The Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) has made changes to its certification, making it more accessible. Eligible candidates will no longer have to appear for the Evaluating exam and move to the Qualifying exam directly.
The PEBC exam tests your skills and determines if you are qualified to be registered as a pharmacist in Canada.
Suppose you are looking for the Best PEBC Exam Preparation strategies or plotting your way for PEBC Evaluating and Qualifying Exams 2025 and later. In that case, this guide is the one you need to know about the new process in this journey.
Why the PEBC Pathway Has Changed
Canada has a growing demand for pharmacists. To resolve this situation, the PEBC has simplified its process, which will be in effect from May 13, 2025.
Eligible international pharmacy graduates do not have to pass the PEBC Evaluating Exam and can go straight to the Qualifying Exam.
Who is Eligible for the New PEBC Pathway?
No one can access the new fast-track program without taking the PEBC Evaluating Exam as well. However, some eligible candidates can directly go to the Qualifying exam if they meet these conditions:
- Students who have graduated from pharmacy programs accredited by ACPE (USA) or CCAPP (Canada)
- Pharmacy graduates of Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, the UK, or South Africa
- Those who have complied with the above requirements and have had direct patient-care practice within the last 3 years for at least 1 year in the countries mentioned in the previous point
However, all candidates must complete the mandatory PEBC Document Evaluation. Eligibility confirmation will be done after your document review.
Step-by-Step Overview of the New PEBC Pathway
- Document Evaluation: Submit your educational credentials to the PEBC for assessment. This step is mandatory for all international graduates.
- PEBC Qualifying Examination – Part I (MCQ) Eligible candidates can directly apply for the MCQ (Multiple Choice Question) exam.
- PEBC Qualifying Examination – Part II (OSCE) Upon passing the MCQ, you become eligible for the OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination).
- Provincial Registration and Practical Training Once both parts are cleared, follow the provincial registration process and complete any required practical training.
Detailed Explanation of Qualifying Exam
Part I:
Pharmacy Exam (MCQ format)
- Format: Computer-based multiple-choice exam assessing pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacy practice, and application of knowledge to real scenarios.
- Length: One day, 4.5 hours duration
- Eligibility: Direct entry for eligible candidates after Document Evaluation.
- Retakes: Three attempts allowed; a fourth with remediation.
Part II:
Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)
- Format: In-person practical exam simulating pharmacy scenarios—tests clinical, communication, and decision-making skills.
- Eligibility: Must pass Part I (MCQ) before registering.
- Timeline: Clear both MCQ and OSCE within three years.
- Degree Certificate: Certificate from an accredited or approved university.
- Transcripts and Proof of Practice: Significant for those qualifying under work experience routes.
- English Language Proficiency: Proof as per PEBC/Provincial requirements.
- PEBC Eligibility Survey: Complete this online to check if you are eligible for exemption from the PEBC Evaluating Exam.
- Document Evaluation Results: Essential before you can register for exams.
Timeline and Fees
The PEBC exam is held multiple times a year. See the timeline:
- Document Evaluation: Start early, as the assessment can take weeks.
- Qualifying Exam Part I (MCQ): The exam is held in May, and applications open in January. For October and November exams, applications start in May.
- Qualifying Exam Part II (OSCE): Offered multiple times yearly after MCQ. The dates follow the same pattern as the Qualifying MCQ exam.
- Fees: Every exam will have a different fee structure. Check the PEBC website for updated application and exam fees.
- Retake Windows: Retake opportunities are available, but plan timing carefully as there are limits on attempts.
How Elite Expertise Supports Your PEBC Preparation Journey
Clearing the PEBC exam does not have to be a challenge; you can crack the examination with ease with the proper guidance.
- Targeted Study Materials: Exam pattern following the latest PEBC requirements and e-learning materials available all the time
- Mock Exams and MCQ Banks: Practice under conditions that are as similar as possible to the real exam environment.
- Expert-led Live Online Classes: Learn from real working clinical pharmacists, which includes 300 hours of training.
- Personalized Guidance: Regular feedback, progress monitoring, and personalized study plans.
- Skill Assessment Support: Learn your strong points and weaknesses through personalised skill assessments, which will help you prepare for the exam.
With Elite Expertise engaging teaching and proven results, you maximize your chances of success on your first attempt.
What Happens After Passing the PEBC Exams?
Once you complete both the MCQ and OSCE, you’ll receive your PEBC Certificate of Qualification. This unlocks the pathway to:
- Provincial Registration: Each province has its own requirements for registration. You may need to complete a bridging/internship program.
- Job Applications: Canadian employers recognize PEBC-qualified pharmacists for many pharmacy roles.
- Career Growth: Competitive salaries, flexible schedules, and opportunities for permanent residency.
Conclusion
The new PEBC Pathway for International Pharmacy Graduate certification in Canada makes becoming a licensed pharmacist in Canada more accessible than ever before.
Begin by assessing your eligibility, collecting necessary documents, and selecting the Most Suitable PEBC Exam Preparation program for your needs. Let Elite Expertise guide you every step of the way, from PEBC Exam Preparation to achieving your dream career in Canada.
Ready to begin? Explore the Elite Expertise PEBC course and turn your pharmacy ambitions into reality.
