ICN ICNEC Accreditation System for Continuing Professional Development

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is essential for nurses to remain competent, ethical, and responsive in a rapidly evolving health care environment. The International Council of Nurses (ICN) recognizes lifelong learning as a cornerstone of safe and high‑quality nursing practice worldwide.

Built on ICN’s expertise in education and regulation, ICN’s International Continuing Nursing Education Credits Accreditation System (ICNEC-AS) has been established to advance quality, consistency, and integrity of CPD for nurses globally by setting clear, evidence-based standards and accrediting providers and activities that meet them. Through a rigorous, transparent accreditation process, ICNEC-AS promotes lifelong learning and professional competence, safeguards educational independence and equity, and supports the delivery of safe, high-quality care and improved health outcomes.

What is an ICNEC?

An International Continuing Nursing Education Credit (ICNEC) is a standardized unit used to recognize participation in a continuing professional development activity that is accredited by ICN’s ICNEC Accreditation System.

One ICNEC equals 60 minutes of learning

ICNECs are awarded for participation in ICNEC-AS accredited activities that meet ICN’s quality, ethical, and educational standards

ICNECs provide internationally recognizable evidence of continuing professional development.

What Activities Can Be Accredited?

CNEC-AS accreditation applies to individual CPD activities with clearly defined learning outcomes for nurses.

Eligible formats include conferences, courses, workshops, webinars, and modular e‑learning delivered in‑person, online, or in blended formats. Activities may be offered locally, nationally, or internationally.

Why Are ICNECs Important?

ICNECs provide internationally recognized evidence of CPD and may support nurses in demonstrating ongoing professional competence. Credits may contribute to professional portfolios used for re‑licensure (subject to national requirements), career advancement, and professional development review.

Who Can Apply?

ICNEC accreditation is open to recognized, independent health or education organizations, including nursing associations, universities, healthcare organizations, regulatory bodies, government agencies, and eligible NGOs.

Providers must uphold the ICN Code of Ethics for Nurses, be responsible for the development and delivery of the activity, and meet ICNEC accreditation standards. Applications must be submitted at least three months before the activity start date.

If you would like to learn more, please contact: icnec@icn.ch