Last Updated on: July 31, 2023
General Information
The Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS) is an independent, nongovernmental certification body that develops and administers board certification examinations in recognized pharmacy practice specialties. BPS was created on January 5, 1976, by the American Pharmaceutical Association (now the American Pharmacists Association, APhA), and exists today as an autonomous division of APhA.
The BPS Board of Directors (the Board) is composed of 12 voting members, including nine pharmacists, six of whom represent BPS specialty practices and three of whom are not board certified. The board also includes two health care professionals other than pharmacists and one public member. The BPS Executive Director and one member of the APhA Board of Trustees are nonvoting ex officio Board members. For a current list of Board of Director members, click here.
BPS has established a specialty council for each recognized specialty. Specialty councils work with the Board to develop and administer psychometrically-sound and legally defensible certification examinations, consistent with public policy regarding the credentialing of health care professionals. A specialty council is comprised of at least 10 members who are board-certified in that specialty area. Each specialty council may include up to two additional members, each of whom may be either board-certified in that specialty area or a pharmacist not certified in that specialty area but with other qualifications and/or expertise pertinent to the specialty area. For a current list of specialty council members, click here.
The principal responsibilities of BPS include:
- To enhance public / consumer protection by developing effective certification programs for specialty practices in pharmacy.
- To grant recognition of appropriate pharmacy practice specialties based on criteria established by the Board of Pharmacy Specialties.
- To establish standards for certification and recertification of pharmacist specialists in recognized pharmacy practice specialties.
- To grant eligible pharmacists certification and recertification in recognized pharmacy practice specialties.
- To serve as a coordinating agency and informational clearing house for organizations and pharmacists in recognized pharmacy specialties.
Importance of Certification
The primary purpose of specialization in any health care profession is to improve the quality-of-care individual patients receive, to promote positive treatment outcomes, and ultimately, to improve the patient’s quality of life. Specialties evolve in response to the development of new knowledge or technology that can affect patient care. The rapid, dramatic advancement of drug therapy in recent decades has created a clear need for pharmacy practitioners who specialize in specific kinds of treatment and aspects of care. Specialty certification is a responsible, progressive initiative from the profession to try to ensure the best possible patient care.
Board certification has allowed more pharmacists to participate in collaborative drug therapy management, which is a significant value to patients. Pharmacists certified in a specialty are frequently sought for professional consultations. As the contributions of pharmacists become more recognized, BPS anticipates greater recognition from public and private payers. Employers and patients can feel secure in knowing that a board-certified pharmacist has taken the initiative to seek advanced specialized training that sets them apart. Certification can also provide a personal reward for pharmacist specialists. Preparing for the certification examination offers an opportunity to increase advanced, specialized knowledge in a practice area. Specialty certification is a means of informing other professionals of an individual’s educational and practice accomplishments, setting the specialist apart from colleagues. It is one way to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills independent of and in addition to a degree program, license, or residency.
Recognition of BPS Certification
BPS-certified pharmacist specialists are recognized for their specialized knowledge and skills by many government and regulatory agencies. The following are examples of specific benefits that may be realized by BPS-certified pharmacist specialists:
- U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission: Specialists may be recognized as Authorized Nuclear Pharmacists.
- U.S. Department of Defense: Specialists may receive bonus pay.
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Specialists may serve at a higher pay step.
- U.S. Public Health Service: Specialists may receive bonus pay.
- Board-certified pharmacists in the following states may be eligible for advanced privileges: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode Island, West Virginia. Board certified pharmacists in the following states may receive Continuing Education benefits: Arkansas, Idaho, Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio, Texas, and Utah.
- Compounding Pharmacy: BCSCP specialists in Michigan are recognized by the State Board of Pharmacy as proficient in the practice of compounding. See Michigan Administrative Code R 338.533
- Reciprocity: Specialists in Nebraska may be eligible for reciprocity licensure through their board certification. See Title 172 Chapter 128.003.01(C)
- Increasing numbers of employers are recognizing BPS-certified specialists with monetary rewards, promotions or hiring preferences.
Confidentiality
BPS is committed to protecting confidential or proprietary information related to applicants and certification holders, as well as the examination development, maintenance and administration process.
BPS has the responsibility to protect confidential and proprietary information and maintain confidentiality of that information. Personnel associated with BPS certification activities shall keep confidential all information obtained in the process of conducting its certification programs. BPS shall function under a strict confidentiality policy. This policy shall apply to all aspects of confidential information obtained during the execution of BPS certification activities, including information obtained about applicants, candidates, and certified persons; financial information; test scores; the intellectual property associated with the administration of BPS certification programs; and any information associated with vendor support of BPS certification programs. BPS will not disclose any confidential applicant / certificant information outside of the course of BPS business unless authorized in writing by the individual or as required by law.
Sharing of Certificant Data
If necessary, for BPS’s ordinary course of business, and subject to appropriate contractual confidentiality protections, BPS may share certain personal information about applicants and certificants with third parties who use such personal information to provide core services to BPS or to assist BPS and individuals with the maintenance of those individuals’ certifications.
Application Status
An individual’s application status is considered confidential. We do not disclose information regarding whether an individual has applied for certification or has taken the examination. Current certification status is published and verifiable as noted in the Credential Verification section below.
Credential Verification
The names of currently certified individuals are not considered confidential and may be published by BPS in accordance with accreditation standards. Published information may include a person’s name, city, state, country, certification(s) held, and certification status.
BPS Database
Personal information retained within the applicant/certification holder database and/or applicant/certification holder files will be kept confidential. This includes information and any documentation regarding a disability and the need for accommodation in testing. With the applicant’s/certification holder’s written permission, BPS shares non-personal information with third parties. This information is not considered confidential and may include a person’s name, city, state, country, certification(s) held, and certification status.
Records Retention
BPS retains examination results (e.g., scores), summary reports from examination administrations and active applicant data indefinitely. Submitted paper documentation is retained for one (1) year. After one (1) year, BPS will shred those documents. Applicants/certificants should retain their own copies of all documentation sent to BPS.
Nondiscrimination Policy
BPS endorses the principle of equal opportunity and nondiscrimination in all certification specialty programs and prohibits discrimination against its applicants, candidates, certified persons, staff, and volunteers. Certification is offered to all eligible persons regardless of age, gender, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, or any other category protected by U.S. federal or state law. BPS ensures fair and equitable treatment of all candidates throughout all phases of the certification process. All BPS decisions related to certification (including granting, suspending, and withdrawing) are made impartially and free from non‐discriminatory judgments.
Impartiality Statement
BPS management and its employees, volunteers and contractors understand the importance of impartiality and the consideration of any potential conflicts of interest in carrying out its certification activities. BPS shall manage conflicts of interest and ensure the objectivity of its certification activities. BPS shall act impartially in relation to its applicants, candidates, and certified persons.
Decisions on certification programs shall be made in accordance with established policies and procedures. Policies and procedures affecting applicants, candidates, and certified persons shall be made public and shall fairly and accurately convey information about the certification program. Certification of individuals is based on objective evidence obtained by BPS through a fair, valid, and reliable assessment process which is not influenced by other interests or parties. BPS is committed to identifying and assessing risks in all related certification activities which may result in a conflict of interest or pose a threat to impartiality.
