If you’re thinking seriously about becoming a pharmacist, you’re probably already asking yourself: Do I have what it takes? And more importantly, what are pharmacy schools really looking for? You’re not alone. These questions come up all the time—and for good reason.
Admissions can feel confusing and intimidating, especially when you’re juggling school, exams, and a big career decision. So let’s break it down in simple, honest terms.
Do I Need a Bachelor’s Degree Before I Apply?
In most cases, no. You don’t have to earn a bachelor’s degree to apply to pharmacy school. The Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program typically requires at least two years of undergraduate coursework. That said, most students complete three or more years of college before applying, and some schools give preference to applicants who already hold a degree.
Even if you have a bachelor’s or even a master’s degree, you’ll still need to complete the full professional program—usually four academic years or three calendar years of study.
What Classes Do I Need to Take in College?
This varies quite a bit depending on the school. Most pharmacy programs require a set of core courses—things like general and organic chemistry, biology, anatomy, calculus, and English composition.
The best advice? Don’t guess. Visit the websites of the schools you’re interested in, or check the official PharmCAS school directory. Admission requirements can differ more than you might expect.
Should I Major in Pre-Pharmacy?
You don’t have to. In fact, many students major in biology or chemistry simply because those programs include most of the required courses for pharmacy school. But your major can be anything—from business to English to psychology—as long as you complete the necessary prerequisites.
Some pharmacy schools may weigh courses taken at four-year universities more heavily than those from community colleges, so it’s worth checking directly with each school.
What GPA Do I Need?
Here’s the truth: most pharmacy schools do have a minimum GPA requirement. But numbers don’t tell the whole story.
Many schools now take a holistic approach, meaning they also consider your personal background, life experiences, communication skills, and motivation. Still, maintaining a strong GPA—especially in science and math—is one of the best ways to stay competitive.
Does My Class Rank Matter?
Sometimes, yes. Schools may look at where you ranked in your class—especially in the context of your overall academic performance. They want students who’ve shown consistent effort and promise, even in tough subjects. You don’t need to be perfect. But you do need to show that you care, that you’re willing to work hard, and that you’re serious about your future.
What If I Repeated a Course?
It happens. If you struggled in a class—especially a science prerequisite—it might be a good idea to retake it. Some schools will replace the old grade with the new one; others will average both attempts. Either way, showing improvement can help strengthen your application. Don’t be discouraged—everyone’s academic path has ups and downs.
Do I Need Pharmacy Work or Volunteer Experience?
It’s not a formal requirement, but it definitely helps.
Some applicants have worked as pharmacy technicians or shadowed professionals. Others have volunteered in clinics, hospitals, or community health programs. What matters most isn’t just the experience, but what it shows about you—your passion for helping others, your curiosity about healthcare, and your ability to connect with people.
If you haven’t had direct pharmacy experience, that’s okay. Focus on developing skills that pharmacy schools value: empathy, discipline, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate clearly.
One Final Thought
Getting into pharmacy school isn’t just about checking boxes. It’s about showing who you are and why you belong in this field.
Take time to reflect. What draws you to pharmacy? How have your experiences shaped you? What challenges have you overcome, and what do you hope to contribute to the profession?
