PEBC Evaluating Examination (EE) Guide
A comprehensive resource for international pharmacy graduates preparing for the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada Evaluating Examination
Quick Facts - PEBC Evaluating Exam 2025
Quick Navigation
Last updated: March 31, 2025 - Information on this page is regularly reviewed to ensure accuracy.
Understanding the PEBC Evaluating Exam
This guide represents our interpretation of publicly available information about the PEBC Evaluating Exam and is based on the experiences of successful candidates. Content may not reflect the most current PEBC requirements or procedures. Always refer to the official PEBC website for authoritative information.
The Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) Evaluating Examination (EE) is a crucial step for international pharmacy graduates (IPGs) seeking to practice pharmacy in Canada. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the exam structure, content, and effective preparation strategies.
What is the PEBC Evaluating Exam?
The PEBC Evaluating Examination is a multiple-choice test designed to assess whether international pharmacy graduates have knowledge comparable to graduates of accredited Canadian pharmacy programs. Successful completion of the EE is required before IPGs can proceed to the Qualifying Examination.
Key Facts About the PEBC EE:
- Current Format (until March 2025): 150 multiple-choice questions (3.25 hours)
- New Format (from June 2025): 140 multiple-choice questions (two sections of 70 questions, 84 minutes per section)
- Administered four times a year
- Computer-based testing at Prometric test centers or via remote proctoring
- Pass/fail results are typically released up to 5 weeks after the exam
Important Update: PEBC has announced a revised blueprint for the Pharmacist Evaluating Examination effective June 2025. The revised blueprint removes Biomedical Sciences as a distinct subject area and redistributes the exam content to better reflect current PharmD curriculum.
PEBC Evaluating Exam Pass Rates
| Examination Session | First-Time Test Takers | Repeat Test Takers |
|---|---|---|
| Winter 2024 | 36.2% | 38.4% |
| Fall 2023 | 35.8% | 37.9% |
| Summer 2023 | 37.1% | 39.2% |
Key Statistics:
- Average pass rate (2021-2024): 36.2% for first attempts
- Repeat attempt success rate: 38.4%
- Required passing score: 60% (90 out of 150 questions)
Note: Pass rates are compiled from publicly available PEBC data. Individual results may vary based on preparation and background.
Exam Content and Structure
The PEBC Evaluating Exam covers a broad range of pharmacy topics, including:
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Pharmaceutics
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Pharmacokinetics
- Pharmacy Practice
- Pharmaceutical Care
- Pharmacy Management
- Biostatistics
- Canadian Pharmacy Law and Ethics
Questions are designed to test not only factual knowledge but also your ability to apply this knowledge to clinical scenarios and patient cases.
PEBC Evaluating Exam Blueprint 2025
Major Update: New exam blueprint effective June 2025
Background
The blueprint was revised in 2025 to reflect the transition of all Canadian pharmacy faculties to entry-level PharmD programs. This update better aligns the exam with current pharmacy practice while remaining distinct from the Qualifying Examination.
Subject Areas Distribution:
Pharmaceutical Sciences (25%)
- Pharmaceutics and drug delivery systems
- Pharmacokinetics and biopharmaceutics
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Biotechnology and pharmacogenetics
Pharmacy Practice (55%)
- Pathophysiology
- Clinical biochemistry and diagnostic testing
- Pharmacotherapeutics
- Patient care process
- Special populations
- Prescription processing and product preparation
- Medication administration
- Prescription calculations
- Communication
- Collaborative care
Behavioural, Social, and Administrative Sciences (20%)
- Health promotion and disease prevention
- Literature evaluation
- Medication and patient safety practices
- Professionalism and ethics
- Pharmacy management
- Canadian healthcare system, health equity and social determinants of health
Key Changes for June 2025:
- Total questions reduced to 140 (from 150)
- Two sections of 70 questions each
- 90 minutes per section
- Removal of Biomedical Sciences as a distinct subject area
- Addition of new areas: health equity, social determinants of health, Indigenous health, cultural diversity/safety
Note: These changes are not expected to impact overall pass rates.
Effective Preparation Strategies
1. Understand the Exam Blueprint
Familiarize yourself with the PEBC's competency profile and exam blueprint to understand what knowledge areas are emphasized.
2. Create a Structured Study Plan
Develop a comprehensive study schedule that covers all content areas, with more time allocated to challenging topics.
