ISU Pharmacy Interview Prep Guide (2025-2026)

Idaho State University's L.S. Skaggs College of Pharmacy (ISU) is a program with a mission to develop caring, collaborative, and innovative pharmacists. This guide provides an overview of ISU's interview process and key information to help applicants prepare. It covers the interview format (including the program's multi-part, panel-and-group interview structure), the school's mission and values (and how those ideals inform the program's expectations), distinctive program features and facts, relevant pharmacy policy topics affecting the school and region, and the non-academic qualities ISU looks for in candidates. It also highlights competency frameworks that shape the curriculum, common themes from past interview questions, and important application timelines for the 2025-2026 admissions cycle. Together, these insights aim to help prospective students understand what ISU's College of Pharmacy is about and how to align their preparation with the program's priorities.

The interview for ISU's PharmD program is a structured, multi-component process conducted in a virtual format. The college uses rolling admissions, so interviews are scheduled monthly as applications are completed. Applicants invited to interview can expect a half-day session encompassing several activities designed to evaluate different competencies. Notably, ISU's interviews are open-file, meaning interviewers have access to the applicant's submitted materials during the interview. Overall, past interviewees have described the atmosphere as professional but friendly – most felt positively about their experience and found the stress level to be moderate.

• An individual interview with faculty (often a panel of two professors interviewing one candidate) in an open-file setting. This one-on-one portion typically lasts around 30–60 minutes and delves into the applicant's background, motivations, and scenario questions in a conversational format.
• A group exercise or interview involving multiple candidates. In ISU's case, several applicants engage in a group discussion or activity observed by current pharmacy students and faculty. Often, this includes deliberating on a moral or ethical case scenario – for example, discussing a dilemma with no clear right answer – to showcase teamwork and communication skills.
• A written assessment, usually an on-the-spot essay. After the group discussion, candidates are given time (about an hour, per past accounts) to write an essay reflecting on the ethical scenario or case that was discussed. This tests the ability to organize thoughts and communicate in writing under time constraints.

Throughout these stages, interviewers evaluate communication skills, ethical reasoning, and how applicants collaborate with others. The presence of current students in the group session also means the day is partly about getting to know the program's community. Because interviews are held remotely (via video conference), applicants should ensure they have a proper setting and internet connection, but otherwise the format is much like an in-person experience. Decisions are made quickly in ISU's process – the admissions committee often notifies candidates of their acceptance within about a week after the interview. While exact acceptance rates aren't published, the program enrolls around 50–55 students each year, so a significant portion of interviewed applicants ultimately receive offers. Performing well across all interview components and displaying genuine enthusiasm for the school and profession are key to success in this stage.

ISU's College of Pharmacy has a clear mission and set of values that drive its program, and understanding these can help applicants appreciate what qualities the school may be looking for. The college's mission is to "develop caring and collaborative pharmacists and scholars who improve health outcomes through transformative research and patient-centered care". Its vision is to lead in innovative pharmacy practice and inspire students to be catalysts for change. In other words, ISU aims to produce pharmacists who are not only clinically competent but also compassionate, team-oriented, and forward-thinking.

• Integrity – Doing the right thing. (Ethical conduct and honesty are paramount in healthcare, and ISU places this value front and center.)
• Access – Creating opportunities to serve and engage underserved populations. (The school emphasizes outreach and improving healthcare access in rural or underserved communities.)
• Inclusiveness – Seeking diversity by valuing everyone. (ISU fosters an inclusive environment, respecting different backgrounds and perspectives.)
• Collaboration – Nurturing a respectful community through mentorship, communication, and teamwork. (Working effectively with others is a core part of the program, reflecting the interprofessional nature of pharmacy.)
• Intellectual Curiosity – Encouraging research, scholarship, and entrepreneurship. (The college values inquisitive learners who are interested in advancing knowledge and innovating in pharmacy practice.)
• Accountability – Promoting a culture of patient and professional advocacy. (Students and pharmacists are expected to take responsibility for their patients' well-being and for upholding professional standards.)

