Are you an internationally trained pharmacist? Are you looking to build your career in Canada? The Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) exam is the exam for you. The exam isn’t difficult as people say but, it becomes manageable with the right information and preparation strategy. Many students can even crack the exam on the first attempt.
This guide simplifies the PEBC exam process for international pharmacy graduates. From eligibility criteria to exam fees, preparation resources, and application steps, this guide will help you know everything.
What is the PEBC Exam?
The PEBC exam is a national certification process required for international pharmacy graduates who want to practise as licensed pharmacists in Canada. It tests your pharmaceutical and communication skills, and your ability to meet Canadian healthcare standards. Let us learn more about the PEBC exam in the next sections.
PEBC Exam Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the PEBC exam as an international pharmacy graduate, you must:
- Hold a recognized pharmacy degree from an accredited institution outside Canada.
- Have proficiency in English (though PEBC does not directly test language, it is critical for success).
Once your credentials are approved, you can move on to the PEBC evaluation exam.
Please note that no evaluating exam is needed for ACPE/CCAPP Accredited Colleges.
PEBC Exam Syllabus and Format
Earlier, the PEBC exam used to consist of two main steps: the Evaluating Exam and the Qualifying exam. But now, the exam only consists of the Qualifying exam, which includes-
- Part I: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Part II: Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)
PEBC Exam Application Process
Let us now move on to an important step of the PEBC– the application process. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the PEBC exam application process:
- Credential Evaluation- Submit your documents and wait for PEBC to verify your academic credentials.
- Apply for the Qualifying Exam- Once eligible, you can register for the Qualifying Exam (Parts I and II).
Pro Tip: Begin your credential evaluation as early as possible, as it can take 4–6 months.
PEBC Exam Fees Structure
Moving on to the costs involved, here’s an approximate breakdown of the PEBC exam fee structure (in CAD):
| Stage | Fee (Approx.) |
| Document Evaluation | $715 |
| Qualifying Exam Part I (MCQ) | $855 |
| Qualifying Exam Part II (OSCE) | $1,915 |
Best PEBC Exam Preparation Books
Your preparation is only as good as the resources you choose. Here are some top-rated PEBC exam preparation books:
- Comprehensive Pharmacy Review by Leon Shargel & Alan H. Mutnick
- CPJE and PEBC Pharmacy Law Exam Prep by Dr. Min Exam Prep Team
- RxPrep Course Book
- Canadian Pharmacy Practice Manual
- Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach by DiPiro
Bonus Tip: Complement your book study with online mock tests and case-based scenario questions.
PEBC Exam Timeline
From document submission to exam completion, the PEBC exam timeline can range from 12 to 18 months, depending on:
- Time taken for document verification
- Your readiness for the evaluating and qualifying exams
- Availability of exam slots
Here’s a sample timeline:
- Months 1–6: Credential Evaluation
- Months 7–9: Prepare and take the Qualifying Exam
- Months 10–12: Attempt Part I & II
Here’s the PEBC exam passing score for the Qualifying Exam (Part I and II). You need to score above the standardized cut-off, which can vary but usually hovers around 60–65,% depending on the year and the exam curve.
Note: Failing one part of the qualifying exam means you’ll need to retake only that part.
Passing the PEBC exam is a crucial step toward becoming a licensed pharmacist in Canada. While the process may seem daunting, breaking it down into clear steps—understanding eligibility, choosing the right preparation books, following a proper timeline, and knowing the fees—can make your journey smooth and achievable.
With dedication, strategic preparation, and the right resources, you can clear the PEBC exam and begin your fulfilling career in Canadian pharmacy.