English Language Proficiency
As required under the Nurses Regulations, if you want to become licensed to practice nursing in Newfoundland and Labrador you must be proficient in the English language. Your English must be sufficient to enable you to practice as a nurse in the province.
You can demonstrate English language proficiency through education, registration status, language proficiency testing, or experience.
Education:
- Completion of entry-level nursing education program where the language of instruction, theory and clinical, was in English. You will be notified if verification of the language of instruction is required directly from the program. Online or distance education programs are not accepted.
- Completion of additional nursing education where the language of instruction, theory and clinical, was in English. For example a master’s degree or PhD in Nursing, specialty certification/diploma. The program must be a minimum of one year in length. You will be notified if verification of the language of instruction is required directly from the program.
Registration Status:
- Registration and licensure within the last 2 years as a nurse in another Canadian jurisdiction where English is the primary language.
- Current registration licensure in one the following designated countries: USA, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.
Experience (Nursing Practice):
- Evidence of nursing practice within the last 2 years, where:
- services were provided in English, and
- the primary language of the practice setting and clients was English.
You will be notified if verification of the primary language of the setting and clients is required directly from the employer(s).
- Evidence of practice within the last 2 years as a personal care attendant (PCA) with a Newfoundland and Labrador employer. You will be notified if verification of employment is required directly from the employer.
English Language Proficiency Test:
You must achieve the required scores on one of the approved English language proficiency tests:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System – Academic version)
- CELBAN (Canadian English Language Benchmark Assessment for Nurses)
- PTE (Pearson Test of English– Academic Version)
- OET (Occupational English Test)
The minimum scores required are as follows:
| Tests | Speaking | Listening | Reading | Writing | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS – Academic | 7.0 | 7.0 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| CELBAN | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | — |
| PTE – Academic | 75 | 73 | 66 | 68 | — |
| OET | B | B | C+ | C+ | — |
Official results must be submitted with the application. You should request that the test provider send an original report of test scores directly to the College. Copies are not accepted from the applicant.
Validity of Test Scores:
- Test scores are valid for 2 years from the date of testing. The College recommends that test scores be current, within 6 months, at the time of initial application. You may be eligible to retake individual sections of the language exam to meet the required scores.
- If your test scores expire during the application process you may be required to repeat a Test of English prior to being approved. You may submit additional information to the College for consideration to demonstrate language proficiency.