Author: CAMLPR

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CAMLPR hosted its third Coffee Chat with applicants on September 4, 2025. The session, led by Jennifer Melville, Credential Assessment Specialist with contributions from Adam Chrobak (Executive Director) and other team members, provided an open forum to ask questions about account creation, the prior learning assessment (PLA), language requirements, exams, documentation, bridging programs, and timelines.

Below are the highlights, presented in a Q&A format:

PLA Application and Documentation

Q: How does CAMLPR verify international academic credentials?

A: Transcripts must be sent directly by institutions to WES as part of the WES course-by-course ICAP report. Only official documents submitted by the issuing institution are accepted. A rigorous verification process is applied before an assessment proceeds.

Q: Will assessments from other evaluators be accepted (e.g., provincial credential services)?

A: CAMLPR will only accept the WES course-by-course ICAP assessment that is sent directly to CAMLPR.

Q: My former employer no longer exists. How can I verify work experience?

A: Contact the successor organization or former managers to request employment records. Where this is not possible, notarized confirmations may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Q: How should employment letters be submitted?

A: By email from the employer’s official domain email address (not personal email) and on institutional letterhead, following the instructions in CAMLPR’s document requirements.

Q: I am transferring from CSMLS. Do I still need a CAMLPR account?

A: Yes. Even if a file is transferred, you must create a CAMLPR portal account so your information can be matched and processed.

Language Proficiency

Q: Can language testing be waived if my education was in English?

A: No. CAMLPR’s language policy requires either (a) accepted Canadian post-secondary education or (b) an approved test meeting benchmark scores.

Q: I missed the benchmark in one skill. Can I retake just that part?

A: Most tests require a full retake. IELTS One Skill Retake is a language assessment that allows re-testing a single skill.

Q: Is PTE Core accepted?

A: Yes, provided the required benchmarks are met and results are sent directly by the testing provider.

Q: When must language be met?

A: You can begin the PLA without language results, but language must be met before exam eligibility is granted.

Exams and Fields of Practice

Q: Are practice tests available?

A: After account approval and payment, applicants complete the Self-Administered Readiness Assessment (SARA) to experience exam-style questions and identify study priorities. Additional practice materials may be considered in future.

Q: Where and how are exams delivered?

A: Exams are delivered on CAMLPR’s platform provider (Prometric), including remote proctoring within Canada and in-person test centres in Canada. Exams are not currently offered outside Canada.

Q: If I register for the General MLT bundle, must I write all fields the same day?

A: Yes. Bundle pricing requires all fields are written on the same day (each 60 minutes with short breaks). Writing fields on separate days is possible only when registering for individual exams at the regular per-exam fee.

Q: How are questions structured? Are they recall-based?

A: The exam is competency-based (approximately 60% theory and 40% practice/scenario items). Pure recall is not the focus.

Q: When are results released?

A: The release of results will be within 30 days of the exam window. CAMLPR aims to shorten this as more exam cycles are completed.

Q: I passed a different exam (e.g., ASCP). Does that change anything?

A: External exams are not considered for CAMLPR exam eligibility. Meeting CAMLPR’s own eligibility requirements is necessary.

Q: I already passed the CSMLS exam and am licensed in a province. Do I need to write the CAMLPR exam?

A: No. Those who have already met their regulator’s entry-to-practice requirements do not need to write the CAMLPR exam.

Process and Timelines

Q: Why is account creation taking time?

A: Application volumes have exceeded projections. Additional staff capacity has been added to reduce the queue. Applicants will receive updates through the portal.

Q: How long is exam eligibility valid, and can it be extended for visa delays?
A: Exam eligibility is valid for 12 months, with a one-time 12-month extension available to address issues such as visa timing.

Q: Will CAMLPR assist with visas or accommodations?

A: CAMLPR does not provide immigration support, housing, or travel arrangements.

Bridging Programs and Refresher Courses

Q: Are bridging courses available to all applicants (e.g., work-permit holders vs. permanent residents)?

A: Admission criteria are set by education providers. Applicants should confirm eligibility directly with each institution.

