To better support students’ success in CPA PEP, the CPA profession will be testing an Extended Core 1 module. This pilot* module will be offered as an alternative option to the regular Core 1 module, and students enrolled in one offering will not be able to switch to the other once registered. The Extended Core 1 module is designed to accommodate students who are not able to dedicate the time and effort required in the regular module. The pilot module will comprise the same content and structure but extend approximately twice the duration in order to provide students with additional time to manage the requirements of the module in addition to their personal commitments.

*This is a pilot and may not be offered again in future sessions. The pilot only applies to Core 1 at this time.

The CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP) is the graduate level program that makes up the educational portion of the CPA certification program. The CPA PEP consists of a series of modules culminating in the Common Final Examination (CFE) and is built upon the CPA competency map. 

CPA PEP Modules

Click here for CPA PEP overview video [Length: 9 minutes]

Core Modules

Core 1 and Core 2 focus on financial accounting and reporting, and management accounting, planning and control.

Elective Modules

Students choose two elective modules. Students wishing to pursue a Public Accounting Licence must select Assurance and Taxation.

Capstone Modules

Capstone Integrative Module (Capstone 1) deepens strategic leadership competencies by using the knowledge acquired in prerequisite and earlier modules in a professional team setting. Students complete a large business case that relates to Day 1 of the CFE.

Capstone Examination Preparation Module (Capstone 2) focuses on preparing students for entry into the profession by applying competencies acquired throughout the CPA program in complex and highly integrative cases. Students develop their enabling competencies in situations that simulate real-life projects and assignments that newly certified CPAs may encounter in their careers.

Course Material

At least one week prior to the module start date, you will receive an email from Brightspace (D2L), the online learning platform, with your login and password. All the module material will be delivered through Brightspace (D2L), where you also have access to schedules, webinars, discussion boards and other learning tools. Material will be posted three days prior to a module's start date. Should you experience any difficulty with Brightspace (D2L), please contact D2Lsupport@cpacanada.ca.

Workshops

Each module includes one weekend classroom workshop (Saturday and Sunday). Core 1 contains an additional weekend orientation workshop. Attendance at the workshops in their entirety is mandatory. Learn more about PEP Workshops.

Examinations

Examinations are used to measure whether students have acquired the knowledge and developed the skills and competencies expected within the modules and courses. Learn more about CPA PEP Examinations.

Examination Software

CPA Ontario uses Securexam, a special "lockdown" software, for examinations. Students must install, verify and update Securexam as required. Learn more.

Results

CPA PEP examination results are posted on Brightspace (D2L) approximately two weeks after each exam. Students are permitted three attempts per examination; a student who is unsuccessful on their third attempt will be deregistered, as per the Member’s Handbook, Regulation 6-1.

Appeals – CPA PEP Module Examination Results

Students who were unsuccessful in CPA PEP module examinations may request an appeal. Students will be notified if their appeal was successful or unsuccessful — no additional information will be provided.

The fee for each appeal is $195 plus HST. Appeal fees will be refunded if the appeal is successful.

The deadline to submit an appeal is 5 p.m. on July 24, 2018.

To request an appeal, select the appropriate module below:

• Core 1
• Core 2
• Assurance
• Taxation
• Finance
• Performance Management

Withdrawals and Deferrals

Students may withdraw from, or defer, a CPA PEP exam by submitting their request online. Exams may be deferred only once. A fee may be required — refer to the Member’s Handbook, Regulation 4-2. For more information, please refer to the CPA PEP Withdrawals and Deferrals.

Fees

For a list of all fees, please refer to the Member’s Handbook, Regulation 4-2.

Questions?

Refer to the CPA PEP FAQs and the CPA PEP Examination FAQs.

The CFE is the three-day final exam that caps the education portion of the CPA certification program. Students may attempt the CFE three times.

Enrolment for the 2018 Common Final Examination (CFE) is open for eligible students. Learn more.

Competencies

The CFE evaluates students on the competencies defined by the Competency Map, which outlines the knowledge, skills and proficiency levels you must have as a Canadian CPA.

Students must demonstrate depth in either Financial Reporting or Management Accounting as well as depth in one of the other technical competency areas (elective depth role). Students also have to demonstrate breadth in all six technical competencies.

Students wishing to pursue a Public Accounting Licence must have passed Assurance and Taxation. Learn more on how to become a Licensed Public Accountant.

How to Enrol

1. Go to the CFE Enrolment page for examination details.
2. Log in to the CFE portal.
3. Follow the prompts to select your elective depth role, location, etc.
4. Pay the applicable fees.

Click here to watch the CPA PEP How to Enrol Video [Length: 8 minutes]

Schedule

In 2018 and 2019, the CFE will be offered once in each respective year. The planned dates of the CFE are:

• 2018: September 12, 13 and 14
• 2019: September 11, 12 and 13

The decision as to whether to offer one or two CFEs in 2020 and beyond is currently under evaluation.

Results

2018 CFE results will be available on Friday, November 30, 2018 at 10 a.m. Refer to the CPA PEP schedule for the results date.

All successful writers who gave their consent when they enrolled for the CFE will have their names posted on the CPA Ontario website.

CFE papers are the property of CPA Ontario. Under no circumstances will examination papers be returned or made available to a student after being submitted for marking.

Reviews and Reports

Unsuccessful writers may apply online for an appeal and/or a Performance Analysis Report (PAR). Learn more.

Public Announcement

CPA Ontario publishes an ad with the names of all successful writers in the Globe and Mail within a few days of convocation.

Convocation

Convocation celebrates the achievement of the successful writers. Ceremonies are held in March and November, and invitations are issued six weeks in advance of the celebration.

Admission to Membership

Students who have completed the practical experience requirements in addition to the CFE may be eligible for admission to membership.