As part of the process to become licenced as an NP in Nova Scotia, you must successfully complete one of the following NP exams based on the stream of practice you’re becoming licenced in: family, adult or pediatric.

A new common Nurse Practitioner (NP) regulatory model is being implemented across Canada beginning in 2026. All Canadian NPs – except Quebec and neonatal NPs – ​beginning their education under this new model will be educated and licensed to practice across all client ages and practice settings, and will take the new Canadian NP Licensure Exam (CNPLE) once it is ready. Learn more about the new exam.

Apply for the Family/All Ages NP Exam

The Family/All Ages Exam determines whether an NP demonstrates the competencies necessary for safe and ethical practice as a family/all ages NP in Nova Scotia. The exam is four hours and includes 190-220 multiple choice questions. The next administration of the family/all ages NP exam is Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

  • The deadline to apply and pay for the May 6 writing of the CNPE is March 30, 2026.
  • The Family - All Ages Nurse Practitioner Exam (CNPE) Application Form will open on February 16, 2026.
  • Read the Exam Fact Sheet

Apply for the Pediatrics Primary Care NP Exam

The Pediatrics Primary Cape NP Exam determines whether an NP candidate demonstrates the competencies necessary for safe and ethical practice as a pediatric NP in Nova Scotia. The exam is a three hour and includes 175 multiple choice question exam. 

Apply for the Adult/Gerontology Primary Care NP Exam

The Adult/Gerontology Primary Care NP Exam determines whether an NP candidate demonstrates the competencies necessary for safe and ethical practice as an adult/gerontology NP in Nova Scotia. The exam is a three hour and includes 150 multiple choice question exam. 

If you have any questions, reach out to us at registration@nscn.ca. We will respond within two business days. 

Please be advised that registration requirements and fees are subject to change. All registration and licensure fees are NON-REFUNDABLE as per policy. Click here to learn more about fees and payment options.