The BPS management and its employees, volunteers and contractors understand the importance of impartiality and the consideration of any potential conflict of interests in carrying out its certification activities. BPS shall manage conflict of interest and ensure the objectivity of its certification activities. BPS shall act impartially in relation to its applicants, candidates, and certified persons. Decisions on certification programs shall be made in accordance with established policies and procedures. Policies and procedures affecting applicants, candidates, and certified persons shall be made public and shall fairly and accurately convey information about the certification program. Certification of individuals is based on objective evidence obtained by BPS through a fair, valid and reliable assessment process which is not influenced by other interests or parties. BPS is committed to identifying and assessing risks in all related certification activities which may result in a conflict of interest or pose a threat to impartiality.
Use of the BPS Mark and Logo
The BPS certification mark and logo are the property of Board of Pharmacy Specialties®. Permission to use the certification logo or mark is granted to certified persons at the discretion of BPS for permissible uses only. A candidate who passes the examination will receive a certificate with a raised seal suitable for framing and will have the right to claim the mark of a BPS Board-Certified Pharmacy Specialist.
Use of the BPS logos or mark is limited to those persons who have been granted BPS designation and who satisfy all maintenance and recertification requirements established by BPS. Use of the certification mark or logo by individuals who have not been granted and have not maintained the BPS certification is expressly prohibited.
Use of the Designation
To use letters in one’s title, individuals must: (1) meet and continue to meet BPS certification and recertification standards; and (2) demonstrate the requisite experience requirements. Successful individuals are authorized to use the following certification marks or designations in communications and marketing materials, once they have earned the specific designation: BCACP®, BCCP®, BCSCP®, BCCCP™, BCEMP®, BCGP®, BCIDP®, BCNP®, BCNSP®, BCOP®, BCPPS®, BCPS®, BCPP®, and BCTXP®.
Recertification Application Process
This guide is intended to provide BPS-certified pharmacists with information on the recertification process. The elements of recertification include eligibility requirements, application procedures, recertification examination administration, professional development activities, extension requests, and a delist process. This document is ONLY A GUIDE. The information, procedures, and fees detailed in this publication may be amended, revised, or otherwise altered at any time without advanced notice by BPS. The provision of this guide does not confer any rights upon a candidate for recertification. The information contained in this guide supersedes the information contained in all previous editions of the BPS Recertification Guide.
The purpose of recertification is to help ensure that the credential holder demonstrates a continued commitment to maintaining and further developing the competencies necessary for safe and effective practice in that specialty area. The Board of Pharmacy Specialties requires all board-certified specialists to recertify every 7 years. If a BPS-certified specialist does not apply for recertification by the August deadline date of their recertification year, the individual is in jeopardy of being removed from the official roster of board-certified specialists. For example, if a certification cycle is valid until December 31, 2023, the recertification application is due August 4, 2023.
If a board-certified pharmacist fails to successfully complete the recertification process, a one-time extension may be granted for a one-year period, at the sole discretion of BPS while the individual seeks to successfully complete the process.
Once a BPS-certified specialist has been removed permanently from the roster, that individual may no longer use the designation or initials associated with that specialty (e.g., Board-Certified Nuclear Pharmacist, BCNP) nor display the BPS certificate. Reinstatement can be achieved only by the successful completion of the entire certification process.
Please note, each specialty area has its own BPS-approved professional development (continuing education) programs. To accommodate pharmacists who have achieved BPS certification in more than one specialty, professional development providers may approve selected continuing education programs for credit in more than one specialty.
There is no overlap or dual purposing of CE programs between specialty areas unless noted by BPS and the provider.
Recertification Application Procedures
The board-certified pharmacist is responsible for submitting an application that is completely and accurately filled out. Incomplete and/or unpaid applications will not be processed.
BPS encourages candidates to submit their recertification application as early as January 1. Certificants must submit their recertification application no later than the deadline of August 4. Candidates who intend to recertify via examination should note the availability of the recertification examination and related application deadlines. However, BPS recommends sitting for the recertification examination earlier in the year, in the event that the examinee is unsuccessful, to allow for examination retake later in the year. Candidates within the continuous testing model must sit for the exam by October 31 in order to successfully meet the recertification requirements to receive an examination score by December 31.
Applications can be submitted through your MyBPS account by clicking the “Recertify” link. Note that the recertification application can be submitted prior to completion of the required CE hours. CE hours for recertification may continue to be earned through the end of the calendar year for credit towards recertification.
Providers of BPS-approved CE programs report all CE hours for recertification directly to BPS except ACPE approved continuing education courses for BCNSP.
ArmyIgnitED/U.S. Army Credentialing Assistance Program
BPS has been approved as a vendor in the U.S. Army CA Program. Soldiers can apply for funding support to sit for BPS Board certification through this program. For more assistance on the CA program please go to the Army Credentialing Assistance (CA) Program page and download the Soldier CA Process Guide which will take you step-by-step through the process.
The following rules, U.S. Army Credentialing Assistance Program rules should be noted:
- Recertification: For those Soldiers who wish to recertify via examination, this program covers the cost of the recertification examination administered by BPS. Soldiers who wish to recertify via continuing education are responsible for obtaining and paying for those materials/credits themselves.
- Soldiers may only request CA funding for credentials listed in Army Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL). Soldiers will complete a CA Request in ArmyIgnitED. Once submitted, ArmyIgnitED will route the CA Request through to ACCESS, ArmyU CA team.
- Soldiers CANNOT begin courses/exams until they are notified by the Finance team at ACCESS, ArmyU. Please note that soldiers are NOT allowed to start a course/exam before payment, or they will be liable for the total cost of the course.
- Soldiers will not receive reimbursement for any out-of-pocket costs paid.
- Preparation materials are not covered because board certification is an independent assessment of knowledge and skills. In addition to BPS not providing preparation materials, BPS does not have any control over whether preparation material providers are part of the U.S. Army CA Program.
- Extensions can only be requested by the soldier and the approval must be granted by the Army CA Program.
- In order to withdraw, soldiers must withdraw within their Army CA program account. BPS cannot withdraw the soldier per Army CA Program policy.
- Retired personnel must follow the same protocol as civilian personnel and request post access through the Service Now portal located on the ArmyIgnitED portal. There is no exception for this policy.
- Per the memorandum of agreement signed between BPS and the Department of the Army, certificates of completion are a required item to participate in Army CA. Score reports are made available within 90 calendar days of the final examination date of a windowed examination cycle and within 60 calendar days of the administration of an examination in the continuous testing model. Per Army CA program requirements BPS will upload Certificates of Completion to the ArmyIgniteED Site for the soldier within 10 calendar days of the score report being made available.
- The Army CA Program is specific to the Army only. To view the other services within COOL programs, visit cool.osd.mil.
- For more information, visit the Army COOL webpage and select Credentialing Assistance. There are related links that are updated monthly that cover process guides, full credential searches, approved vendor list, and other topics.
Click here to view The Soldier’s Guide to Recertification infographic.
For detailed instructions on completing an Army CA Program request using ArmyIgnitED, download the Soldier CA Process Guide.
