The Pharmacy College Admission Test is abbreviated as PCAT. It is a specialized test that aids in the identification of qualified applicants to pharmacy schools and colleges.
As of 2025, several reputable pharmacy schools in the United States do not require the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) for admission. Notably, all California pharmacy schools, including the University of California—San Diego and the University of the Pacific, have waived the PCAT requirement.
Additionally, institutions such as Purdue University and Washington State University also do not mandate the PCAT for applicants. This shift aligns with the national trend, as the average acceptance rate for pharmacy schools has risen to approximately 87% in recent years.
It assesses the general academic ability and scientific knowledge required for the start of pharmaceutical education.
What are the average PCAT scores for Pharmacy schools?
Just like the GMAT score for MBA, the average PCAT score is 400, with most top-tier pharmacy schools preferring a score of 400 or higher.
Again, an applicant should take the PCAT about a year before the fall semester in which he wishes to begin pharmacy school.
What are the general Pharmacy school requirements?
Here are the educational requirements and steps for becoming a pharmacist:
- Obtain a degree in an appropriate subject
- Complete pharmacy school
- Undertake a residency or internship
- Obtain a state license
Obtain a degree in an appropriate subject
Pharmacists do not need a specific degree. Students must have at least a two-year degree to be admitted to pharmacy school, but a bachelor’s degree with a focus on related coursework may be advantageous. Students should pursue a bachelor’s degree that places a strong emphasis on math, physics, chemistry, biology, and anatomy.
Complete pharmacy school
Students must complete an Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education-accredited pharmacy school program (ACPE).
Undertake a residency or internship
Many students choose to continue their education after pharmacy school by completing a residency program or an internship. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists is the organization that accredits residency placements.
Students who want to complete a residency program must apply through the Pharmacy Online Residency Centralized Application Service, which will match them with a suitable placement.
Obtain a state license
In addition to the educational requirements listed above, pharmacists must obtain a state license to practice before they can begin working as pharmacists.
Some states also require pharmacists to take the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE), which tests their knowledge of pharmacy law. Before pharmacists can apply for a license, all states require a certain number of hours of practical experience, and some may also require a criminal background check.
Pharmacy school requirements GPA
Most pharmacy schools look at your overall GPA. It is a snapshot that can be used to screen out lower-ranking candidates before reviewing the many applications they receive. While a strong overall GPA is important, there are several other GPA calculations that can be considered when evaluating an applicant’s overall profile.
These GPAs can be as important as, if not more important than, the overall GPA. According to the PharmCAS central application service, GPAs can be calculated by year, course subject category (e.g., science, non-science, math), or for all pre-pharmacy prerequisite courses. When deciding where to submit your applications, take into account the method or methods of GPA calculation used by each school.
Many programs publish the average GPAs of their entering classes on their websites to help you determine how competitive your application will be.
What are the PCAT requirements for pharmacy school?
The PCAT is designed specifically for use by pharmacy colleges for admission purposes. The test is based on research and is intended to accurately predict success in science-related courses. PCAT requirements are determined by the types of abilities, aptitudes, and skills deemed necessary by pharmacy schools.
PCAT requirements consist of 192 multiple-choice questions and one writing section. Candidates have three hours and twenty-five minutes to complete the exam (plus administrative time for instructions and time for a short rest break about halfway through the test).
Also, PCAT measures the following content areas: biological processes, chemical processes, critical reading, and quantitative reasoning multiple-choice subtests.
The average PCAT score is 400. However, most top-tier pharmacy schools that require the PCAT prefer a score of 400 or higher for admission.
List of pharmacy schools that don’t require pcat pharmcas
Here are the best pharmacy schools without pcat
- The Ohio State University (College of Pharmacy)
- Purdue University (College of Pharmacy)
- University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy
- University of Utah
- Campbell University (College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences)
- Belmont University (College of Pharmacy)
- Pacific University(School of Pharmacy)
- Marshall University (School of Pharmacy)
- University of California
- University of Michigan
- Nova Southeastern University
- St John’s University
- Xavier University of Louisiana
#1. The Ohio State University (College of Pharmacy)
This pharmacy school, which is staffed by world-class faculty and researchers, is one of the Best Pharmacy Schools That Don’t Require PCAT, the institution is committed to improving medications and medication-related outcomes in the United States. According to US News and World Report, this school is the seventh-best pharmacy school in the United States.
In the last five years, the pharmacy school has obtained over 40 patents for cancer and heart failure. The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education has granted it accreditation. This pharmacy school is located in Columbus, Ohio, in the United States.
#2. Purdue University (College of Pharmacy)
Another institution that tops the chart as best pharmacy schools that don’t require PCAT is Purdue University’s College of Pharmacy, the school is committed to producing world-class pharmacists who are committed to improving healthcare worldwide. This pharmacy school is the third oldest state-supported pharmacy school in the United States.
