Getting Started

physiotherapist in blue scrubs making notes on a clipboard while elderly man watches from his seat on exam table

About the Canadian Physiotherapy Examination

  • It is a five-hour, virtual, remotely proctored exam – there are no test centres.
  • The exam has two sections:
    • Oral Section — 150-point, case-based assessment where candidates verbally respond to examiners.
    • Written Section — 100-point, multiple-choice and media-enhanced multiple-choice questions.
  • Each section lasts 2.5 hours.
  • Candidates’ pass/fail result depends on combined performance across both sections.
  • The CPTE assesses the competencies needed to practice physiotherapy safely, effectively and independently. This includes:
    • Clinical reasoning and decision-making (assessment and diagnosis, and care planning)
    • Client-centred care and safety, communication, collaboration, professional responsibilities and practice management.
    • Conditions and contexts across musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiovascular/respiratory and other systems.
  • Review the Candidate Guide, Blueprint, Blueprint Companion Guide and Key Reference List.

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