American With Disabilities Act
BPS complies with the relevant provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for individuals with documented disabilities. Any requests must be submitted to BPS in advance, accompanied by the appropriate forms and uploaded at the time of the online application submission. The request for testing accommodations must include verification of the disabling condition from a professional specializing in the relevant area and a description of the requested accommodation. If accommodation is not requested in advance, its availability cannot be guaranteed.
You may also visit Prometric’s webpage for additional details about available preapproved personal items permitted during testing that do not require a special accommodations request. Preapproved personal items are subject to inspection by test center staff.
Processing Applications
All recertification applicants will be notified via email of their eligibility within 30 calendar days of BPS’ receipt of their application and fee. Applicants may also check their MyBPS profile to confirm eligibility. Those candidates recertifying via examination will additionally be contacted via email to schedule their examination after their recertification application has been processed.
Fees and Payment Methods
Recertification Fee
All Board-Certified Specialists are required to pay the BPS Annual Certification Maintenance fee of $125 USD each year for years 1 through 6 of their certification and a $400 USD recertification fee in year 7. For more information regarding the Annual Certification Maintenance fee, click here.
Pharmacists holding more than one BPS certification are assessed only one annual certification maintenance fee, and certificants are not required to pay the annual fee in their recertification year unless the certificant chooses not to recertify or has delisted from the certification during the certification’s recertification year, however, the recertification application and the fee are required for each certification held.
All pending balances must be paid prior to submission of the recertification application and/or submission of a new certification application.
The recertification fee helps cover the costs of the development and administration of recertification processes and the ongoing operations of the Board and its Specialty Councils. All fees are subject to change at the sole discretion of the Board.
Application Fees are as follows:
- Recertification via examination is $400 USD
- Recertification via continuing education is $400 USD
- Application fee to retake the recertification examination is $200 USD (Note, this opportunity is only available within the recertification year, unless an extension is granted.)
If a candidate fails to appear for an examination, candidate must resubmit a recertification application at full price. If a candidate does not pass by the Fall examination in their recertification year, they have the option to submit a one-time, one-year extension request, if they have not previously used an extension.
Fee Payments
Payments are made by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover). Currencies are withdrawn in USD. Money orders are NOT accepted.
Declined Credit Cards
When a credit card transaction is declined you may submit an alternate credit card for processing. Note, if you submit a payment and receive an “Error 12” message, this is due to submitting a different billing address from the one your financial institution has on file. Contact your financial institution to confirm the correct billing address before reattempting the payment.
Forfeiture of Fees/No Refunds
Candidates who fail to arrive at the Testing Center on the date and time of the scheduled examination will forfeit their examination fees and must re-register by contacting BPS. The recertification application fee is nonrefundable after December 31 of the recertification year.
Recertification Pathways
Board-certified pharmacists will be required to maintain their certification over a 7-year period by completing one of the following professional development activities:
- Option One: Recertification Examination – Achieving a passing score on the 100-item recertification examination based on the Content Outline of the designated specialty.
- Option Two: Continuing Education – Earning the required number of hours of CE credit provided by a professional development program approved by BPS for the certification which is held. Each specialty has different requirements. Please see the individual website pages for more information.
A current, active license to practice pharmacy is required for recertification. Recertification Eligibility Requirements and Content Outlines for each specialty can be found here:
- Ambulatory Care Pharmacy
- Cardiology Pharmacy
- Compounded Sterile Preparations Pharmacy
- Critical Care Pharmacy
- Emergency Medicine Pharmacy
- Geriatric Pharmacy
- Infectious Diseases Pharmacy
- Nuclear Pharmacy
- Nutrition Support Pharmacy
- Oncology Pharmacy
- Pediatric Pharmacy
- Pharmacotherapy
- Psychiatric Pharmacy
- Solid Organ Transplantation Pharmacy
Recertification via
Continuing Education (CE)
Candidates who plan to recertify using BPS approved continuing education programs MUST submit their recertification application by the deadline date of August 4 even if they have not completed their CE requirements. Conversely, note that credits earned that exceed the recertification requirement credits cannot be applied forward to a future new cycle prior to the accrual period start date.
The deadline to complete the required CE for recertification is December 31 for all specialties. If you believe you will not complete the CE requirement by the end of the year in which you are due to recertify, you may request an extension (see “Request for Extension” section).
Important Dates for Candidates Recertifying via CE
Recertification Application Deadline: August 4, 2023
CE Requirement Deadline: December 31, 2023
Approved Professional Development Programs for BPS Recertification
Approved Professional Development Programs for BPS Recertification for 2023
Please contact the following organizations for further information on approved CE programs.
American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP)
(402) 476-1677
American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP)
(913) 492-3311
American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
(202) 628-4410
American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP)
(703) 739-1300
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP)
(866) 279-0681
Hematology Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA)
(877) 467-2791
Pediatric Pharmacy Association (PPA)
(901) 820-4434
Purdue University College of Pharmacy
Robert Heine Pharmacy Building
(765) 494-1361
Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM)
(847) 827-6869
Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists (SIDP)
(630) 938-4732
Specialty Specific Information
Ambulatory Care Pharmacy
(APhA) – BPS Approved Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Recertification Program
(ACCP/ASHP) Joint Program – BPS Approved Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Recertification Program
Cardiology Pharmacy
(ACCP/ASHP) – BPS Approved Cardiology Pharmacy Recertification Program
Compounded Sterile Preparations Pharmacy
(APhA) – BPS Approved Compounded Sterile Preparations Pharmacy
(ASHP) – BPS Approved Compounded Sterile Preparations Pharmacy
Critical Care Pharmacy
(ACCP) – BPS Approved Critical Care Pharmacy Recertification Program
(ASHP) – BPS Approved Critical Care Pharmacy Recertification Program
(SCCM) –BPS Approved Critical Care Pharmacy Recertification Program
Geriatric Pharmacy
(ASCP) – BPS Approved Geriatric Pharmacy Recertification Program
(ASHP/ACCP) Joint Program – BPS Approved Geriatric Pharmacy Recertification Program
Infectious Diseases Pharmacy
(ASHP/ACCP) Joint Program – BPS Approved Infectious Diseases Pharmacy Recertification Program
(SIDP) – BPS Approved Infectious Diseases Pharmacy Recertification Program
Nuclear Pharmacy
(PURDUE) – BPS Approved Nuclear Pharmacy Recertification Program
Nutrition Support Pharmacy
(PURDUE) – BPS Approved Nutrition Support Pharmacy Recertification Program
Oncology Pharmacy
(ACCP/ASHP) Joint Program – BPS Approved Oncology Pharmacy Recertification Program
(HOPA) – BPS Approved Oncology Pharmacy Recertification Program
Pediatric Pharmacy
(ACCP) – BPS Approved Pediatric Pharmacy Recertification Program
(ASHP) – BPS Approved Pediatric Pharmacy Recertification Program
(PPA) – BPS Approved Pediatric Pharmacy Recertification Program
Pharmacotherapy
(ACCP) – BPS Approved Pharmacotherapy Recertification Program
(ASHP) – BPS Approved Pharmacotherapy Recertification Program
Psychiatric Pharmacy
(AAPP) – BPS Approved Psychiatric Pharmacy Recertification Program
Recertification via Examination
Important Dates
April/May 2023 Examination Window
Application window: Wednesday, January 4, 2023–Saturday, March 18, 2023
Testing window: Monday, April 3, 2023–Monday, May 1, 2023
August/September 2023 Examination Window
Application window: Tuesday, May 16, 2023–Monday, August 7, 2023
Testing window: Monday, August 28, 2023–Monday, September 18, 2023
2023 Continuous Testing
Continuous testing registration will be available starting Wednesday, January 4, 2023, for BCCP, BCNP, and BCPP certification. Continuous testing appointments for BCCP, BCNP, and BCPP will be available starting Monday, April 3, 2023.
