As an internationally educated occupational therapist, you may require or be requested to improve your English or French language skills before you practise in Canada. You may decide to take this training before you come to Canada. Or you may improve your language skills after you arrive in Canada.

In Canada, language skill requirements are set by and vary according to the regulatory organization in the province you wish to practise in. The language demand of occupational therapy in Canada has been benchmarked, using the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB).  The levels are as follows:

• Speaking: CLB level 8/9
• Listening: CLB level 9
• Reading: CLB level 8/9
• Writing: CLB level 8

You can choose one of the following tests to demonstrate your language proficiency level (CLB-PT, CanTEST, IELTS, MELAB). 
For further information, see the Application Guide for IEOTs in your province .
 
Note:  If you receive a score of at least CLB Level 7 in all skill areas the Canadian Language Benchmark test (CLB-PT) (or equivalent scores on other language tests), you might be able to register on the Provisional Register as a supervised practice candidate. This will give you an opportunity to improve your English. 
 

Learn more about Canadian Language Benchmarks

Be sure to contact the regulatory organization in the province you wish to practise in for additional language requirements.