Streamlining the application process for overseas-qualified applicants

06 May 2016

From 1 June 2016 the Board will streamline the application process for overseas-qualified applicants, by overseeing the assessment of their knowledge and skills as part of their application for registration in Australia.

What we used to do

Since the start of the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (the National Scheme), assessment of overseas qualifications has been a two-step process for psychology.

To date, before applying for registration in Australia, the Board has asked overseas-qualified applicants¹ to have their qualifications assessed by the Australian Psychological Society (APS) - the national assessing authority for the purpose of migration.

The Board then considered the APS qualification assessment outcome, along with other relevant evidence, to determine whether the qualifications and training are substantially equivalent to those required for registration in Australia.

This two-step process has helped to maintain standards of qualifications assessment during the first five years of national registration.

What we will be doing from 1 June 2016

Over the past few years, the Board has been working towards streamlining the application process for overseas-qualified applicants in line with its functions under the National Law.

Since 2013 overseas-qualified applicants have been required to pass the National Psychology Exam, and complete at least three months of supervised practice in the transitional program.

On 1 June 2016 the final step towards a streamlined application process will come into effect. The assessment of the knowledge and skills of overseas-qualified applicants will be carried out as part of an application for registration, administered by AHPRA with oversight by the Board.

Further information is published under overseas applicants.

¹Function under section 35(1)(e) of the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law, as in force in each state and territory (the National Law) to oversee the assessment of the knowledge and skills of overseas-qualified applicants.