The Issue
Urgent Review of GPhC Common Registration Assessment due to serious concerns about its fairness, validity, and fitness for purpose.

The content did not reflect the expected competencies of a Day 1 pharmacist, nor did it align with the guidance provided in advance. We were informed that the exam would focus primarily on high-weighted topics; however, this was not reflected in the assessment. The content was very scattered and questions mainly came from medium weighted topics and low weighted topics. This format differed significantly from the June examination and the lack of consistency places the November cohort at an unfair advantage. 

The resources were lengthy, and many of the answer choices were ambiguous, making it difficult to determine the most appropriate response under timed conditions. Furthermore, as this cohort is not yet qualified as independent prescribers, we were reassured that the level of clinical and prescribing-related content would be appropriate for non-prescribers. In contrast, the exam was heavily reliant on prescribing knowledge and advanced clinical decision-making, which does not fairly represent the current scope of our training or responsibilities.

This exam was a trial of what a JUNE 2026 exam is expected to look like with calculations that would require a calculator in clinical and very specific treatment pathways that are specific to “GP practice”.

This was not on the same complexity of those listed on the GPhC website.
This mismatch goes against the information presented on the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) website and the feedback we had been receiving. As future pharmacists, we rely on these exams to be fair, transparent, and aligned with the current shared standards and competencies expected of us.

We respectfully urge the authorities and examination boards to review and rectify these discrepancies. Ensuring the exam closely follows the pre-communicated content focus will benefit not just the students, but also uphold the integrity of the pharmacy profession as a whole.

Please sign this petition to advocate for a fair and correctly aligned examination process that reflects the true competencies of a Day 1 pharmacist. Together, we can push for a change that supports future pharmacists in achieving the standards required for quality healthcare. Your signature is a step towards ensuring fairness and transparency in our professional assessments. Please lend your support. Sign the petition now.

GPhC, please reasses the pass mark of November 2025