As Idaho's only state-supported pharmacy school, ISU also highlights its role in serving all citizens of the region and being a national leader in telepharmacy initiatives. For interview prep, this means candidates should be mindful of how their own values align with the college's. Interview questions or discussions may indirectly probe these areas – for instance, talking about ethical scenarios ties back to integrity, or questions about teamwork relate to collaboration. Demonstrating an awareness of the school's mission (such as the emphasis on patient-centered care and research) can show that an applicant resonates with ISU's core values, though it's important to do so authentically. Ultimately, the interview is an opportunity to display the personal qualities – like empathy, integrity, and curiosity – that ISU has identified as central to its identity.

Idaho State's PharmD program offers several unique features and opportunities that applicants should know, both for their own understanding and to potentially discuss or ask questions about during the interview. ISU's College of Pharmacy was founded in 1920 and has a long history as the first college at ISU. Today, it provides a four-year Doctor of Pharmacy program that is delivered across multiple campuses. Students spend the first three years in the classroom (on campus) and the fourth year in clinical rotations.

• Multiple campuses – The PharmD can be completed at Pocatello or Meridian in Idaho, or in Anchorage, Alaska, thanks to synchronous distance education technology. All students receive the same lectures and curriculum simultaneously across sites. This multi-campus model expands access and might be something to ask about (e.g., how they facilitate collaboration between campuses).
• Clinical rotations in diverse locations – For the final year, students have options to complete clinical rotations not only in Idaho (Boise, Pocatello, Coeur d'Alene), but also in Reno, Nevada, or back in Anchorage, Alaska. This geographic reach aligns with the school's emphasis on serving rural and varied communities and can provide exposure to different healthcare settings.
• Class size and student body – The program typically admits about 55 students per year. This relatively small class size means more individualized attention and a close-knit community. Students often form strong cohorts, and faculty-to-student ratios are favorable. In interviews, conveying that one appreciates a close community or plans to contribute to it could resonate well.
• Early assurance pathway – ISU offers an Early Assurance Program called ROAR Rx for undergraduates who commit to ISU early in their college career. While this may not apply to most interviewees (who are in the regular applicant pool), it demonstrates the college's dedication to attracting motivated students and could spark a question about mentoring or pipeline programs.
• Dual degrees and special programs – The College of Pharmacy allows interested students to pursue concurrent degrees such as a PharmD/MBA (Business Administration), PharmD/MPH (Public Health), or even a PharmD/Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences. These offerings highlight the school's flexibility and commitment to interdisciplinary training. If you have interests in business, public health, or research, you might discuss these options or ask how students balance the dual curricula.
• Focus on telepharmacy and innovation – ISU is nationally recognized as a leader in telepharmacy services and practice transformation. The program integrates technology and innovative care models (like telehealth) into learning. This is a great topic for questions – for example, asking about opportunities to get involved in telepharmacy initiatives or how the curriculum prepares students for emerging pharmacy roles.

Knowing these facts can help you tailor your discussion during the interview. For instance, if an interviewer asks "Do you have any questions for us?", you could inquire about how the multi-campus experience works in practice, or how the program's presence in Alaska is managed, or about the outcomes of their dual degree graduates. Showing that you've done your homework on what makes ISU's program distinct – be it the strong telepharmacy focus or the small class size – will underline your genuine interest. It's also beneficial for applicants to think about which of these features align with their personal goals (e.g., a desire to serve rural communities or to pursue a leadership role in healthcare) and be prepared to talk about that fit.

Pharmacy is a field influenced by healthcare policy at the state and national levels, and ISU's program is very much embedded in the context of Idaho's and the surrounding region's healthcare landscape. Being aware of key policy topics and trends can be helpful for interviewees – not only might these come up in conversation, but they also demonstrate that you are knowledgeable about the profession's environment (something that interviewers appreciate, since applicants are expected to understand the profession's current issues). Here are a few relevant policy and industry topics related to ISU's program, Idaho/Alaska, and the nation:

