How to Register for Pre-Registration Examination for Pharmacists (PEP) in Nigeria

The Nigeria Pre-Registration Examination for Pharmacists (PEP) is an essential step for aspiring pharmacists who wish to practice in Nigeria.

It is a mandatory requirement set by the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) for all pharmacy graduates before they can be formally inducted into the Nigerian pharmaceutical workforce.

Successfully passing the PEP demonstrates that a graduate has the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to provide pharmaceutical services safely and effectively.

In this article, we will guide you through the registration process for the Nigeria Pre-Registration Examination for Pharmacists (PEP), providing essential steps, required documents, and useful links.  

What is the Pre-Registration Examination for Pharmacists (PEP)?

The PEP is a mandatory examination for pharmacy graduates who have completed their internship and wish to register as licensed pharmacists in Nigeria.

The examination assesses your knowledge, skills, and competence in pharmacy practice, ensuring you’re ready to provide safe and effective patient care.

Eligibility Requirements for the PEP Exam registration 

Before registering for the PEP, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Educational Qualification: You must have graduated with a degree in Pharmacy (B.Pharm or Pharm.D) from a PCN-accredited institution.
   
   
2. Completion of Internship: You must have completed a one-year internship program at a PCN-accredited facility. i.e. Hospital, Community Pharmacy or Industry).
   
   
3. Temporary Practicing License: You must possess a valid Temporary Practicing License (TPL) issued by the PCN. - Given after internship.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Register for PEP Examination

Step 1: Visit the PEP Official Website

• Go to the PEP home page at www.pcnmcpd.com/pep/

Note:- This will also display if the portal is open for the month's examination registration or not.

Step 2: Create an Account

• Click on the “PEP Registration” button.
• If you’re a first-time user, create an account by providing your email address, and password.

Step 3: Log In and Complete the Application Form

Log in to your account and fill out the PEP application form with accurate details, including:

• Provisional License registration number (given after graduation)
• Certificate of experience number (given after internship)
• Full names ( this name should be same as that in PCN register)
• Address
• Phone number
• Gender
• Date of birth
• Institution attended (school you graduated from)
• As for foreign trained pharmacist graduates (you are to type in the name of the school you attended in the field.) note:- However, since the space cannot be left blank, for those who schooled in Nigeria, and cannot find the name of your school, Just add NIL to it.
• Year of graduation
• (ITC) number  - Internship training center (it's not compulsory)
• (ITC) name  - Internship training center name
• Date Started and Date Completed (i.e. Internship period )
• The Preceptor name
• Preceptor designation
• Preceptors registration number
• Preceptor year of qualification
• Preceptors license number
• Preceptors Email address
• Preceptors phone number
• Choose your exam centre
• Areas covered during your internship - Community pharmacy, Hospital, Research, Industry, etc.

Step 4: Upload Required passport

• A passport size photograph of yourself is required. - This can be done with just your Android device or an iPhone.
  
  Note:- Required passport size is 300×300 or 250×250, and must not be greater the 100kb.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

• The registration fee for the PEP is N20,000 (subject to change).
  
• Payment can be made online via the PCN portal using a debit card, transfer or through bank payment.
  
  

Step 6: Submit Your Application

• After a successful payment, review your application to ensure all details are correct.
• Submit your application and print out the confirmation slip for reference.

Important Dates and Deadlines

• Registration Period: Typically opens 2–3 weeks before the exam date. Check the PCN website for updates.
  
  
• Exam Date: Usually held twice a year (February /March  and September /November).

Tips for Success in the PEP

1. Start Early: Begin your preparation at least 3–6 months before the exam.
   
   
2. Use the Pharmacy Q app: The app contains a full reviews of PEP past questions. use this to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
   
   
3. Focus on Key Areas: Pay attention to pharmacology, pharmaceutics, clinical pharmacy, and pharmacy law.
   
   
4. Join Study Groups: Collaborate with peers to share knowledge and resources (studies groups like - PEP Study)
   beware of groups that ask for payments, as these admins use the Free Pharmacy Q app, and request fees from members.
   
   
5. Stay Updated: Keep up with the latest developments in pharmacy practice and regulations. epharmily is the best place for you.

🤷‍♂️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on PEP exam registration 🤷‍♀️

🤔❓:- What is the cost of PEP registration? 

✅- The registration fee for the PEP is N20,000 (in Naira) but subject to change annually.
Please refer to the official PEP website for the most up-to-date fee information.

🤔❓:-  Can I register for the PEP without completing my internship? 

✅:-   No.... , you must complete your internship and obtain a Temporary Practicing License (TPL) before registering for the PEP Exam.

🤔❓:-  Can I reschedule my exam date?

✅:-   Rescheduling is usually not permitted.
However, if you encounter genuine issues, contact the PEP support team for advice on how to proceed. 

🤔❓:-  What happens if I fail the PEP?

✅:-  If you fail, you can re-register and retake the exam during the next sitting.

🤔❓:-  How long does it take the PEP examination result to be out?

 ✅:-  The PEP result takes about a 1-2 months, before its out.

🤔❓: Where can I find study materials for the PEP?

✅:- Study materials are available on the Pharmacy Q app, As this is the only recommended approved app for the preparation of PEP examinations, other professional organizations offer preparatory workshops and materials.

Remember, preparation is key! Dedicate time to studying, stay focused, and approach the exam with confidence.

Your hard work💪 will pay off, and soon, you’ll be on your way to making a meaningful impact in the field of pharmacy.