Continuous Testing registration will be available starting Tuesday, May 16, 2023, for BCOP certification. Continuous testing appointments for BCOP will be available starting Monday, August 28, 2023.
Examination Registration
It is in the best interest of a certificant to take the opportunity to register early in the year, in which case if a passing score is not achieved, there is still an opportunity to retest later in the year to successfully meet their recertification requirements within their recertification year.
In 2023, there will be a transition to a continuous testing model for Cardiology Pharmacy, Nuclear Pharmacy, Psychiatric Pharmacy and Oncology Pharmacy certifications; please view the table below. These specialties will now offer year-round testing. For more details and information on recertification exam registration for continuous testing, see the sections indicating Continuous Testing.
| 2023 | April/May | August/September |
| BCACP | Window | Window |
| BCCP | Continuous Starts | – |
| BCCCP | Window | Window |
| BCEMP | Window | Window |
| BCGP | Window | Window |
| BCIDP | Window | Window |
| BCNP | Continuous Starts | – |
| BCNSP | Window | Window |
| BCOP | Window | Continuous Starts |
| BCPP | Continuous Starts | – |
| BCPPS | Window | Window |
| BCPS | Window | Window |
| BCSCP | Window | Window |
| BCTXP | Window | Window |
Recertification candidates licensed outside of the United States, Australia, Canada, and Singapore should view the “Candidates Licensed Outside of the U.S., Australia, Canada, and Singapore” section of this guide for information on examination administration in their country. The BPS recertification examination will be administered via computer by Prometric, the BPS-approved testing administrator, and through its affiliated test centers. Recertification candidates must schedule the date, time, and location of their examination within the scheduled test administration window. For a complete list of deadlines and important dates, click here.
For specialties in the continuous testing format, candidates will have one calendar year to schedule the date, time, and location of their examination. Failure to schedule an examination within 365 calendar days will result in a forfeiture of all fees and require a re-submission of the examination application.
Scheduling
In order to help ensure the greatest probability that candidates receive their preferred test center and date, BPS recommends registering as early as possible.
Once the application is complete, all candidates must schedule their testing appointment at least 7 calendar days prior to their preferred testing date.
Candidates may contact Prometric through their website on matters related to scheduling a testing appointment. Prometric will provide a voicemail inbox to accept candidate inquiries outside of normal U.S. business hours of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (Eastern Standard Time).
Once a testing appointment is scheduled, the candidate will receive a confirmation email outlining the appointment details.
- 30 or more days prior to appointment: $35 USD fee collected by Prometric at time of transaction.
- 29-5 days prior to appointment: $60 USD fee collected by Prometric at time of transaction.
- Less than 5 days prior to appointment: no cancelling/rescheduling allowed. Your full test fee will be retained by BPS.
BPS staff will not process change requests. Change requests can be submitted here.
| Examination Date | Appointment Must Be Rescheduled/Cancelled By: |
| Monday | Saturday of the previous week |
| Tuesday | Sunday of the current week |
| Wednesday | Monday of the current week |
| Thursday | Tuesday of the current week |
| Friday | Wednesday of the current week |
| Saturday/Sunday | Thursday of the current week |
Deferrals
For specialty recertification examinations in the windowed testing format, candidates have the option of having their application deferred from the April/May window to the August/September examination cycle of the same year. Candidates must inform BPS of their intent to defer by submitting a deferral request, no later than the close of the application window for specialties in windowed testing. Candidates who defer to the August/September examination cycle and do not test will forfeit all fees; no additional deferrals will be allowed unless they have been approved for an extension.
For specialty recertification examinations in the continuous testing format, candidates will have the option of any date within their recertification year to take the examination. Candidates within the continuous testing model must sit by October 31 in order to successfully meet the recertification requirements to receive an examination score by December 31. If a candidate does not test in their recertification year, they will forfeit all fees and no additional deferrals will be allowed unless they have been approved for an extension.
Withdrawals
Candidates for specialties in the windowed testing format may withdraw/defer from the April/May or August/September recertification examination application process prior to the close of the application deadline. Candidates for specialties in the continuous testing format have within 365 calendar days to schedule and complete their testing session and will be allowed to withdraw/defer on a case-by-case basis.
Candidates must inform BPS of their intent to withdraw/defer in writing, no later than the close of the recertification application window for specialties in windowed testing format, or before the end of their 365 calendar days for specialties in the continuous testing format, at which point they will be able to make an official request through their MyBPS profile.
Candidates who withdraw from the recertification application process by December 31 of their recertification year will be refunded the fee paid, minus an administrative charge of $200 USD ($250 USD if the examination has been scheduled with Prometric).
After the recertification application deadline, BPS will review requests for withdrawals and deferrals with decisions made on a case-by-case basis. Acceptable withdrawal or deferral requests, with appropriate documentation (e.g., physician’s letter, police report, etc.), will be considered under the following situations: serious illness (either of the candidate or an immediate family member), immediate family death, disabling accident, court appearance, jury duty, or unexpected military call-up.
Registration fees for candidates in windowed testing format with an approved emergency deferral request outside of the calendar year, from August/September to April/May of the following year, are non-refundable. Supporting documentation must be submitted to BPS within seven (7) calendar days after the last date in the examination administration window in which they were registered to sit for the examination.
Candidates who receive a denial of their withdrawal request will forfeit all fees. If the withdrawal request is approved, all administrative fees will apply. (Refer to the rescheduling policy above regarding cancelled (withdrawn/deferred) appointments.)
- Note: Candidates approved for examinations using the continuous testing modality may request an extension to the 365-day eligibility period if they are unable to test during that period due to an emergency. BPS will review requests for emergency continuance with decisions made on a case-by-case basis. Acceptable requests, with appropriate documentation (e.g., physician’s letter, police report), will be considered under the following situations: serious illness (either of the candidate or an immediate family member), immediate family death, disabling accident, court appearance, jury duty, or unexpected military call-up.
Requests for an extension to the 365-day eligibility period will also be subject to any associated rescheduling/cancellation fees.
Examination Format and Administration
Four-option multiple-choice items constitute most examination items; however, some of the specialty examinations also use alternate item types such as multiple-choice items, multiple-response items, and items supplemented with images.
If a candidate has issues with the computer during the examination session, the candidate should notify the proctor immediately and await further instruction. Most technical issues are resolved quickly with a simple refresh of the screen or by the proctor logging you back into the examination.
BPS specialty certification examinations are delivered via computer. While it is not the norm, technology issues can occasionally occur, as there could be software loading, keyboard, or other workstation issues. These types of issues may require the proctor to log you back into their examination. If this happens, the candidate should inform the proctor that there is a computer issue.