Q: How long are the bridging courses?

A: Current programs are typically 16 weeks per field of practice and will include short, weekend clinical components.

Q: Will existing provider courses be discontinued?

A: CAMLPR is engaging with education providers and developing an approval process for bridging and refresher courses. Providers have been reminded to notify CAMLPR of available courses.

Q: Is CAMLPR translating external bridging programs into French?

A: Translation is not presently funded. CAMLPR is exploring alternative approaches, including recognition of existing French-language programs where appropriate.

Financial Assistance

Q: Is funding available to help with fees?

A: CAMLPR does not provide funding but lists nonprofit organizations such as Windmill Microlending (low-interest loans up to a published maximum) that may be able to provide financial assistance. Applicants should also explore provincial programs and local nonprofits that support internationally educated professionals.

Regulatory Context

Q: What if I plan to register in a specific province?

A: Entry-to-practice and registration requirements are set by each provincial regulator. Applicants should confirm province-specific requirements—especially if processes differ or a regulator is not yet participating in CAMLPR services.

Closing Note

The Coffee Chat concluded with appreciation for the high level of engagement. Applicants were encouraged to review the portal, policies, timelines, and FAQs regularly, and to use the Contact Us Page on CAMLPR website for case-specific questions.

📌 Next Coffee Chat details will be announced on CAMLPR’s website and LinkedIn page.

Please refer to Frequently Asked Questions on CAMLPR website for further details.

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Why I-03 Language Policy matters
To become a registered Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) in Canada, applicants must demonstrate strong communication skills in either English or French. CAMLPR’s updated I-03 Language Policy clarifies how applicants can meet this requirement and what evidence must be provided. The policy ensures consistency across the Flexible Pathways process, while also recognizing interprovincial and jurisdictional differences in regulatory processes.

Who this applies to
All applicants in CAMLPR’s Flexible Pathways process—whether Canadian-educated or internationally educated—must provide proof of language proficiency before completing registration for the exam.

How you can meet the requirement
You only need to meet one of the following:

• Canadian MLT education – Proof (official transcript or notarized evidence) that your program of study and clinical training were in English or French.
• Other Canadian post-secondary education – Graduation from a two-year (or longer) program taught in English or French.
• Language test results – Minimum scores from an approved test (IELTS, CELPIP, PTE Core, MELA for English; TCF, TEF, NCLC for French). Results must be sent directly by the testing agency and must be less than two years old at the time of application.

Important reminders

• You may start your application before providing language proof, but your Exam Eligibility Letter will not be issued until this requirement is met.
• Some tests (like IELTS) allow a one-skill retake if you need to improve just one section.
• Plan ahead. Testing dates can fill up quickly, and processing times vary.

Supporting Your Success

Your journey to becoming a regulated Medical Laboratory Technologist is important. The I-03 Language Policy is designed to support your success by providing clear expectations on how to meet language proficiency requirements. This ensures you are well prepared to communicate effectively in practice and take the next step in your professional career.

Read I-03 Language Policy.

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CAMLPR hosted its second Coffee Chat with applicants on August 21, 2025. The session, led by Jennifer Melville, Credential Assessment Specialist with contributions from Adam Chrobak (Executive Director) and other team members, provided applicants with an opportunity to ask questions about the PLA, language requirements, exams, documentation, and next steps in the registration journey.

Below are the highlights, presented in a Q&A format:

PLA Application and Documentation

Q: Once I pay the PLA application fee, is there a deadline to submit supporting documents?
A: There is no fixed deadline, but the assessment cannot begin until all documents are received. To avoid delays, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit documents as soon as possible.

Q: What documents are needed when transferring from CSMLS to CAMLPR?
A: First, request CSMLS to send your PLA file to CAMLPR. You must also create an account on the CAMLPR portal, which allows CAMLPR to review your file and collect any missing documentation.

Q: How do I submit employment letters or references if my employer does not have an official institutional email?
A: CAMLPR is currently reviewing this issue, as many labs outside Canada use general email domains (e.g., Gmail). Further guidance will be provided. Couriered or notarized documents may be required in some cases.

