How to apply

In Alberta, you must be registered with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA) to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Only registered members may call themselves a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Occupation Information you need to know before applying

What are the licensure requirements for internationally educated Licensed Practical Nurses?

Candidates must:

• Undergo and complete a Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). Note: this is the first step prior to applying to the CLPNA.

• Write and successfully achieve the required passing score on the Canadian Practical Nurse National Registration Exam.

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What is a Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)?

Applicants must complete a Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) and Practical Nurse Preparation:

• The PLAR assesses an applicants' education and compares it with the Alberta Practical Nurse Program curriculum and requirements.

• The PLAR also identifies any required additional education.

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What are the English language testing requirements?

Internationally educated applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency by any one of the following tests:

• Canadian English Language Benchmark Assessment for Nurses (CELBAN) score of 8 for speaking and reading, 9 for listing and 7 for writing

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

  • score of 560-557 on the paper-based test
  • score of 220 on the computer-based test
  • score of 83 on the Internet-based test (iBT)
     

• Successful completion of the English for Academic Purposes 3 (EAP 3) program at Bow Valley College with a grade of B.

Applicants must:

• register
• meet the criteria
• pay the testing fee
• be aware of registration deadlines

Other costs may include preparation materials, travel etc. Applicants should note that successful scores need to be sent to CLPNA directly from the language testing centre.

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What are the educational requirements for Licensed Practical Nurses in Alberta?
(Note: Licensing bodies compare international education and experience to Canadian standards)

In Alberta, Licensed Practical Nurses must be graduates of approved practical nursing education programs or have equivalent training. Practical nursing programs consist of a combination of classroom and laboratory instruction and clinical experience in various health care settings.

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Where can I find additional information about the LPN occupation?

For more information on occupational duties and wages, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service website and search for Licensed Practical Nurse under occupational information.

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What are the application procedures upon completion of the PLAR?

Once applicants have completed the PLAR process, applicants would then apply to the CLPNA and be recognized as an Alberta graduate.

• Temporary Permit: Provided that the regulatory requirements are met, applicants are advised of eligible registration and a Temporary Permit to practice as a Practical Nurse while waiting to write the Canadian Practical Nurse National Registration Exam.

  Applicants will need to provide verification of program completion by the educational facility and pay the fee which also includes the cost of the exam. The duration of the Temporary Permit is one year.

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When is the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam Offered?

The CLPNA advises applicants of their eligibility to take the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam. The exam is offered three times per year with three chances to write and pass the exam. Preparation materials include the prep guide and predictor test which are available through Assessment Strategies.

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What training programs or services are available for internationally educated Licensed Practical Nurses?

• Bow Valley College (Calgary) - Practical Nurse Equivalency Program

  (Note: PLAR is part of this equivalency program)

  The Practical Nurse Equivalency program is a popular program for internationally-educated nurses. It helps identify learning gained from previous education, and work experiences. It also provides opportunities to update knowledge and skills in order to meet the current practice standards and licensure requirements.

  This four-stage program includes a Challenge Exam, self and online study, workshops and a seven-week preceptor clinical practicum. Applicants have four months to complete the Challenge Exam and seven weeks to complete the clinical component. Students have two years to complete the program if they require additional coursework.

  Upon successful completion, the applicant will be granted a Practical Nurse credential and referred to CLPNA for registration.

• NorQuest College (Edmonton) - Practical Nurse Diploma for Internationally Educated Nurses

  This program is designed to support internationally educated nursing professionals acquire the nursing knowledge, clinical judgment, and communication skills required for practical nursing in Canada.

  The program targets specific student needs and assists with communication challenges, preparation for the practicum, and the national exam.

  Note: Applicants must meet application criteria and need to be aware of registration deadlines as well as other potential costs including preparation materials, travel etc.

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What resources are available for Licensed Practical Nurses in Alberta?

For additional resources related to Licensed Practical Nursing, visit:

• The Canadian Council for Practical Nurse Regulators (CCPNR)

Date Updated: May 13, 2008
RDP-743