Explore how the Physician Assessment Centre of Excellence (PACE) in Nova Scotia supports internationally trained physicians in starting their medical careers in Canada efficiently, confidently, and with purpose
PACE (Physician Assessment Centre of Excellence) is Nova Scotia’s new practice ready assessment program for internationally trained physicians. There are 2 assessment programs - one for experienced family physicians in office-based primary care and one for family physicians and internal medicine specialists with hospitalist experience. PACE evaluates your readiness to practice through a workplace based assessment in real healthcare settings
PACE provides an innovative, centralized model that consolidates all assessment activities under one roof, setting it apart from other Practice Ready Assessment programs across Canada. This unique approach underscores PACE’s commitment to streamlined, comprehensive evaluations for internationally trained physicians.
PACE Advantage:
The process outlines each stage of the journey, from confirming your eligibility and completing your clinical assessment to pursuing licensure and beginning practice. Below, you’ll find a process map that highlights each step, along with a table of contents to help you navigate detailed information, requirements, and helpful resources along the way.
Are You Eligible?
What is the Assessment Process?
Licensure & Start Practising
Return of Service Agreement
FAQ
Apply Now
The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia (the ‘College’) sets the eligibility criteria for participation in the PACE Assessment Program.
Please thoroughly review all eligibility criteria below:
Please ensure you also meet the English Language Proficiency requirements of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia.
Below, you will find detailed information about the criteria and steps involved in selecting candidates for the PACE Assessment Program.
Once you have confirmed your eligibility, submit your application below.
The Registration Department at the College reviews all applications and supporting documents. Eligible candidates who meet the requirements are then referred to PACE for further consideration.
PACE ranks eligible candidates based on their likelihood of success in the Assessment. The ranking process considers several factors, including:
Because the space at the PACE program is limited, the selection process if highly competitive. Only the most qualified candidates will be referred by PACE to Nova Scotia Health for an interview.
Following interviews, Nova Scotia Health makes the final selection for participation in the assessment and provides the list of selected candidates to PACE.
Selected candidates are required to sign:
Candidates may only begin the Assessment after providing proof of legal authority to work in Canada (citizenship, work permit, or permanent residency) and obtaining a Clinical Assessment License.
After successfully completing the PACE Assessment Program, candidates apply to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia (CPSNS) for licensure to practice in their assessed setting (primary care or hospitalist). PACE recommends practice readiness, but CPSNS independently evaluates applications based on the Medical Act and regulations, potentially issuing a Defined, Restricted, or Clinical Assistant Licensure.
Licensure is not guaranteed. Nova Scotia Health supports placement in the assessed setting with a three-year return of service agreement. Guidance is provided throughout.
We know the PACE process can feel complex, so we’ve put together a series of short videos to help guide you. Hear directly from our team as we answer common questions and share insights to help you prepare for each step.
What is the PACE assessment?
Why is PACE an innovative path to licensure?
What is the value of the PACE opportunity and Licensure following the assessment?
From Application to Practice: A step by step look into your PACE journey
INSERT VIDEO
A closer look at the PACE assessment
Before you apply, please ensure you have:
Reviewed the eligibility criteria and understand the full application process outlined above.
Included all formal postgraduate rotations in your résumé, specifying both the type and duration of each.
Listed your most recent in-person clinical experience.
Confirmed that you meet the English Language Proficiency requirements of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia.
Once you’ve confirmed the above, you’re ready to begin your application.