How to become a pharmacist in Canada : A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you an aspiring pharmacist looking to practice in Canada? - a country renowned for its world-class healthcare system, diverse communities, and thriving job market.

To become a licensed pharmacist in Canada, you are required to successfully complete your education from an accredited university level entry-to-practice pharmacy (applies to both indigenes and non-indigenes), followed by national board exams, and a successful completion of the requirements of the provincial licensing body of the province in which you wish to practice.

However, the process for registering as a pharmacist in Canada can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re an internationally trained professional.

😇👌Don’t worry— i’ve got you covered! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to successfully register as a pharmacist in Canada 🇨🇦 and kickstart your rewarding career.

Why Become a Pharmacist in Canada? 🇨🇦

Before diving into the registration process, let’s explore why Canada is a top choice for pharmacists:

• High Demand: Canada faces a growing need for healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, due to its aging population and expanding healthcare services ( thats also, one of the reasons - Canadians are in demand of care-givers ).
  
  
• Lucrative Salaries: Pharmacists in Canada earn competitive salaries, with average annual earnings ranging from 90,000 to 120,000, depending on your experience and location.
  
  
• Work-Life Balance: Canada is known for its excellent work-life balance, making it an attractive place to build a career and a life i.e #Flexible hours. see article - Why i quiz my Pharmacy Job.
  
  
• Permanent Residency Pathways: Since Pharmacists are in-demand professionals, this makes it easier to qualify for a Canadian permanent residency through programs like Express Entry.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

In order to become a licensed pharmacist in Canada, you must meet the following general requirements:

1. Educational Credentials: You must have a degree in pharmacy from a recognized institution. If you were trained outside Canada, your credentials will need to be assessed.
   
   
2. Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate proficiency in English or French by taking an approved language test (e.g., IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF for French).
   
   
3. Licensing Exam: You must pass the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) Qualifying Exam.
   
   
4. Practical Training: Complete a structured practical training (SPT) or internship program.
   
   
5. Provincial Registration: Each province or territory in Canada has its own regulatory body, and you must register with the one where you intend to practice.

Step 2: Get Your Credentials Assessed ( Evaluated )

If you were trained outside Canada, your first step is to have your pharmacy degree assessed by the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC). Here’s how:

• Submit your academic credentials .i.e transcripts, degree certificates, and proof of licensure from your home country to PEBC.
  
  
• Pay the evaluation fee (~$600 CAD).
  
  
• Wait 4-6 months for your Document Evaluation Report. Once your documents are verified, you’ll be eligible to take the PEBC Qualifying Exam - use the Pharmacy Q app, to study.

⚠️ Pro Tips: Start this process early— as this is the longest step!  

Step 3: Pass the PEBC Qualifying Exam

The PEBC Qualifying Exam is a two-part test that evaluates your knowledge and skills:

Part 1 – Evaluating Exam: A 300-question multiple-choice (MCQ) test covering pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacy practice.

• Cost: $835 CAD
• Study Resources:- PEBC's official guides, RxPrep and Pharmacy Q app

Part 2 – Qualifying Exam: An objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) A practical test that assesses your clinical skills.

• Cost: $2,400 CAD
• Practice Tip: Join OSCE prep workshops or mock exams.

Pass Rates: Roughly 70-75% for first-time test-takers.  

Step 4: Complete Structured Practical Training (SPT)

After passing the PEBC Evaluating Exam, you’ll need to complete a period of supervised practical training.

Structured Practical Training (SPT): This is a hands-on experience is designed to help you adapt to the Canadian healthcare system and develop essential skills ( aka - An internship under a licensed pharmacist).

The duration of the SPT varies by province but typically ranges from 6 to 12 months.

Step 5: Apply for Provincial Licensure

Each province has its own regulatory body for pharmacists. Here are a snapshot: 👇🏻

 To register, you’ll need to:

1. 1. Submit your PEBC exam results and proof of SPT completion.
   2. Provide proof of language proficiency.
   3. Pay the registration fees.
   4. Pass a jurisprudence exam (if required by the province: see above image).

Congratulations... . it’s time to start your job search!

Pharmacists in Canada work in a variety of settings, including: 

- Community pharmacies 
- Hospitals
- Research institutions
- Pharmaceutical companies

Quick Answers to FAQs during registration process : 🤔

Ques ⁉️: How long does the entire process of registering as a licensed pharmacist in Canada take?
Ans ✅: 1-2 years, depending on exam prep and internship availability. 

Ques ❓: Can I work while studying for my Pharmacy exams?
Ans ✅: Yes! Many candidates and foreign pharmacists, take pharmacy assistant roles to gain local experience.

Ques❓: What if I fail the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC)?
Ans ✅: You can retake it—most provinces allow 3 attempts. 

Ques ❓: Are bridging programs available?
Ans ✅: Yes! Programs like University of Toronto’s Internationally Educated Pharmacists Program can boost your skills.

Tips for Success

1. Start Early: The registration process can take several months (12+ months in advance), so begin as soon as possible.
   
   
2. Budget Wisely: An estimated total costs (exams, training, licensure) can exceed $10,000 CAD.
   
   
3. Seek Support: Join online forums or social media groups/ communities like epharmily, for internationally trained pharmacists to share experiences and advice.
   
   
4. Consider Bridging Programs: Some provinces offer bridging programs to help internationally trained pharmacists adapt to the Canadian healthcare system.
   
   

Ready to Take the Leap! Also check out getting a pharmacy license in Dubai 

Disclaimer: Processes and fees may vary.
Always consult official PEBC and provincial regulatory body websites for the latest details.