What is PLAR - Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition

For internationally trained professionals, restarting a career in Canada can be challenging due to credential recognition requirements. Many arrive with years of experience but find that their qualifications are not automatically accepted. This is where Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) helps.

PLAR is a process that evaluates education, work experience and skills against Canadian standards. It helps internationally trained professionals enter regulated fields like healthcare, skilled trades and finance without having to start over. Instead of repeating education, PLAR allows candidates to demonstrate their competencies through assessments, exams or gap training.

How does PLAR work for international applicants?

PLAR is a step-by-step process that assesses whether an internationally trained professional meets Canadian standards or needs additional training. It typically involves:

• Choosing a province – Licensing requirements vary across Canada, so professionals must apply in their desired province.
• Submitting an application – Applicants provide documents such as transcripts, work experience records and professional certifications.
• Competency assessment – Some professions require applicants to take a Knowledge Assessment Test (KAT) or Competency Gap Analysis (CGA) to compare their qualifications with Canadian standards.
• Bridging programs (if required) – If gaps are identified, professionals may need to take short-term courses or practical training before certification.
• Licensing or certification exams – After meeting all requirements, candidates must pass industry-specific exams to obtain certification.
• Final registration – Once certified, professionals can register with their provincial regulatory body and begin working.

PLAR streamlines the licensing process, reducing the need for additional education while ensuring professionals meet Canadian industry standards.

Who benefits from PLAR?

PLAR is widely used in healthcare, skilled trades and business sectors. Some examples include:

• Nurses – Internationally trained nurses complete a Competency Gap Assessment to qualify for registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO).
• Electricians and plumbers – Skilled trades workers obtain Red Seal certification after assessment, allowing them to work across provinces.
• Engineers – The Canadian Engineering Qualifications Board (CEQB) evaluates foreign-trained engineers, determining if additional training is required.
• Accountants – International accountants may be eligible for CPA Canada’s bridging programs after a credential review.
• Opticians – Professionals can fast-track their licensing through NACOR’s PLAR process.
• Naturopaths – Internationally trained naturopaths must apply for PLAR through their provincial naturopathic regulatory body, which may require bridging courses before licensing.

For skilled immigrants, PLAR provides a faster, cost-effective route to professional certification, avoiding unnecessary retraining.

Conclusion

PLAR helps internationally trained professionals continue their careers in Canada without starting over. By assessing education and experience, it creates a clear pathway to certification and employment.

However, PLAR assessments, bridging programs and exams can be costly. Windmill Microlending provides low-interest loans of up to $15,000 to help newcomers cover:

• PLAR application and competency assessment fees.
• Bridging courses and training programs.
• Licensing and certification exam costs.

Take the next step in your career. Visit Windmill Microlending today to see how we can support your professional journey in Canada.