Understanding APC Fees 2026: The Real Cost of Registration

Let's talk money. The Australian registration process isn't cheap, and there are more costs than most people initially realise. Here's the honest breakdown.

APC Assessment Fees (as of January 2026)

Component	Fee (AUD)
Eligibility Assessment	$1,136
Cultural Safety Training	$228
Written Assessment	$1,958
Clinical Assessment	$4,263
Total APC Fees	$7,585

Important: These fees were scheduled to increase from 5 January 2026. Check the APC website for current pricing.

What These Fees Cover

Eligibility Assessment ($1,136) This covers the review of your qualifications, transcripts, registration status in your home country, and all documentation. It's non-refundable whether you're deemed eligible or not.

Cultural Safety Training ($228) This covers the online training modules about providing culturally appropriate care in Australia. Must be completed before the Clinical Assessment.

Written Assessment ($1,958) This covers the MCQ examination, venue costs, and administration. If you fail and need to re-sit, you pay again.

Clinical Assessment ($4,263) This covers use of the Melbourne simulation lab, simulated patients (professional actors), assessor time, and all administration. This is the biggest single cost.

Hidden Costs Most People Forget

English Language Testing

If you need to prove English proficiency (most people do), you'll need:

Test	Approximate Cost
IELTS Academic	$410-420
OET	$587
PTE Academic	$410
TOEFL iBT	$395

And if you don't pass the first time? You pay again.

Document Translation and Certification

If your qualifications are in a language other than English, you'll need NAATI-certified translations. Costs vary, but budget:

• Academic transcripts: $100-300 per document
• Degree certificates: $50-150 per document
• Registration certificates: $50-100 per document

Travel to Melbourne

The Clinical Assessment is ONLY held in Melbourne. If you're not based there:

• Interstate flights: $200-500 return
• International flights: varies widely
• Accommodation: $150-250 per night (recommended 2 nights)
• Travel to the venue: $20-50

For a candidate flying from Sydney, budget around $500-700 for the Melbourne trip. From overseas, it could be significantly more.

Study Materials and Courses

While you can self-study, most candidates use:

• Prep courses: $500-2,000+
• Textbooks: $100-300
• Practice exams: $50-200

Living Expenses During Preparation

If you're studying full-time (or reduced work hours), factor in lost income and living expenses during your preparation period.

Re-sit Costs

What if you fail?

Component	Re-sit Fee
Written Assessment	$1,958 (full fee)
Clinical Assessment	$4,263 (full fee)

There's no discount for re-sits. And there are limits on how many times you can attempt the exams.

A Realistic Total Budget

For a straightforward journey (passing everything first time):

Category	Cost Range
APC fees	$7,585
English testing	$400-600
Document translation	$200-500
Travel to Melbourne	$500-1,000
Study materials	$500-1,500
Realistic Total	$9,000-11,000+

And if you need to re-sit exams? Add $2,000-4,000.

How to Manage the Costs

Spread the Payments

You don't pay everything upfront. Fees are due at each stage:

1. Eligibility Assessment fee when you apply
2. Written Assessment fee when you book
3. Clinical Assessment fee when you book

This gives you time to save between stages.

Consider Limited Registration

After passing Eligibility and Cultural Safety Training, you can apply for Limited Registration through AHPRA. This lets you work under supervision in Australia while you complete the rest of the assessments. It's a way to earn money while preparing.

Don't Skimp on Preparation

It sounds counterintuitive, but spending money on good preparation materials can save money overall. Passing first time is much cheaper than multiple re-sits.

Budget for Contingencies

Assume at least one thing will cost more than expected. Build a 20% buffer into your budget.

Is It Worth It?

Australian physiotherapist salaries range from $75,000 to $120,000+ depending on experience and setting. The registration costs, while substantial, are an investment in a well-paying career.

But go in with realistic expectations about what you'll spend. The $7,585 on the APC website is not the whole picture.

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Have questions about managing the registration process? We can help you plan a realistic pathway and timeline.