Whether you’re a new graduate preparing for your first pharmacy exam or a licensed pharmacist seeking reciprocity in a new state, this guide provides the details you need to ensure a smooth path to MPJE success.
MPJE Eligibility
To sit for the MPJE, you must meet all application requirements from your state board of pharmacy. If you’re a new graduate, this may include completing an ACPE-accredited pharmacy program, finishing intern hours, and submitting additional materials such as transcripts and fingerprints.
If you’re already licensed and seeking reciprocity, you’ll need to meet specific requirements and often take the MPJE for the new state. Once you’ve submitted all required materials, your state board will review your application. If approved, you’ll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT), allowing you to schedule your exam.
Can International Students Take the MPJE?
International students can take the MPJE. If you’re an international student, you’ll need to obtain Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC®) certification before applying to take pharmacist licensure exams in a United States jurisdiction.
The FPGEC certification evaluates your pharmacy education in comparison to U.S. colleges of pharmacy and includes the following:
- A review of your education and licensure/registration
- A passing score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT)
- A passing score on the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Equivalency Examination (FPGEE®)
MPJE Registration
Here is everything you need to know about the MPJE registration process, score transfers, eligibility to test, and what you should do if you want to cancel your registration.
When Can I Apply For the MPJE?
You may apply for the MPJE exam prior to graduating. However, you will not be able to schedule your exam until you have completed all graduation requirements and received confirmation of your eligibility from your state board of pharmacy. To register for the exam, you must submit an official transcript from your school that includes your degree conferral date.
If you’re already a licensed pharmacist in one state, you can apply for licensure in other states by meeting the reciprocity requirements set by the new state’s Board of Pharmacy. Once your eligibility is confirmed, you can sit for the MPJE.
States and Jurisdictions That Require the MPJE
All but 8 jurisdictions require the MPJE examination for pharmacy licensure. Arkansas and California have their own jurisprudence exam. Non-participating jurisdictions are:
- Alaska
- Arkansas
- California
- Idaho
- Michigan
- Puerto Rico
- Vermont
- Virgin Islands
How to Register for the MPJE
The Candidate Application Bulletin is a comprehensive guide to applying and registering for the MPJE. Before starting the registration process, read the entire bulletin to determine the licensure requirements. A summary of the process is outlined below:
- Obtain a NABP e-Profile If you do not already have a National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) e-Profile, follow the instructions on NABP’s website to create one. Verify that the name in your e-Profile exactly matches the name on the primary and secondary IDs that you will use to be admitted to the testing center. If applicable, request an armed forces discount through your NABP e-Profile prior to applying for the exam.
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Register for the exam
- You must register to take the MPJE on the NABP website by applying in the “Exam Services” section of your NABP e-Profile.
- You have the option to apply for exams in multiple jurisdictions.
- As part of your registration, you must pay the application fee for each jurisdiction.
- If applicable, request accommodations through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Submit your transcripts (for new licensees) and receive your authorization to test If you graduated in or after 2020 and are obtaining your first license, request that your pharmacy school send an official transcript to NABP before registering for the exam and receiving your ATT. Some state boards may also require transcripts for licensure. Check with your state board for details. Your ATT, valid for 1 session, will be emailed by Pearson VUE. If you don’t receive it, check your spam folder or contact Pearson VUE customer service.
- Purchase your exam Your MPJE eligibility is granted once you receive your ATT and the exam payment link appears in your e-Profile. As soon as you become eligible, NABP strongly recommends you purchase your exam. You may also purchase a score transfer at this time.
- Schedule your test date and location After purchasing the exam, you can schedule an appointment with Pearson VUE. If you are a first-time test-taker, you must create a Pearson VUE online account to schedule your appointment. This step requires you to enter the NABP ID number you received in your ATT letter. Since testing sites and locations fill up rapidly, we recommend scheduling your exam promptly! Check with Pearson VUE to learn more about scheduling your exam.
- Study for the MPJE You will need to be familiar with laws that govern pharmacy practice at the federal and state levels. Specifically, you will need to review the laws and regulations of the state or jurisdiction for which you are seeking licensure.
- Take the exam Now that you have taken the above steps, it is time to prepare for the exam. For information on what to study, refer to our extensive MPJE study guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does the MPJE cost?
How long do you have to wait to retake the MPJE?
Can I cancel my MPJE exam registration?
How do I request an Armed Forces discount?
NABP offers a discount to members, veterans, and spouses of the United States Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Space Force.
You should request the discount prior to applying for the examinations and provide any required supporting documentation in your NABP e-Profile.How do I reschedule my examination appointment?
Read More About the MPJE Exam
Get all the information you need to know about the MPJE, including the exam format.
MPJE BlueprintReview the 4 areas tested on the exam with percentage breakdowns so you can tailor your study plan.
MPJE Scoring GuideReview how the exam is scored, the exam topic distribution, and what to expect from your results.
MPJE Study GuideRead our expertly crafted study guide with study tips that increase your chances of passing.