IMA International

New Zealand: Pharmacist — KAPS + Internship Pathway

Internationally qualified pharmacists must obtain registration from the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand (PCNZ). The pathway includes credential assessment, passing the KAPS exam (or an approved equivalent), English proficiency, and completing a 52-week supervised internship followed by an oral exam.

70%

Success Rate

18–30 Months

$5,000 – $8,000 NZD

18–30 Months

Total Duration

$5,000 – $8,000 NZD

Estimated Cost

70%

Success Rate

Very Hard

Difficulty Level

Back to All Pathways
Step-by-Step Guide

Your Pathway to Success

Follow these steps to achieve your global medical career

Cost: $800 NZD
Duration: 2-4 months

Submit degree, transcripts, syllabus, and home registration to PCNZ for equivalence assessment.

Cost: $400
Duration: 1-2 months

Achieve IELTS Academic 7.5 overall with no band below 7.0, or OET Grade B in all subtests (minimum 350).

Cost: $1,800 NZD
Duration: 4-8 months study

Pass the Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Sciences exam (administered by APC Australia but recognised by PCNZ) covering pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, pharmaceutics, and therapeutics.

Cost: $650 NZD
Duration: 12 months

Secure a position and complete 52 weeks of supervised internship in a community or hospital pharmacy under an approved preceptor.

Cost: $1,200 NZD
Duration: 2-4 months preparation

Pass the oral examination (clinical scenarios, law, ethics) and apply for full registration with PCNZ.

Requirements

What You Need

Essential prerequisites for this pathway

Pharmacy degree (B.Pharm, M.Pharm, or PharmD) recognised by PCNZ
Active unrestricted license from home country
English proficiency: IELTS 7.5 (no band <7.0) or OET Grade B
Passing KAPS exam
Completion of 52-week supervised internship in NZ
Certificate of Good Standing from home regulator
Resources

Helpful Materials

Downloadable guides and references

Pharmacy Council of New Zealand (PCNZ)
Access
KAPS Exam Information
Access
Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand
Access
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