Admission Requirements
We are excited that you are considering joining our Early Learning and Childcare Certificate (ELCC). To ensure a smooth admission process, please review the following requirements carefully.

- Completion of a high school diploma or its equivalent; and a credit in either English 30-1 or 30-2, or an equivalent course.
- All applicants must provide supporting documents, including transcripts and proof of their high school diploma or Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) scores, as well as a current government-issued photo ID to verify their identity.
- Students who have received their high school diploma outside of Canada must provide verification through International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) or World Education Services, see English Requirements.
- A current, government-issued photo ID is necessary to verify your identity during the admission and instructional process. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver’s license, passport, or national identification card.
- Ensure that the photo ID is not expired and contains a clear photograph of you.

Applicants who have not achieved a high school diploma may apply as mature students. To qualify, mature students must be 18 years of age or older. Mature students must meet the English Language Requirements and must provide assessment results from one of the following:
- Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam (SLE) – minimum range of 20 – 26
- Canadian Achievement Survey Test for Adults (CAST) – minimum range of 1622
- College Board Placement Test (Accuplacer) – combined score of 237 or higher (administered through Lethbridge Polytecyhnic – online)

If English is NOT your first language - One of the following English proficiency test scores is required:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
Minimum score: 60 (iBT)IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Minimum score: 6 (Academic Module)CELPIP / LINC / CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark)
Minimum score 7 or greater in reading, writing, speaking, and listening componentsOther Recognized Proficiency Tests
Provide scores from other recognized tests or credentials may be considered, including: IQAS, WES, or Certificates or Diplomas achieved with backup transcripts for a minimum one year program in a recognized English-speaking country
Accessing financial aid can help you invest in your education and worry less about how you will pay for it.
Provincial and Canada Student Loans
As Train Alberta is a Designated Educational Institution, students in the Early Learning and Childcare Programs (Certificate and Diploma) are eligible to receive Provincial and Canada student loans. After registration, students are directed to apply for student loans directly with their provincial student loan service centre.
Alberta Child Care Grant Funding
Students in the Early Learning and Childcare Program (Certificate and Diploma) may apply for and receive Professional Development Funding, provided they meet the eligibility criteria as indicated in the Alberta Child Care Grant Funding Guide.
Canada-Alberta Job Grant
Employers may be eligible to receive the Canada-Alberta Job Grant when they contribute to an employee's training costs with Train Alberta. To find out if you and your employer are eligible, visit the Canada-Alberta Job Grant website.
- Accreditation: Train Alberta's early learning and childcare programs are recognized for certification by the Alberta government.
- Application Deadline: Ensure that all required documents are submitted by the application deadline specified on our website. Late submissions may result in delays or disqualification from the admission process.
- Contact Us: If you have any questions about the admission requirements or need assistance with the application process, please do not hesitate to contact our admissions office.
We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our ELCP Certificate Program. Your journey to becoming an advanced early childhood educator starts here!
Register Today
Register Today
Complete the form below for us to contact you and determine your eligibility.
Upcoming Certificate Programs
Why Train Alberta?
Instructor-Led Classes

Our Early Learning and Childcare program offers virtual and in-person instructor-led classes designed to engage your desire to learn and connect.
Virtual
Training

Online learning platforms to provide flexible and high-quality education so you can apply your training to your work.
Small Classroom Sizes

Small classroom sizes ensure each student receives individual attention and tailored support from instructors and administrative staff.