The SPEP-RN is a critical program designed for Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) who want to obtain their CNO registration in Ontario. Through SPEP, IENs demonstrate their skills in a supervised setting, ensuring they meet Ontario’s healthcare standards.
💡 Pro Tip: Click our SPEP-RN Ultimate 2026 Prep Guide to get a step-by-step action plan for success in the program.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the this program:
- Completed nursing education
- Met CNO language proficiency requirements
- Deemed eligible by the CNO
Strengthen your language skills for this program by using our CELPIP Writing Templates 2026. These templates include Band-9 sample answers and practical examples.
Duration of the Program
This program typically lasts about 400 hours, with flexible options for part-time and full-time work.
CNO-Approved Organizations
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
- Opportunities: Critical care, medical-surgical nursing, mental health
University Health Network (UHN)
- Opportunities: Oncology, surgical services, cardiology
- Contact: PBEnursinglearner@uhn.ca
St. Michael’s Hospital (Unity Health Toronto)
- Opportunities: Cardiology, critical care, general medical nursing
William Osler Health System
- Opportunities: Pediatrics, geriatrics, maternity care
- Contact: rita.soni@williamoslerhs.ca
- Pro Tip: Forward your CNO eligibility confirmation along with your resume.
Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS)
- Opportunities: Pediatric nursing, oncology, surgical services
- Contact: HHSIENProgram@hhsc.ca
Lakeridge Health
- Opportunities: Rehabilitation, cancer care, mental health nursing
- Contact: bcarling@lh.ca
The Ottawa Hospital
- Opportunities: Oncology, rehabilitation, emergency nursing
- Contact: nnjie@toh.ca
Trillium Health Partners
- Opportunities: Maternity care, emergency services, geriatrics
How to Apply:
- Register with the CNO and confirm your eligibility
- Select your preferred organization based on your specialization interest
- Apply directly to the hospital’s recruitment or professional practice office
- Prepare for the interview — showcase your clinical skills and understanding of Ontario’s healthcare system
For step-by-step guidance, check out our SPEP -RN PROGRAM Guide 2026.
Tips for Success in Your Placement
- Be proactive in learning: Take every opportunity to enhance your clinical skills, especially documentation and patient communication
- Understand Ontario’s nursing standards: Ethics, professionalism, and patient-centered care
- Seek mentorship: Connect with supervisors for feedback and career advice
- Work on your soft skills: Time management, teamwork, and adapting to different clinical settings
Don’t forget to prepare for your interview using our SPEP-RN Interview Guide 2026.
Conclusion
Completing this program in a CNO-approved organization is a critical milestone for IENs in Ontario. By choosing the right organization, following a well-prepared approach, and leveraging our guides, you’re one step closer to becoming a registered nurse in Canada.
✅ Ready to get started? Prepare for INTERVIEW USING OUR SPEP-RN INTERVIEW Guide now and plan your journey with confidence!
Supervised Practice Experience Partnership
The Supervised Practice Experience Partnership (SPEP-RN) is an essential program for Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) who wish to practice in Ontario. It provides a structured, hands-on learning experience where nurses work under supervision in a healthcare setting, allowing them to demonstrate clinical competence while aligning with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) standards. SPEP-RN bridges the gap between nursing education from other countries and the practical expectations in Canadian hospitals.
During the program, IENs rotate through different units, gaining experience in areas such as medical-surgical nursing, critical care, cardiology, pediatrics, oncology, and mental health. This exposure helps participants develop cultural competence, communication skills, and familiarity with Canadian healthcare protocols, which are critical for patient safety and professional practice.
SPEP-RN also emphasizes professional development, encouraging participants to improve documentation, teamwork, and ethical decision-making. Many hospitals offer mentorship opportunities, enabling IENs to receive feedback and guidance from experienced nurses.
Completing SPEP-RN successfully demonstrates that a nurse can safely and effectively practice in Ontario, increasing their chances of obtaining full CNO registration. For those preparing for this program, our SPEP-RN Ultimate 2026 Prep Guide offers a detailed roadmap to ensure readiness for each stage of the placement.