PEP for Pharmacy Interns: How to Pass the Nigerian Pharmacy Pre-Registration Exam

What Is the PEP and Why It Matters

The Pre-Registration Examination for Pharmacists (PEP) is a mandatory licensure exam administered by the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) for all pharmacy graduates after internship. Essentially, it ensures that every newly graduated pharmacist has the knowledge, skills and professional competence needed to practice safely. The PCN emphasizes that passing PEP is required to be eligible to practice as a pharmacist in Nigeria. In fact, the Registrar of PCN has called PEP a “quality assurance tool” that strengthens professional standards [1]. In short, PEP is the final gate before full pharmacist registration – you cannot become a licensed pharmacist without it.

Eligibility Requirements for PEP Exam

To sit for the PEP, you must meet strict criteria set by PCN:

• Pharmacy Degree: You must have earned a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) or Pharm.D degree from a PCN-accredited university.

• Internship Completion: You must finish the mandatory one-year internship training under a registered pharmacist. PCN requires this internship to be at a PCN-approved training centre (hospital, community pharmacy, industry, etc.). (In fact, the PCN Registrar warns graduates to choose only accredited internship sites, since the PEP is based on internship experience.

• Certificate of Experience: After internship, you receive a signed Certificate of Experience from your preceptor. This document (with the preceptor’s seal) must be submitted with your application[2].

• Temporary Practising License (TPL): Upon completing your internship, PCN issues a Temporary Practising License. You must hold a valid TPL to register for PEP [3]. (You cannot register for the exam without it.)

In summary, only pharmacy graduates who have completed their PCN‐accredited internship and hold the necessary certificates/license may take PEP. Be sure your name and details match your PCN registration records when you apply.

PEP Structure of the Exam and Subjects Covered

The PEP is a two-hour multiple-choice exam designed to test your mastery of core pharmacy practice areas. According to the official PCN PEP Manual, the exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions given in 2 hours. The pass mark is 50% (you must score at least half of the total). Candidates are allowed up to four initial attempts (and one additional attempt after a remedial course) to reach the pass score.

The question topics span the breadth of pharmacy practice. The official syllabus divides the PEP content into major competence domains: Pharmaceutical Care, Medicines Supply, Public Health Pharmacy, Organization & Management, Professional/Personal Management, and Drug Production & Quality Assurance. In practical terms, expect questions on pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutics, pharmacy law and ethics, clinical pharmacy, hospital/community practice, and related topics. For example, PCN notes that interns should gain experience in therapeutic management (pharmacotherapy), public health, administrative/management roles, and quality assurance during their internship. You can anticipate PEP questions on all those areas (plus basic sciences underpinning pharmacy).

Key Facts: PEP is held twice each year (typically in March and October). Each cycle covers the full syllabus of pharmacy practice.

Application Process and Timeline for PEP Exam

Registration for PEP is done online via the PCN PEP portal (https://pcnmcpd.com/pep/). When PCN opens each cycle, candidates create an account on the portal, then log in to fill the application form. You will be asked to enter personal data and internship details – for instance, your provisional license number, certificate of experience number, names, institution, internship start/end dates, preceptor info, and choice of exam centre. You will also need to upload digital copies of required documents: your degree certificate or statement of results, your certificate of experience, proof of provisional (temporary) registration, and a recent passport-sized photo.

After filling the form, you pay the PEP registration fee online. Currently this fee is about ₦20,000 (check the portal for the exact amount). The payment is made through the PCN payment portal via debit card or bank transfer. Once payment is successful, submit the application and print out your confirmation slip for reference.

Timeline: PCN typically opens registration a few weeks before each exam date. Officially, the manual states that completed application forms must reach the Registrar at least 30 days before the exam. In practice, PCN’s announcements often set registration deadlines about 10–20 days prior to the exam. For example, for the March 2022 exam, PCN announced that candidates should register online by early March. Always check the PCN website and press releases for exact dates each cycle.

• Action Steps: As soon as registration opens, set up your portal account and begin the application. Prepare your documents (scan your certificates, photo, etc.) in advance. Don’t wait until the last minute: aim to apply well before the deadline (at least 3–4 weeks ahead).

Key PEP Exam Preparation Tips and Resources

Effective preparation starts months in advance. Here are some top tips:

• Start Early: Begin studying 3–6 months before the exam. Don’t cram at the last minute – PEP covers a lot of material.