Q: What if the lab where I worked has closed?
A: Provide notarized documents to confirm your employment. Specific cases will be reviewed individually.

Q: Should I include very old work experience (e.g., 14 years ago)?
A: Yes, include it. Although regulators focus on more recent (last 5 years) clinical experience, older experience will still be included in your report.

Language Proficiency

Q: Can I be exempt from language testing if I studied in English or took a high school exam in Canada?
A: No. The language policy requires either:

• Completion of at least two years of Canadian post-secondary education (diploma or degree), or
• An approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP, etc.) within the last two years.

Q: If I don’t meet the required benchmark in one skill area (e.g., reading), do I need to retake the whole test?
A: For most tests, yes. The only exception is IELTS One Skill Retake, which allows retaking one section.

Q: When do I need to meet the language requirement?
A: You can start your PLA without language results, but you must meet the requirement before being eligible to write the exam.

Exams and Fields of Practice

Q: If I failed the CSMLS exam three times, can I write the CAMLPR exam?
A: Yes. The updated Fields-of-Practice Exam Policy allows applicants with a CSMLS exam report dated within the last two years to attempt the CAMLPR exam up to three times.

Q: Do I need experience in all laboratory fields (chemistry, microbiology, hematology)?
A: No. You only need to meet requirements in the field(s) you intend to register for. Gaps in other fields may require education plans.

Q: Can I take the exam for just one field if I applied for the general PLA?
A: Yes, you may choose specific fields. However, CAMLPR strongly recommends writing all fields you are eligible for, since employers value flexibility across multiple departments.

Q: If I don’t write all fields at once, can I return later to complete the rest?
A: Yes, but if you split up a bundle exam, you will have to pay full fees again. Writing the full bundle at once is more cost-effective.

Q: Will provinces register me if I pass only one field (e.g., hematology)?
A: Yes, but requirements differ by province. Always confirm with your provincial regulator.

Financial Assistance

Q: Is there financial support available for applicants?
A: CAMLPR itself does not provide funding, but it has partnered with Windmill Microlending, which offers loans of up to $15,000. Applicants should also check provincial government programs for additional support.

Process and Timelines

Q: How long does it take for accounts and PLAs to be processed?
A: CAMLPR is currently experiencing high volumes (over 800 new applications since June). A timeline infographic is now posted on the website outlining typical processing stages. Applicants should expect delays but will receive automated updates through the portal.

Q: What is the Self-Administered Readiness Assessment (SARA)?
A: It is a required step in the portal after your account is approved. It helps applicants understand exam style and readiness. Previous readiness exams from CSMLS cannot be substituted.

Other Key Points

• WES Credential Assessment: Only the WES ICAP “course-by-course” evaluation is accepted, and it must come directly from WES.
• Unnecessary Documents: Memberships with professional associations (e.g., MLPAO) are not required.
• Communication with CAMLPR: Due to high demand, response times may be delayed. A new staff member will soon join to support applicant inquiries.

Closing Note

The Coffee Chat concluded with appreciation for the high level of applicant engagement. CAMLPR staff emphasised that while policies may feel complex, the portal provides step-by-step guidance and applicants are encouraged to review posted timelines, policies, and FAQs regularly.

📌 Next Coffee Chat details will be announced on CAMLPR’s website and LinkedIn page.

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CAMLPR has recently updated its Fields-of-Practice Exam Policy (Policy I-04) to strengthen fairness, clarity, and consistency for all applicants pursuing registration as Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) in Canada. This update reflects input from the CAMLPR Members and a shared commitment to transparent processes that support both applicants and regulators.

Here is what every applicant should know before writing their exam.

Purpose of the Policy

The Fields-of-Practice Exam Policy sets out the eligibility criteria, timelines, attempt limits, and rules for writing CAMLPR Fields-of-Practice Exams. These exams assess applicant readiness for professional practice and are a key requirement to practise as an MLT in Canada.

The guiding principles of the Policy are:

• Fairness – equal treatment for all applicants.
• Transparency – clear requirements and timelines.
• Integrity – exams administered with the highest security standards.
• Accessibility – support for applicants who require accommodations.

