Under the current candidate guide, references may be used in Part C when instructed by an examiner. Parts A and B are closed-reference. Search engines and AI-based search functions are prohibited.
Which parts allow references?
| Exam part | References |
|---|---|
| Part A · Primary Healthcare | Not permitted |
| Part B · Legal and Ethical Practice | Not permitted |
| Part C · Problem Solving & Communication | Permitted when instructed by an examiner |
What kinds of references can you bring?
The April 2025 candidate guide states that candidates may bring reference material of their choice, including hard-copy, electronic and online references. Permitted devices include laptops, tablets and mobile phones when used in accordance with the examination rules.
Examples of clinical references cited elsewhere in the current candidate guide include the Australian Medicines Handbook (AMH), MIMS, AusDI and the Australian Pharmaceutical Formulary (APF). Candidates should choose references they already know how to navigate efficiently.
Can you use Google or AI?
No. Current examination rules specifically prohibit internet search engines such as Google and AI-based search functions. Notifications and alerts should be disabled, and apps or desktop windows other than references for the exam should be closed.
That means an online medicines reference is not the same thing as open web searching. Use only resources permitted under the current rules and follow examiner instructions.
Do you get extra time to look things up?
No extra examination time is awarded for accessing references. Part C is still 20 minutes, so speed of navigation matters. A reference you have never used before is unlikely to help much under pressure.
How should you prepare your references?
- Choose a small number of references you already use in supervised practice.
- Know where to find dosing, contraindication, interaction and pregnancy information quickly.
- If using electronic references, test logins and access before exam day.
- Disable notifications and comply with current device rules.
- Practise scenarios with the same references so lookup time becomes predictable.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the AMH in the pharmacy oral exam?
References may be used in Part C when instructed by an examiner. The candidate guide cites the AMH as a relevant clinical reference, but candidates should always check current examination rules.
Can I use Google in the pharmacy oral exam?
No. Current rules prohibit internet search engines such as Google.
Can I use AI in the pharmacy oral exam?
No. Current rules prohibit AI-based search functions.
Can I use references in Part A or Part B?
No. The current guide states that references are not permitted in Parts A or B.
Practise Part C with a complete worked scenario.
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