The Alberta Acupuncture Registration Examinations (AARE) test the occupational competencies of entry-level acupuncturists to ensure safe, competent, and ethical practice. Successful completion of the AARE is one of the requirements for registration with the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (College). The AARE includes the following components:
- Pan-Canadian Examination (multiple-choice and clinical case components) administered by CARB-TCMPA
- Safety Exam administered by the College
- Modalities Exam administered by the College
- Acupuncture Points Exam administered by the College
Eligibility for exams
Applicants educated in Alberta can apply for examinations if:
- The applicant has obtained a diploma from a program in acupuncture; OR
- At the time of application, the applicant is enrolled in and actively completing the final year of their acupuncture education.
Applicants educated in a Canadian jurisdiction outside of Alberta must upload a copy of their diploma and transcripts to their online application form. Additional documentation, such as a program syllabus, may be requested.
International applicants must upload an education credential assessment from a designated organization and copy of their diploma to their online application form. The education credential assessment must indicate a minimum 3 years of training in Acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine or Medicine with a focus in Chinese Medicine. Additional documentation may be requested.
More information on eligible credential assessments can be found in the International Graduates section on our Applications page.
Apply to take exams
To apply for examinations, candidates must submit applications on the College’s Member Portal.
For instructions on how to create an account and apply for exams, refer to the Member Portal Support page.
College exam information
Important dates
| FALL EXAMINATION | SPRING EXAMINATION | |
| Application Opens | June 1st | December 1st |
| Application Closes | July 15th | January 15th |
| Examination Fees Due | August 15th | February 15th |
| Special Accommodations Deadline | August 15th | February 15th |
| Withdraw Deadline | August 15th | February 15th |
| CAA Exam Administration | October 26, 2025 | TBD, 2026 |
| Rescore Request Deadline | Within 30 days of posted results | Within 30 days of posted results |
Fees
Fees for the Safety, Modalities, and Acupuncture points exams can be found in the Fee Schedule.
Special accommodations request
Special accommodations are modifications made to the examination environment or process to support candidates with documented medical, physical, or cognitive conditions that may affect their ability to complete the exam under standard conditions. These accommodations are designed to promote fairness and accessibility, ensuring candidates have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. Examples may include extended time, breaks, or a private testing space.
Examples of individual circumstances that may impact a candidate’s ability to fully and equally participate include:
- Neurological and cognitive conditions
- Mental health conditions
- Sensory impairments
- Physical disabilities
- Other disabilities and support needs
In addition, candidates may encounter challenges unrelated to disabilities, such as:
- Pregnancy or maternity-related needs
- Religious convictions
It is important to note that English language proficiency is not considered grounds for special accommodations.
To request special accommodations for your exam(s), submit a request for exam accommodations.
Exam resources
Study materials:
- Safety Handbook (look under “Other”)
What to expect on exam day:
- Examination Orientation Video (Updated March, 2025)
- What to Expect at your Modalities Exam (Updated March, 2025)
- AARE Candidate Handbook (Updated March, 2025)
Policies and standards:
Frequently asked questions
Answers to questions regarding exams can be found on our AARE Exams FAQs Page.
Additional questions
If candidates have additional questions not answered on the FAQs Page, they can contact the College at info@acupuncturealberta.ca or 780-466-7787. Answers to these additional questions will be added to the FAQs Page.
Pan-Canadian exam information
For the most current and accurate information regarding the Pan-Canadian Examinations, refer directly to the CARB-TCMPA website and communicate with CARB-TCMPA for any inquiries.
Important dates
| FALL EXAMINATION | SPRING EXAMINATION | |
| Application Opens | June 1st | December 1st |
| Application Closes | July 15th | January 15th |
| Examination Fees Due | August 15th | February 15th |
Exam withdrawal
Applicants who withdraw after the examination fees due date may not receive a full refund. Applicants must contact CARB-TCMPA if their withdrawal is within four weeks of the exam administration date.