Preparing for PLA

If you are considering applying for a Prior Learning Assessment, you will need to start here.

Each step outlined below has required reading and forms in order to proceed through PLA.

Step 1 - Read about the PLA process and certification exam

Download and read through the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Handbook

This Handbook is the key to your success. Take the time to read it thoroughly as it will answer any questions you have about Prior Learning Assessment and Certification.

MLT PLA Handbook

MLA PLA Handbook

Step 2 - Go Through the Self-Assessment Readiness Tools (SART)

The tools are designed to help internationally educated health professionals understand the requirements for medical laboratory science professions in Canada. The tools describe knowledge, skills and abilities that are expected of Canadian medical laboratory professionals and provide information to support migration to Canada for those interested in the medical laboratory science field.

Med Lab Technologist

Med Lab Assistant

Step 3 - Complete the Personal Competency Rating Booklet (PCRB)

The Personal Competency Rating Booklet (PCRB) is a free tool that will help you identify areas in your experience/education that may need help before writing the certification exam.

Each booklet takes you through the required competencies expected of the profession at an entry-level as stated in each Competency Profile.

You will send your completed rating booklet, along with your Prior Learning Assessment application, to the CSMLS. We use this information to help with your assessment.

Medical Laboratory Technologist

Competency Rating Booklet for General MLT

Diagnostic Cytotechnologist

Competency Rating Booklet for Diagnostic Cytology MLT

Clinical Genetics Technologist

Competency Rating Booklet for Clinical Genetics Technologists

Medical Laboratory Assistant

MLA Competency Rating Self-Assessment Booklet

MLA Competency Rating Employer Assessment

Step 4 - Complete the PLA Online Self-Assessment (OSA)

The Online Self- Assessment (OSA) will give you insight into the medical laboratory practice in Canada and your readiness for the Canadian workforce. There is no minimum passing score. Your OSA score and report are for your information only and CSMLS will not use them to decide your PLA result.

This test will give you valuable information to help you decide whether to pursue Canadian certification. It will provide you with feedback and help you to identify areas in which you may need more education.

You must complete the 100 question test before you apply for PLA. Your username from the OSA must be sent in, along with your completed rating booklet with your PLA application. There is a fee for the OSA, so we suggest completing the competency rating booklet first.

Online Self-Assessment