The Supervised Practice Experience Partnership (SPEP-RN) is a College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)–approved program designed for internationally educated nurses (IENs) who need to meet specific practice requirements to obtain Registered Nurse (RN) registration in Ontario.
What is the Supervised Practice Experience Partnership (SPEP-RN)?
The Supervised Practice Experience Partnership is a College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)–approved program designed for internationally educated nurses (IENs) who need to meet specific practice requirements to obtain Registered Nurse (RN) registration in Ontario.
Through the SPEP-RN program, internationally educated nurses demonstrate their clinical competence, professional judgment, and nursing skills in a supervised healthcare setting. This ensures that nurses meet Ontario’s healthcare standards, safety expectations, and nursing practice requirements.
The SPEP-RN is often recommended by the CNO when an applicant’s previous nursing experience or education does not fully meet Ontario’s entry-to-practice requirements.
Who Needs the SPEP-RN Program?
The SPEP-RN program is suitable for:
- Internationally educated nurses (IENs)
- Nurses educated outside Canada
- Applicants assessed by the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) as eligible for SPEP
- Nurses needing additional supervised practice hours before RN registration
Eligibility Requirements for SPEP-RN (2026)
To apply for the SPEP-RN program, you must meet the following criteria:
- ✔️ Completion of recognized nursing education
- ✔️ Meet CNO language proficiency requirements (IELTS / CELPIP)
- ✔️ Be assessed by the CNO and deemed eligible for SPEP
- ✔️ Hold valid documentation from CNO confirming SPEP eligibility
⚠️ Important: You cannot apply to hospitals without official CNO SPEP eligibility confirmation.
Duration of the SPEP-RN Program
- ⏱️ Total Hours: Approximately 400 supervised practice hours
- 🕒 Flexible options:
- Full-time
- Part-time (depending on organization availability)
The duration may vary slightly depending on:
- Hospital policies
- Specialty area
- Individual learning needs
CNO-Approved Organizations for SPEP-RN in Ontario (2026)
Below is a list of CNO-approved healthcare organizations offering the Supervised Practice Experience Partnership (SPEP-RN) in Ontario.
1. Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Sunnybrook is one of Canada’s largest academic health sciences centres, known for trauma care, cardiac services, and neurosurgery.
SPEP Opportunities:
- Critical Care
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Mental Health
2. University Health Network (UHN)
UHN includes Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, and Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. It is globally recognized for oncology, transplant, cardiology, and surgical services.
SPEP Opportunities:
- Oncology
- Surgical Services
- Cardiology
📧 Email: PBEnursinglearner@uhn.ca
Supervised Practice Experience Partnership (SPEP) – UHN
Healthcare & Long-Term Care Careers | Extendicare Careers Canada Jobs
3. St. Michael’s Hospital (Unity Health Toronto)
St. Michael’s Hospital is a Level 1 Trauma Centre and a major teaching hospital serving Toronto’s urban population. It is also home to one of the largest Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Clinics in North America.
SPEP Opportunities:
- Cardiology
- Critical Care
- General Medical Nursing
4. William Osler Health System
William Osler Health System includes Brampton Civic Hospital and Etobicoke General Hospital. It serves a highly diverse population and offers comprehensive care.
📧 Contact: rita.soni@williamoslerhs.ca
📌 Application Instructions:
- Forward your CNO SPEP eligibility confirmation email
- Attach your updated resume
- You will be contacted with further updates
SPEP Opportunities:
- Pediatrics
- Geriatrics
- Maternity Care
5. Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS)
Hamilton Health Sciences is a network of six hospitals, including Juravinski Cancer Centre and McMaster Children’s Hospital.
📧 Email: HHSIENProgram@hhsc.ca
SPEP Opportunities:
- Pediatric Nursing
- Oncology
- Surgical Services
6. Lakeridge Health
Lakeridge Health serves the Durham Region and is well known for rehabilitation, cancer care, and mental health services.
📧 Contact: Bronwen Carling
Email: bcarling@lh.ca
SPEP Opportunities:
- Rehabilitation
- Cancer Care
- Mental Health Nursing
7. The Ottawa Hospital
The Ottawa Hospital is one of Canada’s largest hospitals, offering advanced care in oncology, cardiology, rehabilitation, and emergency services.
📧 Contact: Ndolo Njie-Mokonya
Email: nnjie@toh.ca
📌 Requirement: Proof of CNO SPEP eligibility is mandatory.
SPEP Opportunities:
- Oncology
- Rehabilitation
- Emergency Nursing
8. Trillium Health Partners
Serving Mississauga and West Toronto, Trillium Health Partners provides care across multiple specialties.
SPEP Opportunities:
- Maternity Care
- Emergency Services
- Geriatrics
How to Apply for SPEP-RN with CNO-Approved Organizations
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Register with the CNO
Ensure your CNO assessment is complete and you have written confirmation of SPEP eligibility. - Choose Your Preferred Organization
Select hospitals based on your clinical interest and career goals. - Submit Your Application
Apply directly through hospital emails or professional practice departments. - Prepare for the Interview
Some organizations conduct interviews to assess:- Clinical knowledge
- Communication skills
- Understanding of Ontario nursing standards
Tips for Success in Your SPEP-RN Placement
✔️ Be proactive in learning – Ask questions and seek feedback
✔️ Improve documentation skills – Charting is critical in Ontario
✔️ Understand CNO standards – Ethics, professionalism, and patient safety
✔️ Build strong communication skills – Interdisciplinary teamwork matters
✔️ Seek mentorship – Learn from your preceptor and supervisors
Conclusion
Completing the SPEP-RN program in a CNO-approved organization is a crucial step for internationally educated nurses aiming to become Registered Nurses in Ontario.
By choosing the right healthcare organization, preparing well, and actively engaging during your supervised practice, you move one step closer to achieving your Canadian nursing registration and career goals.
✨ Good luck on your SPEP-RN journey in 2026!