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. Applicants must be able to legally work in Canada and plan to work in professional forestry in Ontario.

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. Create a profile through the Registration Link (if you are not a current Student Member)
2. Complete the application form (after setting up your profile)
3. Upload a line numbered CV or resume (work experience in YYYY/MM/DD format)
4. Complete the online Professionalism and Ethics Evaluation*
5. Pay the Application Fee – can be paid using the following methods:

*This is an online multiple-choice evaluation. There is no fee to complete the evaluation. You may only complete the evaluation once, unless extenuating circumstances apply (please contact the Registrar). The results of the Professionalism and Ethics Evaluation do not affect your application; they are simply used to determine whether you currently meet the Professionalism and Ethics Standard or will be required to complete the Professionalism and Ethics Bridge Training module as one of the requirements for Associate or Full Membership. Information on the content, format and fees for the Professionalism and Ethics Bridge Training module are available through the above link.

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.

Resources for Internationally Trained Individuals

If your education was completed outside of Canada there may be resources available for you through Foreign Credential Recognition. This can include funding for completing portions of the registration process required to become a registered professional within Canada. For more information follow the link provided.