SAPC treats the pharmacist intern pre-registration examination as one examination paper containing calculation and general-practice sections. The current manual emphasises application of information, not simply finding facts in an open book.
AT A GLANCE
What matters first
StructureCalculation + general sections
One pre-registration examination paper; both sections form part of the same assessment.
Timing2 h calculations + 2.5 h general
SAPC allocates two hours to calculations and two and a half hours to the general section; Council may schedule the sections across one or two days.
Pass standard50% overall + section minimums
The 2026 manual states at least 50% overall, 60% in calculations and 50% in the general section.
HOW TO READ THE EXAM
Understand the assessment before you optimise your revision
The exam is application-heavy even though it is open book
The SAPC manual describes the examination as open book and warns that candidates cannot afford to search references for every answer. General questions test pharmacy practice across settings, while calculation questions assess methods that should be familiar enough to execute efficiently.
Questions are multiple choice and time remains a core skill
The 2026 manual describes a minimum of 120 multiple-choice questions, four options per question and no negative marking. Because both sections contribute to the final outcome, calculation accuracy cannot compensate for a weak general section, or vice versa.
An unsuccessful attempt means rewriting the paper
SAPC states that interns who are unsuccessful must rewrite both sections, even if only one section fell below its required standard. That makes balanced preparation more useful than chasing only an overall average.
Current official guidance wins
Exam-day technology, remote-proctoring arrangements and permitted references can change by sitting. Follow the current SAPC e-Note and Intern/Tutor Manual before test day.
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