Out of the 2,805 students who sat for the common registration assessment test for pharmacists this June, approximately 2,150 have passed the exam, according to the General Pharmaceutical Council. It assesses pharmacy graduates' knowledge and skills to ensure safe and effective practice as pharmacists.
This year, the pass rate was 77 per cent, slightly lower than the 80 per cent pass rate in June 2022, where 2,147 out of 2,697 candidates cleared the assessment, GPhC data showed.
The exam comprises a written assessment testing pharmaceutical science and pharmacy practice knowledge and a practical assessment evaluating clinical skills and patient-facing competencies. Eligible candidates must complete an accredited pharmacy degree program and meet GPhC requirements.
The assessment is conducted jointly by the General Pharmaceutical Council and the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland.
"The assessment is a primary method for testing trainees' ability to apply knowledge and make professional judgments in pharmacy practice," said Mark Voce, Director of Education and Standards, GPhC. "This is crucial in assuring patients and the public that they are in safe hands."
Last month, there were 2,353 first-time sitters, 229 candidates taking the exam for the second time, and 99 candidates attempting it for the third time. Out of these, 1,863 first-time sitters, 114 second-time candidates, and 58 third-time candidates passed the exam.
In 2021, 82 per cent of the 2,907 candidates passed the June exam, while in 2020, 72 per cent of the 2,942 students and in 2019, 79 per cent of the 2,942 candidates also succeeded.
Voce acknowledged that students who did not pass the assessment may be going through a challenging time and reassured them that the GPhC offers guidance on the available options to support them.
He further added that Pharmacist Support is available to "provide help with mental health and wellbeing".
