PCAT FAQs
PCAT...What is it?...and more answers
Note: the PCAT was discontinued in January 2024.
The PCAT Examination (Pharmacy College Admissions Test) is similar to an MCAT, SAT, ACT or other entrance examinations. This exam consists of several basic areas: Biological Processes, Chemical Processes, Quantitative Reasoning, Critical Reading and a Writing prompt.
The PCAT is optional for all U.S. pharmacy schools.
You may find out more information by contacting Pearson at 1-800-622-3231 or the Official Pharmacy College Admissions Test web site.
The PCAT test is optional for applications submitted for the 2024 cycle.
When in my coursework should I take the PCAT?
For most students, the PCAT should be taken after the first year in college. Before taking the exam, the student should complete Intro. to Biological Science I and II (with Labs), Fundamentals of Chemistry I and II (with Labs), and Calculus I. The student does not need to complete Organic before taking the exam, but should at least be enrolled in Organic I.
Bear in mind that PCAT scores more than three years old (older than 1/2021) will not be considered.
The PCAT test is optional for applications submitted for the 2024 cycle.
How does the UH College of Pharmacy interpret the PCAT scores?
Is my PCAT score competitive? Should I retake the exam?
The PCAT provides the admissions committee more information to consider during their holistic review of an applicant's record. Applicants may take the exam several times; each score will be looked at separately. If applicants do retake the exam, it is advised to increase their score for each retake. The college does not drop the lowest score or average PCAT scores. PCAT scores more than three years old (older than 1/2021) will not be considered when making admissions decisions.
It is recommended that applicants score in the 40th percentile or above range in each of these areas of the PCAT: Biological Processes, Chemical Processes, Quantitative Reasoning, and Critical Reading.
The PCAT test is optional for applications submitted for the 2024 cycle.
How do I get my PCAT Scores to UHCOP?
Since UHCOP uses PharmCAS, PCAT scores sent to PharmCAS will be matched to your PharmCAS record for us to review once your PharmCAS record is verified. When registering for the PCAT, Select PharmCAS Code 104 to report PCAT scores directly to PharmCAS. As a reminder, the PCAT is optional for the 2024 cycle.
I hear that it can take several weeks for my Official PCAT scores to reach PharmCAS after I take it. Is there any way my PCAT scores can be sent to UHCOP sooner?
Yes. We will accept the Preliminary PCAT Score Report so long as it is uploaded to your PharmCAS application shortly after the test date. PharmCAS ID should be written on the Student Score report.
Instructions for providing Preliminary PCAT Score Report:
- Type in your preliminary PCAT scores within your PharmCAS application.
- Scan the Student Score Report. It must be easily readable and cannot be any larger than 5 MB in size
- Access your PharmCAS account and upload the Student Score Report in the Program Materials section for the University of Houston College of Pharmacy, in the Documents tab
- Review the PharmCAS application instructions for more information on how to properly upload documents to your PharmCAS application
Preliminary PCAT scores will be reviewed with the understanding that any offers made are dependent upon submission of official results of the PCAT. Select PharmCAS Code 104 to report PCAT scores directly to PharmCAS.
The PCAT test is optional for applications submitted for the 2024 cycle.