The pharmacy school is divided into three departments: pharmacy practice, industrial and physical pharmacy, and medicinal chemistry and molecular pharmacology.
The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education has accredited this pharmacy school, which is located in West Lafayette, Indiana, USA.
#3. University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy
This pharmacy school is known for being bold and innovative, as it has the world’s largest pharmacy education and research building. The institution is also among the best pharmacy schools that don’t require PCAT
This pharmacy school has consistently ranked among the top ten pharmacy schools in the country.
This pharmacy school is located in Lexington, Kentucky, in the United States. The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education has granted accreditation to the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy.
#4. University of Utah (College of Pharmacy)
Among the nonpharmcas pharmacy institution is the University of Utah, the school is dedicated to excellence and innovation in its student education, research, and community service.
The pharmacy school’s emphasis on innovation and imagination is the foundation of a tradition that has consistently distinguished itself. Through the discovery of novel therapeutics and the optimization of outcomes for existing medications, this pharmacy school has contributed to the transformation of patient care.
The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education has granted accreditation to the University of Utah’s College of Pharmacy.
#5. Campbell University (College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences)
This pharmacy school has a highly dedicated staff and cutting-edge facilities. The emphasis at this pharmacy school is on providing students with real-world training and professional development.
The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education has granted accreditation to this pharmacy school. Buies Creek, North Carolina, USA is home to the Campbell University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
#6. Belmont University (College of Pharmacy)
This pharmacy school is located in Nashville, Tennessee, the healthcare capital of the United States. Belmont University College of Pharmacy has a drug information center, cutting-edge simulation rooms, laboratories, and a student-run pharmacy.
This pharmacy school exposes students to cutting-edge practices used in real-world healthcare facilities. This pharmacy school is a valuable asset to its community and a provider to a world-class global health care community.
The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education has granted accreditation to Belmont University College of Pharmacy.
#7. University of California–San Francisco
As the West’s oldest pharmacy school, UCSF has a long history of scientific achievements, patient care, and research clinician successes.
Under the departments of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, clinical pharmacy, and pharmaceutical chemistry, the University of California San Francisco School of Pharmacy offers PharmD programs, PhD programs, and postdoctoral and short courses.
Its School of Pharmacy is dedicated to improving health through precise therapeutics, which include medicines, medical devices, and diagnostic tests. Making the school be among the best pharmacy schools.
Finally, if you believe the PCAT demonstrates your academic strength, you may take it and submit your results to PharmCAS, though your scores will not be considered during the acceptance process.
#8. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan’s College of Pharmacy was established in 1916. It is now an important part of the University of Michigan Health System.
This is one of the best pharmacy schools in the United States, with a track record of success.
Its PharmD and Ph.D. programs are among the most sought-after in the US due to its reputation for academic and research excellence. It typically admits students to PharmD, MS, Ph.D., and bachelor’s programs with a variety of specializations, as well as residency programs.
Finally, if your GPA is less than 3.0 and your academic grades are poor, you may take the PCAT.
#9. Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University is among the best pharmacy schools you can attend without PCAT. Students are chosen for admission into the College of Pharmacy based on their pre-pharmacy academic performance, Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) scores (recommended but not required), an admissions interview, written applications, and letters of reference.
All applicants must successfully complete a minimum of 66 semester hours of coursework at a regionally accredited college or university prior to matriculation.
#10. William Carey University
Among the best private pharmacy schools is William Carey University, The Doctor of Pharmacy program at William Carey University School of Pharmacy is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education, 190 South LaSalle Street, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL.
#11. Pacific University(School of Pharmacy)
The Pacific University School of Pharmacy devotes time and resources to teaching its students about patient education and advocacy.
This pharmacy school is constantly developing new learning methods in order to maximize student learning.
The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education has granted accreditation to Pacific University’s School of Pharmacy. This pharmacy school is located in Chicago, Illinois, in the United States.
#12. Marshall University (School of Pharmacy)
Marshall University is a top-notch best pharmacy school that don’t require pcat, from the way classrooms are structured to hands-on learning through simulations, the Marshall University School of Pharmacy takes an innovative approach to teach students.
Students at Marshall University School of Pharmacy will be able to obtain additional certifications at no additional cost during their studies. Immunization, Medication Therapy Management, and Diabetes Management are the certifications. This pharmacy school has one of the lowest tuition rates in the country for both in-state and out-of-state students.
The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education has granted accreditation to the Marshall University School of Pharmacy. This pharmacy school is in Huntington, New York, USA.
#13. St. John’s University( College of Pharmacy )
St. John’s University’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is among the non-pharmcas pharmacy school dedicated to developing compassionate, responsible, and highly skilled health professionals by offering world-class academics.