3. Use Quality Study Resources
Utilize reputable study materials specifically designed for the PEBC EE, including textbooks, online resources, and practice exams.
4. Practice with Sample Questions
Regular practice with exam-style questions helps familiarize you with the question format and improves your test-taking skills.
5. Form Study Groups
Collaborate with other candidates to discuss complex topics and share knowledge and resources.
6. Focus on Canadian Content
Pay special attention to Canadian pharmacy practice, healthcare system, and pharmacy laws, as these may differ from your home country.
How passEE App Can Help
The passEE app is specifically designed to help pharmacy professionals prepare for the PEBC Evaluating Exam with:
3,500+ Practice Questions
Comprehensive question bank covering all PEBC EE topics with detailed explanations
AI-Powered Learning
Personalized study recommendations and explanations based on your performance
Performance Analytics
Track your progress and identify knowledge gaps to focus your study efforts
Timed Quiz Mode
Simulate exam conditions to improve time management and reduce test anxiety
PEBC EE Exam Dates and Registration
The PEBC now offers the Evaluating Examination four times a year (increased from twice yearly):
- Winter Session: Usually held in January
- Spring Session: Usually held in April
- Summer Session: Usually held in July
- Fall Session: Usually held in October
For the most current information on exam dates, registration deadlines, and fees, visit the official PEBC website.
Note: passEE is not affiliated with the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada. "PEBC" and "Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada" are trademarks of the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada.
Testimonials from Successful Candidates
"The passEE app was instrumental in my PEBC EE success. The practice questions closely mirrored the actual exam format, and the AI explanations helped me understand complex concepts."
"What I appreciated most about passEE was the performance analytics that helped me identify my weak areas. I focused my study time more efficiently and felt confident on exam day."
"As an international pharmacy graduate, I found the Canadian pharmacy content challenging. The passEE app's comprehensive question bank and detailed explanations bridged my knowledge gaps perfectly. The new exam format with 150 questions was less intimidating thanks to all my practice with passEE."
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current PEBC Evaluating Exam pass rate?
Based on PEBC data from Winter 2021 to Winter 2024:
- First-time test takers: 36.2% pass rate
- Repeat test takers: 38.4% pass rate
- Required passing score: 60% (84/140 questions)
What are the upcoming PEBC Evaluating Exam dates for 2025?
- March 25, 2025 (Registration deadline: November 21, 2024)
- June 26, 2025 (Registration deadline: March 6, 2025)
- October 1, 2025 (Registration deadline: July 3, 2025)
What is the new PEBC Evaluating Exam blueprint for 2025?
The new blueprint effective June 2025 consists of:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences (25%)
- Pharmacy Practice (55%)
- Behavioural, Social, and Administrative Sciences (20%)
- New format: 140 MCQs in two 90-minute sections
Start Your PEBC EE Preparation Today
Download the passEE app and gain access to over 3,500 practice questions, AI-powered assistance, and comprehensive study tools designed specifically for the PEBC Evaluating Exam.
Information about the PEBC Evaluating Examination structure and content is based on publicly available information from the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada website. Last updated: March 2025.
PEBC Evaluating Exam Dates 2024-2025
| Session | Exam Date | Registration Deadline | Results Release |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 2025 | Tuesday, March 25, 2025 | November 21, 2024 | May 7, 2025 |
| June 2025 | Thursday, June 26, 2025 | March 6, 2025 | July 28, 2025 |
| October 2025 | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | July 3, 2025 | October 29, 2025 |
2025 Examination Fees:
- Document Evaluation: $715 CAD
- Evaluating Examination: $910 CAD
* All fees are in Canadian currency. Applications must be received by 12:00 pm (noon) Eastern Time on the deadline date.
* Dates are subject to change. Always verify with the official PEBC website.
PEBC Document Evaluation Process
Before registering for the PEBC Evaluating Examination, international pharmacy graduates must complete the document evaluation process. This crucial step verifies your pharmacy education and credentials.
Required Documents:
- Pharmacy degree certificate and transcripts
- Proof of pharmacy licensure/registration
- Identity documents
- Language proficiency test results (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Work experience documentation (if applicable)
Document Evaluation Timeline:
- Initial review: 15-20 business days
- Additional document requests: May extend timeline
- Final assessment: Up to 4 weeks
Important: Submit your documents well in advance of your intended exam date. The document evaluation must be completed before you can register for the PEBC Evaluating Exam.