PEBC Pass Rates for International Graduates (May 2024-May 2026)
Updated · 5 min read
From May 2024 to May 2026, 35.6% of 3,182 internationally educated candidates passed PEBC's Part I (MCQ) on their first attempt, against 87.2% of 2,468 first-time Canadian graduates (PEBC, Examination Scoring and Results, checked 12 Oct 2026).
Part I (MCQ) pass rates by group
| Group | Candidates | Pass rate |
|---|---|---|
| Canadian graduates, first attempt (reference group) | 2,468 | 87.2% |
| Canadian graduates, repeat attempt | 379 | 67.3% |
| International graduates, first attempt | 3,182 | 35.6% |
| International graduates, repeat attempt | 2,066 | 47.1% |
Part II (OSCE), same period
| Group | Pass rate |
|---|---|
| Canadian graduates, first attempt | 92.5% |
| Canadian graduates, repeat attempt | 82.6% |
| International graduates, first attempt | 56.6% |
| International graduates, repeat attempt | 69.8% |
About 1,025 candidates passed the May 2026 MCQ, by our count of the candidate IDs on PEBC's public pass list (PEBC does not publish this total).
Why the gap is so wide
- Canadian guidelines and products. The exam expects Canadian first-line choices (Hypertension Canada, Diabetes Canada, CCS, CTS, NACI) and Canadian-marketed products, which can differ from what you learned.
- Canadian law and distribution. Prescription requirements, the NAPRA drug schedules and controlled-substance rules sit in Distribution (20%) and Professionalism (12%).
- Reading speed. 200 questions in 260 minutes, many with a patient case, leaves 1.3 minutes a question.
- Calculations under time. Dose, renal function, infusion and biostatistics questions are quick only with practice.
Next: how to prepare for the PEBC MCQ and results, retakes and attempt limits.
Sources
- PEBC, Examination Scoring and Results, pebc.ca (checked 12 Oct 2026)
PEBC can change its format, fees and dates. Confirm on pebc.ca before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
What is the PEBC MCQ pass rate for international graduates?
35.6% on the first attempt (3,182 candidates) and 47.1% on repeat attempts, May 2024 to May 2026 (PEBC).
What is the PEBC MCQ pass rate for Canadian graduates?
87.2% on the first attempt (2,468 candidates), May 2024 to May 2026.
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