If a technical issue lasts longer than 30 minutes and prevents the candidate from continuing with the examination, they may choose to stop and reschedule to another day, or continue to wait for the resolution. Again, most technical issues are resolved quickly.
Candidates will be provided with a scientific calculator app available on their computer screen for use during the examination. A sample calculator is available on the BPS website.
Candidates will have the option to add comments to each examination item (question). They can specify any issues with an item in the comment section of the item and not at the end of the examination session. The comments will be collected and shared in aggregate for review by BPS staff and the applicable BPS specialty council. Comments will not be used in the scoring of the examination.
Instructions will be provided to candidates on their computer screen. Only answers submitted via computer will be scored. Answers written on whiteboards will not be scored.
Examination Schedule
The examination day schedule for specialties in the windowed and continuous testing format is provided below:
- Examination (100 items): 2.5-hour testing period
- No scheduled breaks
Candidates are required to notify the testing staff proctor and wait for the proctor to respond before leaving for an unscheduled break. Failure to inform the proctor prior to taking an unscheduled break or failure to return on time, will result in an inability to complete the exam. Upon return, a full security scan will be conducted prior to resuming exam. In unscheduled breaks, the candidate should notify the proctor and wait for confirmation before leaving the examination area, otherwise the examination may be terminated. If a candidate takes an unscheduled break during an examination, that time is deducted from their examination period.
Test Centers and Live Remote Proctoring
Through an arrangement with Prometric, BPS candidates may schedule their examinations at more than 275 test centers within the United States and more than 275 test centers outside of the U.S. Test center locations can be found on the Prometric website.
Live Remote Proctoring (LRP) is an option for eligible candidates in the U.S., Australia, or Canada as an extension of a BPS pilot program. For more details on this offering, review the Live Remote Proctoring appendix below.
Once a testing appointment is scheduled, the candidate will receive a confirmation email outlining the appointment details.
The candidate must bring a current, government-issued photo identification (ID) with signature to the test center. Acceptable forms of identification include driver’s licenses, passports, and government-issued identification cards. Unacceptable forms of identification include gym memberships, warehouse memberships, school identification cards, credit cards, and identification with signature only (no photo). The candidate’s name as it appears on the confirmation email must match the candidate’s name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID. If a candidate’s name does not match, the candidate is responsible for submitting a Name Change Request in their MyBPS profile. Candidates will be required to upload a PDF or JPG copy of government-issued identification showing their new name as part of that request. Name changes that occur after submission of the application must be requested and received no later than 30 calendar days after the application deadline, in order to be updated in time for your examination appointment.
Testing via Live Remote Proctoring
BPS has partnered with Prometric to provide live remote proctored (LRP) testing on a limited basis. Live Remote Proctoring (LRP) is an option for eligible candidates in the U.S., Australia, or Canada as an extension of a BPS pilot program. To be eligible, candidates must reside in the U.S., Australia, or Canada.
Prometric will employ reasonable efforts to provide for adequate remote proctors to meet demand for the BPS examinations; however, BPS cannot guarantee availability of an examination session at a specific time.
While LRP testing generally mirrors traditional in-center test processes, there are important disclosures to consider before deciding to schedule an LRP examination:
- Review the ProProctorUser Guide in preparation for your examination.
- Ensure a testing location that is indoors (walled), well-lit, with a closed door and free from background noise and disruptions. Your workstation and surrounding area must be free of pens, paper, electronic devices, etc. No content that could potentially provide an unfair advantage during your examination, including anything posted on walls or within your immediate area, is allowed during your session.
- Ensure that no third party (i.e., person or pet) is present in the room or enters the room for the duration of the examination. If this occurs, your examination will be terminated and/or your results invalidated.
- Computer view: Candidate’s computer must clearly be shown and fully inspected during the check-in process. If this cannot be accomplished with an external web-camera for desktops or mirror for laptops, file a Center Procedural Report (CPR).
Live Remote Proctoring (LRP) Pilot Program Outside of the U.S., Australia, and Canada
Candidates outside of the U.S., Australia, or Canada are not eligible for the LRP testing pilot at this time. Violation of this policy (i.e., candidates outside of the U.S., Australia, or Canada testing using LRP) will be subject to all applicable cancellation/reschedule fees, test result invalidation, or other appropriate action.
Personal Data Collection & Processing
You must consent to the collection and processing of your personal data (including valid photo ID, video images of your person, workspace, and/or room in your home or office), and biometrics (i.e., facial recognition technology), as required by BPS.
You must remove your eyeglasses for close visual inspection (i.e., rotating 360 degrees). These inspections will take a few seconds and will be done at check-in (and again upon return from breaks) before you begin or resume testing to ensure you do not violate any security protocol.
Jewelry outside of wedding and engagement rings is prohibited. Do not wear other jewelry during testing. Hair accessories, ties, and bowties are subject to video inspection. Use of ornate clips, combs, barrettes, headbands, tie clips, cuff links and other accessories are prohibited during testing, and you will be asked to remove these items. Violation(s) of this protocol may result in the termination of your examination and notification to BPS.
On the Day of the Examination
No Shows
Failure to appear, schedule, or reschedule an examination session less than seven (7) calendar days before a testing appointment (outside of the special circumstances listed above) will count as the candidate’s testing examination. The candidate will be marked as a no-show candidate and all testing fees will be forfeited. No-show candidates will have the option to apply for a future examination at full price.
No-Show for a Retake Examination: If a candidate is marked as a no-show for a retake examination using the reduced retake rate, the candidate will be required to pay the full $400 USD fee.
Inclement Weather and Cancellations
Prometric will attempt to contact candidates in the event of a test center closure due to inclement weather to reschedule their appointment. As test centers close, emails are issued to the candidates impacted notifying them of the closures, and Prometric’s website is also updated with this information.
However, because closures can occur at any time during inclement weather, it is the responsibility of the candidate to contact Prometric to receive the most up-to-date information regarding whether a test center is open or to reschedule the examination appointment. If a test center is officially closed, candidates will not be charged a rescheduling fee. If a test center is open and the candidate does not keep their appointment, the candidate forfeits all fees.
Statement of Confidentiality for BPS Examinations
- This examination and the test items contained herein are the exclusive property of BPS.
- This examination and the items contained herein are protected by copyright law. No part of this examination may be copied or reproduced in part or whole by any means whatsoever, including memorization.
- The theft or attempted theft of any examination materials is punishable as a felony.
- Participation in any irregularity occurring during this examination such as giving or obtaining unauthorized information or aid, as evidenced by observation or subsequent analysis, may result in termination of participation, invalidation of the examination results or other appropriate action.
- Further discussion or disclosure of the contents of the examination orally, in writing, or by any other means is prohibited.
The electronic signature on a candidate’s application indicates that they have read, understood, and agree to be bound by the statement of confidentiality and that they have read and understood the BPS Recertification Guide. Failure to comply can result in termination of the candidate’s participation, invalidation of the results of the examination, or other appropriate action.
Checking-In on Examination Day at Test Center
Recertification candidates should arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes in advance of the scheduled testing appointment time. If a candidate arrives at the test center 30 minutes after their scheduled testing appointment time and is refused admission, then the candidate will forfeit their appointment. If an appointment is forfeited, there is no refund of the testing fee.
