So you want to be a pharmacist? Congratulations on making a commitment to this meaningful health care profession. But before getting too far ahead of yourself, the pharmacy college application process is staring you in the face. You have your sights set on being accepted to a top-ranked pharmacy college (hopefully UF), but you need some advice in navigating the application process. Do not fret, we’re here to help. The University of Florida College of Pharmacy admissions committee and office of student affairs has assembled these 10 tips that will help you improve your pharmacy school application.
1. Start Early & Build a Timeline
Map out all key steps — course plans, shadowing, standardized tests, essays, rec letters —with deadlines. Early prep = less stress.
2. Use the PharmCAS and School Checklists
Follow both PharmCAS and your target schools’ specific checklists to ensure you cover every requirement, like resumes, essays and transcripts.
3. Strengthen Your Professional Network
When recommending letter writers or seeking insights, go beyond faculty and connect with pharmacists, peers and advisors. Networking can unlock shadowing or mentorship opportunities.
4. Craft a Compelling Personal Story
Bring your journey alive — why you chose pharmacy, who inspired you and what future impact you foresee. Make it memorable.
5. Showcase Your Experiences Strategically
Highlight purposeful roles: pharmacy work, health care volunteering, mission trips and research. Detail what you learned and how it shaped you.
6. Address and Own Any Red Flags
If there’s a dip in grades or a low test score, explain briefly but focus on how you have grown and improved since then.
7. Improve Academics — Don’t Just Explain
Demonstrate growth: retake coursework, pursue certificates or join study groups. Show resilience, not excuses.
8. Polish Your Essays and Application — Then Proofread
Review texts on multiple days; get fresh perspectives. Eliminate typos and grammatical errors, as presentation matters.
9. Prepare Thoughtful Professional Letters of Recommendation
Ask individuals who know your strengths deeply — preferably faculty in science and pharmacists who have mentored you.
10. Ace the Interview with Confidence and Authenticity
Practice common questions, share your vision for pharmacy and prepare insightful questions about each program. Confidence is key.
We hope these tips will help with your pharmacy school application preparations. Best of luck!