Do you dream of working as a pharmacist in the UK but need help figuring out where to begin? That’s where the OSPAP course comes in—a program tailored to help international pharmacists meet UK standards and enter rewarding careers.
The Overseas Pharmacists Assessment Programme (OSPAP) is a postgraduate program accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), the regulatory body for pharmacists in the UK.
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Working as a pharmacist is one of the best job opportunities in the UK. Overseas pharmacists from non-EU countries like Australia, India and other nations must finish their registration training through the OSPAP Course in the UK to work in the country’s pharmacies.
| Aspects | Description |
|---|---|
| Who can pursue it | Pharmacists from non-EU countries with qualifications not directly recognised for UK registration. |
| Accredited By | General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) |
| Top Unversity | – Aston University – Kingston University – University of Brighton – University of Hertfordshire – University of Sunderland |
| Program Goal | To equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to practice pharmacy in the UK. |
| Program Structure | A combination of coursework, exams, and practical assessments. |
With leading universities offering the course and transparent eligibility criteria, it’s a straightforward way to achieve your goals. Wondering about the fees, top institutions, or what the course entails? Let’s explore everything you need to know to make your UK pharmacy dreams a reality!
OSPAP Course in UK: Top Universities
Leading colleges and universities in the UK offer essential OSPAP courses, providing students with advanced knowledge and training. These institutions are equipped with modern facilities and experienced pharmacists with the expertise to effectively meet GPhC standards.
Attending these universities will give you standard knowledge, certification, and global exposure.
| University | QS Ranking 2024 |
|---|---|
| Aston University | 446 |
| Kingston University | 601-610 |
| University of Brighton | 771 – 780 |
| University of Hertfordshire | 851 – 900 |
| University Of Sunderland | – |
Aston University – Birmingham
Aston University ranks 423 in the QS World University Ranking 2025 and between 351 and 400 in the Times Higher Education University Ranking 2024.
The university has two types of OSPAP programs for graduates of pharmaceutical sciences: PGDip and MSc.
The programs aim to train pharmacists in new developments in the UK in pharmaceutical sciences, clinical pharmacy, pharmacy law, etc. The postgraduate diploma program is for 9 months, and the MSc program is for 12 months.
The university accepts entries in September of each year. The tuition fee for the PGDip program is 13 Lakh, and for the MSc program, it is 22.5 Lakh.
| Aston University – Birmingham | ||
| Course Name | PGDip | MSc |
| Duration | 9 months | 12 months |
| Intake | September | September |
| Avg Fees | 13 Lakh | 22.5 Lakh |
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Kingston University – London, England
Kingston University ranks 601 to 610 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and 801 to 1000 in the Times Higher Education University Ranking 2025.
It offers a one-year OSPAP course in the UK. The program consists of lectures, workshops, and practical learning methods. The university has tie-ups with many hospitals, pharmacies, community pharmacies, etc., including the NHS Foundation Trust.
The university offers a 12-month PGDip and 12-month MSc Top-up program. Graduates of this program can apply for a preregistration position, and international students may require different types of visas.
| Kingston University – London, England | ||
| Course Name | PGDip | MSc |
| Duration | 12 Months | 12 Months |
You should check the UK Borders Agency and Home Office for further information on the visa necessary for the Overseas Pharmacists Assessment Programme.
University of Brighton – Brighton
Brighton University ranks 801 and 850 in the QS World University Rankings 2025. The university offers the OSPAP course in the UK for two semesters in a year. The program is for any non-EEA (European Economic Area) registered pharmacist.
The course consists of seven diploma modules taught using tutorials, workshops, laboratory, and studio sessions. The tuition fees are around 15 Lakh – 21 Lakh per year.
After completion of the PGDip module, the research project for the MSc award will occur from June to September.
| University of Brighton | |
| Course Name | PGDip |
| Duration | 12 Months |
| Avg Fees | 15 Lakh – 21 Lakh |
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University of Hertfordshire – Hatfield
The University of Hertfordshire ranks 851 to 900 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and 601 to 800 in the Times Higher Education Ranking 2025.
The university’s School of Life and Medical Sciences offers an OSPAP course for one year in the UK. The course begins in September and ends in June.