The candidate must present a valid government-issued photo identification (ID) with signature. Candidates will be required to sign in and will be instructed on where to store personal items and where to keep identification. The candidate’s identity will be verified every time they enter or leave the testing room.
Once the candidate has been checked in, they will be escorted by testing staff to a workstation. The candidate must remain at the workstation unless authorized to leave by test center staff. Candidates may not leave the room without test center staff permission. If the candidate leaves the testing room without permission prior to completing their examination, they will forfeit the testing appointment and there will be no refund of testing fees.
Test center staff will provide the candidate with an erasable note board and pen that may be replaced as needed during the test. The candidate may not remove the note boards or pens, and candidates are not allowed to use their own scratch paper or writing tools. Additionally, candidates will be provided with a calculator available on their computer screen for use during the examination. Testing room temperature can be unpredictable; therefore, BPS suggests that the candidate bring appropriate clothing with them (e.g., sweater, sweatshirt without hood) to help them adapt to a cooler or warmer climate in the examination room. Candidates may bring earplugs if they are sensitive to noise. If earplugs are brought, the earplugs will be subject to inspection by the testing center staff.
Personal Item Exception
At this time, we are expanding the Personal Item Exception policy to allow medical masks and medical rubber gloves.
Candidates wearing surgical or medical masks should be mindful of the following:
- The candidate should briefly remove the mask so identification can be visually verified
- During this brief removal, the masks should be visually inspected at check-in to look for notes written inside. Test center administrators should not touch or handle the masks during inspection
- Candidates choosing to wear masks during testing need to keep the mask on for the duration of testing. If a candidate decides to remove the mask during their examination, they should be made to store it in their locker
- The mask should be removed for image capturing if it is required for the examination.
Candidates are also permitted to wear medical rubber gloves in the test room. Gloves will be briefly visually inspected per our security policies and checked for any notes concealed or written on them.
Checking-In on Examination Day via LRP
While LRP testing generally mirrors traditional in-center test processes, there are important disclosures to consider.
- Prior to launching your examination, you must download and install the ProProctor Application and perform a computer system check. It is highly recommended that you use your personal computer for LRP testing.
- An original, valid (i.e., unexpired), government issued photo and signature-bearing ID is required to take an examination. You will be required to show your workspace and surrounding area using your webcam.
- You will be required to raise your pant legs above your ankles, empty and turn all pockets inside-out and raise shirt sleeves above your wrists prior to every entry into the virtual test center.
- If you are wearing eyeglasses, you will be required to remove them for 360-degree visual inspection to ensure they do not contain any recording device(s). Large jewelry items must be removed from your person prior to and throughout the duration of the examination.
- If you have long hair that covers your ears, you will be asked to pull your hair back to ensure nothing is affixed or embedded in your ear(s).
Prohibited Items at Test Centers
Prometric test center staff will provide candidates with instructions regarding items that may be securely stored during the exam and accessed during the scheduled, optional breaktime. Candidates are expressly prohibited from bringing the following items into the exam room:
- Cameras, cell phones or other mobile devices, optical readers, or other electronic devices that include the ability to photograph, photocopy, or otherwise copy test materials
- Notes, books, dictionaries, or language dictionaries
- Book bags or luggage
- iPods, MP3 players, headphones, or pagers
- Calculators, computers, PDAs, or other electronic devices with one or more memory storage banks
- Personal writing utensils (e.g., pencils, pens, and highlighters)
- Watches
- Food and beverage (in the examination room)
- Hats, hoods, or other headgear, unless required for religious purposes
- Mechanical pens and pencils
All items are subject to inspection by the proctor. If Prometric test center staff determine that a candidate has brought any prohibited items to the testing center, the candidate’s item may be demanded and held for an indefinite period of time by Prometric test center staff. BPS and Prometric reserve the right to review the memory of any electronic device that may be in the candidate’s possession at the test center to determine whether any test materials have been photographed or otherwise copied.
If the review determines that any test materials are in the memory of any such device, BPS and Prometric reserve the right to delete materials and/or retain them for subsequent disciplinary action. Upon completion of the review and any applicable deletions, BPS and Prometric will return the device to the candidate. BPS and Prometric will not be responsible for the deletion of any materials that may result from the review, whether or not such materials are test materials.
By bringing any such device into the test center in contravention of BPS and Prometric policies, the candidate expressly waives any confidentiality or other similar rights with respect to the device, BPS and Prometric review of the memory of the device, and/or the deletion of any materials. BPS, Prometric, the examination center, and the test center staff are not liable for lost or damaged items brought to the examination center.
Prohibited Items and Examinee Conduct in the Virtual Testing Center
Requests for special accommodations will be reviewed by BPS staff on a case-by-case basis and addressed as per existing BPS policy.
Candidates should note that leaving the camera view while the examination is in progress (see policy on unscheduled breaks), is strictly prohibited. Changing locations while testing, turning off lighting or audio, speaking to or receiving aid from other individuals is also strictly prohibited.
Unauthorized personal items must not be accessible while testing. Such items include, but are not limited to: outerwear, hats, food, drinks, purses, bags or briefcases, notebooks, watches, cell phones, wearable technology, electronic devices, calculators, or mechanical pens and pencils.
Candidates are not permitted to access any personal items or electronic devices at any time during the examination, even while on break. If the candidate is observed with these items, the exam will be terminated and the candidate will not be allowed to reschedule in the same window.
Eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing gum are prohibited during the examination.
Written notes, published materials, or other testing aids are prohibited.
Light clothing items removed for comfort such as sweaters, suit jackets, scarves, etc., must be hung on the examinee’s chair, not placed in laps or on the workstation desktop. Outerwear such as heavy coats, parkas, raincoats, etc., is not permitted in the testing area.
Water Policy
Effective May 1, 2023, candidates testing in Prometric test centers and via live remote proctoring will be allowed to bring water into the test room during their exam, as a standard operating procedure.
Details of the policy:
- Only water is allowed, and it must be in a clear or transparent container with a lid or cap.
- All labels must be removed, and the container will be inspected for notes or other test aids.
- The candidate will need to remove the lid/cap for visual inspection by the test center staff.
- Should the container not meet the requirements outlined, the candidate will be required to put it in their locker and will not be allowed to take it into the test room.
A candidate is not allowed to leave camera view without first notifying and being acknowledged by the proctor. Failure to inform the proctor prior to taking a break or failure to return on time, will result in an inability to complete the exam. Upon return, a full security scan will be conducted prior to resuming the exam.
- Scheduled break-Certification Exams Only: One 30-minute scheduled break is allowed after section 1. Candidate may resume exam and start section 2 at any time during break. However, a proctor should be notified by the candidate.
- Unscheduled break– All Exams: One 10-minute optional unscheduled break is permitted, and a proctor should be notified.
- In both scheduled and unscheduled breaks, the candidate should notify the proctor and wait for confirmation before leaving the examination area, otherwise the examination may be terminated.
If a candidate leaves the testing area during the exam at any time without first notifying proctor, the proctor will note the time of departure and terminate the exam immediately.