Who Can Write the Exam?

To be eligible to write a CAMLPR Field-of-Practice Exam, applicants must have:

• Successfully completed an approved Medical Laboratory Technology/Science (MLS) education program, or
• Completed a CAMLPR-approved Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) and met language proficiency requirements.

Exam Attempts and Timeframes

• First attempt must be taken within 12 (twelve) months of eligibility confirmation.
• Applicants have a maximum of three (3) attempts per field of practice.

After Three (3) Attempts

If an applicant is unsuccessful after three (3) attempts in a given field of practice:

• They must complete a CAMLPR-approved MLS bridging course to regain eligibility.

Special provision:

• Applicants with a CSMLS exam report issued within the past two (2) years may be eligible for up to three (3) CAMLPR exam attempts—even if they had already failed with CSMLS.
• If the CSMLS report is more than two (2) years old, applicants must complete a bridging program before regaining eligibility.

Deferrals, Extensions, and Exceptions

CAMLPR recognizes that exceptional circumstances may arise.

• A one-time 12-month deferral or extension may be granted for reasons such as medical, personal hardship, or other valid grounds.
• Requests must be made in writing and supported by documentation.

Accessibility and Accommodations

Applicants with documented disabilities or valid needs may request reasonable accommodations.

• Requests must be submitted in advance and approved by CAMLPR.
• Accommodations are designed to maintain exam integrity while ensuring equitable access.

Exam Day Rules and Security

To maintain exam integrity, the following apply:

• Applicants must provide valid identification.
• Electronic devices and unauthorized materials are prohibited.
• Any breach of exam rules or attempt to share/disclose exam content may result in exam invalidation and disqualification.

Why This Matters for Applicants

This updated policy makes the exam process clearer, fairer, and more predictable.

Key takeaways:

• Know your eligibility path (MLS program or PLA + language).
• Be aware of the 12-month timeline for your first attempt.
• Plan strategically—maximum of three attempts per field.
• If unsuccessful, bridging options are available to support your readiness.
• Apply early for accommodations or extensions if needed.
• Follow exam security and exam-day procedures carefully.

Summary at a Glance

Topic	Highlights
Eligibility	MLS program OR PLA + language requirements
Attempts	3 per field; first attempt within 12 months
After 3 Fails	Bridging course required to regain eligibility
CSMLS Transition	Recent CSMLS exam report (<2 years) → up to 3 CAMLPR attempts
Extensions	One-time 12-month deferral/extension in special circumstances
Accommodations	Must be requested in advance; supports documented needs
Exam Day Rules	ID checks, no electronic devices, strict confidentiality/security
Applies To	All CAMLPR Fields-of-Practice Exam applicants

Supporting Your Success

Your journey to becoming a regulated Medical Laboratory Technologist is important. Fields-of-Practice Exam Policy (Policy I-04) is designed to support your success, provide clear expectations, and help you take the next step in your professional career.

Read I-04 Fields-of-Practice Exam Policy.

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We have been receiving questions from applicants in or considering the Flexible Pathways process about what November 1, 2025 actually means — and what it doesn’t.

This article explains the significance of this date, why you should act now, and how it fits into your journey to becoming a registered Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) in Canada.

❌ November 1, 2025 is Not the Start Date for the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)

Some applicants have misunderstood November 1, 2025 as the date when the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) process begins. This is not correct.
You do not need to wait until November to start your PLA — in fact, starting now is strongly recommended.

✅ What November 1, 2025 Does Mean

As of November 1, 2025, all internationally educated Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) and non-traditionally educated applicants will be required to write the CAMLPR Field-of-Practice Exams to proceed with registration.

These exams assess your competencies in specific MLT fields of practice and are a mandatory step toward becoming registered.

🗓 Why This Matters Now

The process to get to your Field-of-Practice Exam includes several steps that take time to complete. If you aim to write the September 8–12, 2025 or November 24–28, 2025 exam sessions, you will need to:

1. Submit your Flexible Pathways application
2. Complete your Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)
3. Meet all eligibility requirements before the exam registration deadlines

Waiting until November 1 to start your PLA will mean you cannot write in either 2025 session — pushing your exam attempt and registration timeline into 2026.

