Become a Sustainable Blue Economy Professional (SBEP)
How to Apply for the SBEP Designation
Start your application, understand the process, and access everything you need in one place.
The SBEP designation uses a structured, transparent process developed by Ocean Alliance Canada and overseen by the Blue Economy Certification and Approvals Board (BECAB).
This page outlines the steps, requirements and tools you need to complete your application successfully.
Application fees are waived until April 30, 2026.
Eligibility Requirements
Experience
SBEP Specialized
Five or more years in one or more blue economy sectors.
SBEP
Five or more years of combined experience across the blue economy.
SBEP-in-training (SBEPt)
Fewer than five years of relevant experience.
Education
All applicants must have one of:
A two or three-year college diploma
A three or four-year university degree
An equivalent international credential
Your highest credential is verified by BackCheck after your fee is submitted.
How to Apply
The application process depends on your designation level. Choose your stream to view the steps.
SBEP and SBEP Specialized
Step 1: Review the Application Resources
Before you begin, review:
- SBEP Applicant Guide
- Guidelines for Ethical Practice & Code of Ethics
- SBEP Body of Knowledge
Step 2: Complete the eligibility check
- Create an account on the application portal
- Take the eligibility check
- Submit your fee to start your application
Step 3: Complete Your Application Package
You will be asked for:
- Employment history
- To complete a self-assessment
- Your exam scheduling preferences
- Code of Ethics Declaration
Self Assessment
All SBEP and SBEP Specialized applicants complete a self assessment against industry skill benchmarks.
It evaluates your core and sector-specific competencies and determines whether your experience meets SBEP or SBEP Specialized criteria.
Step 4: Write the SBEP Knowledge and Ethics Exam
- Required for SBEP and SBEP Specialized.
- Completed online through Absorb Learning Management System.
Step 5: Final Review by BECAB
Your file is reviewed the second Tuesday of every month.
You will receive your results within two business days.
Step 6: Become Certified
Once approved:
- Receive your certification documents
- Access full member benefits
Membership fees do not apply until after April 30, 2026.
SBEP-in-Training (SBEPt)
Step 1: Review the Application Resources
SBEPt applicants review the:
SBEP Applicant Guide
Guidelines for Ethical Practice & Code of Ethical Practice
Skills Matching Tool
Step 2: Complete the eligibility check
- Create an account on the application portal
- Take the eligibility check
- Submit your fee to start your application
Step 3: Complete Your Application Package
Includes:
- Employment history to date (if any)
- Code of Ethics Declaration
Step 4: Complete the Eligibility Quiz
Used to determine whether you qualify for:
SBEP-in-Training
SBEP
SBEP Specialized
SBEPt applicants do not write an exam.
Step 5: Final Review by BECAB
BECAB confirms your designation.
Step 6: Become Certified
Once approved:
Receive your certification documents
Access full member benefits
Fees
Fees are waived until April 30, 2026.
| Designation | Application Fee | Annual Renewal |
|---|---|---|
SBEP |
$300 |
$230 |
SBEP Specialized |
$300 |
$230 |
SBEPt |
$200 |
$130 |
Additional upgrade fees follow the standard the Ocean Alliance Canada schedule. Full details available in the Applicant Guide. Please note that fees are listed in USD for international applicants.
Resources for Applicants
Download everything you need to prepare your submission.
- SBEP Applicant Guide (PDF)
- Guidelines for Ethical Practice
- Exam Guidelines (January 2026)
Ready to Start Your Application?
Begin your certification journey and join a growing global community of blue economy professionals.