The Pharmacy College Admission Test was first administered to students in 1974. This group of students was applying for pharmacy school for the 1975-1976 school year. Studies have been done over the years to determine whether or not the PCAT really does predict academic success in pharmacy school. The test was revised in 1993 to include five areas: verbal, reading comprehension, quantitative ability, biology and chemistry. This was streamlined from the previous test, which covered seven areas: reading comprehension, arithmetic, biology, quantitative ability, mathematical reasoning, chemistry and verbal ability. The test has not changed since 1993.
There are several dates throughout the year when students can take the PCAT. Usually, the dates range from June until January. It's important to check the registration deadlines for the pharmacy schools located where you want to apply. Register for the PCAT early so you can get a seat on the desired testing date. You may be taking the PCAT a full year or more before you actually start pharmacy school.
There are many ways to prepare for the PCAT. There are courses offered by tutoring companies and universities. You can take a practice test online (see Resources). You can also purchase PCAT flashcards and study guides from book stores. The best way to prepare for the PCAT is to begin studying early and to keep up a regular studying routine. Cramming for such a large, multi-faceted test will not yield good results. Make sure you spend time on each of the five subject areas and review regularly.
There are several strategies you can use to do well on the test. First of all, study effectively and familiarize yourself with the test by doing at least one practice test. On the day of the test, prepare yourself physically by getting a good night's sleep and eating a healthy breakfast. Wear comfortable clothing to the test. Allow plenty of time to get to the test center in case you run into traffic. Once you have begun the test, answer as many multiple choice questions as you can. Don't change your original answer unless you feel that you have a very good reason to do so. First hunches are usually correct. Do not waste your time on difficult items; move on to those you are confident about. Work quickly but go back and check your answers. For the writing portions, plan your essays before you begin writing them.
The PCAT is scored on a scale between 200 and 600. You will also be given a percentile rank that tells you how you performed compared to a group of peers (first-time test takers who took the exam between 2004 and 2007). If you are dissatisfied with your score, you may sign up to take the test again, but you must pay the fee again. You may do this up to five times. Your scores will stay on record for five years and can be sent to pharmacy schools any time during those five years.