• Idaho's progressive pharmacy practice laws – Idaho is known as one of the most progressive states for pharmacist scope of practice. In recent years, Idaho pharmacists have gained independent prescriptive authority for many common medications and ailments (such as therapies for flu, urinary tract infections, smoking cessation) without needing physician approval. They can also provide more services like administering immunizations and performing point-of-care testing. Additionally, Idaho's Board of Pharmacy has expanded what tasks pharmacy technicians can do, which frees up pharmacists to focus on clinical care. ISU has adapted its curriculum to these advances – students are trained in these expanded roles so they graduate ready to practice at the top of their license. An applicant might note or discuss this environment, especially if talking about why they want to study in Idaho or how they see the profession evolving.
• Telepharmacy and rural healthcare – Telepharmacy refers to providing pharmacy services remotely via telecommunications. Given Idaho's many rural areas and the vast distances in Alaska, telepharmacy is a crucial innovation. ISU has been a national leader in telepharmacy services, which means students may learn how to serve patients remotely and use technology to bridge healthcare gaps. Policy-wise, Idaho and Alaska have regulations enabling remote pharmacist consultations and prescription verification for rural community pharmacies. If asked about healthcare challenges in rural areas or how to improve access, telepharmacy is a great example to discuss. It also ties into ISU's value of "Access" – reaching underserved populations.
• Pharmacist provider status and national trends – On the national stage, there's an ongoing push for pharmacists to be recognized as healthcare providers (for example, under Medicare) to expand reimbursement for clinical services. While this is a federal issue, states like Idaho have already empowered pharmacists in ways analogous to provider status. Another national trend is the idea of a pharmacist licensure compact between states. Notably, Idaho was the first state to allow a pharmacy multi-state licensure compact, permitting Idaho-licensed pharmacists to practice in other member states more easily. This forward-thinking approach foreshadows how the profession might handle license reciprocity and workforce mobility in the future. Being conversant with these broader topics can show interviewers that you stay informed about pharmacy news. For instance, if the conversation touches on the future of pharmacy or legislative issues, you might mention how Idaho is leading changes that could become models nationwide.

For interview preparation, consider how these policy topics have shaped ISU's program. The progressive scope of practice in Idaho means an ISU student's educational experience is on the cutting edge – something you can express enthusiasm about. At the same time, being mindful of challenges (like rural healthcare needs) and solutions (like telepharmacy) can help you answer or ask questions thoughtfully if such themes arise. It's not that you need to be an expert in pharmacy law, but demonstrating awareness of the environment in which ISU operates shows maturity and genuine interest in your future role as a pharmacist.

Like most pharmacy schools, ISU evaluates applicants holistically – considering not only academic metrics but also personal attributes, experiences, and potential to contribute to the profession. On the admissions website, ISU notes that besides meeting course prerequisites and GPA requirements, applicants must demonstrate self-awareness, motivation for pharmacy, and "exhibit behaviors, values, and professionalism compatible with the role and responsibilities of the profession of pharmacy". In practice, this means the school is looking at a range of non-academic factors during the application and interview process.

• Pharmacy experience and understanding of the profession – ISU strongly encourages applicants to gain pharmacy experience (such as working or shadowing in a pharmacy) prior to applying. While it's not a formal requirement, having experience helps you understand the pharmacist's role. Interviewers often ask about your exposure to pharmacy or what you've learned from any healthcare experiences. In fact, during ISU's interviews, candidates are asked questions about the profession of pharmacy to ensure they have sufficient knowledge of the field. This means you should be prepared to discuss things like what a pharmacist does in various settings, current challenges in pharmacy, or an experience that confirmed your desire to pursue this career.
• Communication and teamwork skills – The very structure of the interview (with group discussions and interactions with faculty and student observers) is designed to gauge these skills. ISU values collaboration, so they will be looking at how well you express yourself, listen to others, and work in a team. For example, in the group ethical scenario, they'll observe if you show respect, contribute thoughtfully, and help facilitate a productive discussion. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to articulate your thoughts clearly are essential qualities for succeeding in the program and are thus key selection criteria.
• Professionalism and ethics – The admissions committee pays close attention to an applicant's professionalism – both in their application and during the interview. Professionalism can encompass reliability (meeting deadlines, following instructions), maturity, and ethical judgment. When you face an ethical question in the interview, the school is evaluating your moral reasoning and whether your values align with the integrity expected in healthcare. They will also note how you handle yourself throughout the interview day (interactions via email or with staff, etc.). Showcasing honesty, ethical thinking, and a professional demeanor (even in a virtual setting) supports the idea that you fit the "behaviors and values" they seek.
• Service and leadership – Idaho State's College of Pharmacy has a culture of community service (their student organizations frequently do health fairs and outreach, winning awards for these efforts). Additionally, the value of collaboration and accountability implies they appreciate those who step up to help others. While there is no formal requirement for volunteer or leadership experiences, having such experiences can strongly enhance your application. In interviews, you might be asked about your extracurricular activities or a time you demonstrated leadership or teamwork. Being able to share examples of volunteering in a clinic, leading a project, or being active in a pre-pharmacy club can illustrate your commitment to service and ability to lead – qualities that align with what ISU admires.
• Self-awareness and motivation – ISU explicitly mentions looking for self-awareness and a clear motivation for pursuing pharmacy. Practically, this translates to you being able to reflect on your journey and articulate why you want to be a pharmacist and why specifically an ISU pharmacist. Expect questions like "Why pharmacy?" or "Why did you choose ISU?" – these are very common. A strong candidate can convey their personal story or inspirations for entering the field, and tie those reasons to what ISU offers (for example, an interest in rural health that matches ISU's outreach mission, or a desire for a close community which ISU provides). Self-awareness also means acknowledging your own strengths and weaknesses. You might be asked something like what makes you stand out or what you need to improve (a number of past candidates have been asked to self-assess). Being honest, thoughtful, and able to discuss how you're working on your growth shows maturity.

