Pharmaceutical schools have a special application test called the PCAT (Pharmacy College Admission Test) designed to identify qualified applicants. It measures general academic ability as well as the scientific background necessary for pharmaceutical study. If you feel like you could use an edge in your preparations, Varsity Tutors can help you find a knowledgeable PCAT tutor who can meet your needs.
The PCAT has five timed sections, and you are not permitted to go back to a previous section after finishing another. This makes time management a very important skill throughout the entire test. The first section is a 30-minute Writing portion where you are expected to compose an original essay arguing for a solution to a provided problem. Many students struggle to articulate themselves in writing, but an experienced PCAT tutor can show you how to outline your thoughts so that you have some direction. An outline also ensures that you don't forget any important points you intended to make.
The second section is Biological Processes and allows 45 minutes to answer 48 multiple-choice questions. Some of the questions are standalone, while others are related to short reading passages. The questions are split between General Biology (50%), Microbiology (20%), and Human Anatomy and Physiology (30%). It's virtually impossible to be sure of every answer, but your PCAT tutor can show you how to eliminate some choices to increase the accuracy of any educated guesses you make.
The third section is Chemical Processes and has the exact same format as section two. Questions are asked concerning General Chemistry (50%), Organic Chemistry (30%), and Basic Biochemistry Processes (20%). If you suffer from test anxiety, your PCAT tutor may provide practice exams to help you feel comfortable with the format of sections two and three.
The fourth section is Critical Reading. You have 50 minutes to answer 48 multiple-choice questions based on longer reading passages. If you have a hard time absorbing written material, your tutor can teach you active reading techniques to help you take relevant notes as you read. The question breakdown is 30% Comprehension, 40% Analysis, and 30% Evaluation, ratios that can help you identify what you should jot down.
The fifth section is Quantitative Reasoning and consists of 48 multiple-choice math questions over 50 minutes. A broad range of mathematics skills are assessed, including Basic Math (25%), Algebra (25%), Probability and Statistics (18%), Precalculus (18%), and Calculus (14%). If you are stronger in one of these areas than another, your PCAT tutor can address your weaknesses to increase the efficiency of your study sessions.
We can help you find a professional PCAT tutor who meets your scheduling and academic needs. Our Live Learning Platform also allows you to study anywhere with a strong internet connection, making it more convenient than ever before. Contact us today for more information.
