How to become a registered pharmacist in the UK with a Nepalese pharmacy degree?
Samarajya Shrestha
To become a registered pharmacist in the UK with a Nepalese pharmacy degree, you must follow the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registration process for non-EEA qualified pharmacists. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored for Nepalese applicants:
Step 1: Check Eligibility & Qualification Recognition
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Degree Recognition
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Your Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) from Nepal must be assessed by the GPhC.
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If your degree is not deemed equivalent to a UK Master of Pharmacy (MPharm), you’ll need to complete the Overseas Pharmacists’ Assessment Programme (OSPAP).
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Nepalese degrees: Typically require OSPAP unless exempted (check via GPhC’s list).
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Work Experience
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At least 1-2 years of pharmacy practice experience (preferred but not always mandatory).
Step 2: English Language Proficiency
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IELTS (Academic): Overall 7.0 (with 7.0 in each section – Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
OR -
OET (Pharmacy): Grade B in all four sections.
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Exemption: If you studied pharmacy in English (must provide proof).
Step 3: Complete OSPAP (If Required)
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A 1-year postgraduate diploma (available at UK universities like University of Sunderland, Brighton, Hertfordshire).
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Cost: ~£10,000–£15,000.
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Requirement: Must pass OSPAP before proceeding.
Step 4: Pre-Registration Training (52 Weeks)
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You must complete 1 year of supervised training in a GPhC-approved UK pharmacy (hospital or community).
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How to get a placement?
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Apply via NHS jobs, pharmacy chains (Boots, Lloyds, Well), or recruitment agencies.
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Some OSPAP providers help with placements.
Step 5: Pass the GPhC Registration Assessment
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A written exam on UK pharmacy law, practice, and ethics.
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Two parts:
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Closed-book exam (MCQs).
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Open-book exam (case studies).
Step 6: Full GPhC Registration
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After passing the exam, apply for full registration with the GPhC.
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You can now work as a fully registered UK pharmacist.
Step 7: Visa & Work in the UK
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Skilled Worker Visa (sponsored by employer).
- Health and Care Worker Visa (if working in NHS, offers lower fees & fast-track).