PEBC Evaluating Exam vs Qualifying Exam: Which Comes First
Updated · 4 min read
As at 12 Oct 2026, internationally educated pharmacists must complete PEBC's Document Evaluation and pass the Pharmacist Evaluating Examination before they can take the Qualifying Examination (Part I MCQ and Part II OSCE) (pebc.ca, international graduates pathway). Canadian graduates go straight to the Qualifying Examination.
The two exams side by side
| Evaluating Examination | Qualifying Examination | |
|---|---|---|
| Who takes it | Internationally educated pharmacists | All candidates for licensure, Canadian and international |
| When | After Document Evaluation | After the Evaluating Examination (international graduates) |
| Parts | See pebc.ca | Part I (MCQ): 200 questions in 260 minutes; Part II (OSCE) |
| Leads to | Eligibility for the Qualifying Examination | PEBC certification, then provincial licensure |
The Evaluating Examination checks that your pharmacy education is comparable to a Canadian degree; the Qualifying Examination tests whether you are ready to practise in Canada. This site covers Qualifying Examination Part I (MCQ) only.
Read next: the PEBC pathway, step by step · PEBC MCQ exam format.
Sources
- PEBC, International pharmacy graduates pathway, pebc.ca (checked 12 Oct 2026)
PEBC can change its format, fees and dates. Confirm on pebc.ca before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need the Evaluating Exam before the Qualifying Exam?
Yes, if you are internationally educated: Document Evaluation and the Pharmacist Evaluating Examination come first (pebc.ca).
Do Canadian graduates take the Evaluating Exam?
No. Graduates of Canadian pharmacy programs go to the Qualifying Examination.
Related guides
Put it into practice
Free account, 650+ original practice questions, instant explanations and full timed practice exams.
Build a daily practice habit — a few exam-style questions a day, with worked answers. Free to start.
Start practicing →PEBC Prep is an independent study aid. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to The Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC). 'PEBC' is used only to describe the examination. All questions are original practice material, not past or real exam questions.