If you are deemed eligible for the PLAR process, the next step is the KCAT – a computer-based multiple choice exam designed to assess your knowledge as compared to the foundational knowledge and academic performance indicators in the national competencies. Click here to view the KCAT Preparation Guide.
The KCAT is written once a year. The next opportunity to write the KCAT will be September 27, 2023, via an online, remote-proctored format.
Key Dates
Activity/Timeline |
Date |
KCAT Administration |
September 27, 2023 |
Deadline for submitting complete Application (i.e. all required documents must be received by the College) |
August 28, 2023 |
Deadline to pay KCAT Fees |
September 8, 2023 |
Deadline to request accommodations to write the KCAT |
August 28, 2023 |
Please start your application process early to ensure you meet the College's deadline dates.
Special Accommodations
If you have a disability, temporary disability, special condition, religious, or other reason that warrants a special accommodation to write the KCAT, you must request this in writing by the examination application deadline. The request must be from a regulated health professional, who is specialized in assessing individuals with the type of disability or special condition.
A request for accommodation related to breastfeeding or religious reasons does not require documentation from a regulated health professional or religious leader, respectfully, but a written request outlining the accommodation is required.
Please refer to Policy 6-20 Candidates Requiring Accommodations for the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition Examinations for the complete procedure and process on requesting an accommodation.
Exam Format
- Candidates will take the September 27, 2023 KCAT from their personal computer via a remote-proctored process.
- The KCAT is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam.
- It is written over five hours and twenty minutes, divided into 2 two-hour parts (Part 1: 2 hours 45 minutes; Part 2: 2 hours 35 minutes) with a one-hour lunch break between Part 1 and Part 2.
Exam Outcome
Your results on the KCAT will determine your next steps:
KCAT Level I Result
This means that you demonstrated sufficient knowledge and competence to move to the next step in the process:
- The Performance-Based Assessment (PBA);
- Apply to a Partnership for Dietetic Education and Practice (PDEP) accredited practicum program;
- Apply to Ryerson University’s Internationally Educated Nutrition Professionals (IEPN) practicum program.
If you successfully complete an accredited practicum program in Canada or Ryerson’s IEPN practicum program after you have received a KCAT Level I result, you are eligible to write the national licensing exam (the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination).
NOTE: A Level I result on the KCAT does not guarantee admission to an accredited practicum program. Each practicum program has its own eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. For a complete list of accredited practicum programs in Canada click here. For more information on Ryerson's IEPN Program, click here
KCAT Level II Result
This means that you have demonstrated partial knowledge and competence. Your score reflects that there are some gaps in your knowledge and competence compared to the Canadian national standards. If you receive a Level II result, you have two options:
If you successfully complete the IEPN after receiving a Level II KCAT result, you are eligible to proceed to the PBA or apply to Ryerson’s IEPN practicum program.
NOTE: A Level II result on the KCAT does not guarantee admission to the Ryerson IEPN program. Ryerson has its own eligibility criteria for the IEPN program and may have limited enrolment.
KCAT Level III Result
This means that you did not demonstrate sufficient knowledge and competence. You are not eligible to complete the PBA or apply to the Ryerson University IEPN bridging program. You may rewrite the KCAT a maximum of three times as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements. You may wish to consider that your results identified significant gaps which may best be addressed by completing a Canadian accredited degree and accredited practical training program.
Technology Requirements
Candidates seeking to write the KCAT must meet these technological requirements:
- Access to a computer (desktop or laptop). This exam cannot be taken on a tablet or mobile device. Dual monitor configurations are not permitted.
- Minimum screen resolution of 1024 x 768 is required. However, a screen resolution of 1920 x 1080 or higher is recommended.
- External or built-in webcam. You must be able to move your webcam in order to show your surroundings.
- Strong and reliable high speed internet connection. At least 1 Mbps upload and 10 Mbps download (please click here to conduct a speed test to confirm your connection speed).
- Hard wired Ethernet connection is strongly recommended to ensure the best exam experience and to reduce the risk of interruption to your internet connection (click here for more information on connecting to internet via Ethernet).
- Windows 8.1+ operating system.
- The latest version of Google Chrome.
- The latest version of Zoom Client for Meetings.
- Comfort with taking a virtual assessment.
- A quiet, private space with a table and chair to ensure confidentiality of exam.
- Area must be clear of writing utensils, electronics, notes, etc. No additional people can be in the room.
This exam is available on a Windows Operating System only. This exam cannot be completed using a MAC computer.
For any questions, please email registration@collegeofdietitians.org