Evaluation of students is useful to assess knowledge and comprehension while motivating learning and providing feedback. In medical schools the predominant assessment vehicle is the multiple-choice question (MCQ, exam. Such exams, while useful, largely test recall and have low face validity. In the Department of Pharmacology at McGill University we have developed a multidimensional evaluation system which includes MCQs, short essay questions, small-group performance assessments, an essay project and oral exams. We consider that our system stresses the knowledge and skills required to be a successful physician while motivating students and rewarding excellence. Students are enthusiastic about the program while faculty are satisfied with the breadth and completeness of our evaluation system.