With the recent changes to the PEBC Evaluating Exam (reduced to 150 questions and now offered four times yearly), creating an effective study plan is more important than ever. The exam is now 3.25 hours long and consists of two sections with 75 questions each.
The plan is built around a 12-week schedule, giving you adequate time to build foundational knowledge, practice application, and conduct comprehensive reviews before your exam date.
Getting Started: Essential Resources
Before beginning your 3-month study plan, gather these essential resources:
- PEBC Examination Blueprint: Download the latest blueprint from the PEBC website to understand exam content areas and their relative weights
- Comprehensive Pharmacy References: APhA's Drug Information Handbook, Therapeutic Choices, and Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties (CPS)
- Pharmacy Calculations Text: Such as "Pharmaceutical Calculations" by Howard Ansel
- PEBC EE Question Bank: The passEE app provides 3,500+ practice questions specifically designed for the PEBC Evaluating Exam
- Study Schedule Template: Create a calendar dedicated to your study plan (included below)
Pro Tip: The passEE app integrates with your study schedule, allowing you to track progress across all exam topics and automatically prioritize your weaker areas.
Weeks 1-4: Building Your Foundation
The first month focuses on building a solid foundation in the core knowledge domains tested on the PEBC EE:
Pharmaceutical Chemistry & Biopharmaceutics
- Drug development process
- Physicochemical properties of drugs
- Absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion
- Bioavailability and bioequivalence
Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms & Calculations
- Solid, liquid, and semi-solid dosage forms
- Novel drug delivery systems
- Basic pharmaceutical calculations
- Compounding calculations
Pharmacology & Toxicology
- Pharmacodynamics and mechanisms of action
- Drug-receptor interactions
- Major drug classes and their effects
- Principles of toxicology
Pharmacotherapeutics I
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Respiratory disorders
- Endocrine conditions
- Review and integration of weeks 1-3 topics
During this foundation phase, aim to:
- Study 2-3 hours daily
- Create concise summary notes for each topic
- Complete 25-50 practice questions for each content area
- Review incorrect answers and understand the rationale
Weeks 5-8: Application and Practice
The second month builds on your foundational knowledge with more complex topics and emphasizes application through case-based learning:
Pharmacotherapeutics II
- Infectious diseases
- Antimicrobial therapy
- Immunology
- Vaccines and immunization
Pharmacotherapeutics III
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Renal diseases
- Neurological conditions
- Pain management
Pharmacotherapeutics IV
- Psychiatric disorders
- Oncology
- Hematologic disorders
- Special populations (pediatrics, geriatrics, pregnancy)
Canadian Pharmacy Practice
- Canadian healthcare system
- Pharmacy law and regulations
- Ethical principles
- Drug information and literature evaluation
- Mid-study comprehensive review
During this application phase:
- Increase study time to 3-4 hours daily
- Focus on application-based questions and case studies
- Complete 50-75 practice questions for each content area
- Begin taking timed mini-exams (50 questions in 60 minutes)
- Use the passEE app's performance analytics to identify knowledge gaps
Weeks 9-12: Final Review and Testing Strategy
The final month focuses on comprehensive review, test-taking strategies, and mock exams to simulate the testing experience:
Comprehensive Review I
- Review of pharmaceutical sciences
- Advanced pharmaceutical calculations
- High-yield formulas and equations
- Full-length practice exam #1
Comprehensive Review II
- Review of pharmacology and clinical therapeutics I
- Focus on commonly tested medications
- High-yield adverse effects and interactions
- Full-length practice exam #2
Comprehensive Review III
- Review of clinical therapeutics II
- Canadian pharmacy practice and regulations
- Ethics and professional decision-making
- Full-length practice exam #3
Final Preparation
- Review of weak areas identified from practice exams
- Quick-review flashcards of high-yield facts
- Test-taking strategies and time management
- Logistics preparation and relaxation techniques
During this final phase:
- Take three full-length practice exams (200 questions, 4 hours each)
- Review all incorrect answers thoroughly
- Create one-page summaries for rapid review of key topics
- Practice time management strategies
- Ensure adequate rest and stress management
Important: Schedule your practice exams at the same time of day as your actual exam to acclimate your body and mind to peak performance during that timeframe.
Detailed Week-by-Week Breakdown
Below is a sample weekly schedule that can be adapted to your specific needs:
| Day | Morning (1-2 hrs) | Afternoon/Evening (1-2 hrs) |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Study new content | Practice questions (untimed) |
| Tuesday | Study new content | Practice questions (untimed) |
| Wednesday | Study new content | Practice questions (timed) |
| Thursday | Study new content | Practice questions (timed) |
| Friday | Review weak areas | Practice questions (mixed topics) |
| Saturday | Comprehensive review or mini practice exam | |
| Sunday | Rest and light review of notes | |
Study Efficiency Tips:
- Active Learning: Instead of passive reading, engage with the material through summarizing, teaching concepts aloud, and creating concept maps
- Spaced Repetition: Use the passEE app's spaced repetition feature to optimize your retention of information
- Question-First Approach: For topics you're reviewing, try answering questions first, then study the areas where you're weakest
- Pomodoro Technique: Study in focused 25-minute intervals with 5-minute breaks to maintain concentration
- Weekly Assessments: Test yourself regularly with timed quizzes to build test-taking stamina
Final Thoughts
Remember that this study plan is a guideline that should be adapted to your individual needs and circumstances. Some topics may require more or less time depending on your background and familiarity with the content. The key to success is consistency, active learning, and regular self-assessment.
By following a structured approach and utilizing resources like the passEE app, you can maximize your chances of success on the PEBC Evaluating Examination. Good luck with your preparation!
Disclaimer: This study plan is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute official advice from the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada. Always refer to the official PEBC website for the most current information about the examination.
