The three Council pathways
Country lists and conditions change, so check your eligibility on the Council's website before you apply.
| Pathway | Who it's for | Stages | Total fee (from 21 Oct 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australian Physiotherapy Entry Pathway (APEP) | Most overseas-qualified physiotherapists | Eligibility, Cultural Safety Training, Written Assessment, Capability Assessment, Clinical Workshop | A$8,321 |
| FLYR Pathway | Physiotherapists from listed countries (the Netherlands, Singapore, Sweden and some US states) | Eligibility, Cultural Safety Training, Written Assessment | A$3,490 |
| Express FLYR Pathway | Physiotherapists from listed countries (e.g. Canada, the UK, Ireland, Hong Kong, South Africa) | Eligibility, Cultural Safety Training | A$1,742 |
APEP step by step
- Eligibility Assessment (A$1,170): the Council checks your qualification, identity and registration history.
- Cultural Safety Training (A$242): an online course on culturally safe care, including for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
- Written Assessment (A$2,078 per attempt): 120 case-based multiple-choice questions in two 2-hour papers.
- Capability Assessment (A$2,928): a 1.5-hour online, remote oral exam of your clinical competencies.
- Clinical Workshop (A$1,903): a one-day, face-to-face workshop in Melbourne.
- Receive your final certificate from the Council and apply to the Physiotherapy Board of Australia for general registration through Ahpra.
Working while you progress
General registration with Ahpra needs the Council's Final Certificate. Limited registration lets you work under supervision while you progress through the pathway; contact Ahpra about when you can apply. The Council's interim certificate is valid for two years, and the Council can issue another if you email 4 weeks before it expires.
See where you stand in 10 minutes
Take the free APC Written Assessment practice test. 15 questions, every answer explained.
How long it takes
The Council says APEP takes about 9 months for candidates who progress as quickly as possible. Written Assessment results arrive within 6 weeks, and after a fail you can reapply 14 days after results are released. The Written Assessment is scheduled six times in 2027, so a fail usually costs about two months plus the fee.
How to prepare for the Written Assessment
- Read the Council's Written Assessment Information Booklet and the competencies list.
- Learn Australian guidelines and standards, not just textbook content from your home country.
- Practise case-based questions: 4 questions per case, about 2 minutes each.
- Take at least two full timed mocks of two 2-hour papers before exam day.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to pass an English test?
Yes, the Physiotherapy Board of Australia has an English language skills registration standard. Check the current accepted tests and scores on the Board's website.
How much does the full APEP cost?
A$8,321 for one attempt at each stage from 21 October 2026, before resits, visa, travel and registration fees.
Is there a limit on Written Assessment attempts?
No. You can resit as many times as you need, paying the fee each time.
Can I work while I complete the pathway?
Limited registration lets you work under supervision while you progress through the Council's pathway, subject to Ahpra's approval and your visa. Contact Ahpra for the current requirements.
Official sources
- Australian Physiotherapy Council: Fees and processing times
- Australian Physiotherapy Council: Assessment fees to increase 21 October 2026
- Physiotherapy Board of Australia
Practice tests for these certifications
This guide is general information, checked November 2026, not legal advice. the Australian Physiotherapy Council rules change; confirm with the Australian Physiotherapy Council before you apply.
