Quick Summary
The 2026 PSI Exam syllabus update introduces a structured assessment delivered by RCSI in Dublin. The exam includes MCQ and OSCE components. In the modern healthcare system, pharmacists' role is divided into five domains. And these domain are: Personal, Professional, Organisation and Management, Pharmacy Care, and Public Health.
What is new in the PSI Exam Syllabus update 2026?
The PSI page carries an "Update May 2026" for the Stage 3 examination. The main points are
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The exam is provided through the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), appointed by the PSI.
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All exams are delivered in person in Dublin.
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Candidates receive an RCSI online portal with sample questions, OSCE scenarios, and briefing sessions.
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Results arrive about 4–6 weeks after the exam.
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There is no compensation scoring between the MCQ and OSCE.
What does the PSI Equivalency Exam Syllabus cover?
The PSI Equivalency Exam does not provide a listing of the subjects covered on the exam on its website. Instead, candidates receive an elaborated syllabus describing what they are expected to do ahead of time. In general, the public outline follows the PSI Core Competency Framework and tests candidates’ knowledge and competencies in:
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Pharmaceutical knowledge and calculations
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Applied clinical and practice-based skills
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Patient safety and medicine optimization
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Professional judgement and communication
| Component | Focus | Pass Rule |
|---|---|---|
| MCQ Part A | Pharmaceutical calculations | Pass independently. |
| MCQ Part B | Applied pharmacy practice | Pass independently. |
| OSCE | Clinical and professional skills in structured scenarios | Pass independently. |
Watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Llsueo2JXsE
What is the role of pharmacists in modern healthcare systems?
The Core Competency Framework describes expected practice in the first three years after registration. It has five domains.
| Domain | Role in Modern Healthcare |
|---|---|
| 1. Personal |
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| 2. Professional |
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| 3. Organization and Management |
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| 4. Pharmacy Care |
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| 5. Public Health |
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Today's pharmacists do much more than dispense. The framework expects them to:
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Dispense and administer drugs, including vaccines
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Suggest treatments for common ailments
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Assess symptoms and advise on when to seek further care
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Medication reconciliation and review, complete
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Pharmacovigilance for reporting adverse drug reactions
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Teamwork in the multidisciplinary
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Maintain digital competence
What is the eligibility for the PSI TCQR process?
Every applicant who is following the PSI TCQR process must meet two criteria:
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You hold a pharmacist qualification from a non-EU/EEA country and completed all required training.
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You are eligible to practice there, confirmed in writing by the competent authority.
You do not need to be currently registered or practicing in that country.
| Stage | What Happens | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Eligibility and completeness check | 4–6 months |
| Stage 2 | Holistic assessment decides Path A or B. | 6 months |
| Stage 3 | Exam: MCQ, OSCE, or both | Up to 12 months |
Mandatory documents include a NARIC statement, valid passport, CV, and certificate of professional status. Your university must send transcripts and the program syllabus directly to the PSI. You have six months to complete your application.
What are the PSI Exam fees and dates?
| Fee Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Stage 1 application | €500 |
| Stage 2 holistic assessment | €1,000 |
| Stage 2 appeal (if needed) | €300 |
| Exam: MCQ only | €2,250 |
| Exam: OSCE only | €2,750 |
| Exam: MCQ and OSCE | €3,000 |
| First registration (from 1 May 2026) | €698 |
Your exam place is not secured until the PSI receives payment. Check the PSI fees page for updates.
| Sitting | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 18 and 19 September |
| 2027 | 26 and 27 February |
| 2027 | July (to be confirmed) |
| 2027 | September (to be confirmed) |
Dates may change, and places are limited. The PSI issues an expression of interest before each sitting.
How can you prepare for the PSI Exam?
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Read the TCQR Information Guide fully before applying.
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Use the RCSI portal for sample questions and OSCE scenarios.
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Practise pharmaceutical calculations every day.
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Rehearse consultations: questioning, counselling, and referral.
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Study the Core Competency Framework behaviours.
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Revise Irish and European pharmacy and medicines law.
Conclusion
The PSI exam in 2026 will have more structure. It is run by RCSI and each component is standalone. The syllabus is the work that Irish pharmacists do. This includes vaccinations, minor illness advice, medicine reviews, safety reporting and public health work.
Plan ahead. Assessment stages are lengthy, and there are limited exam places. If you want detailed info, then check the official website; there you will get the right information.
Key Takeaways
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Understand the PSI exam syllabus and check new updates on the official website
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RCSI delivers the exam in person in Dublin.
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The MCQ has two parts: calculations and applied pharmacy practice. Each must be passed independently.
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OSCE is the practical scenario-based exam.
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The pharmacist has an important role in the modern healthcare system.
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The TCQR pathway is for international pharmacists who are from a non-EU/EEA country.
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It would be better if you checked the official website to know about the exam fees and dates.
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Good preparation will only help you to crack this exam.