In today’s interconnected world, pharmacists are in demand not just within their home countries but also abroad. The profession offers a plethora of opportunities for those seeking to broaden their horizons and explore new cultures while practicing their expertise. Whether you’re a recent pharmacy graduate or an experienced professional looking for a change, there are several pathways to embark on an international career as a pharmacist. Let’s take a journey through some of the most sought-after destinations and the pathways they offer for pharmacy graduates.
Arief Mohammad
Canada: PEBC Exam
Canada is known for its high standards of healthcare and offers attractive opportunities for pharmacists. The Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) regulates the pharmacy profession in Canada and assesses the qualifications of pharmacists trained outside Canada.
To practice as a Pharmacist in Canada, international graduates need to pass the PEBC Evaluating Exam, which assesses the fundamental knowledge and skills required for pharmacy practice in Canada. Following this, they must also pass the PEBC Qualifying Exam to demonstrate their competence in pharmacy practice.
There are 10 provinces in Canada each having its own pathway with the above mentioned to be as common along with certain amount of internship, English language proficiency test, Jurisprudence exam and bridging programs.
Australia: KAPS/OPRA Exam
- Competency Assessment of Overseas Pharmacists (CAOP) program: The competency stream is tailored for individuals who have either successfully completed an approved pharmacy qualification or have undergone an authorized education process in Canada, Ireland, the UK, or the USA, and are presently registered in one of these countries.
- Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Sciences (KAPS)/Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA™) Exam: The knowledge stream is designed for those who have completed their pharmacy qualification in any country other than Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, or the USA.
After the Exams there is certain amount of internship that has to be done and a proof for English language proficiency is required to register as a Pharmacist in Australia.
New Zealand: KAPS/OPRA Exam
Neighbouring New Zealand offers a similar pathway for internationally trained pharmacists through the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand (PCNZ). Pharmacists who have completed their education outside New Zealand need to undertake the Overseas Pharmacists Assessment Programme (OSPAP), which includes the KAPS/OPRA Exam. Successful completion of this exam, along with other requirements such as English language proficiency, enables pharmacists to register and practice in New Zealand.
United States: FPGEC and NAPLEX
While the process for international pharmacists to practice in the United States is more complex, it offers rewarding opportunities for those willing to navigate through it. The Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC) administers the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Equivalency Examination (FPGEE), which assesses the competence of foreign-educated pharmacists. Upon passing the FPGEE, candidates must then pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) to become licensed pharmacists in the US.
United Kingdom: GPhC Registration Assessment
The United Kingdom has a long history of welcoming international healthcare professionals, including pharmacists. The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) oversees the process for register as pharmacist in UK. International pharmacy graduates need to pass the GPhC Registration Assessment, which assesses their knowledge and skills against UK pharmacy standards. In addition to passing the assessment, candidates must also demonstrate English language proficiency and meet other registration requirements.
Conclusion
Embarking on an international career as a pharmacist offers not only professional growth but also personal enrichment through exposure to new cultures and healthcare systems. While the pathways may vary from country to country, the commitment to excellence and patient care remains constant. Whether you dream of practicing in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, or the US, thorough preparation and dedication are key to success. So, if you’re ready to take your pharmacy career to new heights, explore the possibilities awaiting you on the global stage. We at Elite Expertise are always ready to assist you through PEBC Evaluating Exam for Canada, KAPS/OPRA Exam Australia and New Zealand for your brighter future as a Pharmacist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About International Pharmacy Careers
The most popular destinations are Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Each country has its own licensing exams and requirements for international pharmacists.
Pharmacists must pass the PEBC Evaluating Exam, followed by the PEBC Qualifying Exam, along with completing an internship, English language proficiency test, and jurisprudence exam depending on the province.
International graduates need to pass either the KAPS or OPRA Exam, complete an internship, and provide proof of English proficiency before registering as a pharmacist in Australia.
Yes. Pharmacists in New Zealand must complete the Overseas Pharmacists Assessment Programme (OSPAP), which includes the KAPS/OPRA Exam, along with other requirements such as English proficiency.
Candidates must first pass the FPGEE through the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee, then complete the NAPLEX and MPJE exams to obtain licensure in the U.S.
International pharmacists must pass the GPhC Registration Assessment, prove English language proficiency, and meet additional registration requirements to practice in the UK.
Yes. Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the US, and the UK all require proof of English proficiency as part of the registration process for international pharmacists.
Yes. Most countries, including Canada and Australia, require international pharmacists to complete a period of supervised internship before full registration.
The United States is generally considered the most complex, requiring multiple exams (FPGEE, NAPLEX, MPJE) and meeting strict state-level requirements.
Elite Expertise provides guidance and coaching for PEBC Evaluating Exam (Canada) and KAPS/OPRA Exam (Australia & New Zealand), helping pharmacists prepare for successful international careers.
