Note: This page is only applicable to students applying to PharmD schools after graduating from UW-Madison. For information on UW School of Pharmacy’s application, visit their website.
Application Timeline
Below is a rough timeline for preparing your application.
Fall before you apply
Research Schools
For a map of pharmacy programs, visit the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP). For tips on choosing schools, visit our Selecting Schools page.
Make a list of your activities outside of class
- Hours, dates, locations, contacts
- What your role was, what you learned
Identify possible letter writers
Spring before you apply
Study for the Pharmacy College Admissions Test
Pharmacy schools require the PCAT. To hear how other students have prepared, visit our exam tips page.
Write personal statement
For tips on writing your application essay, check out our Personal Statements page.
Request letters of recommendation
Most schools require 2-4 letters of recommendation. For tips on how to build relationships with faculty, visit our Letters of Recommendation page.
Summer that you apply
Complete the centralized application
Most pharmacy schools use a centralized application called PharmCAS, which opens in early July. PharmCAS costs $150 for the first school and $55 for each additional program. The centralized application includes:
- Biographical Information
- Coursework & Transcripts
- Personal Statement
- Work & Volunteer Experiences
- Letters of Recommendation
Complete school-specific supplemental application
Some, but not all, pharmD programs have a supplemental application.
Interview
Some, but not all, PharmD programs have finalists interview. For help preparing for interviews, visit our Interview Preparation page.