As a condition of selecting LRP, candidates must have access to reliable high-speed internet service and computer equipment and acknowledge that neither Prometric nor BPS bears responsibility for any candidate’s computer malfunctions, internet service issues, or power outages should any arise. In the unlikely event that an LRP examination is interrupted for more than 10 minutes (including, but not limited to, extended power outage or loss of internet connection), the examination session will be terminated and a report filed with BPS. If the candidate is disconnected or disrupted for whatever reason, after three occurrences, the examination will be terminated. To maintain the security of sensitive examination content, candidates will not be permitted to retest in the current examination window. However, each case will be reviewed, and after review, candidates may be granted an opportunity to register to retake an examination in a future testing window.
Use of Scratch Paper
The policy on the use of scratch paper (i.e., dry erase board) for in-center testing is described in another section. For LRP candidates, options for the use of two pieces of blank candidate supplied scratch paper (or as an alternative an online digital whiteboard) will be confirmed by Prometric at the time of LRP test administration. If using blank paper, it must be 8″x10″ computer printer paper, and candidates must show the blank paper (front and back) to the proctor during check-in. At the end of the exam, candidates must rip up the scratch paper in front of the camera so that the proctor can observe disposal of the scratch paper. Candidates should note that the testing engine used by Prometric contains an online calculator for use during the testing session. The use of a separate calculator is strictly prohibited. Mechanical pens and pencils are also prohibited.
The policy on the use of scratch paper for LRP candidates is described below:
- Two pieces of blank, candidate-supplied scratch paper (must be 8”x10” sheet of white paper) will be permitted by Prometric at the time of LRP test administration.
- Candidates must show the blank paper (front and back) to the proctor during check-in.
- Candidates are required to show the proctor both sides of scratch paper, then tear sheets into multiple pieces and discard them, before leaving exam.
- Mechanical pens and pencils are prohibited.
Confidentiality of Examination Content Administered Through Live Remote Proctoring
The remote proctoring application, computer-based test delivery system, tutorial, examination content, and surveys are the published, confidential, proprietary materials, and intellectual property of Prometric and/or BPS.
Communicating, publishing, reproducing, or transmitting any part of an examination in any form or by any means (e.g., verbal, electronic, written, etc.) for any purpose is strictly prohibited. ANY reproduction or disclosure will result in immediate notification to BPS and potential filing of administrative, civil, and/or criminal charges against you and anyone directing or conspiring with you.
After the Examination
Recertification Timeline
Please view the table below to determine your year of recertification. For candidates in specialties within the windowed testing model, your certification becomes active July 1 for those certified or recertified by May 1, or the certification becomes active December 31 if you are certified or recertified after May 1. For candidates in specialties within the continuous testing model, your certification becomes active the first of the following month.
Starting in 2023, BPS is transitioning two to four certification programs to a continuous testing model for certification and recertification examinations. The four credentials subject to this change in 2023 are board-certified cardiology pharmacist (BCCP), board-certified nuclear pharmacist (BCNP), board-certified oncology pharmacist (BCOP), and board-certified psychiatric pharmacist (BCPP).
Continuously available (“continuous”) testing is the opportunity for a candidate to register throughout the year and take a certification or recertification examination at any point in the year. This differs from windows testing where exam administration is offered in two windows per year.
For specialties in the continuous testing model, the recertification cycle length remains unchanged. All recertification criteria must be met 7 years from the year of certification. Certificants must either achieve a passing score on a recertification examination or complete the required amount of BPS-approved continuing education before December 31 of their recertification year.
Note, those certified in the Spring or Fall cannot begin earning continuing education hours until January 1st of the next calendar year (i.e., If certified 7/31/2021, can begin earning CE by 01/01/2022).
Initial Testing Year/ Year Last Recertified | Recertify by December 31 |
| 2015 | 2022 |
| 2016 | 2023 |
| 2017 | 2024 |
| 2018 | 2025 |
| 2019 | 2026 |
| 2020 | 2027 |
| 2021 | 2028 |
| 2022 | 2029 |
Examination Results
Candidates in specialties within the windowed testing format will receive their score reports electronically approximately 90 calendar days following the close of the scheduled examination administration window by logging in to their MyBPS accounts. For specialties in the continuous testing model, candidates can expect to receive a score report electronically within 60 calendar days of testing session.
For reasons of privacy and confidentiality, examination results are released to the candidate only.
Examination results will not be given via email, telephone or fax. Access to a candidate’s score report is limited to those staff at BPS who are involved in the processing of these reports. BPS will not release personal information (other than the name of certified individuals under established policy) without written authorization.
To protect the security and integrity of the specialty certification examinations, neither BPS nor its examination administrator release examination questions, individual answer strings, or the answer key to any individual or organization. Efforts are made by BPS, its specialty councils, and its examination administrator to produce completely accurate examinations; however, if a candidate believes there is an error in an examination question, the concern should be noted in the candidate comments of the examination and the candidate should contact BPS immediately after the examination.
Passing Standard
The passing standards, or cut scores, used in BPS examinations were established using criterion-referenced procedures that are widely used in certification. Criterion-referenced passing standards link the score required to pass an examination to the minimum level of knowledge required for specialty certification. Each BPS specialty certification program establishes its own passing standard.
Equating and Scaled Scores
BPS creates new versions, or forms, of all examinations on a regular basis. In assembling the new forms, BPS and its consultants follow best practices in certification testing so that all forms of an examination are comparable.
A statistical procedure called equating is used to consider any differences in relative difficulty of the test forms and to ensure that candidates are measured against an equitable and consistent passing standard. Test scores are then transformed onto a score scale between 200 and 800, with 500 representing the passing point. The process of scaling accommodates score interpretation and ensures that all candidate scores are reported on a common scale.
Scores will range from a minimum of 200 to a maximum of 800. The minimum passing score on BPS examinations is 500. Pass/fail decisions are based on the total score indicated on the score report, not on the performance in the domains.
Interpreting The Score Report
The score report is designed to inform examinees of their performance on the examination and serves as a record of their testing session. Each score report will identify the name of the examinee, the examination, and the date of examination administration.
- For examinees who are successful in achieving a passing score, the score report will notify them of their passing outcome and identify next steps for the maintenance of their certification. The examinations are designed to differentiate those who meet the minimum requirements of knowledge, skills, and experience. As such, no score or any other feedback is provided to successful certification and recertification candidates, in order to avoid any unfair comparison among successful certification and recertification candidates.
- For examinees who are unsuccessful in achieving a passing score, the score report will notify them of their total score, include a description of their performance by content domain, and identify next steps should they choose to retake the examination. The range used to report total scores is uniform across all BPS examinations, with 200 representing the minimum possible score, 500 representing the minimum score required to pass the examination, and 800 representing the maximum possible score. This reporting scale is an arithmetic re-scaling of the total number of items answered correctly. The total score is provided to help unsuccessful candidates determine how their performance compares to the minimum passing score. Domain-level performance feedback is also provided to unsuccessful candidates to give candidates a sense of their performance in each major area of the examination content outline, but candidates are advised to exercise caution in interpreting this information. The qualitative domain-level performance feedback of high, moderate, and low correspond to the number of examination items answered correctly in the respective content domains, but the difficulty of content within each domain may differ from one another. Unsuccessful certification candidates are advised to review all areas of the examination content outline before a subsequent attempt, regardless of domain-level performance on previous attempts.
