Key Takeaways
- Study in order: overview/laws first, then dispensing process, finally drugs and drug therapy.
- Dispensing Process is 55% of the exam—focus most of your study time here.
- Use quizzes actively: attempt first, then review explanations.
- Focus on pharmacy calculations, controlled substance schedules, and drug classifications.
- Recommended study time: 40-80 hours over 4-8 weeks.
How to Use This Study Guide
This comprehensive guide is designed to help you prepare for and pass the ExCPT on your first attempt.
Study Approach
Recommended Study Order
We recommend studying the chapters in order, as concepts build upon each other:
- Start with Overview and Laws - Understand the role, scope, and regulations (25%)
- Focus on Dispensing Process - The largest domain at 55% of the exam
- Finish with Drugs and Drug Therapy - Apply medication knowledge (20%)
Time Investment
| Experience Level | Recommended Study Hours |
|---|---|
| Completed pharmacy tech program | 40-50 hours |
| Some pharmacy experience | 50-60 hours |
| New to pharmacy | 60-80 hours |
Focus on Dispensing Process (55% of Exam)
More than half of the exam tests your ability to:
- Process prescriptions accurately
- Perform pharmacy calculations
- Understand billing and insurance
- Apply compounding principles
- Handle medication dispensing
Study Tip: Spend the majority of your study time on dispensing process topics. This domain alone accounts for over half of your exam questions.
Using Quiz Questions
Each section includes quiz questions to test your understanding. For best results:
- Don't peek at answers - Try to answer before checking
- Read explanations - Even for questions you got right
- Note weak areas - Return to topics you struggle with
- Master calculations - Many candidates struggle with pharmacy math
Key Areas to Master
Based on exam weighting and difficulty, prioritize these topics:
High Priority (Most Tested)
- Pharmacy calculations (dosages, day supply, concentrations)
- Controlled substance schedules and DEA regulations
- Prescription processing and verification
- Billing and insurance claims
- Drug classifications and interactions
Moderate Priority
- Compounding and aseptic technique
- Inventory management
- Patient safety protocols
- HIPAA and patient privacy
Lower Priority (Fewer Questions)
- Pharmacy technician scope of practice
- Career development topics
Key Regulations to Know
The ExCPT tests knowledge of multiple regulatory frameworks:
| Regulation | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| DEA | Controlled substances, schedules I-V |
| FDA | Drug safety, recalls, labeling |
| HIPAA | Patient privacy, protected health information |
| State Boards | Practice scope, licensure requirements |
| USP Chapters | Compounding standards |
ExCPT vs PTCE Study Considerations
If you're choosing between exams:
| Consider ExCPT If | Consider PTCE If |
|---|---|
| You have work experience but no formal training | You completed a PTCB-recognized program |
| You prefer more time per question | You want shorter total exam time |
| Your employer accepts either certification | Your state specifically requires PTCB |
| You need flexible eligibility | You prefer the more established exam |
Good luck with your ExCPT preparation!
Which knowledge domain has the LARGEST weight on the ExCPT exam?
What is a key ADVANTAGE of the ExCPT compared to the PTCE for eligibility?
How long is the total time allowed to complete the ExCPT exam?