Additional Requirements

Many schools do not require all of these courses. Others may require or recommend additional courses or training in areas such as:

• quantitative analysis/analytical chemistry
• microeconomics
• interpersonal communication
• technical writing

Because requirements are not standardized, it is very important to contact every school of interest.

Admission to pharmacy schools is competitive and schools choose among many qualified applicants. Evaluation of candidates is based on largely objective criteria. A high overall GPA and sciences GPA are important. Other important factors are:

• competitive Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) scores
  (if required by the schools to which you are applying)
• strong letters of reference
• evidence of leadership potential as demonstrated by a few carefully chosen extracurricular activities
• well-developed interpersonal skills
• a demonstrated experience and/or interest in pharmacy (such as membership in the pharmacy club or employment in a pharmacy setting).

Many schools require application through the PharmCAS (Pharmacy College Application Service), a centralized application service for applicants applying to colleges and schools of pharmacy.

Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT)

Many (but not all) schools require the PCAT, which is given three times each year (October, January, and April). Most students take this in April of their junior year and they make retake the exam without penalty.