Exam Eligibility

MLA Exam Handbooks with the new Exam Attempt Policy will be posted on the Certification webpages before results from the MLA October 2026 exam session are released.

Exam Attempt Policy

MLA Candidates:

These candidates have three (3) attempts at the Certification exam.
After their first attempt, they have two (2) more attempts that must be taken within two (2) years from the date of their first attempt.

General MLT Candidates:

These candidates have four (4) attempts at the Certification exam within three (3) years from their first failed attempt.

First-Time Examination Candidates

There are four (4) eligibility routes to become initially eligible to write the MLA Exam:

1. EQual™ Accredited* Canadian Medical Laboratory Educational Program (EAP) Route.
2. CSMLS MLA PLA Route
3. Provincially certified MLA (BCSLS or MLPAO) Route
4. CSMLS General MLT (Alberta PLA Client or failed General MLT exam attempt) or CAMLPR General MLT Client Route

There are two (2) ways to become initially eligible to write the CSMLS General MLT Exam:

1. EQual™ Accredited* Alberta Medical Laboratory Educational Program (EAP) Route AND reside in Alberta Route.
2. CSMLS Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Route AND reside in Alberta Route.