FAQ
Do you have to be an internationally educated nurse or a Practical Nurse in Ontario to take this program?
An Ontario Practical Nurse can take this program as long as they have been assessed by the College of Nurses of Ontario.
How do you apply to this program?
The first step is to apply to the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) to have your education assessed and see what gaps are missing from your education. CNO will outline what courses you need to take and how many clinical hours you must complete to fill those gaps. This process may take many months: you will want to apply early.
What are the steps in the admissions process for this program?
- Apply to CNO.
- Send the Program Coordinator the CNO letter when you received it.
- Take an IELTS or TOEFL Test if you have not completed one withing 6 months of applying.
- Apply to OCAS once you have been informed to do so by the coordinator.
As an international applicant what are the English language testing requirements needed for program eligibility?
IELT’s scores of minimum of 6 with an overall of 6.5. TOEFL scores of 88 overall with minimum of 22 in each category.
How long does the process take to receive your letter of assessment from the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)?
It varies but can be as quick as 6 months up to 19 months.
What clinical experiences can you expect in this program?
You will have experiences in a clinical group with fellow students in long term care and an acute hospital setting. Consolidation with a one to one preceptor will be in a long term care, acute setting or another location based on the student’s area of interest when possible.
Are there special requirements for the program other than academic?
Vulnerable Persons Police Records check, and Annual CPR (Level C). The flu vaccine is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. You must maintain an up-to-date immunization record which includes MMR, Varicella, Polio, Tetanus, and Hepatitis. You must be able to work evenings and some weekends during clinical placement. You must have access to a computer and the internet.
Is there special equipment that I need for this program?
You will need two uniforms, a stethoscope, a watch with a second hand, appropriate footwear, and a name tag.
Is there an Academic pathway for movement from the Practical Nursing program to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program?
Yes, there is for movement from the Practical Nursing to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. For more info visit algonquincollege.com/pn-bscnbridging.
How much does it cost to take this program?
Approximate cost is between $6000-7500 including textbooks, uniform and stethoscope.