Registered Nurses Canadian Competence Assessment Program

Note: The name of the program is changing to the Registered Nurses Canadian Competence Assessment Program (RNCCAP). The previous name of this program was the Alberta Registered Nurses Assessment Program (ARNAP). Both names may be used interchangeably during Touchstone Institute's re-branding period.

Assessment programs are designed to assist individuals in filling application gaps when transferring to or returning to practice in Alberta. You may have the option to use an assessment program to meet the currency of practice or post-secondary requirements.

Touchstone Institute administers the assessment program for Alberta. Anyone can apply to participate in this program. Once the assessment date has been confirmed, Touchstone will contact you to apply for the assessment through their Application Portal.

In the past, individuals who did not have an educational credential assessment (ECA) were required to obtain a referral letter from the CRNA to participate in this program. Referral letters are no longer required.

Outcomes

Pass

You will meet the currency of practice and post-secondary requirements. You can then complete the next steps in your application process.

Gaps Identified

You may need to complete a bridge to Canadian nursing program. Depending on the gaps identified, you will either complete individual courses or the full program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is assessment program?

The RNCCAP/ARNAP is an OSCE (objective structured clinical examination) based assessment and enables you to demonstrate the knowledge, skill and judgment you have from your nursing education and experience.

Do all applicants complete the assessment program?

No. Only select applicants that do not meet either the post-secondary or currency of practice requirement will be eligible for the assessment program option.

Where is the assessment program offered?

The program is offered in-person in Edmonton, Alberta or virtually. This depends on the date of the exam. You will need to review the Touchstone website for more information.

How do I apply for the assessment program?

You can apply directly with Touchstone Institute to take the assessment program. Once the assessment date has been confirmed, Touchstone will contact you to apply for the assessment through their Application Portal.

How much does the program cost?

The cost for the assessment program is separate from your other application fees. You can find more information from the Touchstone Institute.

Can I use Touchstone Institute's Ontario version of the assessment instead?

It depends. You are not able to use the previous version of the Internationally Educated Nurses Competency Assessment Program (IENCAP) with Touchstone Institute from Ontario.

After it launches, you will be able to use the new version of the assessment program: Internationally Educated Nurses Competency Assessment Program (IENCAP).