International students’ tuition fees for an academic year are around 15 – 20 Lakhs.
| University of Hertfordshire – Hatfield | ||
| Course Name | PGDip | MSc |
| Duration | 12 Months | 12 Months |
| Intake | September | September |
| Avg Fees | 15 Lakh – 21 Lakh | 15 Lakh – 21 Lakh |
University Of Sunderland
The University of Sunderland ranks 1201 to 1500 in the Times Higher Education Ranking 2025.
It is the only university in North England that offers the OSPAP program. The university offers a 9-month postgraduate diploma and a 12-month master’s in Science program.
OSPAP Admission 2024: Application Process
There are various ways to submit your university application. Understanding the application process is crucial, as the program prepares you with the necessary skills.
Applying Through The University Website
Certain universities require applicants to register on their website portal before applying. Once registered, applicants can complete the application form for the OSPAP course in the UK.
Applying Through the General Pharmaceutical Council
Some universities require applicants to the OSPAP program to apply through the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) instead of registering directly. The GPhC reviews your application and sends approval to the university of your choice.
After receiving this approval, you can complete the university’s application form, which the faculty will review. If accepted, you may be invited for an interview to assess your practical experience and interest in pharmacy. Successful applicants will receive an email regarding their selection.
Following the offer, additional checks are conducted, such as a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for those who have stayed in the UK for over three months or a letter of good standing from the police in your home country.
Once these formalities are complete, you can pay the tuition fee, after which you will receive an acceptance letter. This letter is required for your visa application, and the type of visa depends on the work program’s requirements.
Top Benefits of Completing the OSPAP Course in the US
OSPAP courses prepare professionals to adapt to different healthcare environments, making them attractive candidates for roles in multinational pharmaceutical companies or research organisations operating in the US. Here are a few of the benefits of completing this course in the US
- Recognised Qualification: The course provides a qualification recognised by employers and regulatory bodies, enhancing professional credibility.
- Pathway to UK Pharmacist Jobs: Completing OSPAP opens doors to a wide range of pharmacy-related roles, including community, hospital, and industrial pharmacy.
- Enhanced Clinical Skills: It develops practical skills in patient care, dispensing, and handling complex medical cases, preparing candidates for real-world challenges.
- Exposure to UK Healthcare Standards: The course familiarises candidates with UK healthcare practices, medication guidelines, and patient interaction protocols.
- Networking Opportunities: Interaction with peers, faculty, and healthcare professionals during the course can lead to valuable connections in the industry.
- Path to Permanent Residency: Completing the OSPAP and securing employment as a pharmacist may contribute to visa extensions or permanent residency eligibility in the UK.
OSPAP Course in UK: Eligibility Criteria
Thanks to the Overseas Pharmacists’ Assessment Programme (OSPAP), international pharmacists from non-EU nations can now practice pharmacy in the UK.
Completing OSPAP equips you with the knowledge and skills to meet UK pharmacy standards and register with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), enabling legal and ethical practice within the UK healthcare system.
Before starting this rewarding career path, it’s crucial to understand the eligibility criteria for the OSPAP course in the UK:
Qualification: You need a pharmacy degree equivalent to a UK bachelor’s. The National Recognition Information Centre (NARIC) evaluates foreign qualifications.
Registration: You must be registered, or eligible to register, as a pharmacist in your home country.
English Proficiency: If you want to join the OSPAP course in the UK, you need to prove you’re good at English. This shows how important it is for you to understand and talk with people in UK healthcare.
| English Proficiency Test | Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. |
| TOEFL | 101 overall |
| PTE | 76 overall |
Different universities offering OSPAP might have varying entry requirements, so reviewing their specific program information is important. You might also have to provide certified translations of your academic records and other papers.
Why Opt for an OSPAP Course in the UK?
The OSPAP program in the UK offers international pharmacists a streamlined and recognised route to becoming registered practitioners in the country.
This program acts as a bridge, enabling you to leverage your existing qualifications while equipping you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the UK pharmacy landscape.
- UK Registration: OSPAP leads to registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), which allows pharmacists to legally practice in the UK.
- Enhanced Skills and Knowledge: The program fills gaps in qualifications, covering areas like pharmaceutics and clinical pharmacy.
- Career Advancement: Registered pharmacists in the UK have good job prospects and growth opportunities in the NHS and private sector.
- Global Recognition: Completing OSPAP boosts employability in countries that recognise UK pharmacy standards.
- Exposure to UK Practices: Gain insights into UK pharmacy regulations, drug distribution, and patient care, preparing you for success in the UK pharmacy.
