Coming in 2023: New option will aim at removing delays and improve pathways for internationally educated nurses

In early 2023, the College of Licensed Registered Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA) and College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA), in partnership with regulators in British Columbia and New Brunswick, will pilot a new application process for internationally educated nurses (IENs) aimed at reducing time for the application journey. In Alberta, the streamlined process will reduce barriers and delays by providing more options and updated approaches for the credential evaluation process.

Introducing more options for completing a credential evaluation

If a nurse is educated outside of Canada, their education needs to be authenticated through a credential evaluation as part of the IEN application process. In 2023, IENs can seek a credential evaluation from a growing list of approved agencies including:

• The Canadian branch of World Education Service (WES)
• Comparative Education Service (CES)
• ICAS International Credential Assessment Service
• International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES)

Credential reviews already completed for immigration purposes will be accepted once upgraded by the credentialling agency. More information on upgrading a credentialling report will be available in 2023.

An updated approach to assessing English language proficiency

An updated, evidence-based approach to English language assessment will include the use of updated language testing benchmarks and could allow applicants to provide alternate forms of evidence to demonstrate language proficiency. 

One stop for assessments

Currently, IEN applicants coming to the CLPNA have to complete the application process involving an organization and methodology that may cause delays. In the future, the Nursing Community Assessment Service (NCAS) will assess the IEN’s education, English language proficiency, and nursing competency all before the CLPNA receives a complete application, simplifying the process for applicants.

Providing pathways to multiple health care roles

In Alberta, internationally educated applicants will be able to have their nursing skills measured against the competencies required for three professions – Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Health Care Aide (HCA) – so they can be referred to the most appropriate regulator and be registered to enter the health-care workforce in the role that matches their current nursing competence sooner.

Are you an internationally educated nurse planning on applying for registration in Alberta?

The new process will be available in mid-2023. In the meantime, we encourage you to:

• Continue to follow our website and social media for updates.
• Visit International Applicants | Alberta Health Services to find out more about jobs from Alberta’s biggest employer.

For complete information on the process of becoming an LPN in Alberta visit: Internationally Educated Nurses – College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (clpna.com)

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QUESTIONS?

For more information, please contact:

Email the CLPNA’s Registration Department

Ask CLPNA or call 1-800-661-5877 (toll-free in Alberta), or 780-484-8886.