For a simple Guide to the ABPI Exam and what it involves click here.
The ABPI exam is a qualification for current or prospective medical representatives and other people who promote medicines in the UK.
Prior to January 2014 the exam was not formally accredited in the UK education system, however the exam is now accredited by SFJ Awards (between 2014-2020, this was Industry Qualifications), comprising the Level 3 Certificate in the promotion of prescription medicines and the Level 3 Diploma in the promotion of prescription medicines.
From 01 July 2021, the qualification titles change – the Level 3 Diploma is renamed the Certificate of Achievement in the ABPI Advanced Professional Programme for Representatives, and the Level 3 Certificate is renamed the Certificate of Achievement in the ABPI Intermediate Professional Programme for Representatives. The qualifications continue to be accredited by SFJ Awards, and in all other aspects, remain exactly the same.
These qualifications examine the skills and knowledge required to promote medicines. They cover different areas divided into units with credit values. In order to pass the Intermediate Professional Programme, you must achieve 31 credits (made up of four mandatory units), and to pass the Advanced Professional Programme, at least 46 credits (made up of the mandatory units plus two or three disease area units). The Advanced Professional Programme is the appropriate examination for medical representatives and the Intermediate Professional Programme is appropriate for generic sales representatives.
The ABPI Code of Practice states that medical representatives must take exams for all units within one year of beginning employment in the promotion of medicines to prescribers, and pass all units within two years. This time limit does not apply to candidates not currently employed in the promotion of medicines to prescribers.
When the accredited exam was introduced, there were some misconceptions around the newer exam. To find out more about the myths surrounding the accredited exam, please click here.
Click here for guidance on the types of questions that will appear in the exam. A Practice Test Paper assessing aspects of Units 1-4 can be downloaded through this link.
Click the links below to find out more information about each qualification.
