We live in a very competitive world, though professionals have the advantage of being employed, the competition remains present in whatever field they are engaged with. So, professionals should continue to strive to keep upgrading their skills and remain competitive all the time. Many join the overseas worker bandwagon but they have to seek approval for their readiness to practice in a certain overseas location.
Here in Australia, the Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) written exam is given to overseas-trained pharmacists to assess candidates’ knowledge and competence before they are hired. It is a written examination and when you successfully pass it, you may proceed to internship or further practical training required for registration. So, how do you prepare for the APC exam?
Understand the Exam Structure
The first step is to know exactly what is this exam all about. It is to test your understanding of core principles and practical knowledge in your field. The exam format generally includes multiple-choice questions that cover pharmaceutical calculations and clinical pharmacy for the first part and pharmacy law and ethics for the second part. The exam is in a computer-based online format. Take time to check the syllabus and guidelines provided by the council.
Develop a Study Plan
Time management and self-discipline are the two most important factors in creating and implementing your study plan. This is necessary for you to be able to cover all topics without cramming at the last minute. Set specific achievable topics to cover each day or week. However, you have to prioritize those topics that you consider most challenging or those that carry the most weight in the exam. Practice daily to improve retention, and aim to study a little each day. Take mock exams periodically not only to test how far you’ve gone but also to build familiarity with the exam format.
Use the Right Study Resources
APC recommends studying Australian pharmacy standards, clinical guidelines, legal and ethical practices, and of course, familiarizing oneself with the Australian healthcare system. These information may be resourced through the Australian Medicines Handbook (AMH), Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG), and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) guidelines. So, make sure you’re using the right and trusted resources. You may also enroll in an online APC written exam preparation course, strengthen your review through study groups or online forums if available, and make use of graphic organizers to aid you in memorization.
Master Time Management During the Exam
Following direction is very important, so before you answer, read thoroughly the instructions and the questions. You are allowed a certain amount of time to complete each section, with breaks in between, so you really have to manage your time. If the question seems difficult, don’t get stuck, you can always return to it later before time expires. Finally, review your answers before submitting them.
Stay Calm and ConfidentIf you have prepared well, you can stay calm during the exam. Aside from reviewing, you should get a good night’s sleep before the day of the exam to keep you alert. Eat a healthy meal before taking the test. Arrive early even if it is online, for this reduces anxiety and gives you an allowance to prepare and manage unexpected issues. Stay positive and confident, you can do it! You’re one professional who can help Australians take care of their health.