⏱ Approximate Timeline from Application to Exam

Step	Estimated Timeframe
Submit Flexible Pathways application	Immediate
Complete PLA submission (documents & payment)	2–4 weeks
PLA review and results	8–12 weeks
Register for Field-of-Practice Exam	Deadline varies by session
Write exam	September or November 2025

Tip: Starting early gives you more flexibility if additional documentation or learning is required.

📌 Real-Life Examples

Example 1: Starting Early

• Application submitted: April 2025
• PLA completed: July 2025
• Eligible to write: September or November 2025 exam sessions

Example 2: Waiting Too Long

• Application submitted: November 2025
• PLA completed: February 2026
• Earliest possible exam: Mid-to-late 2026

💡 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does this mean I no longer need to take the CSMLS exam?
A: Correct. As of November 1, 2025, eligible applicants will write the CAMLPR Field-of-Practice Exams instead.

Q: What happens if my PLA isn’t complete by the exam registration deadline?
A: You will need to wait for the next available exam session.

Q: Are there any exceptions to the November 1, 2025 requirement?
A: No. All internationally educated and non-traditionally educated applicants will follow this process.

📣 Take Action Now

The earlier you begin your application and PLA process, the sooner you can move forward in your registration journey.

🔗 Learn more and apply today

📩 Questions? Contact applicants@camlpr.org

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Are you considering a future as a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) in Canada?

If you completed a program — such as a BSc, MSc, or PhD — related to medical laboratory technology or science, either in Canada or another country, this article is for you!

📘 What This Article Covers

This article guides you through the step-by-step process for non-traditionally educated applicants to become Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) in Canada. You will learn about:

• Provincial Regulation
• The CAMLPR Flexible Pathways Process
• Educational Requirements
• CAMLPR Fields-of-Practice Competency 
• Final Registration Steps

Becoming an MLT in Canada is a regulated process. This means you must meet specific national standards designed to ensure safe, high-quality care for patients—regardless of your background or country of origin.

WHAT IS A MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGIST (MLT)?

Medical laboratory technologists conduct medical laboratory tests, experiments, and analyses that help physicians diagnose, treat, monitor, and prevent disease. Their work is essential to patient care across Canada’s healthcare system.

It is important to note that medical laboratory technologists are not the same as medical laboratory assistants or other related technical roles. While some tasks may overlap, medical laboratory assistants typically focus on pre-analytical duties like collecting specimens, preparing reagents, and maintaining equipment. MLTs, on the other hand, are trained and licensed to perform more advanced analytical procedures and exercise professional judgment in their practice.

(Please click here to learn more about the medical laboratory technologist profession in Canada.)

👉 Continue reading this article if you are seeking to become a medical laboratory technologist in Canada, as it outlines the registration process you will need to follow.

UNDERSTANDING REGULATION IN CANADA

Medical laboratory technologists are regulated health professionals in most provinces across Canada. The registration process varies depending on whether the profession is regulated in the province where you plan to work or not.

The profession is currently regulated in nine provinces:
Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.

It is not regulated in British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, Yukon, or Nunavut.

Which Registration Process Applies to You?

Depending on where you plan to work, you will follow one of the following two registration processes:

1. CAMLPR Flexible Pathways Process

• If you are seeking to work in Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, or Saskatchewan, you will follow the CAMLPR Flexible Pathways and must register with the regulatory body in that province.

• If you plan to work in British Columbia, Yukon, Northwest Territories, or Nunavut, you will still be required to successfully complete the CAMLPR Fields-of-Practice Competency Exams once they come into effect, although registration is not currently required in these jurisdictions.

2. Separate Provincial Process

• If you intend to work in Quebec or Alberta, you must apply directly to:

• The Ordre professionnel des technologistes médicaux du Québec (OPTMQ), or

• The College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Alberta (CMLTA),
  as these provinces are not part of the CAMLPR Flexible Pathways process.