Comparative Review and Hand Scoring
A comparative review verifies that the candidate’s answers were scored against the correct examination answer key to confirm the candidate’s examination was scored properly. Candidates should note that the computer-based examination scoring process is accurate, and that the BPS scoring process already includes several quality assurance steps.
To request a comparative review/hand scoring of a BPS examination, a candidate must complete and submit the request form on their MyBPS profile, along with submission of a $50 USD fee. Requests must be received within 30 calendar days of the candidate receiving the score report. Candidates should allow 30 calendar days to process requests.
Appeals Process
An appeals process is available to any individual who has applied for or received a BPS certification and wishes to contest any adverse decision or proposed action affecting their application for certification or recertification status other than a failed examination score.
BPS provides a two-step appeals process for resolution of any questions or complaints concerning an action or decision by the BPS Board of Directors. The first step of the process includes a reconsideration review procedure which is handled by BPS. The second step of the process is an appeals procedure which is handled by a specially appointed appeals committee. The individual must first file the request for reconsideration before filing an appeal.
Requests for reconsideration or appeal can be submitted electronically using the required, Request for Reconsideration or Appeal form, via the BPS website using the link: “Appeals Policy and Procedures”.
If you experience an examination administration issue and wish to file a complaint, the complaint must be received by BPS within five (5) calendar days of your examination date by using the link: Examination Appointment Issues.
Retaking the Examination
If a recertification candidate fails to achieve a passing score on the recertification examination during the April/May examination window, the candidate may retest in the August/September examination window. If the candidate fails to achieve a passing score in the August/September examination window, the candidate may request an extension, if they have not previously used one. See the “Request for Extension” section in this guide for more information. The fee for retaking the examination is $200 USD.
Specialties in the continuous testing model, a candidate who is unsuccessful on the first testing attempt may have two additional attempts to achieve a passing score. The two additional attempts are at the reduced fee of $200 USD with a minimum of 90 calendar days and maximum of 200 days between each retake. If a candidate does not achieve a passing score in their recertification year, they may request a 1-year extension if they have not previously used one.
For full information on the BPS examination process, refer to the BPS Candidate’s Guide.
Certificates, Digital Badges, and Lapel Pins
All successful examinees receive a complimentary certificate suitable for framing, a BPS digital badge, and a BPS lapel pin are automatically sent to newly certified specialists approximately 90 calendar days after receiving their score report. Note: Candidates will not need to request the certificate through the online portal. Certificants have 1-year to claim their complimentary certificate.
BPS is the only authorized agency that issues BPS certificates. These certificates are exclusively provided through our approved vendor, The Award Group (TAG). It’s crucial to be cautious of any groups claiming to represent BPS. To avoid any confusion or scams, we recommend verifying your purchases by directly contacting BPS if you have any questions or concerns.
Request for Extension
Candidates seeking recertification who believe that they will not be able to sit for the recertification examination in their recertification year or who believe that they will not be able to complete all required CE by December 31 of the year in which they are to recertify may request an extension of their certification status. Follow these steps to complete your request for an extension.
- Log-in to your MyBPS profile.
- Click on the “Recertify” link to be directed to the recertification application. Select the recertification route and submit the recertification application. BPS must first approve the recertification application before you can request an extension.
- Once the recertification application is approved, a “Request Extension” link will be available in your MyBPS profile.
- Complete the extension request form by uploading a written request (in PDF or JPG format).
- Provide specific reasons for not being able to sit for the examination or earning the total hours by the December 31st
- Outline a plan to meet all recertification requirements (either by earning the total hours of CE or passing the Spring and/or Fall recertification examination) by December 31, of your extension year, if approved.
- The Extension Request must be received by BPS by December 31, of your recertification year.
Note, all requests for extensions submitted after the August 4 registration deadline is closed are processed by selecting the continuing education route in the recertification application regardless of your intended plan for meeting the recertification requirements. The final recertification route that will be noted will be based on your outlined plan within your written extension request.
This request should be submitted via your MyBPS account after a recertification application has been submitted and approved by clicking the “Request Extension” link that appears after the recertification application is approved. Certificants must first complete a recertification application form and pay the $400 USD recertification fee plus any past fees including any $5 USD annual penalties. Note: all fees for recertification applications with extension requests are non-refundable. As part of the extension request form, a candidate must submit and upload a written request (in PDF or JPG format), providing specific reasons for not being able to sit for the examination or to meet the December 31 deadline for CE, as well as outline a plan for meeting all recertification requirements by December 31 of the following year. The request must be received by BPS by December 31 of the year in which the candidate is to recertify.
BPS will only grant an extension one-time during the life of the certification.
If a candidate wishes to change their recertification route during their extension year, they can submit a request by contacting recertification staff by clicking here. BPS recommends that the recertification route change request be submitted by August 4.
During the extension period, the individual’s certification remains active; however, this period will be treated as a one-year extension on a one-time-only basis, assuming the candidate has not already been granted an extension. No additional extension will be granted beyond this one-year period. All recertification requirements must be completed by the end of the one-year extension or that individual’s certification will lapse, and their name will be removed from the official roster of BPS-certified pharmacist specialists. Once removed permanently from the roster, reinstatement can be achieved only by the successful completion of the entire certification process. The only way to reinstate certification is to re-apply for initial certification which includes meeting all eligibility requirements, paying all fees, and passing the initial certification examination.
When recertification is accomplished through a continuing professional development program for any specialty, all hours creditable to a specific 7-year recertification period must be earned within that accrual period (plus an additional year, if granted an extension). Credit hours may not be carried over from one 7-year period to the next.
Candidates should note that there are expiration dates associated with earning BPS recertification credit. BPS will only award recertification credit for modules based on the completion and submission date of the post-test assessment.
If a certificant is recertifying via examination, they must pass the examination by December 31 in their extension year. Note, if you have indicated that you are requesting the extension to take the examination in the extension year, the original authorization to test will be cancelled to allow for authorization to take the examination in the extension year.
BPS encourages candidates to submit their recertification application as early as January 1. Certificants must submit their recertification application no later than the deadline of August 4. Candidates who intend to recertify via examination may apply for the examination at any point in the year. However, BPS recommends sitting for the examination earlier in the year, in the event that the examinee is unsuccessful, to allow for examination retake. Candidates must sit by October 31 in order to successfully meet the recertification requirements to receive a examination score by December 31.
If a candidate is granted an extension and successfully recertifies, the new 7-year certification cycle will begin after the completion of the extension year.
Delist
To deactivate your certification prior to the cycle end date you must submit a delist request through your MyBPS portal by completing the following steps:
- Log-in to your MyBPS profile.
- Click on the “Delist” link found in the certification information section.
Delist requests are approved within 14 calendar days of the request submission date. After your delist request is processed, you will be removed from the public roster of board-certified pharmacists on the BPS website. Do not submit a delist request if you prefer to let your certification lapse at the end of your current 7-year certification cycle.
Once you have delisted, the reinstatement of your certification can only be achieved by successful completion of the entire certification process, including submitting an application, meeting eligibility requirements, paying all applicable fees, and successfully passing the certification examination.
