This guide aims to provide Filipino Nurses with a step-by-step roadmap, essential information, and valuable resources to navigate the transition process to becoming a nurse in Alberta. As a Filipino nurse, your diverse skill set, cultural competence, and dedication to patient care are highly valued in the Canadian healthcare system. By following this guide, you will gain a deeper understanding of the requirements, examinations, regulatory bodies, and support systems involved in the licensing process, ultimately paving the way for a successful and fulfilling nursing career in Alberta.

For general information about continuing a career in Canada as a registered nurse, consult the Nursing Employment Guide, which outlines the job description/duties, skills, education, regulatory requirements, credential assessment processes, the Government of Alberta Bursary for Internationally Educated Nurses, alternative career trajectories, and industry resources and contacts.

Becoming a Nurse

To become a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Alberta, you must follow a specific process. Here is a general overview of the steps involved:

Assess Your Credentials

The first step is to have your nursing credentials assessed by the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS). NNAS will evaluate your education and credentials to compare them to Canadian standards. Nursing credentials earned in the Philippines may not be directly comparable to those in Alberta, Canada. The educational systems and nursing programs can vary between countries, so a credential assessment process is necessary.

During the assessment, NNAS will review your education, transcripts, and other relevant documentation to determine if your nursing education and qualifications meet the requirements set by the regulatory bodies in Canada, such as the College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CARNA) for registered nurses (RNs) or the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA) for licensed practical nurses (LPNs).

The assessment will consider factors such as your nursing program's content and clinical hours and any additional qualifications or certifications you may have obtained. The purpose is to ensure you have the knowledge and skills to provide safe and competent nursing care in the Canadian healthcare system.

Based on the assessment, NNAS will provide a report outlining the comparability of your credentials to Canadian standards. The regulatory bodies will use this report to determine the requirements and steps you must follow to obtain licensure as an RN or LPN in Alberta.

To speed up this process, you may also get your education credentials assessed through an IRCC-approved education credential assessment organization. Please see the Education Credential Assessment guide for more detailed information on this process.

The common universities in the Philippines that Canadian education credential assessment services recognize:

• University of the Philippines Manila (UP Manila)

• University of Santo Tomas (UST)

• Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU)

• De La Salle University - Health Sciences Campus (DLSU-HSC)

• Saint Louis University (SLU)

• University of San Carlos (USC)

• Cebu Doctors' University (CDU)

• Silliman University (SU)

• West Visayas State University (WVSU)

• Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan (XU)

Language Proficiency

Ensure that you meet the language proficiency requirements set by the regulatory body. Alberta Health requires that international professionals complete International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian English Language Benchmark Assessment for Nurses (CELBAN).

These language proficiency tests can be challenging due to the following reasons:

• English as a Second Language

  • English may be a second language for many Filipinos, and although English is widely spoken in the Philippines and is used in nursing education, there can still be variations in language proficiency and fluency among individuals. Language proficiency exams can be particularly challenging because they have specific criteria and scoring criteria that test-takers may be unfamiliar with. For English proficiency exams that are specific to the field of nursing (i.e., the CELBAN), the field-specific vocabulary may be difficult to master.

• Cultural and Linguistic Differences

  • Cultural and linguistic differences can affect language proficiency. Filipinos may have different idiomatic expressions or speech patterns that can challenge understanding and effectively communicating in English. The exams, conducted in a North American context, require a strong command of English language skills and the ability to interpret and respond appropriately to medical scenarios.

• Complex Medical Terminology

  • Nursing examinations, including the NCLEX-RN and CPNRE, often involve complex medical terminology. Understanding and correctly interpreting medical terms can be challenging for non-native English speakers, including Filipinos, who may not have been extensively exposed to English medical vocabulary during their education and practice in the Philippines.

Apply to the Regulatory Body

Once your credentials are assessed and meet the language requirements, you must apply to the appropriate regulatory body. For RNs, it is the CARNA; for LPNs, it is the CLPNA. You will need to submit the required application forms, documents, and fees.

Complete Required Examinations

After your application is approved, you must register for the required exams. For RNs, this typically includes the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)-RN exam, while LPNs need to take the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE).

These examinations can be challenging for several reasons:

• Adjusting to New Healthcare System & Language: The healthcare systems and practices in the Philippines may differ from those in Canada. The examinations assess knowledge and skills based on Canadian nursing standards, protocols, and guidelines, which may require additional studying and familiarization for candidates unfamiliar with the Canadian healthcare system. Additionally, language proficiency and understanding complex field-specific terminology can pose difficulties since examinations are in English.

