Proficiency test for pharmacists
In order to work as a licensed pharmacist in Sweden, you first need to show that you have the knowledge and skills that correspond to the requirements of the Swedish pharmacy degree. One way to show that is to take a proficiency test. Another way is via a complementary programme. Then you can apply for a licence. The following information is about the proficiency test. Information about the complementary programme is available on the Swedish website.
Uppsala University has been commissioned by the National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen) to be nationally responsible for conducting a proficiency test for pharmacists who have a foreign degree. The test is free of charge and is organised several times a year.
Structure of the proficiency test
The test has two parts – a theoretical part and a practical part, taken on separate days in Uppsala.
Both parts are split into different sections. You need to receive a passing grade in each section on the same occasion in order to pass that part of the proficiency test. The test is administered in Swedish. A part of the theoretical test includes a scientific test in English.
You have a total of five attempts to pass the theory test and three attempts to pass the practical test. From the first test, you have a total of five years to pass the entire proficiency test.
To achieve a Swedish licence
Verify your degree
First, you need to have your degree verified through The National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen) where you should have received a decision to proceed to the proficiency test. Then you can apply for the test.
Apply to the test
You apply for the theoretical test via the University's web. Information on how to register for the practical test is sent to test takers who pass the theoretical test.
The theoretical test
The theoretical part of the proficiency test aims to assess whether the individual taking the test has sufficient knowledge and skills to work as a pharmacist in Sweden. The questions are divided between the various disciplines of chemistry, pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences, and reflect the pharmacy programmes taught at Uppsala University.
The practical test
The practical part of the proficiency test assesses the individual's skills and professional working ability as a pharmacist.
A prerequisite for taking the practical part is that you have passed the theoretical part of the proficiency test.
Swedish regulations and clinical training
After passing the test, Uppsala University reports the final results to the National Board of Health and Welfare. The Board then gives you information on the clinical training and the course in Swedish law and regulations you need to undergo.
Apply for a licence
After the tests, the course and the clinical training, you can apply for a Swedish licence at the National Board of Health and Welfare.
Contact and more information
Since a good level of Swedish is necessary, more detailed and updated information in Swedish can be found on the Swedish version of the website.
See also the National Board of Health and Welfare's website for information about personal identity numbers, residence permits and Swedish licences.
If you have questions about the proficiency test or the complementary programme, you can contact us via email: