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Exam Overview

Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE) Overview

The Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE) tests whether qualified exam candidates have demonstrated a minimum standard of practice. The PCE ensures that members of the public will be safe when they interact with physiotherapists. It fairly and accurately evaluates the competencies you need to have to practise physiotherapy. Most physiotherapy regulators in Canada include passing the PCE as part of their entry-to-practice process.

The PCE tests the essential competencies of physiotherapy practice – the essential knowledge, skills and abilities. It tests history-taking, physical examination, data interpretation, clinical problem solving, treatment techniques, ethics, safety, interviewing and communication. The exam covers musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiovascular-respiratory areas of practice.

The PCE has two components. You must successfully complete the Written Component before you can take the Clinical Component.

Written Component (Qualifying Exam): The Written Component transitioned to a computer-based test format in July 2015. This format allows you to switch between English and French at any time during the exam, regardless of which exam site you choose. You are encouraged to try out the Computer-Based Testing Orientation Tutorial, available on the CAPR website, to experience the language feature.

Clinical Component (Physiotherapy National Exam): In January 2022, CAPR discontinued the administration of the Clinical Component of the PCE. Please disregard any reference to the Clinical Component on our website and in our resources as we update this information. If you have successfully completed the Written Component of the PCE, please contact your regulator for details about the process they require for you to become fully licensed.

Applying for an Exam

Follow these steps to apply for the CAPR Written Component.

  1. Read the Exam Registration Guide and Exam Policies.
  2. Make sure you are eligible for the exam. Check the Exam Policies for information about eligibility.
  3. Fill in the exam application form for the Written Component. Print a copy of your completed form.
  4. Complete the credit card section of the application OR include a money order or certified cheque with your application.
  5. Make a copy of your identity document.
  6. Read the declaration, then sign and date the form.
  7. Put your completed original application form, the copy of your identity document, and send with payment in the mail.

If your application is not complete, we will send it back to you.

If you want us to verify your exam status with a regulator, print and complete the Verification Request Form. You can send this with your application.