In summary, beyond good grades and any test scores, ISU's admissions committee is building a picture of you as a future professional. They want to see evidence that you have the soft skills and the drive to succeed in their program and in the pharmacy field. It's worth noting that ISU does not require the PCAT exam for admission – the Pharmacy College Admission Test was officially retired in early 2024. This places even more weight on the holistic factors discussed above (experiences, interview performance, etc.) and on academic history. Also, keep in mind that ISU requires two letters of reference, one of which they prefer to be from a pharmacist who can speak to your experience or character. Choosing recommenders who know you well and can highlight the qualities mentioned (communication, ethics, leadership, etc.) will strengthen those aspects of your application. By understanding the non-academic criteria and reflecting on how you embody them, you will be better prepared to present yourself in the interview in a way that aligns with ISU's selection priorities.

Pharmacy education is guided by several competency frameworks and standards, and ISU's curriculum is designed to ensure graduates meet all the essential outcomes for the profession. Being aware of these frameworks can give context to the program's approach and even to some interview questions (since interviews often probe for the same competencies the curriculum emphasizes). Here are a few key frameworks and how they relate to ISU's program:

• Accreditation standards (ACPE) – The College of Pharmacy is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), which means its curriculum adheres to the ACPE Standards that define what pharmacists should know and be able to do. These standards cover a broad range of competencies – from strong foundational knowledge in biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences to practical skills in patient care and health systems. They also include personal and professional development outcomes. For instance, ACPE requires that graduates be "practice-ready" and able to collaborate with healthcare teams. ISU's focus on patient-centered care and teamwork, as seen in its mission and interview process, reflects these requirements.
• CAPE educational outcomes – Like all accredited PharmD programs, ISU aligns with the Center for the Advancement of Pharmacy Education (CAPE) outcomes (the latest version outlines important domains for pharmacist competencies). CAPE outcomes emphasize areas such as direct patient care (Caregiver role), population health and education, interprofessional collaboration (Collaborator role), personal and professional development (leader and self-aware practitioner), and more. The college's values of collaboration, intellectual curiosity, and accountability dovetail with these outcomes – for example, CAPE encourages leadership and innovation, which corresponds to ISU's push for graduates to be catalysts for change. While you won't be quizzed on "CAPE outcomes" explicitly, you might notice that interview questions tap into these domains (e.g., teamwork, ethics, communication, problem-solving) – all of which are central to the CAPE framework.
• Pharmacists' Patient Care Process (PPCP) – ISU's training also incorporates the standardized patient care process that all pharmacists use: collecting information, assessing the patient's needs, developing a plan, implementing the plan, and following up. This patient care process is a national model endorsed by organizations like the American Pharmacists Association. ISU's mission statement focusing on "patient-centered care" signals the importance of this process. In practice, students learn to apply clinical knowledge to real patient scenarios methodically. An interview might indirectly touch on this – for example, by asking how you would approach a hypothetical patient case or solve a healthcare problem. They want to see that you have a thought process that can be molded into the PPCP. By graduation, ISU's students are expected to be competent in applying this process to improve patient outcomes.

