Is it possible to work as a 'Pharmacist' or trainee in USA?

Question

Am a B.PHARM graduate from India,having 5 years of experience in pharma.What should I do to get a job in USA after this ?

Answer 1

You would have to research the requirements as most States require PharmD (doctorate of pharmacy) to work as a pharmacist in the United States. Furthermore it is my belief B.Pharm degree would qualify you as a Pharmacy Technician and most likely would not get you a work visa.

Your first step would be to research the State you want to reside. Then contact the State Bord of Pharmacy and ask them if they would recognize your degree from India including your work experience and would they allow you to work as a licensed Pharmacist. The Board will either review your history including transcripts or refer you to the agency that does the review. After your review has been completed you will be told: you don't qualify, you do qualify, or you need to take a list of classes to qualify. In the event you are told that you need to take additional classes you will have to enter the US by applying for a student visa, pay for the classes including living expenses at your expense, pass the class with the required grade and then submit for further review. Once you have met the requirements for a licensed pharmacist you can then begin looking for a job. Then once you have received a job offer then you would have to apply for a work visa. From beginning to end I would estimate talking at least 2 - 3 years at a minimum and longer if you need to take the required classes.

Answer 2

I'm not too sure, but this site might be helpful: https://www.ptcb.org//AM/Template.cfm?Se...

Answer 3

If you graduated before January 1, 2003, than possibly yes.  If you graduated after that date than no.

If you meet the educational requirements, you'll have to apply to the NABP and your state board of pharmacy.  Some states do not allow internationals to be pharmacists.  They will review the application, and if approved, you'll than take TOEFL and FPGEE.  FPGEE is only offered twice a year at three locations.  If you do not pass it by your second try, you have to reapply to the NABP/state board of pharmacy.  If you pass both, you will go to your state board of pharmacy and get an internship approved.  You have to practice as an intern, for a set number of hours.  After that, you than take the regular pharmacist licensing exams: NAPLEX and MJPE.  Pass both, and you are a licensed pharmacist.  Most fail and the ones who do succeed, take years.