Registration Requirements

During the application process, the College assesses all applicants to determine whether they meet the following registration requirements.

If the College finds that you do not meet one or more of these requirements, then you may be asked to provide more information or do something (such as complete an evaluation or additional education) that allows you to meet those requirements.

You have the right to request a review of your application if you want to appeal any decision made by College staff or the Registration Committee concerning your application.

See Registration Requirements for further information about each of these requirements.

Nursing Education

You must demonstrate the successful completion of a nursing education program designed to prepare you for the type of nursing (RN or RPN) that you want to practise in Ontario.

Evidence of Practice

You must show that you have recent experience practising as a nurse. Most Ontario applicants automatically meet this requirement by completing a nursing program approved by the College within the past three years. For more information, click here.

Registration Examination

You must successfully complete the registration examination approved by the College for the type of nursing (RN or RPN) you want to practise.

Jurisprudence Examination

You must successfully complete the RN/RPN Jurisprudence Examination.

Proficiency in English or French

You must demonstrate proficiency in either English or French.

Citizenship

You must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, or hold authorization under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) to engage in the practice of nursing in Ontario.

Past Offences and Findings

You must truthfully state whether you have ever been found guilty of an offence, refused registration, had a finding related to the practice of nursing or another profession against you, or are involved in certain proceedings.

You must also submit a recent police criminal record check. For more information, including how and when to submit thecriminal record check,read FAQs: Criminal Record ChecksOpens link in new window.

Health and Conduct

You must declare whether you suffer from any physical or mental condition or disorder that could affect your ability to practise nursing in a safe manner. The College must also be satisfied that you will practise with decency, honesty and integrity, and in accordance with the law.