Countries > UK for Pharmacists > CRA
UK for Pharmacists — Registration assessment
CRA — Common Registration Assessment
The Common Registration Assessment (CRA) is the GPhC registration exam for pharmacists in Great Britain. It replaced the former GPhC registration assessment format and tests whether trainees meet the standard for entry to the register. You normally sit it during or after Foundation Training, depending on the rules for your cohort. Passing the CRA is required before GPhC will register you as a pharmacist.
Pathway Snapshot
Enter an approved foundation programme, apply to sit the CRA in a GPhC window, complete the computer-based assessment papers, then apply for registration if you have also met training sign-off and character requirements.
Complete Journey: OSPAP or MPharm → Foundation Training → CRA → GPhC registration application → Practising pharmacist (GB).
Eligibility
GPhC opens CRA sittings to trainee pharmacists who meet the published eligibility criteria for that sitting (training progress, identity checks, and application deadlines). Attempt limits and rest rules are set by GPhC. Confirm the current candidate guide rather than older “pre-reg exam” forum advice.
Exam Details
The CRA is a computer-based assessment covering clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical science, and professional/legal practice at foundation standard. GPhC publishes paper structure, calculator rules, pass criteria, and example items in its registration assessment resources.
Calculations and high-stakes safety items are a consistent feature. The exam is sat at approved centres on GPhC’s scheduled dates.
What we offer
MCIQ will open CRA-style practice covering GPhC foundation outcomes, calculations, and UK law/ethics scenarios. Register to be notified when prep is available.
Notify me when CRA Prep is available →How to Book
Apply through your GPhC myGPhC account in the published window. You will select a sitting and pay the assessment fee. Identification and centre rules are in the candidate guide.
After the CRA
A pass, plus completed foundation sign-off and a successful registration application, leads to entry on the GPhC pharmacist register. A fail is subject to GPhC’s resit policy. Practising in Northern Ireland requires PSNI registration, which is a separate process.
Fees
All figures are approximate and based on 2026 public information. Always confirm exact fees on the official portals before payment.
| Item | Approx. Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
CRA sitting |
Confirm on pharmacyregulation.org | Per attempt |
GPhC registration (pharmacist) |
Confirm on pharmacyregulation.org | After you pass and complete training |
Annual renewal |
Set by GPhC | Once registered |