CED Credential Recognition Program (CRP)

Credential Recognition Program

OVERVIEW

Credential Recognition assists in having your skills, education, and experience assessed against Canadian standards.

Having your credentials assessed will help you to:

Understand/explore the types of jobs/professions that match your skills, education, and work experience
Find out if your chosen profession requires licensing in Canada – some professions or Skilled Trades are regulated meaning you must be accredited before you can work in that job
Find out if you need more training or re-training to build your skills and talents
Show employers what you are qualified for – be confident that your qualifications match the needs of the Canadian job market

SUPPORT AND SERVICES AVAILABLE

The Credential Recognition Program is delivered in partnership with the Ottawa Community Loan Fund (OCLF), Lebanese and Arab Social Services Agency (LASSA), World Skills (WS) and Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO).

Throughout your Credential Recognition journey, you may find yourself working with several/all of these organizations as your needs change – the program is designed to allow you to take advantage of the support when you need it.

Eligibility Criteria

Resident of Ontario or Gatineau, QC
Permanent Resident, Temporary Resident, Foreign-born Canadian Citizen, Convention Refugee
Legally permitted to work in Canada
Obtained credentials outside of Canada
Previous experience in a regulated profession or trade, seeking an alternative career or a career in a related field in Canada
Seeking a career in a regulated profession in Canada
Seeking to have foreign credentials recognized, undertake training for an alternative career or both
Minimum language level of CLB 6 + (English or French)

Credential Assessment Support (LASSA)

Career Counselling (World Skills)

Financing (OCLF)

Occupation-Specific Mentorship (OCISO)

Skilled Trades Mentorship Program (OCISO)

LASSA - Credential Assessment Support

Guidance in supporting clients with the Canadian credentialing process
Provides information and assistance to help clients reach a decision as which type of credential best suits them.
Refers clients to partner agencies for licensing, professional designation, or any services that are helpful to them.

World Skills - Career Counselling

Guidance on obtaining licensing for clients from regulated professions
Assistance to understand requirements for working in the Skilled Trades
Career exploration and employment preparation support (non-regulated, regulated and trades)
Referrals to job preparation supports including job search workshops, resume review, interview coaching and referrals to employment programs at World Skills and sector or trades specific organizations or programs.

OCLF - Financing & Personal Financial Management Skills

Financing (subject to terms & conditions) – access up to $30,000 in low-interest financing to assist in paying for credential assessment activities or training for a new career
Financial Empowerment Workshops – learn about managing your money in Canada

OCISO – Occupation-Specific Mentorship

The OCISO Occupation-Specific Mentorship Program supports Internationally Educated Professionals (IEPs) to obtain employment in their field. Clients are matched with a volunteer Career Mentor working in the same or a related field. Mentors and mentees meet weekly.

During these meetings, the mentor will offer guidance and support with respect to:

Clarifying licensing and certification requirements
Exploring job search strategies
Expanding professional networks
Improving resumes, cover letters, and interview skills
Providing encouragement and professional development support

For more information about the OCISO – Occupation-Specific Mentorship Program, or if you are interested in becoming a client, please contact:

Harleen Kaur Oberoi
Project Coordinator
[email protected]
(613) 725-5671 ext. 374

Skilled Trades Mentorship Program (OCISO)

At OCISO, the Skilled Trades Group Mentorship Program helps Internationally Trained Professionals (ITPs) gain knowledge, understand, navigate, and retain long-term success in Ontario’s skilled trades system.

The program offers group workshop learning sessions designed to strengthen participants’ understanding of Ontario’s skilled trades landscape. It increases knowledge of the sector and provides a clear picture of what working in the trades is truly like. The program also helps bridge the gap in understanding Canadian workplace expectations and experience, enabling participants to adapt and succeed with confidence.

Participants explore what employers expect from workers, common workplace culture practices, and the importance of safety on the job—all essential elements for success and retention in the trades.

Featured Workshop

“From Surviving to Sustaining: Thriving in Ontario’s Skilled Trades”

Discover what it truly means to build a lasting career in Ontario’s trades. Gain insight into real job expectations, workplace culture, and the support which will help you move from surviving to thriving in the trades sector.

For more information about the OCISO – Skilled Trades Mentorship Program or if you are interested in becoming a client please contact

Harleen Kaur Oberoi
Project Coordinator
[email protected]
(613) 725-5671 ext. 374

Programs

BECOME A MENTOR/MENTEE

Become a Mentor

Volunteer with The Credential Recognition Program (CRP)

From one professional to another - your guidance matters.

Are you a skilled professional working in a regulated field in Canada? Are you seeking opportunities to volunteer as a career mentor and give back to your community by supporting Internationally Trained Professionals as they begin their Canadian career journey?

About The Credential Recognition Peer to Peer Mentorship Program

The Credential Recognition Program (CRP) supports newcomers in regulated professions by connecting them with volunteer mentors who offer career guidance, sector-specific insights, and support in navigating the Canadian labour market.

Who can Become a Mentor?

We are looking for professionals who:

Are working in a regulated profession with 2+ years of Canadian work experience
Understand the barriers newcomers face, such as licensing, networking, and job searching
Can commit to 1 hour per week for 4 to 6 months (virtually or in person)
Are available to invest time in onboarding and attending a mandatory mentor orientation session

Onboarding Essentials

Vulnerable Sector Check or Valid Security Clearance (obtained within the last 5 years)
Updated Resume

Benefits to Mentoring

Grow as a Mentor and Professional: This experience not only allows you to guide others, but it also helps you grow professionally. You'll gain access to professional development opportunities, modern mentorship tools, and ongoing support to build your own coaching and cross-cultural communication competencies.
Be Part of a Meaningful Community: Join OCISO’s dynamic Mentor Network, where you’ll earn digital badges, be recognized for your contributions, and expand your professional network through exclusive events and shared learning.
Strengthen Your Resume: Receive an official letter from OCISO recognizing your volunteer hours and leadership while making a meaningful impact in your community.

Interested in volunteering as a CRP Mentor? You can choose one of the following ways to apply.

Apply at: https://ociso.org/volunteer-opportunities/

Email us at: [email protected]

Call us at: (613) 725-5671 ext. 376

Become a Mentee

Eligibility Requirements

The OCISO CRP Mentorship is open to individuals who meet the following criteria:

Are you a resident of Canada
Are you a Permanent Resident, Temporary Resident, Canadian Citizen, or Convention Refugee
Have a post-secondary education from outside of Canada
Are legally permitted to work in Canada
Are seeking to have your credentials recognized, undertaking training for an alternative career, or both
Have a language level of CLB 6+

For more information or to register please contact:

Harleen Kaur Oberoi
Project Coordinator
[email protected]
(613) 725-5671 ext. 374