Apply as a B.C. applicant (recognized)

Last updated on April 24, 2025

Learn how to apply for certification as an Early Childhood Educator (ECE) in B.C. if you completed an early childhood education training program recognized by the ECE Registry.

 Check the list of recognized programs before starting your application. 

On this page

Early childhood educator application timeline

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Prepare for your application

Determine your certificate type

If you do not know what type of certificate you may be eligible for, learn about the certificate types and determine which one matches your education and experience.

Gather your education documents 

Official transcript 

Ask your educational institution to provide your official transcript directly to the ECE Registry's contact information.

To complete your application, you will need to know:

  • The full name and location of your educational institution
  • The name of your program or course
  • Your student number/ID as it will appear on your transcript
  • The start date and end date of your program or course

Obtain a character reference 

Your character reference must be someone who:

  • Can speak to your character and has known you for at least 6 months
  • Can speak to your ability to educate and care for young children
  • Is not a relative, partner, spouse, or yourself
  • Is not the same person you provide as your 500 hour work experience reference (if applicable)

It is recommended that your reference is a certified ECE who has directly observed you working with young children.

Confirm your work experience 

If you are applying for an ECE Five Year Certificate, you must show you have completed the required 500 hours of supervised work experience.

Work experience hours:

  • Are counted from the date you started your education and cannot include your practicum/placement hours (hours that were a part of your education)
  • Must be completed within the 5 years before your application submission
  • Can be work or volunteer hours

References must:

  • Have directly supervised (observed) you working with children birth to 5 years old
  • Speak to your knowledge, skills, and abilities (competencies) as an ECE during the hours they supervised you
  • Have held valid ECE certification or registration in Canada during the time they supervised you
  • Not be the same person you provide as a character reference

If your 500 hours were completed at more than one location and under the supervision of more than one ECE, you must provide a reference from each person who supervised your hours.

Complete and submit your application

  • Use the My ECE Registry digital platform to apply

 Apply Now​​

Important

  • You are encouraged to submit a complete application to the ECE Registry 2-4 months before requiring certification to allow for assessment time
  • It is your responsibility to ensure all required documentation is submitted as soon as possible
    • Missing or incomplete documents will delay your application process
    • Make sure you inform your references that a delay in the ECE Registry’s receipt of your reference information will result in a delay in processing your application
    • If you have any questions about requirements, please contact the ECE Registry
  • Your application will remain open for one year (12 months) from the date your first application document is received by the ECE Registry
    • Incomplete applications are closed after 12 months
  • If your legal name has changed, complete and submit a Change of Information form (PDF, 1MB) and a piece of valid government-issued photo identification
    • Keeping your information current will allow the ECE Registry to contact you about your application

After you apply

Timelines

  • Applications can only be assessed once all documentation is received
  • Complete applications are assessed in date order

Assessment

  • The ECE Registry will review your application to ensure that it is complete
  • If your application is incomplete or if it is determined additional information is required, you will be contacted by the ECE Registry
  • Incomplete applications will result in delays in processing and are closed if all required information is not received within 12 months of receipt of the first application document
  • Once your application is complete, the ECE Registry will assess your application and supporting documents to determine if you meet all the legal requirements to be certified
  • You will receive notification that tells you if your application was approved or denied

Possible Outcomes

The decision to approve or deny an application is based on:

Learn more about the legal requirements to qualify for and maintain certification.

Certificate issued

If you meet all legal requirements, a certificate will be provided. Once issued, the status of your application can be validated by entering your first and last name, and certificate (registration) number.   

In order to maintain your certificate, you must continue to meet all legal requirements and you must submit a renewal application and supporting documents. Your renewal requirements depend on your certification level and when you submit your renewal application. Learn more about how to renew your certification.

Certificate denied 

If you do not meet all legal requirements, the ECE Registry may deny your application. If your application is denied, the ECE Registry will provide you with notification explaining the decision. You can dispute the decision by requesting reconsideration.