Open OPFA's mobile menu by checking this checkbox.
Sign In to access OPFA member content. Access the sign-in form by checking this checkbox.

Application Process & Forms   >   How to Apply: Internationally Trained Individuals and Graduates of Programs in Canada That Are Not CFAB Accredited

How to Apply: Internationally Trained Individuals and Graduates of Programs in Canada That Are Not CFAB Accredited

If you are an internationally trained individual or have graduated from a degree or diploma program in Canada that is not accredited by the Canadian Forestry Accreditation Board (CFAB), then you will need to follow the process outlined below to apply. If you are unsure if your program was/is accredited by the CFAB, you can find more information and a list of accredited programs here.

Get in touch!

If you have not already, please contact the OPFA Registration Manager at registration.manager@opfa.ca to discuss your eligibility to apply and membership options. To enable us to provide the most appropriate information, please do the following:

  • Complete this Pre-Screening Tool, and attach the pdf results to your email
  • Attach a copy of your CV or resume (relevant experience should be in YYYY/MM/DD format)

Beginning the process: applying for Provisional Membership

If you are eligible to apply and wish to proceed, the first step will be to apply to become a Provisional Member (R.P.F. in Training). All new applicants start as Provisional Members, regardless of their level of education or experience. To apply for Provisional Membership you will need to:

  1. Submit a completed Provisional Membership Application Form
  2. Provide a line numbered CV or resume (work experience in YYYY/MM/DD format) if you have not already done so
  3. Pay the Application Fee – can be paid using the following methods:
    • e-transfer to opfa@opfa.ca (please provide your name and type of fee in the message section)
    • call the office to pay by Visa or Mastercard
    • mail a cheque or money order payable to Ontario Professional Foresters Association to the OPFA office
    • Pay the fee online in the Special Payments section.

When received, this application material will be considered by the Registration Committee at their next regularly scheduled meeting. You can find a list of upcoming Registration Committee meeting dates and the deadline to submit materials for them here. You will receive formal written notification within 2 weeks of the meeting date.

Deciding whether to work towards Associate Membership or Full Membership

The Registration Manager will discuss with you whether you wish to aim for Associate Membership (Associate R.P.F.) or Full Membership (R.P.F.). You can find a summary of membership categories here. Step-by-step guides and the forms needed for both application processes can be found by following the links at the bottom of this page.

If you are working towards your R.P.F. designation for a specific job or employer, it is important to find out what their designation requirements are. Associate Members (Associate R.P.F.s) are able to apply to adjust their scope of practice, or work towards and apply for Full Membership (R.P.F.) in the future.

Have questions? Please contact the Registration Manager at registration.manager@opfa.ca for assistance.

Follow the links below to find out more about the application process to work towards Full Membership (R.P.F.) and Associate Membership (Associate R.P.F.)