Recognition of equivalence for internationally trained professionals

The bridge training program is offered by the Université de Montréal under the title of Programme de qualification en ergothérapie (PQE). (250 Ko)

In collaboration with the Order, the University’s School of Rehabilitation developed this program for international candidates applying to the Order for recognition of equivalence. For most classes, candidates are mixed with the cohort of students enrolled in the regular occupational therapy programs. To facilitate candidates’ integration, a set of preparatory activities are also part of the PQE and must be completed by the candidate in accordance with the requirements of the Order. Support is also offered to candidates on an individual and group basis to promote their integration and progress in the PQE. Learn more about the PQE.

Program duration
The program is comprised of university courses and clinical fieldwork including preparatory activities that take place full-time over several semesters (from 5 to 8 semesters). The program to be completed by a candidate may take as long as two and a half years but will vary depending on the Order’s prescription. This personalized prescription will specify the courses and fieldwork that must be completed by the candidate to obtain recognition of training equivalence by the Order.

Prescription validity period
A bridge training prescription from the Order is valid for three years for admission to the Université de Montréal PQE.

PQE Eligibility requirements

• Valid prescription: You must have a valid bridge training prescription from the Order;
• French language: All candidates must have a knowledge of the French language respecting the level  that the University considers minimal to engage in the program. To this end, the candidate must have completed a significant part of their studies in this language. Otherwise, he must demonstrate sufficient knowledge of French by presenting the results of a French test recognized by the Université de Montréal https://vieetudiante.umontreal.ca/soutien-etudes/connaissance-francais/exigence-admission/tests-diplomes-acceptes#title-lis.
  The results must attest to the achievement of C1 level of the Cadre européen commun de référence pour les langues (CECRL).
• In addition, although not an eligibility requirement, sufficient knowledge of English is necessary, given the great number of publications relevant to the profession published in that language.
  
  

PQE admission application 
You must submit your application online via the Université de Montréal website.

Application deadlines

• You must make your PQE application for the first semester of the bridge training program required by the Order. This is usually the winter semester (beginning in January). The deadline to submit an admission application for the winter semester is in September of the previous year;
• Be sure to check the admission deadlines.
  
  

Comment
Permanent residency or Canadian citizenship is not an eligibility requirement for the bridge training program. However, tuition fees are significantly higher if you do not have one of these legal statuses in Canada. In addition, you must take into account the three-year validity period for the bridge training prescription when planning your immigration process, which could take a long time. 

Result
A certificate of successful completion of the bridge training program in accordance with the prescription of the Order is issued by the University. This proof of completion must be sent to the Admissions Committee in order to obtain recognition of training equivalence. The program does not lead to obtaining a Master’s degree in occupational therapy and does not provide access to other university programs.

For further information (in French).

Supervised clinical fieldwork training and courses related to the context of practice in Quebec

Applies if the degree or training is judged to be equivalent but the candidate cannot demonstrate sufficient knowledge and understanding of the Quebec health care system and the Quebec professional system (including applicable laws, regulations and standards).

Clinical fieldwork training

• CLINICAL FIELDWORK ENVIRONMENT: The clinical fieldwork training must be done in the public health and social services network to enable the acquisition and integration of knowledge concerning the context of practice in Quebec. The clinical fieldwork is managed by the admissions coordinator of the OEQ;
• FRENCH PROFICIENCY: In Quebec’s public health and social services network it is mandatory to provide services in French. A sufficient French language proficiency is therefore required in order to meet the communication requirements of occupational therapy practice in the field setting;
• WORK PERMIT: To have the right to undertake clinical fieldwork training, you must be sure to obtain, from the immigration authorities, proof of your right to work in a Canadian health care institution (work permit).

Courses

• Classroom or online courses may be required by the Order.

Result

• Fieldwork: a fieldwork report is submitted to the Admissions Committee by the fieldwork supervisor. After examining the report, the Admissions Committee makes a decision on successful completion;
• Courses: the candidate must provide proof of successful completion of the courses.

The Admissions Committee will make its decision on the recognition of training equivalence based on the review of these documents.

Comment

Vaccination record
Proof of vaccinations will be required by the ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux du Québec prior to beginning clinical fieldwork. Remember to bring your immunization booklet or any other records showing your vaccinations.

If you have any questions contact us.

The Financial Assistance Program for Competency Recognition Refresher Training (PAFFARC) allows eligible individuals to obtain financial support to follow, full-time or part-time, refresher training or an internship prescribed by the Ordre des ergothérapeutes du Québec. Click here for more information.