📍 For more information, please refer to the “Where Do You Plan to Work” section on our website.

👉 Continue reading this article if you are seeking to work in Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, or Saskatchewan—where the profession is regulated and the CAMLPR Flexible Pathways process applies to your registration journey.

CAMLPR FLEXIBLE PATHWAYS IN REGULATED PROVINCES: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

In provinces where the profession is regulated, each provincial regulatory body has the legislative authority to set and enforce the qualifications, standards, and competencies required to practise as a medical laboratory technologist in that province.

These regulatory bodies are member organizations of the Canadian Alliance of Medical Laboratory Professionals Regulators (CAMLPR).

While CAMLPR does not directly regulate the profession, it supports its members by promoting fair, transparent, inclusive, and consistent regulatory practices across Canada. CAMLPR also coordinates national efforts to align standards and ensure that all applicants—regardless of where they were educated—are assessed against shared expectations for knowledge, skills, and professional judgment.

This collaborative regulatory framework helps protect the public interest by ensuring that all practising MLTs in regulated jurisdictions meet rigorous professional, ethical, and technical standards.

To begin your path toward registration in a regulated province, your first step is to ensure that your education and training meet Canadian standards.

👉 Continue reading this article if you plan to practise in a regulated province and want to understand the educational requirements you must meet to become a medical laboratory technologist in Canada.

STEPS IN THE CAMLPR FLEXIBLE PATHWAYS PROCESS

If you are a non-traditionally educated applicant who completed a program (e.g., BSc, MSc, PhD) related to medical laboratory technology/science in Canada or another country, this section is for you.

Non-Traditionally Educated Applicants are individuals who have not completed a recognized Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) program, but have completed other related education — such as a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree (BSc, MSc, PhD) — in biomedical sciences, life sciences, or related health or laboratory fields, either in Canada or another country.

This category may include:

• Graduates of non-MLT programs (e.g., biology, biochemistry, microbiology, biotechnology, etc.)
• Individuals with research or academic backgrounds related to laboratory science
• Professionals seeking to apply prior learning toward registration as an MLT

The Flexible Pathways Process is designed to assess your education, competencies, and readiness to practise as a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) in Canada. It ensures that all applicants are evaluated against national standards for safe and effective practice.

Here are the key steps in the process:

1. Create a Flexible Pathways applicant account

Begin by creating your applicant account through CAMLPR’s Online Portal. This is where you will submit documentation, track your progress, and access required materials throughout the process.

Create a CAMLPR Flexible Pathways account if you:

• Want to work as a medical laboratory technologist in Canada,
• Have completed an international MLT program or a program in a related medical or health science field, and
•  Plan to work in a province or territory that requires the CAMLPR Flexible Pathways process.

2. Complete the Self-Administered Readiness Assessment for the fields of practice you intend to work in

The self-administered readiness assessment is designed to help applicants evaluate if they are ready to write the CAMLPR Fields-of-Practice Exams and identify areas in which they may need additional preparation.

The readiness assessment contains sample examination questions in each field of practice to help you:

• Become familiar with the question format of the competency exams
• Assess your strengths and development needs according to Canadian professional standards
• Help focus your preparation on specific competency areas where additional study may be beneficial

Once you have your Flexible Pathways account creation and fee payment approved by CAMLPR, you will be able to complete the self-administered readiness assessment in the Flexible Pathways application portal.

3. Undergo a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) for those fields of practice  

The Prior Learning Assessment is a formal evaluation of your education, clinical training, work experience, and language proficiency to determine if they meet Canadian standards for Medical Laboratory Technologists. This comprehensive assessment reviews both theoretical coursework and hands-on laboratory experience to ensure your academic preparation is current and sufficient.

All PLA applicants must also demonstrate language proficiency in English or French, as outlined in CAMLPR’s Language Policy (I-03).

To complete the PLA, you must submit documentation related to your education, work experience, and language proficiency. Most documents must be sent directly to CAMLPR by the issuing institutions or organizations.

➡️ See the Summary of Required Documents for details.

