Eligibility for the exam

The exam eligibility criteria is changing from 2010 onwards. For details on the New eligibility criteria click here. You may be able to sit the 2009 exam under the new 2010 pathways. If you have concerns about your eligibility for 2009 please contact the IBLCE Office just click here .

All candidates are required to have extensive practical experience as Breastfeeding Consultants before being accepted to sit for the exam. Certification as an IBCLC is for individuals who already have extensive knowledge, skills and practical experience assisting mothers with breastfeeding. If you do not have this experience in an accredited capacity, you are not eligible to become a lactation consultant.  

To be eligible to be a candidate for the exam, you must:

1. Be an appropriately Qualified Health Professional OR have completed the background education in specific disciplines

and

2. have extensive clinical experience providing breastfeeding counselling and support

and

3. have completed comprehensive education in lactation (see education requirements)

“Background” is defined as a minimum of four hours of education in each of the six disciplines above, and is further defined as basic or introductory in content and not as applied to lactation. It should be taught by someone who is qualified to teach that subject at the lowest post-secondary level, at least. The courses recommended by IBLCE include:

• » anatomy and physiology
• » sociology or cultural diversity
• » psychology, counselling or communication skills
• » child development
• » nutrition
• » medical terminology

For maximum benefit, you are strongly encouraged to complete it before starting your lactation education; there is no time limit for the period between when you do these courses and when you do the exam. Further information about this requirement is available at Health Professional Requirements or you can contact the IBLCE office.