English Language Proficiency

You must demonstrate proficiency in speaking, writing, listening, and reading in English. Applicants may need to provide evidence to meet the requirement.

You will meet the English language proficiency requirement if you have completed one of the following items:

Any Time

Successful completion of a nursing* education program of at least two years of full-time study in Canada where the theory and clinical were provided in English.

*Includes graduate nurse/registered nurse, graduate nurse practitioner/nurse practitioner, certified graduate nurse, registered psychiatric nurse or licensed practical nurse.

Within the Past Two Years

Completion of Canadian English Language Benchmark Assessment for Nurses (CELBAN) test meeting the following minimum scores:

Minimum scores: Listening = 9, Writing = 7, Reading = 8, Speaking = 8.

Completion of International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic test meeting the following minimum scores:

Minimum scores: Listening = 7.0, Writing = 6.5, Reading = 6.5, Speaking = 7.0, Overall = 7.0.

The CELBAN and IELTS test results expire two years from the date you complete the test.

Within the Past Five Years

Successful completion of a nursing* education program of at least two years of full-time study outside of Canada where the theory and clinical were provided in English.
Practised as a nurse* for at least 250 hours in a jurisdiction where the health care services are provided in English.

*Includes graduate nurse/registered nurse, graduate nurse practitioner/nurse practitioner, certified graduate nurse, registered psychiatric nurse or licensed practical nurse.

Evidence to Satisfy the Requirement

Do not provide evidence unless prompted. Any documents must come directly from the issuing organization to the College of Registered Nurses of Alberta.

Attestation

You do not need to submit any documents.

Application Type: Initial registration, equivalent jurisdiction, substantial equivalence, renewal and return to practice, non-practising.

Requirement Not Met Outcomes

An applicant whose evidence does not meet the ELP requirement is not eligible for registration with the College.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to complete the English language proficiency requirement?

All applicants must meet the English language proficiency requirement to practise. Depending on your application type, this requirement can be met different ways.

What is accepted as proof of English language proficiency?

There are numerous ways for applicants to meet the CRNA's English language proficiency requirement. For a detailed list, please visit our English language proficiency requirements page.

What language tests does the CRNA accept?

Currently the CRNA accepts the Canadian English Language Benchmark Assessment for Nurses (CELBAN) test and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic test.

Does the CRNA accept any other language tests?

No, the CRNA does not currently accept any other language tests as proof of meeting our English language proficiency requirement. However, there are additional ways applicants can meet this requirement. Visit our English language proficiency requirements page for more information.

My language assessment has expired. Will the CRNA still accept it?

The CELBAN and IELTS test results expire two years from the date you complete the test. The CRNA may consider a CELBAN or IELTS test result beyond the expiry. Please let us know if this applies to you.

Does the NCLEX-RN exam count for the English language proficiency requirement?

The National Council Licensure Examination - Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) will not be accepted as evidence of English language proficiency.