🕒 Estimated Timelines for the PLA Process

The Prior Learning Assessmentprocess can take several weeks to several months to complete, depending on your individual circumstances. Timelines may vary based on:

• Processing times at your previous schools, clinical sites, or employers
• Delays in receiving official documents such as transcripts or reference letters
• Credential evaluations and language test reporting times
• Completion of CAMLPR’s internal assessment once all documents are received

👉 Tip: Begin collecting your documents as early as possible and contact your institutions directly to understand their processing timelines. CAMLPR will notify you once your PLA file is complete and under review.

4. Complete an Education Plan if required as a result of your PLA

If gaps are identified in an applicant’s field-of-practice competencies, CAMLPR requires the applicant to complete an Education Plan before writing the corresponding field-of-practice exam. This educational support helps ensure practitioners meet Canadian practice standards before entering the profession.

5. Write the Fields-of-Practice exams you are eligible for

Once you are deemed eligible, you will be invited to write the relevant national CAMLPR Fields-of-Practice Competency Exams to confirm your readiness for practise in Canada. These exams evaluate entry-level competencies outlined in the CAMLPR Competency Profiles, support registration in one or multiple fields, and ensure a fair, consistent process for all applicants. They also help address the shortage of medical laboratory technologists in Canada by streamlining access for qualified professionals.

👉 Click here to get information about Exam Dates, registration, and scheduling.

6. Complete the Professional Practice Orientation

Before applying for registration, you must complete a mandatory orientation to learn about Canadian professional practice expectations, ethics, and regulatory responsibilities. The Professional Practice Orientation is a required, self-paced online course that introduces medical laboratory technologists to the ethical, legal, and professional standards they are expected to meet in Canada.

7. Apply for registration with the provincial regulator

Once you have successfully completed the CAMLPR Flexible Pathways Process, your next step is to apply for registration with the relevant provincial regulatory body. In most provinces, medical laboratory technologists must be registered before they can begin working. Only registered individuals may:

• Legally practise medical laboratory technology
• Use the protected titles “MLT” or “Medical Laboratory Technologist”

Registration confirms that you meet the required standards and are qualified to provide safe, ethical care.

Registration Requirements and Timelines

Each province has its own requirements and timelines, but generally, you will need to:

• Submit an application to the relevant provincial regulator
• Provide any additional documents they request
• Renew your registration annually, including proof of ongoing competence

“Fit and Proper Person” Requirement

To be registered as an MLT in Canada, you must be considered a “fit and proper person,” ensuring you are qualified, ethical, and safe to practise.

👉 Click here to learn more about “Fit and Proper Person” Requirements for Medical Laboratory Technologists in Canada. 

🗓️ IMPORTANT: New Application Process Effective November 1, 2025

As of this date, all internationally educated MLTs and those with non-traditional education must write the CAMLPR Field-of-Practice Exams. This includes a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) and a Fields-of-Practice Competency Assessment (entry-to-practice exam).

If you have previously engaged with CSMLS or received a Statement of Eligibility, please review the guidance below to understand how the new process may apply to you:

Click here to learn how the CAMLPR process applies if you:

• Have already passed a CSMLS exam
• Attempted but did not pass a CSMLS exam
• Received a CSMLS Statement of Eligibility (but haven’t written the exam yet)
• Are a CSMLS PLA client and have received a Statement of Eligibility

⚠️Work Eligibility Disclaimer

Please note: Completing the CAMLPR Flexible Pathways process and passing the required assessments does not guarantee employment. You must be registered with a provincial regulatory body before legally working as a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) in a regulated province.

⚠️Immigration Disclaimer

CAMLPR does not provide immigration advice or services. If you are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may need a valid visa, study permit, or work permit to enter or remain in Canada. For details, visit Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

📬 Need Help? We are Here for You
Have questions about your eligibility, the application process, or required documents?

CAMLPR is here to support you at every step of your journey.

For assistance:
📧 Email        : applicants@camlpr.org

🌐 Visit         : www.camlpr.org

We encourage you to review the resources on our website and reach out if you need any guidance.