Overseas-trained physiotherapists aiming for Australian Physiotherapy Council (APC) and AHPRA registration face several steps and fees along the way. Among them, the Written Assessment is a key component. We’ll break down the 2025 APC written exam fee structure, how to pay, what happens if you withdraw, and tips to save money and time.
The Australian Physiotherapy Council (APC) requires candidates to pay fees at each stage of the assessment process. The Written Assessment fee for 2025 is:
- AUD 1,958 per attempt ( ₹1,09,433.81)
If you need to resit the written exam, the APC written exam fee remains the same.
In addition to the written exam fee, here’s a quick look at the full fee structure in the Standard Assessment Pathway:
| Application Type | Fee Amount |
| Eligibility Assessment | AUD 1,136 |
| Cultural Safety Training | AUD 228 |
| Written Assessment | AUD 1,958 |
| Clinical Assessment | AUD 4,263 |
| Total (if all stages) | AUD 7,585 ( ₹4,23,930.28) |
For those applying through the FLYR Pathway (Canada, the UK, Ireland, and Hong Kong), which is for fast-track candidates:
| Application Type | Fee Amount |
| Eligibility Assessment | AUD 1,136 |
| Cultural Safety Training | AUD 228 |
| Written Assessment | AUD 1,958 |
| Total | AUD 3,322 ( ₹1,85,668.61) |
Please note: All fees must be paid in full at the time of application.
How to Pay
When paying the APC exam fees, the Council requires payment at the time you apply for your assessment. The accepted payment method is:
- Payment is required upfront when applying for any assessment
- Online payments via Visa or MasterCard are accepted.
- Your card must support international transactions, especially if you apply from abroad.
Understanding the APC Written Exam Refund Policy
Understanding the APC written exam refund policy is essential in case you need to cancel or defer your exam. The APC outlines refund eligibility in its official policy:
As of 5 August 2024, the APC’s policy states: no refunds are provided once payment is made. This includes:
- Withdrawals after payment: Full fee is non‑refundable.
- Rescheduling: Refused; treated as a cancellation and non‑refundable.
- No-shows: Forfeit fees.
Exceptions exist for “exceptional circumstances,” such as illness, injury, or death in the family, provided valid documentation is submitted. If accepted, refunds are processed minus an administrative fee of AUD 56
Note: Full refunds (minus an admin fee if applicable) are generally considered if you cancel your application before processing begins.
Exam Logistics & Scores Timeline
The APC operates a well-defined schedule:
- Written Assessment is offered four times annually (Mar/Jun/Sep/Dec) and can be taken remotely or at Melbourne/Sydney venues
- Results are released within six weeks after the exam
- If you couldn’t clear the exam, you must wait 14 days before rebooking
- Under the FLYR pathway, there’s a maximum of three attempts. Failing a third time moves you back to the Standard Pathway
Preparation Insights
Candidates often share that:
- The APC practice exam imitates the question structure well but differs in content
- Areas like decision-making/prioritisation and pharmacology may catch applicants off guard
- Preparation should include broad coverage of topics and thinking in clinical reasoning scenarios, not just memorising facts
Strategic Tips
- Plan a realistic application timeline: To qualify for refunds in emergencies, try for at least 4 weeks before the exam window ends.
- Avoid last-minute changes: Refunds are unavailable post-payment, except in valid emergencies; expect a $56 admin charge.
- Prepare for syllabus: Include pharmacology, ethics, clinical reasoning, and prioritisation scenarios in your study plan.
- Use practice tests: They’re most helpful for understanding question structure, even if topics differ
- Track results timing: Give yourself time post-results (6 weeks) before booking clinical assessments or resits.
- Monitor pathways: Know if you’re in FLYR or Standard, as the associated thresholds differ.
Final Takeaway
- Written exam fee: AUD 1,958 per attempt (same for resits)
- No refunds post-payment (admin fee applies in documented cases)
- Offers 4 exams/year, results in 6 weeks
- Practice versions help with format, but not always with content
- FLYR pathway exams have only 3 attempts
Prepare smart, study in depth and deeply, and keep close track of deadlines and documentation, especially for emergency withdrawal scenarios. Good luck on your journey to professional registration in Australia!
