What to expect on the English TOLC-F

Honest, no-hype information about the exam — what we know, what we don't, and how to calibrate your preparation.

Overall difficulty

High — over 60% of the total score depends on Chemistry and Biology. Stoichiometry and molecular genetics require rapid mental math and precise conceptual understanding.

Question style

Multiple-choice (5 options, 1 correct). Questions test stoichiometric calculations, organic functional groups, Mendelian genetics, and basic physics equations in English.

Time per question

~1.4 minutes per question overall. Prioritize Chemistry and Biology where the core ranking points are earned.

What this platform covers

Chemistry: moles, molarity, acid-base, pH, redox, organic functional groups, isomerism
Biology: cell organelles, DNA replication, transcription/translation, Mendel's laws, X-linked inheritance
Physics: kinematics, Newton's second law, Stevin's law, Archimedes, Ohm's law
Mathematics: quadratic equations, parabolas, logarithms, trigonometry, plane geometry
Logic: categorical syllogisms, logical negations, Venn diagrams, number series

What it does not cover

Official unreleased live test questions — CISIA does not publish live test papers
TOLC@CASA proctoring software installation
Specific university OFA (Additional Educational Obligations) rules

Exam-day tips

1In stoichiometry limiting reactant questions, divide available moles by equation coefficients first.
2For pH calculations, confirm whether the acid is strong (complete dissociation) or weak (requires Ka).
3Do not guess blindly — wrong answers carry a −0.25 point penalty.
4Scoring 32+ out of 50 historically secures a competitive rank for English-taught Pharmacy tracks.

Recommended preparation resources

Official CISIA Public Website: https://www.cisiaonline.it/
Official Free Sample PDFs & Materials: https://www.cisiaonline.it/area-tematica-tolc-farmacia/struttura-della-prova-e-sillabo/

Community signal

International applicants highlight that Chemistry stoichiometry and Organic functional groups are the main speed bottlenecks. Practicing rapid mole conversions gives a distinct advantage.

Independent preparation material. Not affiliated with or endorsed by CISIA. Question content is authored independently for practice purposes. Official free CISIA sample PDFs can be accessed directly on cisiaonline.it.

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