What Is a Good PCAT Score?

If you’re preparing for pharmacy school, one of the first questions you’ll face is: What is a good PCAT score? Setting a target score is key to structuring your study schedule and knowing where you stand as a competitive applicant.

The Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) has long been a benchmark for pharmacy programs, much like the LSAT for law, the MCAT for medical school, or the DAT for dental school. However, the PCAT is being phased out and will not be administered beyond the 2024–2025 admissions cycle.

That said, if you plan to take it before then, either because your target schools still accept it or you want to strengthen your application, understanding how the scoring works will help you set realistic goals.

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Average PCAT Score

The PCAT includes 192 questions across biology, chemistry, reading comprehension, and quantitative ability. Scores are scaled on a 200–600 range, with the average being 400 (50th percentile).

Here’s how scores are typically viewed:

Below Average (340–399): 

Below the 50th percentile. Admission to accredited programs will be difficult unless other parts of your application are very strong.

Competitive (400–415):

Around average, but enough to keep you in the conversation for many mid-level programs.

Good (416–430): 

Solidly above average, giving you a strong chance at most pharmacy schools.

Top (430+): 

Exceptional scores that make you highly competitive everywhere. Some students even score in the 460s.

PCAT Score Ranges Explained

Your composite PCAT score is the average of your four section scores, each scaled from 200–600. You’ll also receive a separate Writing Section score (1.0–6.0), with the median being 4.0. Aim for 4.0 or higher to be considered competitive.

How Hard Is the PCAT?

The PCAT is challenging—not only because of the science content but also because it requires strong skills in math, reasoning, and critical reading. It’s generally considered less difficult than the MCAT, but it still demands months of preparation to excel.

FAQs: What Is a Good PCAT Score?

#1. What is the average PCAT score?

The average is 400, which represents the 50th percentile.

#2. What is a competitive PCAT score?

A score of 400–415 is considered competitive, but aiming for 416–430 gives you broader options.

#3. What is the best PCAT score?

Anything above 430 is excellent, with top scores reaching into the 460s.

#4. Is the PCAT harder than the MCAT?

No. The MCAT is longer, covers more subjects, and requires more detailed preparation.

#5. Is the PCAT still required?

No. Most U.S. pharmacy schools have dropped it as a requirement, and the exam will be discontinued after 2025. Some schools now accept alternatives like the MCAT, GRE, or DAT.

#6. Should I still take the PCAT?

It depends on your situation. If your GPA is strong, you may not need it. But if you want to showcase your science skills or apply to programs where it’s optional, a strong score can help.

Final Thoughts

Although the PCAT is on its way out, understanding score ranges can help you decide whether it’s worth taking before it disappears. A score above 416 will keep you competitive at most programs, while 430+ can open doors at top schools.

If you decide to skip the PCAT altogether, you’ll still need to build a strong profile with grades, clinical exposure, and extracurriculars. One way to stand out is by adding unique experiences to your application. At Go Elective, we offer pre-health internships in Kenya and Tanzania where future pharmacists and healthcare students gain guided hands-on exposure in hospitals and clinics. These kinds of experiences can complement your academic profile and strengthen your applications. PCAT or no PCAT.

Article Details

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, MCAT/MSAR/USMLE,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Sep 18, 2025