ISU's strong performance indicators suggest that these competencies are being met. For instance, the college has historically reported a competitive NAPLEX pass rate for its graduates – the NAPLEX is the national licensing exam that tests pharmacy knowledge and decision-making, which indirectly reflects how well the program instilled the required competencies. For interviewees, the takeaway is that ISU is focused on producing well-rounded, practice-ready pharmacists. So when preparing for interviews, consider how your experiences demonstrate beginnings of these competencies – for example, can you show problem-solving (relevant to patient care), communication, ethical decision-making, and self-improvement? The interview's design (with scenario questions and personal reflections) is aimed at gauging your potential in these competency areas as much as it is about what you already know.

Candidates who have interviewed at ISU's College of Pharmacy in recent years report a variety of questions and prompts. While the specific questions change from year to year (and you should not expect any exact question to repeat), there are clear themes that tend to come up. Recognizing these themes can help you think about relevant examples or points you might want to convey. Common categories of interview questions include:

• Motivation for Pharmacy and "Why ISU?" – Practically every interview will include something about why you are pursuing a career in pharmacy, and often why you have chosen to apply to ISU in particular. You should be ready to articulate what sparked your interest in pharmacy and what you hope to do in the field. Additionally, expressing specific reasons for choosing ISU (perhaps the program's unique features, locations, or values) shows that you have done your research and are genuinely interested in their program.
• Teamwork and conflict resolution – Given the emphasis on collaboration, interviewers often ask about your experiences working in teams. A frequently reported question was how you handled a situation where a group member wasn't pulling their weight on a project. They might also ask about general teamwork experiences or challenges. These questions evaluate your ability to work well with others and resolve conflicts constructively – critical skills for pharmacists who must collaborate with colleagues and patients.
• Ethical dilemmas and situational questions – ISU likes to understand your ethical reasoning. You may be presented with a scenario involving a moral or ethical dilemma, either in the one-on-one interview or as part of the group discussion. For example, one past interviewee mentioned a question about what to do if a person with a history of drug abuse asked how to pass a drug test. Another scenario discussed in a group setting had no clear right or wrong answer, deliberately to see how candidates reason through tough choices. When tackling these questions, interviewers aren't necessarily looking for a "correct" answer, but rather insight into your thought process, integrity, and judgement as aligned with the pharmacists' code of ethics.
• Personal strengths, weaknesses, and "standing out" – Self-reflective questions are also common. You might be asked directly, "What makes you stand out from other applicants?" or "What qualities do you have that would make you a good pharmacist?" Similarly, discussing a weakness or a time you failed and learned from it can come up. These questions test your self-awareness (a trait ISU values) and whether you have a growth mindset. Having a specific example or two in mind – such as a project that went well and what you contributed, or a challenge you overcame – can help in responding to these.
• Resilience and future plans – Interviewers sometimes gauge how you handle setbacks or how dedicated you are to this career path. A notable question that past applicants were asked is, "What will you do if you don't get accepted into pharmacy school this year?" This isn't meant to discourage you; rather, they want to see that you have thought through your contingency plans and that you're committed enough to improve and try again if needed. It also touches on your resilience – important for a demanding course of study like pharmacy.

In addition to the verbal questions, remember that ISU's process includes the written essay on an ethical scenario. This means you should practice organizing your thoughts quickly and writing under time pressure. It could be useful to brush up on current ethical issues in healthcare or think about how you would approach writing about a dilemma (ensuring you can present a clear stance and rationale). Overall, knowing these themes can guide your preparation: for example, you might practice answering a mock question in each category or recall specific experiences that fit each theme. However, avoid memorizing scripted answers – the interviewers at ISU are looking for authenticity and the ability to think on your feet. If you understand the underlying purpose of these questions, you can approach them calmly and genuinely, which is exactly what the school wants to see.