• Exam Format and Structure: The NCLEX-RN and CPNRE follow a computerized adaptive testing format, which can be unfamiliar to candidates who have never experienced this type of examination. Understanding the format, managing time effectively, and adapting to the adaptive nature of the questions can be challenging.

• Exam Preparation: Adequate preparation is crucial for success in these examinations. Some candidates may struggle to access appropriate study materials, resources, or review courses specific to the Canadian nursing exams. Lack of familiarity with the exam content and question types can impact performance.

• Test Anxiety: Test anxiety and pressure can affect performance in high-stakes examinations. The importance and implications of these exams for licensure can create additional stress and impact a candidate's ability to perform at their best.

Additional Requirements

Depending on your credentials and the regulatory body's requirements, you may need to fulfill additional requirements, such as completing a nursing refresher course, obtaining specific immunizations, or providing a criminal record check.

Begin the Job Search

Once you have obtained your RN or LPN license and any necessary work permits, you can explore job opportunities in Alberta. Many healthcare facilities hire international nurses, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. See Seeker’s general guide on Job Search for more information.

The Philippine Canadian Nursing Association (PCNA)

The PCNA is a new organization representing Filipino-Canadian nurses in Canada. It is a professional association dedicated to supporting Filipino-Canadian nurses, promoting their professional development, and advocating for their rights and interests within the nursing profession. The PCNA serves as a platform for Filipino-Canadian nurses to connect, collaborate, and engage in various activities to advance their careers and contribute to Canada’s healthcare sector. The association provides a range of services and initiatives to support its members:

• Professional Development: PCNA offers opportunities for professional growth through educational workshops, seminars, conferences, and networking events. These events provide a platform for members to enhance their skills, stay updated with industry trends, and exchange knowledge and experiences.

• Mentorship and Support: The association facilitates mentorship programs where experienced nurses guide and support early-career Filipino-Canadian nurses. This helps newcomers navigate the Canadian healthcare system, understand professional expectations, and achieve career success.

• Advocacy: PCNA advocates for the rights and welfare of Filipino-Canadian nurses. The association works to address issues related to workforce integration, recognition of credentials, cultural sensitivity, and equitable employment opportunities. PCNA represents its members' interests in discussions with regulatory bodies, healthcare organizations, and government agencies.

• Community Engagement: PCNA organizes community outreach activities, health promotion initiatives, and volunteer opportunities to improve the Filipino-Canadian community’s health and well-being. The association collaborates with other organizations to address community health issues and promote cultural diversity in healthcare.

• Networking and Social Events: PCNA facilitates networking opportunities for its members to connect with other healthcare professionals, share experiences, and establish valuable professional relationships. The association also organizes social events and cultural celebrations to foster community and belonging among its members.

Bursary for Filipino Nurses

The Government of Alberta is aware of the significant contribution of Filipino Nurses in Alberta. A Philippines-Alberta Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) on recruiting Filipino Nurses was signed on October 6, 2022. 

Some of the supports that are in place as part of the Philippines-Alberta MOU are:

• Registrant Navigator Services

  • IENs can request a consultation with a registrant navigator. Assistance is available in Tagalog and Tagalog-Ilocano.

• A Bursary for Internationally Educated Nurses

  • Increased spots are available for the three IEN bridging programs by Mount Royal University, Bow Valley College and NorQuest College in Alberta (626 new seats for the academic year 2023-2024). The bursary program has special considerations for Filipino applicants.

News & Resources

International Education Guide - Philippines | Government of Alberta

• The guide offers information on the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) Education Guide specifically for individuals from the Philippines. It guides how to have educational credentials from the Philippines assessed and recognized in Alberta, Canada, including details on application processes, required documents, and the assessment criteria used by IQAS.

In this press conference (October 2022), former Alberta Premier Jason Kenney signed the memorandum of understanding with the Philippine consul general to establish Alberta as a preferred destination for Filipino nurses. Alongside provincial ministers, he also announces investments to expand nursing bridging programs and creates an online platform to guide internationally-trained healthcare professionals through Alberta's training and licensing process.

In this video, Marjorie Carmona-Newman sheds light on Alberta's initiative to address the shortage of healthcare workers by welcoming more Filipino nurses. The video addresses nursing bridging programs and an online platform to guide internationally trained healthcare professionals through licensing.

This video outlines the history behind the significant presence of Filipino nurses in the United States and the ongoing reasons for their disproportionate representation in the nursing workforce.