Frequently Asked Questions

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.

How do I track my competence credits?

Registrants are responsible for tracking their own continuing competence activities using the self-assessment and learning plan templates. You are not required to upload evidence of continuing competence activities to the registrant portal. You must retain evidence of continuing competence activities for a period of five years and be able to provide such evidence, if requested by the ACSW.

How do I update my social work education level with the ACSW?

You can arrange to have your complete transcripts sent directly to ACSW from the educational institution(s) where you completed your highest level of social work education.

Transcripts provided directly from you will not be accepted for registration
Transcripts must indicate that the social work program is complete and that the diploma/degree is granted

How does part-time/casual status differ from full-time status?

Part-time (or casual) status only affects your competence requirements. It does not impact the annual registration fee. This allows RSWs who practice social work less than 1000 hours per year to reduce their continuing competence requirements. Full-time status is for RSWs who practice social work more than 1000 hours per year.

Choosing part-time or casual status may lead to the need for greater continuing competence efforts due to fewer hours in practice.

How is it decided if I need a refresher course? How is the course chosen?

The need for a refresher course and what course is required will be evaluated on an individual basis by the Competence Committee. Your field of practice, length of practice, length of absence, and activities while absent from practice are all considered.

How should I organize my continuing competence documentation?

Think about what method of organization will be most helpful to your own needs. Some options include a file folder or binder. Some use an electronic filing system. Consider the uses you might have for the material, such as updating your resume or preparing for your annual review.

I completed another social work degree. Should I let ACSW know?

Yes. The ACSW must be able to verify your level of social work education for a client, employer, insurance provider, etc. Your education record should be kept up to date with the submission of an official transcript showing the social work credentials you’ve completed. 

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 completed my supervised practice hours. What’s next?

To support the transition to ACSW’s new registration management system, all applications and the registrant portal are now closed. Applications and the registrant portal are anticipated to re-open later in August.

In the case of exceptional circumstances that require immediate attention, please contact registration@acsw.ab.ca for assistance.

You must meet all outstanding registration requirements (such as outstanding documentation, having professional liability insurance, showing you completed all supervised practice hours, and/or passing an entry-to-practice exam). A supervisor reference form must be submitted online to verify you have completed the specified hours of supervised practice. The RSW providing supervision must also attest to, or confirm, your safe and competent practice under their supervision. 

The supervisor reference form is initiated by you through the registrant portal, which sends an email to your supervisor asking them to answer a few questions and submit all supervised hours. Once your supervisor reference has been received by our office, it will be processed in the order received. You can review the status of any supervisor references through the registrant portal. If your supervisor is a registered social worker in a different jurisdiction, please contact the Registration department.

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.

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