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How to become a pharmacist in Canada
Step-by-step guide for internationally trained pharmacists on how to become licensed in Canada. Includes exam costs, timelines, and salaries.
2025-08-20
Step-by-step guide for internationally trained pharmacists on how to become licensed in Canada. Includes exam costs, timelines, and salaries.
2025-08-20
Pharmacists play a key role in keeping Canadians healthy. With more than 45,000 licensed pharmacists working across the country, they are one of the most accessible healthcare professionals (Pharmacists.ca). Canadians visit a pharmacy over 375 million times each year, not only to pick up prescriptions but also for vaccinations, medication advice, and health services. The Canadian Institute for Health Information notes that demand for pharmacists continues to grow as the population ages and the need for chronic disease management increases.
This demand creates real opportunities for International Pharmacy Graduates (IPGs). Every year, thousands of newcomers arrive with pharmacy degrees and international experience. By completing the licensing process, IPGs can fill critical labour shortages, support communities across Canada, and contribute to the economy. The federal government estimates that more than 12,500 new pharmacist jobs will need to be filled between 2019 and 2028, with internationally trained professionals playing a major role in meeting that demand( StatCan).
The path to becoming a licensed pharmacist in Canada takes time and effort, but it is achievable with the right planning. The main steps are similar across provinces, though some differences exist in the order of registration and exams.
All international pharmacy graduates (IPGs) start by creating an account with Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada, managed by the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA). This account becomes your official record and connects you with the provincial regulatory authority where you plan to practice.
Your education credentials must be reviewed and accepted by the PEBC. Once approved, you take the Evaluating Examination. Passing this exam confirms your education is comparable to Canadian standards.
Most provinces require IPGs to complete a bridging program to strengthen clinical knowledge, communication, and understanding of the Canadian healthcare system. Programs are offered by universities like the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia.
After your bridging program, you typically apply to your provincial college of pharmacists to become an intern (sometimes called a provisional pharmacist). As part of this, you must provide proof of identity, legal status in Canada, liability insurance, language proficiency, and a police clearance.
During your internship, you must complete structured competency assessments and pass a jurisprudence exam, which tests your knowledge of pharmacy law, ethics, and professionalism. Every province requires this step, though the format and name of the exam may vary slightly.
The Qualifying Exam has two parts: a written multiple-choice test and an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). Some provinces allow you to attempt these exams before your internship, while others require intern registration first. The exams ensure you can apply knowledge in real-world practice.
After completing all internship hours, assessments, and exams, you can apply for full pharmacist registration with your provincial college. At this stage, you will pay registration fees, maintain liability insurance, and provide an employment site for your practice.
The journey to becoming a licensed pharmacist as an IPG can take two to three years on average, although some candidates may complete it faster depending on exam schedules, personal readiness, and provincial rules. In some cases, motivated IPGs with strong preparation can move through the process in under 18 months. However, delays are common, especially if exams need to be retaken or if bridging program spots are limited.
The cost of this journey is significant. According to the Ontario College of Pharmacists and the PEBC, total expenses can reach CAD 20,000 or more. This includes fees for document evaluation, the Evaluating Exam, Qualifying Exam Parts I and II, bridging program tuition, police checks, language testing, and liability insurance. Provincial registration fees add to the cost, averaging CAD 400 to 600 per year, plus renewal. Bridging programs alone may cost between CAD 10,000 and 15,000 depending on the institution.
These costs, while high, are an investment in a career that offers long-term financial stability and professional growth. Once licensed, pharmacists earn competitive salaries, making the return on investment worthwhile.
In terms of income, pharmacists are among Canada’s well-paid healthcare professionals. National data shows average salaries ranging from CAD 100,000 to CAD 120,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning upwards of CAD 140,000 in some provinces(canadianvisa.org). These figures vary based on location, work setting, and years of experience, but overall reflect the strong earning potential of the profession.
At Windmill Microlending, we understand the financial challenges newcomers face when restarting their careers in Canada. Licensing exams, bridging programs, and registration fees are expensive, and many skilled immigrants struggle to cover these costs.
That is where we can help. We provide affordable loans for internationally trained pharmacists, giving you the support you need to pay for exams, courses, and licensing fees. By removing financial barriers, we help you focus on what really matters, achieving your goal of becoming a licensed pharmacist in Canada and building a stable future for yourself and your family.
If you are ready to begin your journey, explore how Windmill Microlending can support you in becoming a pharmacist in Canada.