• Use Question Banks: Practice with past PEP questions. One popular tool is the Pharmacy Q mobile app, which contains comprehensive question reviews. Working through simulated MCQs helps you get used to the format and identify weak areas.

• Focus on High-Yield Subjects: Concentrate on key pharmacy domains. Review pharmacology, pharmaceutics, clinical pharmacy, pharmacy law and ethics, and related topics intensively. These topics are heavily tested in PEP. Make concise notes for each subject as you review.

• Form Study Groups: Collaborate with fellow interns or recent graduates. Group study lets you quiz each other and cover more ground. Just be cautious to use legitimate free resources (some groups charge fees using apps that are freely available).

• Use Official Guidelines: Review the PCN syllabus and the Internship Manual. PCN’s PEP Manual (available on their website) outlines the expected competencies. Use it to ensure you’re covering all required areas.

• Review Internship Experience: The exam is based on what you learned during your internship. Reflect on cases you saw and tasks you performed. Re-read your internship logbook and pharmacy textbooks on topics you encountered.

• Stay Informed: Keep up with any PCN announcements about PEP. Follow official PCN channels or trusted pharmacy news sites for updates on dates or changes.

Consistent, structured study is key. Use a mix of textbooks, lecture notes, and practice questions. The goal is to be comfortable with solving MCQs under timed conditions.

What to Expect on the Exam Day

On the day of the PEP exam, come fully prepared and punctual. These guidelines will help ensure a smooth experience:

• Arrive Early: Exam halls usually open around 8:00–9:00 am for a 10:00 start. PCN advises candidates to be at the venue at least one hour before the scheduled time. Plan to arrive before 9:00 am for a 10:00 am exam, so you can find your seat, settle in, and avoid last-minute stress.

• Dress Formally: Wear your professional or formal attire. PCN requires candidates to dress formally for the exam. This maintains a professional atmosphere.

• Bring ID and Exam Slip: Carry the exam confirmation slip or application slip issued to you, along with a valid photo ID. You will need to show these upon entry. Only those whose names are on the official candidate list will be admitted.

• What to Bring: Pack multiple sharpened HB pencils (for the answer sheet) and an eraser. According to PCN instructions, all answers must be shaded on the MCQ answer sheet using a pencil. You cannot use pens or calculators. Also bring a bottle of water and tissues if you like.

• Prohibited Items: Phones, smartwatches, tablets, and any electronic devices are strictly banned. Even if turned off, these items are not allowed in the hall. Leave all unauthorized materials outside.

• Follow Invigilator Instructions: You will have two hours to answer 200 questions. Listen carefully to any instructions given by the invigilators. You must write your candidate number on the question paper and the answer sheet. You may not leave the hall in the first 30 minutes or last 30 minutes of the exam.

• During the Exam: Work methodically. Read each question carefully and fully shade the correct option. Manage your time so you attempt all questions (200 questions in 120 minutes means about 36 seconds per question, though some will take longer). If time permits, review any marked questions before submitting.

• After the Exam: Submit your question booklet and answer sheet. Sign the attendance/attendance sheet at the end if required. Then leave calmly when dismissal is announced.

Being relaxed and prepared on exam day helps your performance. Remember that this is just the final step to earning your license – stay confident!

After the Exam: Passing or Failing

Once the exam is over, what happens next depends on your result:

• If You Pass: Congratulations! Your name will be submitted for full registration. The PCN will induct you as a licensed pharmacist. In previous cycles, PCN has officially inducted successful candidates in public ceremonies (for example, PCN inducted 176 new pharmacists in January 2022. After passing PEP, you should obtain your full practicing license from PCN and begin your professional practice. Remember to pay your annual renewal fees on time. Passing PEP means you can legally open pharmacy outlets or work independently as a pharmacist in Nigeria.

• If You Fail: Don’t be discouraged. You are allowed to re-take the exam in the next cycle. Simply register again when PCN opens for the next exam session. The PEP rules allow up to four initial attempts. If you fail four times, PCN requires you to undergo a refresher training before making a final (fifth) attempt. Use the feedback to identify weak areas, then study hard before re-sitting. Many candidates don’t pass on their first try, so use the next few months to prepare and approach the exam again.

In summary, passing the PEP leads to licensing and practice, while failing means you must try again (but you have multiple attempts). The key is to analyze your weak points and prepare thoroughly for the next sitting.