How to Study for the PCAT

The Pharmacy College Admissions Test is an assessment designed to identify and test applicants interested in entering a pharmaceutical program or school. It is the preferred admissions test to pharmacy college in the United States and is required by most schools as a condition of acceptance. If you are considering applying to pharmacy school, your admission to a program depends on how well you study for the PCAT.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Start your preparation early. Decide when you wish to take the PCAT and allow adequate time to study beforehand. Ensure there is time for the test results to reach the institutions you are applying to before the application deadlines. Keep in mind that scores generally take six weeks to be delivered.
2. Register for the PCAT online at the Harcourt Assessment site. The site requires you to register with them before you apply for the test.
3. Look around the Harcourt Assessment site. This site houses a wealth of information including two practice tests which are available for a small fee. The site scores the completed practice tests and simulates a percentile ranking to assess your performance. This allows you to locate your problem areas and tailor your PCAT preparation.
4. Visit your local library. The reference section most likely offers a selection of resources in a variety of formats specializing in preparation for the PCAT. Review the books and decide which fits your needs and study habits.
5. Develop a PCAT study schedule. Schedule from the day you begin studying to the day of the test. Try not to procrastinate. Give yourself plenty of time to learn new topics and study skills as well as time to take and learn from practice tests.
6. Enroll in a PCAT study course. Kaplan and other test preparation centers offer online courses, private tutoring, books, CDs and much more to help you prepare for the test. These, however cost money.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to keep a balanced schedule. The stress of everyday life should not be reflected in your school or PCAT scores. School admission committees rarely take your work schedule into consideration when reviewing PCAT scores.