Language Proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate sufficient language proficiency in either English or French to register with the College. This requirement is to ensure pharmacy professionals are able to communicate effectively with patients, the College, and other healthcare professionals.

The College’s language proficiency requirements are aligned with the relevant National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) language proficiency requirements for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.

Alternative mechanisms to meet this requirement are outlined in the language proficiency policies.

Applicants from Accredited Pharmacy Programs

Students and graduates of Canadian educational programs accredited by the Canadian Council for the Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP) or of pharmacy degree programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) are considered to have met the language proficiency requirements.

Other Applicants

International pharmacy graduates, international pharmacy technician applicants, and in-the-profession pharmacy technician applicants are required to demonstrate their language proficiency as part of their pathway to registration. These applicants must either:

  • Submit objective evidence that meets the minimum acceptable test scores for pharmacists or pharmacy technicians as set by NAPRA and OCP within the standard error of measurement (SEM) where indicated, or
  • Submit acceptable non-objective evidence that demonstrates the applicant can speak and write English or French with reasonable language proficiency
Currency of Language Proficiency

Test scores are valid for two years and must be valid when an application is processed. Testing institutions will not provide official confirmation of test results beyond two years from the test date. The College has developed a policy on Extending the Validity of Language Proficiency Test Scores.

Resolutions and Policies

The Registration Committee has approved four policies related to language proficiency.

College Contact: registrantservices@ocpinfo.com