Frequently asked questions
On this page:
How will I know if my application has been received?
As soon as AHPRA receives your application AND all your supporting documentation we can assign your application to one of our registration teams for processing. Make sure you have provided a valid email address with your application, so AHPRA can send you an email confirming that we have received your application and, if you are applying online, your Next Steps Checklist of the supporting documentation that you need to provide to complete your application.
What will AHPRA do when they receive my application?
After receiving your application and all required supporting documentation, AHPRA will:
- begin the assessment and registration process to smooth the path between graduation and registration as a health practitioner
- conduct an Australian criminal history screen through an external organisation*
- verify your identity and
- complete all the steps towards registration, pending confirmation of your successful graduation.
*Note: Your application will be significantly delayed if you do not declare your criminal history in your application and a criminal history is found during the screening process.
After you graduate:
- AHPRA will obtain a certified list from your education provider confirming the names of students who have successfully graduated
- If your education provider confirms you have successfully graduated, AHPRA will finalise your registration, send you an email confirming that you are registered, publish your name on the register of practitioners and, in due course, mail you a hard copy Certificate of Registration
- You are registered and entitled to practise when your name is published on the Register of Practitioners
Can I contact AHPRA to confirm that my name is on the graduate list?
No. Only your education provider can confirm your academic results. AHPRA is not able to release results provided in confidence.
How long will it take to process my application?
Processing applications for registration takes time, because of requirements for criminal record screening and other checks. The exact time it takes varies depending on the following factors:
- Have you provided all the information and supporting documentation that AHPRA needs? Your application will take longer to process if it is not complete and correct
- Have you made any disclosures (e.g. criminal history)? Your application may take longer because your profession’s National Board needs time to consider your circumstances
- Have you applied for provisional registration in which you must be supervised? Your application may take longer as your profession’s National Board will need to approve your supervision arrangements
- Have you applied during a peak registration period? From time to time, AHPRA receives a large volume of registration requests (e.g. graduated students who are starting work, practitioners renewing their registration). During these times AHPRA may take more time to process your application.
- The earlier you apply the smoother the path to registration will be. Apply early using the online form if you are eligible.