Canada checklist for nurses

0 of 6 steps ticked

1. Choose a province and read its IEN route (Ontario, BC, Alberta differ)
2. Get credentials verified: NNAS advisory report, or an approved alternative where allowed
3. Pass an accepted English test at that province's scores
4. Apply to the provincial regulator; complete any competence assessment (e.g. NCAS)
5. Pass NCLEX-RN (and Ontario's jurisprudence exam)
6. Register, then apply for a work permit or permanent residence

Language test

• IELTS (Ontario, CNO: General or Academic): Minimum overall 7, listening 7, reading 6.5, writing 6.5, speaking 7 Same attempt (One Skill Retake within 60 days allowed). Policy revised 12 Aug 2024.
• CELBAN (Ontario, CNO): Minimum listening 9, reading 8, writing 7, speaking 8 Within 2 years of registering.
• OET (Ontario, CNO): Minimum listening B (350), reading C+ (330), writing C+ (320), speaking B (350) CNO also accepts PTE Academic (L73 R66 W68 S75), TEF Canada and TCF Canada.
• IELTS Academic (Alberta, CRNA): Minimum overall 7, listening 7, reading 6.5, writing 6.5, speaking 7 CRNA accepts only IELTS Academic and CELBAN (L9 R8 W7 S8); valid 2 years.

Licensing exam

• NCLEX-RN (Canada): Registration exam for RNs in all provinces except Quebec
• Jurisprudence exam (Ontario): Online exam on Ontario nursing law and standards