Have you been trained to be a dietitian in your country?

Do you want to be a dietitian in Nova Scotia?

The NSCDN recognizes the College of Dietitians of Ontario (CDO)’s Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process for knowledge and skill assessment. The PLAR process is designed to assess the current knowledge, skills, and competence of applicants against the national entry to practice standards for graduates of accredited Canadian programs. The College views the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process as a more equitable and accurate evaluation of your dietetic expertise. This method directly assesses your current knowledge and abilities, unaffected by external factors such as incomplete course descriptions or inadequate translations that might not fully represent your education and training content. Moreover, the PLAR process acknowledges any additional knowledge and skills you've acquired post-degree through continuing education and practical experience, a feature not available in a paper-based credential assessment. To be deemed eligible to initiate the PLAR process, an applicant must meet the requirements set out by CDO. 

The Canadian Dietetic Practice Orientation and Assessment Tool helps internationally educated dietitians to learn about dietetic practice in Canada. It is recommended that internationally educated dietitians do this self-assessment to compare their knowledge and skills to the Canadian dietetic practice standards. 

• If you are moving to Nova Scotia, Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia is a community organization that welcomes immigrants to Nova Scotia, and offers services to help immigrants build a future in Canada.  Click here for more information about immigration to Canada. Click here for information about programs and supports.
• The application process is below.  Email the NSCDN Registration Coordinator at  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment.  You can expect an email reply within two to three business days.   

Step 1

Apply to the College of Dietitians of Ontario (CDO)  HERE.  

Step 2

Apply to NSCDN after passing the PBA.  To become licensed in Nova Scotia, the CDO's Jurisprudence Knowledge and Assessment Tool (JKAT) is not required. 

To apply to NSCDN, submit an application for candidate licensure. Once you receive a candidate licence with NSCDN, you can work as a dietitian in Nova Scotia (with applicable work permit).

Step 3

After successfully completing the PBA and becoming a registered dietitian candidate, you will be eligible to write the Canadian Dietetics Registration Exam (CDRE).  The CDRE is written two times each year (May and November).  Click HERE for more information about the CDRE.