With a student-centered educational approach and cutting-edge facilities, the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences prepares students to serve communities as pharmacists, physician assistants, clinical laboratory scientists, and health technologists.
#14. Xavier University of Louisiana
Xavier College of Pharmacy strives to provide academic programs that prepare graduates to excel in forward-thinking practice.
As a graduate of Xavier College of Pharmacy, you will be well equipped with practical knowledge to excel in retail pharmacists (independent and chain drug stores), hospitals and clinics, and other pharmacy practice settings.
#15.Keck Graduate Institute
The KGI School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (SPHS), founded in 2014, prepares students to work at the cutting edge of the industry, technology, and patient care. SPHS prepares students for impactful careers through experiential education and unique collaboration with other KGI degree programs.
Why attend a pharmacy school?
Here are 5 reasons why pharmacy school may be best for you
- Work directly with people
- Help people stay healthy
- Pharmacists are in high demand
- Flexible work schedules
- Find affordable Pharmacy degrees
a. Work directly with people
If you enjoy working with people, pursuing a degree in pharmacy is an excellent choice. You get to interact with people from all walks of life who share their problems in detail so that you can provide them with the best advice and medicine.
Obviously, you must be an active listener and demonstrate empathy. Working as a pharmacist, on the other hand, will meet your needs if human interaction is truly important to you.
b. Help people stay healthy
While it is obvious, it is also easy to overlook the importance of pharmacists in healthcare systems. Pharmacists provide people with what they need to stay healthy, whether it’s prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. In some cases, pharmacists may even prepare medication on the spot, using a small laboratory located within the pharmacy or drug store.
A pharmacist’s responsibilities can also vary. Working in a hospital with other doctors may allow you to determine the proper dosage for certain prescriptions. If you work as a pharmacist in a small town, you may be able to do things like vaccinating people or keep them up to date on medical issues.
c. Pharmacists are in high demand
You’ve probably noticed that pharmacies or drug stores are everywhere, whether you live in a small town or the capital of your country. You can’t walk for long without coming across one. This demonstrates the high demand for pharmacists and medicine and IT careers.
d. Flexible work schedules
Unlike other medical professionals such as doctors and nurses, pharmacists have a more flexible schedule.
- work in shifts
- work and continue their studies
There’s also not a lot of pressure. Sure, some patients are more demanding than others, and some can even be a handful. It is sufficient to prescribe the appropriate medications and provide advice on how to use them safely.
e. Find affordable Pharmacy degrees
Another compelling reason to pursue a career in pharmacy is the fact that you can do so from anywhere in the world. Online Pharmacy degrees eliminate the physical barrier that exists between students and universities, allowing you to earn an international diploma from the comfort of your own home.
How long is pharmacy school?
The amount of time it takes to become a pharmacist can vary depending on your level of education. After completing high school, it is possible to qualify as an entry-level pharmacist after completing six years of education. This entails at least five years of undergraduate study followed by a one-year pharmacist internship.
Is pharmacy school worth it?
Pharmacy school exposes students to cutting-edge practices used in real-world healthcare facilities. This pharmacy school is a valuable asset to its community and a provider to a world-class global healthcare community. Do well to attend pharmacy schools not requiring PCAT for easy admission to study pharmacy.
Conclusion
The pharmacy profession is an exciting one that is evolving in tandem with the changing healthcare industry.
Pharmacists are still in charge of overseeing all medication distribution systems, but they are also getting more involved in direct patient care. Pharmacists are in charge of providing pharmaceutical care, patient counseling, and drug therapy monitoring, all with the goal of improving a patient’s quality of life.
We believe that with our list of best pharmacy schools that don’t require PCAT you will be able to make the right decision when choosing a nonpharmacy school to enroll in.
FAQs on Pharmacy Schools That Don’t Require PCAT
How difficult is it to get into pharmacy school?
It is difficult to gain admission to a pharmacy school in the United States. Especially with the minimum GPA required and the additional tests, such as the PCAT, that must be completed. Some schools may require a minimum GPA, a good PCAT score, and some level of experience to increase your chances of admission. Do well to ask what pharmacy school takes low PCAT, if your is low.
What are the basic pharmacy school requirements?
The basic pharmacy prerequisites no pcat school requirements are :
- Obtain a degree in an appropriate subject
- Complete pharmacy school
- Undertake a residency or internship
- Obtain a state license
Can i do pharmacy school online?
Yes, you can be enrolled in a pharmacy online
Can i finish pharmacy school in 3 years?
The Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree program necessitates at least two years of specific undergraduate college study, followed by four academic years (or three calendar years) of professional pharmacy study. After completing three or more years of college, the majority of students enroll in a pharmacy degree program.
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