If you are aiming to practice as a pharmacist in Canada, passing the PEBC exam is a critical step. Before applying, it’s essential to be familiar with the structure of the PEBC exam fees. This guide provides a clear breakdown of all associated costs and requirements to help you plan effectively.
The Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) conducts certification exams that assess whether pharmacy professionals meet the required standards to practice in the country. The exams are comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects, including pharmacology, therapeutics, clinical problem-solving, and case-based scenarios.
To apply for the PEBC exam, you must follow specific procedures, which include submitting documents, clearing evaluation exams, and ultimately passing the qualifying exams. Both Canadian and international candidates are required to pay exam fees, though additional charges apply for overseas applicants.
Steps for International Pharmacy Graduates
For international pharmacists seeking certification in Canada, the process involves the following steps:
Step 1: Document Evaluation
Before applying, candidates must submit their educational and professional credentials for assessment to qualify for the evaluation exam.
Step 2: Evaluating Exam
This exam tests the candidate’s foundational knowledge and is a prerequisite for the qualifying exams.
Step 3: Qualifying Exam – Part 1 (MCQs) and Part 2 (OSCE)
After passing the evaluation exam, candidates are eligible to appear for the qualifying exam. Successful completion of both parts results in certification and registration with the PEBC.
Detailed Breakdown of PEBC Exam Fees
While the base exam fees are similar for all candidates, international applicants are subject to additional charges. As of February 2025, the fee structure is as follows:
| Exam Component | Fee (CAD) | Applies to |
| Document Evaluation | 715 | International students only |
| US Document Evaluation | 250 | US Candidates |
| Evaluating Exam | 910 | IPGs |
| Qualifying Exam Part 1 (MCQs) | 855 | All Candidates |
| Qualifying Exam Part 2 (OSCE) | 1915 | All Candidates |
| Exam Re-scoring (Evaluating & Part 1) | 100 | Optional |
| Exam Re-scoring (Part 2 OSCE) | 200 | Optional |
| Certificate Replacement | 100 | Optional |
| Sending Licensing Statement & Credential Report | 100 | Optional |
Note: The fee structure is subject to change. Candidates should always refer to the official PEBC website for the latest updates.
Where Can You Take the PEBC Exams?
PEBC collaborates with Prometric to offer multiple exam centers across Canada for both domestic and international candidates. For the multiple-choice exams, candidates can choose between visiting a Prometric center or taking the test remotely through the ProProctor platform. However, the OSCE component of the qualifying exam must be taken in person at a designated center.
Not all centers are available for every session, so candidates should check the official PEBC website before scheduling their exams. The evaluating and qualifying exams consist of 200 multiple-choice questions each, while the OSCE part includes 12 interactive stations and 2 non-interactive stations designed to test clinical skills in practical scenarios.
PEBC Exam Pattern Overview
Understanding the exam format is vital for effective preparation:
Evaluating Exam:
This exam tests pharmaceutical knowledge across multiple areas like medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and pathophysiology. It consists of 200 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 4.5 hours.
Qualifying Exam:
This is divided into two parts:
- Part 1 (MCQs): Focuses on clinical knowledge, patient care strategies, and safe medication practices.
- Part 2 (OSCE): Evaluates patient interaction, communication, and decision-making through real-life pharmacy scenarios using both interactive and non-interactive stations.
How to Pay the PEBC Exam Fees
Candidates can pay the exam fees online or through offline methods, depending on their location. Online payments are accepted via Visa and MasterCard. Offline payments can be made by sending certified checks, bank drafts, or money orders to PEBC.
For international candidates, payments must be processed through a Canadian bank with appropriate clearance procedures. Note that PEBC’s refund policy is strict. Document evaluation fees are non-refundable, while partial refunds for the evaluation exam may be possible if withdrawal occurs before the test date. Refunds are typically only granted in cases of medical emergencies, family emergencies, or visa rejection, supported by proper documentation.
Comparing PEBC Fees with Other Exams
| Feature | PEBC (Canada) | NAPLEX (USA) |
| Assessment Scope | Multi-stage evaluation ensures thorough assessment | Single-stage exam may overlook some skills |
| Exam Format | Includes both MCQs and OSCE for hands-on skills | MCQs only, no practical testing |
| Practical Component | Tests real-world pharmacy practice | Not included |
| Recognition | Widely recognized across Canada | Limited to US state licensing |
| Evaluation Rigor | Competency-based, multi-step exams | 75/150 pass score may not reflect all skills |
| Testing Locations | Prometric centers + remote option for MCQs | Pearson Vue centers only in the US |
| Licensing Standards | Higher requirements for clinical competence | Easier licensing process |
The PEBC’s multi-step approach, including practical assessments, adds to the overall cost but ensures a higher standard of competency compared to exams like the NAPLEX.
Elite Expertise’s PEBC Exam Preparation Course
Elite Expertise offers a tailored training program designed to help pharmacy graduates effectively prepare for the PEBC exams. With expert guidance and comprehensive study materials, candidates receive the support they need to pass confidently.
What’s included:
- Detailed study content covering pharmaceutical sciences and clinical practice
- Mock exams and timed practice sessions for real exam scenarios
- Expert-led discussions offering practical tips and strategies for success
By enrolling in the Elite Expertise PEBC Exam preparation course, candidates can strengthen their understanding, improve their time management, and gain confidence before the exam.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the PEBC fee structure, exam format, and how it compares to other certifications is crucial for candidates planning to pursue a pharmacy career in Canada. This guide provides the necessary information to navigate the process smoothly, ensuring you’re prepared every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The total cost depends on various stages including document evaluation ($715 CAD), evaluating exam ($910 CAD), qualifying exam Part 1 ($855 CAD), and Part 2 OSCE ($1915 CAD). Additional optional fees may also apply.
The base exam fees are the same for Canadian and international candidates, but overseas applicants must pay extra costs such as document evaluation and international processing fees.
PEBC has a strict refund policy. Document evaluation fees are non-refundable, but partial refunds may be available if a candidate withdraws before the exam. Refunds are allowed only in cases like medical emergencies or visa rejections with proper documentation.
International candidates can pay online using Visa or MasterCard. Alternatively, they can send certified international money orders or bank drafts drawn from a Canadian bank to ensure proper processing.
Yes, PEBC exams are more comprehensive and costly as they include multiple stages and practical assessments like OSCE. Compared to exams like NAPLEX in the USA, which is a single-stage theoretical test, PEBC ensures better evaluation but at a higher cost.