)

What About New Zealand?

New Zealand pharmacists fall into a special category. Check directly with the APC, as the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition arrangement may affect your pathway.

After the Skills Assessment

Both pathways lead to the same destination: a positive Skills Assessment Outcome that allows you to apply for provisional registration with AHPRA.

After that, you'll need to complete:

• Intern training program (accredited program)
• Supervised practice (1824 hours minimum)
• Intern Written Exam

Then you can apply for general registration.

Which Pathway is "Easier"?

Neither is inherently easier – they're designed for different contexts. The Competency Stream assumes you've trained in a system similar to Australia's, so it focuses on verifying competency rather than testing foundational knowledge.

If you're on the Knowledge Stream, don't be discouraged by the longer exam. It's comprehensive, but thousands of international pharmacists pass it every year with proper preparation.

My Advice

1. Confirm your pathway early – contact APC if you're unsure
2. Start documentation early – getting transcripts and translations takes time
3. Budget properly – know the full costs before you start
4. Prepare specifically – use materials designed for your specific exam

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Not sure which pathway applies to you? Our team can help clarify your registration journey.