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Knowledge Assessment

The Knowledge Assessment helps determine whether you have the prerequisite knowledge and competencies required for entry into the CPA Professional Program.

If you are required to complete the Knowledge Assessment, you must pass it within three years before entering the CPA Professional Program. You may attempt the Knowledge Assessment up to three times.

View upcoming exam dates

Passing requirements

To pass the Knowledge Assessment and qualify for entry into the CPA Professional Program, you must meet all three requirements:

  • achieve sufficiency in Financial Reporting
  • achieve sufficiency in Management Decision-Making and Information (Data) Systems/Technology
  • achieve sufficiency on the overall exam 

The passing standard is established by the Board of Examiners and is based on the overall difficulty of the exam. The Knowledge Assessment is a non-disclosed exam. Exam questions and responses are not released following the assessment.

Review the exam guide Review sample questions

Knowledge Assessment exemptions

Your eligibility for an exemption is confirmed through CPA Ontario’s transcript assessment process. You may qualify for an exemption from the Knowledge Assessment if:

  • you successfully completed all 15 CPA Qualifying Courses within the previous three years
  • those courses meet the required CPA Ontario learning outcomes

Some internationally designated accountants may also be eligible for an exemption based on their registration category.