The Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) has announced a major change to its Intern Written Exam delivery method, with online proctored exams via OnVUE set to be discontinued in 2025, except under “exceptional circumstances”.
APC CEO Bronwyn Clark explained that remote proctored exams where introduced during COVID-19 as a “necessary pandemic adaptation” to ensure the uninterrupted continuation of the pharmacy workforce pipeline.
However, as test centres are now once again in operation, APC is moving back to in-person exams as the primary Intern Written Exam delivery method.
“Since the pandemic, there has been a significant shift back towards test centres as the preferred sitting option,” Ms Clark said.
“Test centres have now resumed full operations, and in line with other organisations delivering high stakes exams, we can only offer OnVUE in exceptional circumstances.”
Ms Clark added that this change reflects APC’s commitment to maintaining exam integrity and security.
The APC points out that test centres provide a more stable technical environment, reducing the risk of connection issues that could disrupt the exam process.
They add that in-person exams ensure all candidates are assessed under consistent, controlled conditions, which is crucial for fairness and reliability.
“We commit to providing support to our candidates where this does not compromise the exam process and can be reasonably accommodated by APC,” Ms Clark said.
“This change is designed with the best interests of our candidates in mind, ensuring that the exam process remains robust, secure, and fair for everyone involved.”
The APC has committed to assisting candidates throughout this transition period, ensuring candidates are fully supported as the organisation implements this policy shift.
