How Can Overseas Pharmacists Register in Canada through the PEBC Exam

What is the PEBC

The PEBC (Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada) certifies pharmacists in Canada, similar to the APC in Australia.

The PEBC checks if applicants meet the qualifications and can pass the exams required for certification. This certification is required for pharmacists to start working and to get licensed in different Canadian provinces.

The PEBC's goal is to ensure that pharmacists have the right knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective healthcare to Canadians.

Exam Eligibility

Students must sign up on the Pharmacists' Gateway Canada and create an account before applying to PEBC for document evaluation.

Graduates must have their qualifications evaluated to qualify for the qualifying exam.

A 4-year undergraduate degree in Pharmacy is required.

PEBC Syllabus

The PEBC syllabus includes key areas for safe and effective pharmacy practice. Each area has a specific weight in the exam:

Biomedical Sciences (15%)

Pharmaceutical Sciences (25%)

Pharmacy Practice (50%)

Behavioral, Social, and Administrative Pharmacy Services (10%)

PEBC Exam Pattern

The PEBC exam has two parts:

PEBC Evaluating Exam

PEBC Qualifying Exam: This is divided into two sections:

Part I: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Part II: Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)

PEBC Exam Prerequisites

You must pass the PEBC Evaluating Exam (PEBC-I) before applying for the PEBC Qualifying Exam (PEBC-II).

If you pass Part I but fail Part II, you must retake Part II within three years of passing Part I.

PEBC Exam Registration Steps

Register with Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada:

Sign up to get a national ID number.

Apply to PEBC:

Use your national ID to apply for document evaluation with PEBC.

Take the PEBC Evaluating Exam (PEBC-I):

After passing and receiving the PEBC Certificate of Qualification, you get a PEBC ID number.

Use this ID to create a profile on the PEBC portal.

If you pass the Evaluating Exam, apply for the Qualifying Exam through the portal before the application deadline.

Apply for the PEBC Qualifying Exam (PEBC-II):

After passing the evaluation exam, apply for the Qualifying Exam.

If you pass Part I (MCQs) but fail Part II (OSCE), you can retake Part II within three years.

Passing both exams makes you eligible for licensure.

Apply to PRA (Pharmacy Regulatory Authority):

Submit your application through Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada.

Apply directly to the PRA in the province where you want to be licensed.

Take the Jurisprudence Exam:

This is a province-specific exam on Canadian pharmacy law.

It is relatively easy and costs $125-130.

Complete Practical Training:

You need to complete a practical training period as an intern.

The required hours vary by province and ensure you gain hands-on experience.

License Registration:

The PRA will confirm you’ve met all licensing requirements.

Pay any applicable fees for the license.

Renew your license annually with a variable fee.

Dos and Don’ts for PEBC Exams

Before the Exam:

Do not overwork yourself. Focus on understanding key concepts rather than memorising everything.

Prioritise studying high-weightage areas.

On Exam Day:

Arrive 45 minutes early if possible.

Remember to bring your identification.

Preparation Tips

Study Plan:

Spend six months preparing: 5 months for studying and one month for revision and practice tests.

Break down study time into sections like Clinical Science, Pharmacy Practice, Pharmaceutical Science, and Behavioral Science.

FAQs

What is the PEBC?

The PEBC (Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada) certifies pharmacists in Canada and evaluates their qualifications for licensure.

How do I apply for PEBC certification?

You must first create an account on the Pharmacists' Gateway Canada, then apply for document evaluation with the PEBC.

What are the eligibility requirements for the PEBC?

Applicants need a 4-year undergraduate degree in Pharmacy and must have their qualifications evaluated before taking the qualifying exam.

What does the PEBC exam syllabus cover?

The syllabus includes Biomedical Sciences (15%), Pharmaceutical Sciences (25%), Pharmacy Practice (50%), and Behavioral, Social, and Administrative Pharmacy Services (10%).

What is the structure of the PEBC exam?

The exam consists of the PEBC Evaluating Exam and the PEBC Qualifying Exam, which has two sections (MCQs and OSCE).

What are the exam fees for PEBC?

Fees include $880 for the Evaluating Exam, $825 for the Qualifying Exam (Part I), and $1855 for the Qualifying Exam (Part II). Payments can be made online or offline.

What should I do if I need to cancel my exam?

To cancel, email pebcinfo@pebc.ca with your reason for cancellation or request cancellation through Prometric for computer-based exams.

What steps do I need to follow after passing the PEBC exams?

After passing both exams, apply to your province's Pharmacy Regulatory Authority (PRA), take the Jurisprudence Exam, complete practical training, and register for your license.

How should I prepare for the PEBC exams?

Create a 6-month study plan focusing on high-weightage areas, and consider joining the IPCD program for structured preparation and resources.

What are some recommended study materials for the PEBC exams?

Recommended resources include WizKid miniBooks and RxRumble MCQs Bank by misspharmassistbooks.

GET VALUABLE PHARMACY EXAM PREPARATION MINIBOOKS

visit our bookstore