In a groundbreaking development for international pharmacy graduates (IPGs), the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) introduced a streamlined pathway effective May 13, 2025, allowing eligible candidates to bypass the Pharmacist Evaluating Examination (PEBC EE) and proceed directly to the Pharmacist Qualifying Examination Part I (MCQ).

This significant policy change represents PEBC's commitment to continuous improvement in its certification process and provides a faster route to Canadian pharmacy licensure for qualified international pharmacists. This comprehensive guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and what this means for your career journey in Canada.

Overview of the Streamlined Pathway

The streamlined pathway represents a fundamental shift in how PEBC assesses certain international pharmacy graduates. Instead of requiring all IPGs to complete the Evaluating Examination, PEBC now recognizes that graduates from accredited programs or those with substantial international experience have already demonstrated competency equivalent to the PEBC EE.

What This Means for You:

• Faster Certification: Reduce your pathway to licensure by 4-6 months on average
• Cost Savings: Save the PEBC EE examination fee ($915 CAD as of 2025) plus preparation costs
• Reduced Stress: One less comprehensive exam to prepare for and pass
• Earlier Practice: Begin practicing pharmacy in Canada sooner
• Direct Access: Proceed straight to the MCQ after document evaluation

Who Qualifies: Complete Eligibility Criteria

PEBC has established three distinct eligibility categories for the streamlined pathway. You need to meet the criteria of only ONE of these categories to qualify:

Category 1: Graduates from Accredited Programs

Category 2: Graduates from Specific Recognition Countries

Category 3: Licensed Practitioners with Recent International Experience

What if I Don't Qualify?

If you don't meet any of the three categories above, you will follow the traditional PEBC pathway:

1. Document Evaluation
2. Pharmacist Evaluating Examination (PEBC EE)
3. Pharmacist Qualifying Examination Part I (MCQ)
4. Pharmacist Qualifying Examination Part II (OSCE)

If you need to take the traditional pathway, proper preparation is key to success on the PEBC EE.

Traditional vs. Streamlined Pathway Comparison

Aspect	Traditional Pathway	Streamlined Pathway
Evaluating Exam (EE)	Required	Exempted
Qualifying Exam Part I (MCQ)	Required	Required
Qualifying Exam Part II (OSCE)	Required	Required
Total Exams	3 exams	2 exams
Approximate Timeline	18-24 months	12-18 months
Examination Fees	~$2,850 CAD	~$1,935 CAD
Document Evaluation	Required	Required

Cost Savings Breakdown:

• PEBC EE Exam Fee: $915 CAD (saved)
• Preparation Materials: $200-500 CAD (saved)
• Time Value: 4-6 months earlier to practice (priceless!)
• Total Savings: $1,115-$1,415 CAD + 4-6 months time

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

Step 2: Create Your PEBC Account

Step 3: Submit Document Evaluation Application

Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents

Step 5: Await PEBC Assessment

Step 6: Receive Your Eligibility Decision

Step 7: Apply for Pharmacist Qualifying Exam Part I (MCQ)

Required Documents and Requirements

Core Documents (Required for All Applicants)

1. Pharmacy Degree Certificate
   • Original or certified copy
   • Must be sent directly from your university to PEBC
   • Must be in English or French (or officially translated)
2. Academic Transcripts
   • Complete transcripts from all years of study
   • Must show all courses, grades, and graduation date
   • Sent directly from university to PEBC in sealed envelope
3. Course Descriptions/Syllabi
   • Detailed descriptions of all pharmacy courses completed
   • Include course codes, credit hours, and learning outcomes
4. Government-Issued Photo ID
   • Passport or national ID card
   • Clear, legible copy

Additional Documents for Category 3 Applicants

If you're applying under Category 3 (licensed practitioner with international experience), you must also provide:

1. Proof of Licensure
   • Letter from the regulatory authority confirming your license
   • Must state: license number, issue date, expiry date, and that it was full and unrestricted
   • Must be sent directly from the regulatory authority to PEBC
2. Proof of Practice Experience
   • Letter(s) from employer(s) on company letterhead
   • Must specify: employment dates, hours worked, job duties
   • Must clearly indicate direct patient care activities
   • Should include supervisor contact information
3. Certificate of Good Standing
   • From the regulatory authority where you practiced
   • Confirms no disciplinary actions
   • Sent directly from regulatory authority to PEBC

