Admissions Rx

Yes, I can discuss that in general terms. In general, the most important part of your application is your grades in prerequisite science and math courses. Your essays and healthcare experience are probably the next most important factors. Slightly less important are letters of reference and other parts of your academic background (such as additional advanced coursework in the sciences) although these factors definitely matter in the admissions process.

If you are invited to interview with us, your performance in the interview becomes extremely important.

The importance of essays and experience often surprises candidates. That importance reflects the importance of communication and teamwork in the pharmacy profession. Make sure to devote plenty of time to composing your essays. Also, make sure to list all your relevant experience on your PharmCAS application.

Just as when you apply for a job, you should ensure that all parts of your application are as polished as you can make them.

Not for Oregon State Pharm.D. admissions. If you are a non-native speaker of English, we will evaluate your English language proficiency through your essays and through the interview process.

International students should remember that our admissions committee asks that you complete some of your prerequisite coursework (in particular the upper-division science courses) in the United States. See our FAQ for more details about this. International students who want to complete those prerequisites at OSU should apply for admission to OSU through the Office of Admissions.

A quick tip as you prepare your PharmCAS applications – PharmCAS operates on Eastern time. You must submit your PharmCAS application by midnight Eastern time (i.e. 9 p.m. Pacific) on November 1 for it to be considered on time. Obviously, all your supplemental application materials must also arrive at the College of Pharmacy on November 1.