What is contained within the CAOP?

The CAOP comprises one paper of 70 multiple choice questions (MCQ) which include calculations, to be taken over two hours. It is based on the current competencies for Australian pharmacy practice. This examination is available four times per year in London, Auckland and all capital cities in Australia.

What kind of pharmacy qualification do I need to be eligible for the assessment process?

Candidates will need to have a qualification from a recognised tertiary institution that is considered by Australian Education International and the APC to be comparable to a four-year pharmacy degree at an Australian university. If your qualification was obtained prior to 1 January 2006, then you must have completed at least a three-year program to be eligible. Overseas trained pharmacists must also be registered or be eligible for registration as a pharmacist in the country in which the qualification was obtained

How much does the APEC exam cost to enter?

Have a look at our costing page. We estimate that if you are Stream B the overall cost is near $6000 whereas just Stream A costs around $4000.

How long must I prepare for APEC and CAOP exams?

In our opinion, at least 3 months (5 hours/day). Remember, it is more about quality than quantity, do not plan to do 5 hours a day and then spend your time drawing pretty notes and diagrams. Figure out what you do not know, that you need to know, and then learn accordingly.

What is the passing rate for the APC and CAOP exam?

The national average for APEC pass rate is about 90% whereas CAOP passing rate for foreign graduates is about 70%.

In one sentence, what constitutes the majority of the APEC Exam?

It is mainly pharmacology, with some pharmaceutical calculations in the context of Australian pharmacy law.

Are there specific topics I should pay more attention to in the APC syllabus?

Yes, pay more attention to drugs in the following categories: 

• Cardiology
  
• Nervous System
  
• Diabetes
  
• Depression
  
• Asthma
  
• Diuretics
  

Do I need to know about OTCs for the APEC Exam?

Very selective, only very common ailments that are found in pharmacy these include coughs and cold, gastro, ocular and skin.

I have been preparing for a while now but how can I find out how well I am prepared for the test?

Do practice questions from this site we have a specialized exam setup called a marathon, it basically tests whether you are ready to do the exam, it only gives you one try so you have to prepare as if it is the real exam.

Any special instructions for the day of the APC exam?

Yes, take it easy, if you have done your homework right, you will ace the exam. Relax, take the test with a full stomach, cheerful face and confident mind. Take one of your friends or family members to accompany you to the test center, it helps. Good luck!

Can you call me, if I give you my phone number?

It is company policy not to give out our phone number although we respond to emails very quickly.

You said a tutor will help me for a year, but how? How are classes conducted? Are there any life lessons or what? I work, how will I attend those live sessions, so I need to understand your process.

Tutor support allows our students to access a trained pharmacy professional if they have any queries. There are no live sessions or tutor groups this is all up to you. However, we do have a student forum where you can communicate with other subscribers.

Is there a suggested starting point on your site, to start preparing for the exam?

Yes, the course is set out chronologically with learning resources at the top going down to the exams at the bottom. It is best to read through all the materials on the site (mainly in the Gold course) and then do the exams at the end. When your sample APEC exams have been automatically marked you can review what you got wrong or right and go over the corresponding resources again.

What is the APEC Exam?

The APEC Exam is the qualifying examination in Australia which allows the candidate with a pharmacy degree to practice as a pharmacist. It is created and moderated by the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) and allows the person to join the Pharmacy Guild of Australia.