FAQs for Applicants

Am I required to take an entry-to-practice exam to register?

If you are applying within three years of completing your recognized social work credential, you are not required to take the entry-to-practice exam. 

When you apply to register, your file is assessed to determine if the exam is needed. (An example would be someone who has not been registered to practice in a recognized jurisdiction for the past three years). 

Can I apply if I have not completed my supervised practice hours?

Supervised practice hours are completed after registration, while you are registered on the provisional registry. They are not completed before registration. 

Do employers normally pay social work registration fees? 

No. Most registered social workers pay their own fees. 

Do I qualify for registration as a social worker? 

Please see the Registration page to see the requirements and fees for registration.

Do my practicum hours count as supervised practice?

No. Practicum hours do not meet the requirement of performing regulated practice under the supervision of a qualified social worker. Practicum hours are part of your education requirements to gain a social work credential from a post-secondary institution.

How current does my criminal record check have to be?

We accept criminal record checks produced within the last three months. It must be valid when your registration application is processed. If it is older than three months at the time your registration is approved, you must provide a new criminal record check. We accept electronic criminal record checks. A vulnerable sector check is not required for registration.

How do I prepare for the exam?

We recommend ASWB’s exam preparation materials. These include the free ASWB Exam Guidebook and exam content outlines. We strongly recommend their online practice test, available at an additional cost. 

How do I sign up for the exam?

You must register and pay for the exam directly with ASWB.

ASWB will inform you when you can schedule your exam with their provider at the date, time and location of your choosing.

ASWB offers non-standard testing arrangements (aka accommodations) that must be arranged before you register for the exam. The ASWB site has more details.

I have a social work degree. Can I call myself a social worker?

Only social workers who are registered with ACSW can use the protected title of social worker in Alberta. If you have a social work degree and are practicing in the scope of social work in Alberta, it is mandatory that you register with ACSW. 

I have just graduated, and my official transcripts are not available yet. What else can I use to provide evidence of my completed social work credential?

We will accept a letter issued by the educational institution that states you have completed all requirements for your social work program and provides a conferral date. This is often provided by the registrar’s office when all graduation requirements have been met. Official transcripts must be submitted during your first year of registration.