The process for becoming a licensed pharmacist in Canada involves several steps, overseen by the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC). This process is structured to ensure that candidates possess the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities to practice pharmacy safely and effectively at an entry-level position in Canada. Here is a detailed outline and explanation of the process:
1. Document Evaluation
Purpose: The PEBC evaluates documents to verify that a candidate's pharmacy degree meets the necessary standards.
Requirement: Candidates must have a minimum of a four-year undergraduate degree in pharmacy.
Process for International Graduates: Eligible to apply for the Evaluating Examination post successful Document Evaluation.
Process for U.S. Graduates: Eligible to apply for the Qualifying Examination once they have successfully completed U.S. Document Evaluation.
Validity: Document Evaluation results are valid for five years.
2. Evaluating Examination (For International Graduates)
Duration and Format: A single-day, 4.25-hour exam administered via computer.
Content: Covers biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacy practice, and behavioural, social, and administrative pharmacy sciences.
Attempts: Candidates are allowed up to three attempts, with a possible petition for a fourth attempt following documented remediation.
Preparation: PEBC provides resources, including a blueprint, syllabus, sample questions, and recommended references.
3. Qualifying Examination
Objective: To assess the competence of candidates to practice as entry-level pharmacists.
Parts: Consists of Part I (MCQ) and Part II (OSCE).
Part I (MCQ): Computer-based multiple-choice questions focused on application and problem-solving within pharmacy practice.
Part II (OSCE): A practical, in-person examination using interactive stations to simulate pharmacy practice scenarios.
Requirement: Both parts must be passed within three years of passing one part.
Additional Information:
PEBC Certificate of Qualification: Upon passing both parts of the Qualifying Examination, candidates receive this certificate, a requirement for licensure in most Canadian jurisdictions.
Attempts Limitation: A maximum of three attempts per part of the Qualifying Examination, with a potential for a petition for a fourth attempt after remediation.
U.S. Graduates: Need to undergo U.S. Document Evaluation to qualify for the Qualifying Examination, bypassing the Evaluating Examination.
Licensing in Quebec: The Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec (OPQ) has a separate licensure process and does not require enrolment in Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada. The PEBC Certificate can be part of the OPQ's evaluation but is not mandatory.
Important Considerations:
Fees and Schedules: The PEBC website lists all relevant fees, examination dates, and application deadlines.
Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada Profile: PEBC will update candidates' profiles with documentation and examination results, accessible to pharmacy regulatory authorities for licensing purposes.