Timeline and Important Dates

Complete Pathway Timeline (Streamlined Path)

Stage	Duration	Action Required
Eligibility Check	Immediate	Complete online survey
Application Submission	1-2 weeks	Submit application and pay fees
Document Collection	2-8 weeks	Gather and submit all required documents
PEBC Review	8-16 weeks	Wait for PEBC assessment
MCQ Preparation	3-6 months	Study for Qualifying Exam Part I
MCQ Exam	1 day	Take the examination
Results Wait	4-6 weeks	Await results
OSCE Preparation	2-4 months	Prepare for Part II
OSCE Exam	1 day	Take the examination

Total Estimated Timeline: 12-18 months from initial application to PEBC certification

2025-2026 MCQ Exam Dates

The Pharmacist Qualifying Examination Part I (MCQ) is offered multiple times per year. Check the PEBC website for the most current exam dates and registration deadlines.

Next Steps After Qualification

Once You're Approved for the Streamlined Pathway

1. Prepare for the MCQ Exam

The Pharmacist Qualifying Examination Part I (MCQ) is a comprehensive 4-hour computer-based exam with 150 multiple-choice questions covering:

• Collection and interpretation of evidence
• Identification of drug-related problems
• Development and implementation of care plans
• Provision of patient education and access to care
• Demonstration of professional and ethical behavior

2. Complete the OSCE

After passing the MCQ, you'll need to complete the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), which assesses your practical skills through simulated patient scenarios.

3. Apply for Provincial Licensure

Once you've achieved PEBC certification, you can apply for licensure with a provincial/territorial pharmacy regulatory authority. Requirements vary by province but typically include:

• Structured Practical Training (SPT) or equivalent
• Jurisprudence examination
• Language proficiency (if not already demonstrated)
• Criminal record check
• Professional liability insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When did the streamlined pathway become available?

A: The streamlined pathway became effective on May 13, 2025. Applications submitted on or after this date are eligible for assessment under the new criteria.

Q: Can I apply for the streamlined pathway if I already started the traditional pathway?

A: Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria and haven't yet taken the PEBC EE, you can request to be assessed under the streamlined pathway. Contact PEBC directly to discuss your specific situation.

Q: What if I don't qualify for the streamlined pathway?

A: You'll follow the traditional pathway, which includes the Pharmacist Evaluating Examination. Don't worry—with proper preparation using resources like passEE, many candidates successfully pass the PEBC EE on their first attempt.

Q: Does the streamlined pathway guarantee I'll pass the MCQ?

A: No, the streamlined pathway only exempts you from the PEBC EE. You still need to pass the Pharmacist Qualifying Examination Part I (MCQ) and Part II (OSCE), which require thorough preparation and study.

Q: How much does the streamlined pathway cost?

A: The costs include:

• Document Evaluation: $825 CAD
• MCQ Exam: $785 CAD
• OSCE Exam: $1,150 CAD
• Total: $2,760 CAD (plus document translation/certification costs if applicable)

Q: Can I work as a pharmacy assistant while completing this process?

A: Yes, many candidates work as pharmacy assistants or technicians while completing their PEBC certification. However, you cannot work as a licensed pharmacist until you complete all requirements and receive provincial licensure.

Q: What if my university won't send documents directly to PEBC?

A: PEBC may accept documents through alternative verification services like World Education Services (WES). Contact PEBC to discuss acceptable alternatives for your specific situation.

Q: How long is my PEBC certification valid?

A: PEBC certification does not expire. However, if you don't apply for provincial licensure within a certain timeframe, some provinces may require additional assessments or training.

Start Your Journey Today

The streamlined pathway represents an exciting opportunity for eligible international pharmacy graduates to achieve Canadian licensure faster and more cost-effectively. Whether you qualify for this pathway or need to take the traditional route, passEE is here to support your success.

For those who need to take the PEBC Evaluating Exam, passEE provides comprehensive preparation with over 2,900 practice questions, AI-powered learning assistance, and detailed performance tracking.