Foreign-Trained FAQ

My evaluation states that my education is not equivalent. What classes do I need to take?

If you have not submitted an application and fee, we cannot assist with that information. If you have submitted an application and fee, your application will be presented at the next Board meeting to determine additional requirements necessary. A letter will be sent to you with information regarding necessary requirements and resource options to obtain them.

How will I know the Board’s decision regarding my evaluation?

The Board will mail you a letter with their determination after the meeting.

I have a copy of my evaluation. Can I email or mail it to you?

No. Your evaluation must come directly from the credentialing agency (by mail or email). Please see the Foreign-Trained Information page of the website.

I am foreign educated but received my DPT degree from a university in the United States. Can my English requirements be waived or do I need to take a TOEFL?

Yes, the Board clarified the foreign educated TOEFL rule as of September 14, 2022. The Board will waive the TOEFL requirement if the foreign-educated applicant has also graduated from a college or university in the United States, or the following countries listed below (such as the tDPT), in addition to the entry level foreign PT/PTA degree.

Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom

See Federal Statue 8 CFR 212.15(g) English language requirements, and current Board Rules.

NOTE: A transcript documenting graduation must be submitted for exemption from the requirement.

My evaluation states that English is the medium of instruction. Can my English requirements be waived or do I still need to take a TOEFL?

Yes, the Board clarified the foreign educated TOEFL rule as of September 14, 2022. The Board will waive the TOEFL requirement if the foreign-educated applicant has also graduated from a college or university in the United States, or the following countries listed below (such as the tDPT), in addition to the entry level foreign PT/PTA degree.

Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom

See Federal Statue 8 CFR 212.15(g) English language requirements, and current Board Rules.

NOTE: A transcript documenting graduation must be submitted for exemption from the requirement.

I am foreign educated and received a PT degree outside of the US but I have a MPT and DPT from a school in the US. Do I need a credential evaluation?

Yes, as we will need documentation of your entry-level degree.

If I was born outside the United States and went to a CAPTE accredited school in another country, am I considered Foreign Trained?

No, you would apply as either a new applicant by exam or endorsement.

Who is exempt from TOEFL?

If you were born in one of the following countries, or if you also graduated from a college or university in one of the countries listed below in addition to the entry level foreign PT/PTA degree:

UK / United Kingdom
New Zealand
Australia
Canada (not Quebec)
United States / US

See Federal Statue 8 CFR 212.15(g) English language requirements, and current Board Rules.

NOTE: A transcript documenting graduation must be submitted for exemption from the requirement.

Can you accept an evaluation that I’ve had done for another state?

No, the evaluation must be done specifically for North Carolina. We cannot accept an evaluation made to another state.

Do you accept Best Scores on TOEFL?

No. Requirements for TOEFL scores are located on the Foreign Trained Information page.

I have a Type 1 evaluation and an ECR evaluation from FCCPT. Which evaluation does the Board require?

You will need an evaluation done for NC. FCCPT is one agency accepted by the NC Board.

I wasn't able to enter my birth place on the application.

After you submit your application, send an email to PTBoard@ncptboard.org with the name of the city and the country, providence, and/or territory where you were born, and we will update your application.

Can I take the NPTE without a social security number?

Yes, you will need to apply for an AIN number (Alternate Identification Number) with FSBPT at www.fsbpt.org.

Do I need a Social Security Number to get a license?

A social security number is required for licensure in North Carolina. Applicants without a social security number at the time of application should consider waiting to submit an application until after it has been received from the Social Security Administration. An application is active for one year from the date of submission after which it will be destroyed if it has not been completed, including the furnishing of all documents and records that are requested. File to be destroyed per the state functional record retention schedule.

How do I get you my TOEFL and Credentials?

Information regarding TOEFL and Educational Credentials Review is located on the Foreign Trained Information Page.

What coursework tool (CWT) should I use?