Take several science and math classes in order to better prepare yourself for your college classes. Take your SAT or ACT your junior or senior year of high school. Most colleges and universities require one of these tests. Involve yourself in extracurricular activities such as nonprofit organizations, volunteering or sports clubs to make your college application more competitive.
Research the classes that you will need to get into most pharmacy schools. Discuss your plan to become a pharmacist with your advisor. They will help you register for the classes needed to get your degree and meet the prerequisites of pharmacy school. Most pharmacy schools require at least a 3. 0 GPA. A high GPA will make you more competitive when applying to pharmacy school.
Go to your school’s career office to get advice on how to find internships at local pharmacies.
You can register for the PCAT online by visiting http://pcatweb. info/Register-and-Schedule. php. There is a registration fee that can be paid online during the registration process. Study materials can be found and purchased online, in bookstores, or at your local library. When you register for your PCAT, you will be asked to select schools that you would like to send scores to. Be sure to send the scores to the schools on your list.
Keep in mind that most pharmacy school applications have an application fee. It is a good idea to apply to more than one pharmacy school in case you don’t get accepted to your first choice.
Tuition and fees vary amongst each pharmacy school. Many people rely on loans, grants, and scholarships to pay for pharmacy school.
You can learn more about state specific licensure through the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.
A pharmacy residency is two years long. The first year consists of generalized training and the second year is specialized training. [6] X Research source Specialities are not required.
Your first job as a pharmacist may not be exactly what you are looking for. You may have to work odd hours and a pharmacy that is not your first choice. Don’t expect to “move up the ladder” quickly. Be a hard worker and you will eventually move up. Even entry level pharmacists make good money. The average entry level pharmacist makes $75,000. Keep in mind that this amount depends on the location of your job.