OSPAP is a program designed for international pharmacists like you to get registered to work in the UK. It helps you improve your skills to meet UK standards.
Conclusion
Pursuing an Overseas Pharmacist Assessment Program is a great choice if you want to work in the UK after completing your Pharmacy degree in another country. With the advanced training and research projects done during the course training, the course equips the candidates with the right skills to work in different pharmaceutical settings, including a laboratory.
Get in touch with Leapscholar for all the details about getting a UK visa and begin your journey to the next level of career advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is completion of an OSPAP Course In UK enough to work as a registered pharmacist?
A. After completing the Overseas Pharmacists Assessment Programme, Qualified pharmacists must take up foundation training for 52 weeks in England, Scotland, or Wales. A tutor must sign off your work as satisfactory in the registration year. After that, you need to get a pass on the GPhC registration assessment.
Q. What steps must applicants take if the pharmacy qualification is not assessed as equal to a UK bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy?
A. Suppose your bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy is not equivalent to the Pharmacy degree in the UK. In that case, you must fill in the form for the international comparative assessment framework on the General Pharmacy Council website.
Use the form to assess the syllabus of the degree you have studied. Submit the form and the assessment to the GPhC. The GPhC will check the information provided in the form and send it to the university where you want to study the OSPAP course in UK. The university will then decide whether to admit you into the programme or may ask for further documents.
Q. What is the average salary for graduates of OSPAP courses in the UK?
A. According to salary experts, the average salary for pharmacists in the UK is around £71,949 per year. An entry-level pharmacist earns around £28,000. Pharmaceutical consultants, team managers in pharmaceutical services, and advanced pharmacists earn around £99,000. Community pharmacists earn around £21,000 to £35,000. The salary varies depending on the job position, years of experience, location, and condition of employment.
Q. What is the average OSPAP course fees in UK?
A. The cost of OSPAP programs in the UK can vary depending on the university, but you can usually expect to pay between £6,000 and £12,000 for the whole program. This is just an estimate, so be sure to check the exact fees for each university to plan your budget accurately.
Q. What specific topics are covered in a typical OSPAP course syllabus offered by universities in the UK?
A. The OSPAP syllabus varies between institutions. However, key areas include UK pharmacy law and ethics, pharmaceutical calculations, drug classification, and clinical pharmacy practice, which are part of every course curriculum.
Q. How much does OSPAP cost?
A. OSPAP costs in the UK vary by university, usually ranging from £6,000 to £12,000 for the entire program. This is just an estimate, so check with your chosen university for the exact fees and any extra costs. Knowing these fees will help you to plan your funds accordingly for admission. You can also think about taking scholarships.
Q. Who is eligible for OSPAP exam?
A. To be eligible for OSPAP in the UK, you generally need a pharmacy degree equivalent to a UK bachelor’s, a registered pharmacist in your home country, good English skills (like an IELTS score of 7.0 or higher), and some pharmacy experience. It’s a good idea to check with each university for their specific requirements, which can vary.
Q. Can I do OSPAP online?
A. In the UK, OSPAP programs typically don’t happen entirely online. They involve face-to-face learning, workshops, and hands-on experience in actual pharmacies. While online resources can be helpful, being there in person lets you learn directly from experts and gain practical skills crucial for your pharmacy career.
Q. How to become a licensed pharmacist in the UK?
A. The OSPAP route enables you, as an aspiring international pharmacist (outside the EU), to become a licensed pharmacist in the UK. This program provides the necessary knowledge and skills through coursework, exams, and practical components. Upon successful completion, you can take the GPhC registration assessment and a separate licensing exam. Passing both exams ensures that you can practice pharmacy in the UK.
Q. How much is Ospap fees in Aston University?
A. As of May 2024, the fees for OSPAP at Aston University range from £ 12,000 to £ 18,000. This fee might change in the coming time as the University keeps changing it from time to time, but overall, it will fall within the above-given range only.
Q. Is it easy to become a pharmacist in the UK?
A. Achieving your goal of becoming a pharmacist in the UK as an international applicant (outside EU) may present challenges, but it is within reach. The OSPAP program provides a structured pathway, although it requires dedicated effort. You will need to demonstrate proficient English skills, possess relevant qualifications, and show commitment to coursework, exams, and potential placements. Nevertheless, successful completion promises a fulfilling career in UK pharmacy.
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