Choose your pathway, complete all educational and clinical requirements, then submit your online application through the IBLCE system with required documents and fees. Once approved, you’ll receive authorization to schedule your exam.

You can qualify through Pathway 1, Pathway 2, or Pathway 3, depending on your background as a healthcare professional, breastfeeding support counsellor, student in an accredited programme, or someone pursuing a structured mentorship.

All candidates must complete: 14 health science subjects 90 hours of lactation-specific education (including 2 hours on the WHO Code) 5 hours of communication-skills education All must be completed within the 5 years before applying.

Clinical experience must be supervised and completed within the last 5 years:
Pathway 1: 1,000 hours
Pathway 2: 300 hours (directly supervised)
Pathway 3: 500 hours (directly supervised)

You may take the exam at an authorised computer-based testing (CBT) centre or via Live Remote Proctoring (LRP) where available.

Results are posted to your online account approximately 2-3 months after the exam window closes. Candidates who pass receive their IBCLC certificate online.