Practicing in USA with Foreign Education

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                                                        Registration Process
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  • Prior to registration you must complete 30 additional credits. Can be attained via CLEP (College-Level Examination Program).
  • The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) encompasses 53 jurisdictions.
  • Each jurisdiction has an individual vetting process .
  • Apply online via FCCPT (Foreign Credentialing Commission on Physical Therapy) for a type 1 review (for Irish/British wishing to seek visa)
  • Permission to work in the USA must be sought via the US citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
  • Licence to practice is obtained by sitting the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Exam). The exam can be sat in any jurisdiction regardless of where you plan to work.

                                                           Requirements[edit | edit source]

  • UCD must release transcripts to the FCCPT
  • Proof of licence to practice from the ISCP.
  • Copy of your degree (English version) signed by notary public (solicitor)
  • Attestation form outlining all information provided by you in correct and a passport photo, also notarized.


                                                       Job Opportunities[edit | edit source]

At present over 3,000 Physical Therapy jobs advertised on the APTA website.


                                                  Basic Grade Initial Salary[edit | edit source]

$60,000 on average ($45,000 or €34,000 after tax)


                                                                Cost[edit | edit source]

FCCPT registration $750
Individual state fee’s $60-$245
APTA registration (optional) $295
NPTE exam (until Jan 1st 2013) $350
NPTE exam (after Jan 1st 2013) $400


                                                       Useful Websites[edit | edit source]