Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT)
PCAT Optional
PCAT scores are optional for most* applications to the University of Minnesota PharmD program. Here are more details for specific situations:
If you haven't yet taken the PCAT, you may choose whether or not to do so.
We strongly recommend taking the PCAT if your:
Overall GPA is below 3.0
Science prerequisite grades are consistently below a B-
Science prerequisites were taken 5+ years ago
Grades have trended down over time
Note that an approved standardized test is typically required to apply to any of our dual degree programs, so applicants considering a dual degree are advised to take the PCAT.
We strongly recommend seeking our guidance before deciding whether or not to take the PCAT: Email us set up an individual appointment
*If you take or have already taken the PCAT , your official score is required as part of your application and should be reported directly to PharmCAS at code 104.
Reporting Your PCAT Score to PharmCAS
Final PCAT testing dates will be offered in July, October, January; no PCAT testing dates will be offered during the 2024-2025 admissions cycle or beyond
The latest PCAT exam option to meet our Priority Deadline is during the October testing window
The latest PCAT exam option for our Final Deadline is during the January testing window
It's best to register for the PCAT at least two months before your test date
PCAT scores expire after 5 years
Official PCAT scores must be sent to PharmCAS at code 104 (when registering for the PCAT, select PharmCAS as the score recipient). Scores may not be sent directly to our school.
Scores reported in prior years can be pulled forward to the next application cycle; applicants must apply through PharmCAS as a reapplicant and choose to pull test scores forward rather than starting a new application.
PCAT Subtests
Number and Approximate % of Item Types
1. Writing (30 Minutes) 1 prompt 2. Biological Processes (45 Minutes) 48 Items General Biology
50%
Microbiology
20%
Human Anatomy and Physiology
30%
3. Chemical Processes (45 Minutes) 48 Items General Chemistry
50%
Organic Chemistry
30%
Basic Biochemistry Processes
20%
4. Critical Reading (50 minutes) 48 Items Comprehension
30%
Analysis
40%
Evaluation
30%
5. Quantitative Reasoning (50 minutes) 48 Items Basic Math
25%
Algebra
25%
Probability & Statistics
18%
Precalculus
18%
Calculus
14%
Total Test (220 minutes): 192 multiple-choice items, 1 writing promt