Become an osteopath: admission requirements

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Admission requirements

The osteopathy program offered by the Institut d’Enseignement de l’Ostéopathie du Québec (IEOQ) is designed to welcome candidates from a wide variety of backgrounds. Whether you have a healthcare background, are currently studying, are considering a career change, or come from a completely different field, our program allows you to progressively develop the knowledge and skills required to practice osteopathy.

Who can become an osteopath?

Applications received by IEOQ demonstrate that osteopathy attracts candidates from a wide range of educational and professional backgrounds.

70%

of applicants do not come from the health and wellness sector

30%

come from the health and wellness sector

28%

are students at the time of application

Internal data based on admission applications received between 2020 and 2026.

An osteopathy program accessible to all backgrounds

At IEOQ, it is not necessary to have a prior background in science or healthcare to begin studying osteopathy. Both our full-time program and part-time program progressively build foundational knowledge, allowing each student to develop their skills step by step.

Admission pathways

1. General admission

Direct entry into the first year

This pathway is intended for individuals wishing to undertake a complete osteopathy education, whether they are recent graduates or pursuing a career change.

  • College diploma (general or vocational)
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Career change applicants
  • Applicants aged 18 and over, subject to file review

Applicants must also be Canadian citizens or permanent residents and demonstrate a good command of the French language.

Admission process: application review and motivation interview.

2. Healthcare professionals

Advanced admission with prior learning assessment

This pathway is intended for candidates who already have training in a healthcare-related or bodywork profession.

Examples include massage therapy, physiotherapy, naturopathy, orthotherapy, kinesiology, athletic therapy, nursing, and related fields.

Depending on the candidate’s previous education and experience, certain courses may be recognized for credit following a file review.

Admission process: application review, prior education assessment, and motivation interview.

3. Transfer from another osteopathy school

Transfer credit evaluation and personalized integration

Students who have already completed part of their training at another osteopathy school may apply to continue their studies at IEOQ.

The review of academic records, completed courses, and grades allows the school to assess potential transfer credits and determine the most appropriate placement within the program.

Admission process: application review, assessment of previously completed osteopathy courses and grades, followed by a motivation interview.

Important information for international applicants

Since June 1, 2017, Immigration Canada has no longer issued study permits to international students admitted to or enrolled in institutions that are not officially recognized by the Québec Ministry of Education. As a result, osteopathy schools are unable to accept international applicants requiring a Canadian study permit.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Osteopathy admissions

FAQ

Answers to the most common questions before submitting an application.

Can I become an osteopath without a healthcare background?

Yes. A background in healthcare or science is not required to study osteopathy at IEOQ. The program progressively introduces all foundational concepts.

What qualifications are required to become an osteopath?

Admission is open to holders of a college diploma, a bachelor’s degree, individuals pursuing a career change, and applicants aged 18 and over, subject to file review.

Can I study osteopathy part-time?

Yes. IEOQ offers a 7-year part-time osteopathy program that allows students to balance studies, work, and personal commitments.

How many years does it take to become an osteopath?

The full-time osteopathy program is completed in 4 years. A 7-year part-time option is also available.

Can healthcare professionals receive transfer credits?

Yes. Candidates with previous education in healthcare-related fields benefit from an individualized assessment of their academic background. Certain courses may be recognized for credit.

How do I apply?

Applicants must submit an online application. The admission process includes a file review and a motivation interview.

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