Staying on top of deadlines is crucial in the pharmacy school application process. The timeline for ISU's 2025-2026 admissions cycle (for the class entering fall 2026) is as follows:

1. July 2025 – PharmCAS opens for applications to ISU's PharmD program. (PharmCAS, the national pharmacy application portal, typically opens in mid-July each year. Applicants can start preparing their materials and submit anytime after the cycle opens.)
2. Early December 2025 – Priority application deadline. ISU sets a priority deadline in early December (for reference, it was December 2, 2024 in the previous cycle). Submitting by this date is encouraged, as applying early may improve your chances of getting your preferred campus location and an earlier interview slot. It's not an "early decision" exactly, but it signals your strong interest and ensures your application will be among the first reviewed.
3. April 1, 2026 – Final application deadline. This is the last date to submit your PharmCAS application to ISU for fall 2026 entry. However, waiting until the final deadline is not advisable if it can be helped, because ISU's admissions are rolling – by April, many seats could already be filled or waitlisted. Meeting the final deadline is essential if you haven't submitted earlier, but whenever possible, aim for earlier submission.
4. August 2025 – April 2026 – Interviews conducted. Due to rolling admissions, ISU reviews completed applications continuously and extends interview invitations throughout the cycle (typically monthly). For those who apply by the priority deadline, interviews might take place in the fall or winter. Later applicants (e.g., those applied in February or March) might interview in early spring 2026. All interviews are currently held remotely via video call, which provides flexibility for out-of-state applicants. ISU has noted that after an interview, they often provide an admission decision within about one week, so you won't be left waiting too long. If invited, be sure to respond promptly to schedule your interview, as slots can fill up.
5. Post-interview – Accepted applicants will be notified via email or phone. Upon acceptance, ISU requires a seat deposit to hold your place in the class. Historically this deposit is $200 (non-refundable, but it does get applied toward your first semester's tuition). You'll typically be given a deadline (a couple of weeks) to submit the deposit. If you are waitlisted, you may receive an admission offer later in the spring or early summer if a spot opens up. It's a good idea to regularly check your email (and PharmCAS portal) for any communication during this time.
6. August 2026 – Classes begin for the PharmD Class of 2026 (the cohort that applied in 2025-26). In August, new students will attend orientation activities, including potentially a White Coat Ceremony, at their chosen campus (Pocatello, Meridian, or Anchorage). The exact start date will be communicated upon admission, but generally ISU's fall semester starts in late August. By this point, all admission formalities (final transcripts, immunization records, etc.) must be completed so that you can smoothly matriculate into the program.

Throughout the application cycle, remember that ISU's admissions staff is available to answer questions. Don't hesitate to reach out to the College of Pharmacy admissions office if you need clarification on any requirement or deadline. Also, because ISU uses rolling admissions, submitting your application early in the cycle can be advantageous – not only for campus assignment, but simply because you'll likely interview earlier and hear back sooner. Mark all these dates on your calendar and plan ahead for each step (for example, lining up recommenders well before the deadline, and preparing for interviews as soon as you submit your application). Being organized and timely is one more way to demonstrate your professionalism as a candidate.

In conclusion, preparing for the Idaho State University College of Pharmacy interview involves a blend of school-specific knowledge and personal reflection. We've discussed ISU's interview format – a comprehensive process with individual, group, and written components – and how it seeks to draw out an applicant's communication skills, ethical reasoning, and teamwork in alignment with the college's values. We reviewed the school's mission to produce caring, collaborative, and skilled pharmacists, and looked at how the program's unique features (multi-campus offerings, telepharmacy leadership, dual degrees, etc.) and the regional healthcare context shape the student experience. ISU's focus on progressive pharmacy practice in Idaho and dedication to serving communities sets the backdrop for what they may expect students to engage with intellectually. We also highlighted the non-academic traits – from professionalism to leadership – that the admissions committee prioritizes, and noted how the interview questions often revolve around key themes like motivation, ethics, and teamwork. Finally, keeping track of the 2025-2026 application timeline ensures you hit all your deadlines and make the most of the rolling admissions process. By understanding all these facets, you can approach your ISU interview confidently, ready to show how your own goals and values align with what Idaho State University's College of Pharmacy stands for. Good luck with your interview and your journey toward a career in pharmacy!