Key Points
- The PSI Equivalence Exam is a part of the TCQR procedure for pharmacists who come from outside the EU/EEA.
- It is only required that gaps are identified in the holistic assessment.
- The test can be a written paper, an OSCE or both.
- The focus areas of the exam are clinical pharmacy, Irish law, patient counselling, communication and pharmaceutical sciences.
- Fees: €500 for the application, €1,000 for the holistic assessment, €3,000 for the exam (if required) and €300 for an appeal.
- PSI published an indicative syllabus and a reading list for the candidates.
- Your first-time pass rates significantly improve with Elite Expertise with their structured courses.
Being a registered pharmacist in Ireland is the key to one of the most highly respected healthcare systems in Europe. For pharmacists outside the EU/EEA the journey is through the Third Country Qualification Recognition (TCQR) process which is managed by the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI).
Some candidates may be asked to complete the PSI Equivalence Exam, an aptitude test, as part of the procedure. Not all the applicants are required to take this test; those who have to do it are given it as the last stage of registration.
The post explains the procedure of the exam, gives tips on successful preparation and explains why Elite Expertise’s planned practice is a reliable training partner for international pharmacists.
What Is the PSI Equivalence Exam?
The Equivalence Exam will only be given after the comprehensive evaluation conducted by PSI, which determines the differences between your qualification and the Irish MPharm standard.
- Format:
- The Written Paper part consists of multiple-choice and case-based questions that test pharmaceutical sciences, clinical pharmacy and pharmacy practice.
- OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) → A Practical, timed station evaluating patient counselling, law compliance, dispensing accuracy and communication.
- Goal:
- The aim is to verify that international pharmacists meet the requirements of Ireland to practice safely and effectively.
PSI Equivalence Exam Fees (2025)
| Process Stage | Fee Type | Fee |
| Stage 1 | Application fee | €500 |
| Stage 2 | Holisitic Assessment fee | €1,000 |
| Stage 3 | Exam fee | €3,000 |
The PSI TCQR fees are fixed at each stage:
- Path A (no exam): €500 + €1,000 = €1,500
- Path B (exam assigned): €500 + €1,000 + €3,000 = €4,500 (excluding appeal)
What Does the Syllabus Cover?
The indicative syllabus along with the recommended readings (PSI, 2024) reflects the Irish MPharm outcomes. Some core areas are:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences – pharmacology, pharmaceutics and medical chemistry
- Clinical Pharmacy – Therapeutic decision making, case-based learning and drug monitoring
- Pharmacy law & practice– Controlled substance, Irish pharmacy legislation and ethics.
- Public health & Patient Care – Adverse Drug Reaction reporting, vaccination & patient counselling.
Suggested Readings include:
- Aulton’s Pharmaceutics
- FASTtrack Clinical Pharmacy
- Rang & Dale’s Pharmacology
- Pharmacy and Medicines Law in Ireland
- Pharmacy OSCEs – A Revision Guide
Tips: While the PSI does not publish a “single official syllabus,” all these subject areas do align with both MCQ and OSCE expectations.
How to Prepare for the PSI Equivalence Exam
1. Understand the Structure
Understand the difference between the written exam and the OSCE. The written section needs both speed and accuracy, while the OSCE requires clear, empathetic communication and practical judgment.
2. Plan Your Study
Divide the syllabus into small topics that are easy to handle. Put more revision time into Irish pharmacy law and ethics, which is generally the most difficult part for candidates.
3. Practise Under Exam Conditions
- Timed MCQs can be used to practise under exam conditions.
- Practice OSCE scenarios with mock patients or peers.
- Keep a record of your communication style and assess it.
4. Use PSI’s Indicative Readings
Only use the books and materials that PSI recommends for the exam. They indicate the focus areas of the exam.
5. Seek Professional Support
Self-preparation can be done but confidence and pass rates are greatly improved by structured training. This is the stage where Elite Expertise gets to be very useful.
Why Elite Expertise Stands Out for PSI Equivalence Exam Prep
International pharmacists face unique challenges that include adjusting to the healthcare culture of Ireland and also understanding the exam techniques. Elite Expertise offers a fully customised PSI Equivalence Exam Preparation Course comprising:
- Expert-Led Training – Training by experienced pharmacists who are familiar with the PSI process.
- Complete Coverage – Inclusion of every topic in the indicative syllabus.
- Practice Exams & OSCE simulations – Need to practice under real exam conditions.
- Flexible Learning – Access to live classes, recordings and individual guidance.
- Track Record of Success – Many students have successfully passed the exam on their first attempt under the guidance of Elite Expertise.
Final Words
The PSI Equivalence Exam 2025 is not just a requirement, it is your chance to become a pharmacist in Ireland with confidence and credibility. Through targeted preparation, following the PSI syllabus and receiving expert support. It is possible to be successful on your first attempt.
We at Elite Expertise are the best professionals who can provide an in-depth explanation of the syllabus to an international pharmacist. By guiding them through the process and helping to achieve a brilliant performance in the OSCE.
Start preparing smartly. Prepare with Elite Expertise.
