Who is eligible to join?
Internationally educated occupational therapists (IEOTs) who wish to transition to Canadian occupational therapy practice are welcome to apply but must meet eligibility criteria including meeting the language requirements and obtaining a statement of candidacy to write the CAOT national occupational therapy certification examination (NOTCE). Re-entry occupational therapists are also eligible to join.
How do I register?
The following documents are required:
Registration and consent forms, Proof of eligibility to write the exam (Statement of Candidacy) from CAOT, Proof of English proficiency (This is not required if your first language is English and/or your OT training was in English) and a Résumé or CV.
These documents may be forwarded to Nancy Lidstone as an email attachment.
Once your application is accepted, an advisor will set up an intake interview with you in order to assess which modules would best suit your needs.
When does the next cohort start?
Please refer to the overview calendar for the dates of each module.
What is the deadline for registration?
You may apply for modules at any time. Please consult the calendar for registration deadlines for each module.
How much does OTepp cost?
Since OTepp is currently a funded government project, there are no tuition fees. For participants enrolled in Core, there may be additional costs associated with recommended textbooks, transportation to class or placement, and pre-placement tasks.
Is there a grant available to cover expenses?
The Ontario Bridging Participant Assistance Program (OBPAP) bursary is available for Ontario residents. The bursary allocates a maximum of $350 for purchase of textbooks.
Find out more about OBPAP.
How do I get the statement of candidacy from CAOT?
A statement of candidacy is provided by CAOT. CAOT has a procedure that is used to evaluate students’ education credentials. To learn more about the process, please visit the CAOT website.
Is the statement of candidacy compulsory for enrolment?
Yes, eligibility to write the CAOT national certification examination is a requirement to join OTepp. Please visit the CAOT website for information on how to obtain a statement of candidacy.
Can I be accepted if I do not meet the language requirements or one of the language benchmarks?
No. The language benchmarks identified represent the minimum requirements for professional language used in occupational therapy. We recommend you take additional language courses or practice the language in order to improve your score. OTepp follows the language fluency benchmarks required by the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario.
Is there limited enrollment?
No, although some modules require a minimum number of participants.
Is taking OTepp mandatory for IEOTs?
OTepp is not mandatory for IEOTs. OTepp has however been helpful in assisting IEOTs in their transition to Canadian occupational therapy practice. Click here to see some of our success stories.
How should I prepare for OTepp (e.g. any books I should read?)
Participants enrolled in the Core curriculum are provided a learning resource package. You are encouraged to purchase Enabling Occupation I and II available from the CAOT online store.
How long are the core curriculum courses?
The core curriculum module courses are offered twice weekly for three hours each. Please refer to the core curriculum outline for further detail.
How much time is involved / must I commit?
In addition to the core curriculum class hours you are expected to spend up to 12 hours for readings and completion of assignments. The amount of preparation time may vary for each individual.
Is there an option to take OTepp classes online?
Yes. Reliable Internet access is required.
Are online classes self-paced?
Sessions have set times to begin and end. You will interact with other participants during live class discussions.
Can I take OTepp if I am outside of Canada?
If you live abroad you may still join OTepp if you meet the requirements to enroll. Courses are run online at Eastern Standard Time.
What are my options if I live outside of Hamilton?
If you are attending classes face to face at McMaster, public transportation is available on Go Transit. If you drive, parking is available at McMaster University.
Distance participants also have the option of joining online classes.
Who signs “administered and explained in person by” on consent form?
Your consent form will be signed by the Curriculum lead who will first review and explain the form during your intake interview.
Do you accept registration forms by email?
Yes. You are encouraged to send your registration forms as an email attachment to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner.
Do I have to find my own placement?
No. Placements are only offered in the Core module. There is a practicum coordinator who will find you a placement if you successfully complete the pre-placement tasks and the required courses.
Is there flexibility in where and when placements are undertaken?
The practicum coordinator will consider your preference and availability but only one viable placement will be offered.