Your CPA Journey Begins Here
Destination: CPA. Discover each step you need to take along the way to the CPA designation.
Note: If you are an internationally trained accountant, mature or legacy student the below journey does not apply to you. Please use the search bar to find information on your path to becoming a CPA.
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Prerequisite Education
The first step in the CPA certification program is prerequisite education that consists of a series of core and non-core courses.
Prerequisite learning requirements can be completed at a recognized post-secondary institution (PSI) or through CPA Ontario preparatory courses or through a mix of both.
Study at a Recognized Post-Secondary Institution
Take courses of your choice during your degree or at your convenience.
CPA Ontario Preparatory Courses
Complete your prerequisite learning through our preparatory courses.
Before you enroll, you’ll submit a transcript assessment and register as a student with CPA Ontario.
CPA Certification Program
The CPA Certification Program consists of experience, education and examinations. You will take on work experience throughout (and sometimes before) your certification program. You will gain a graduate-level education and demonstrate your knowledge and skills in examinations.
Practical Experience
Practical experience provides you the opportunity to apply and develop professional skills through hands-on work experiences. You’ll get guidance and mentorship from CPAs and gain the technical and soft skills you need in today’s workplace.
You will need to meet the following requirements to complete your practical experience journey.
Minimum duration of 30 months
You can carry out your paid work experience before, during and after your education
Routes for Practical Experience
Your relevant experience can begin even before you complete your prerequisite learning, through jobs, internships and co-ops. It’s recommended though that the best time to do your practical experience is concurrently with the education program. As soon as you register as a CPA Ontario student, you can start reporting your experience.
There are two routes for practical experience to choose from: the Pre-Approved Program Route (PPR) and Experience Verification Route (EVR).
PPR
This is a formal student training program through pre-approved employers to meet all the requirements within 30 months. You would be hired directly into the program.
EVR
Through this route, you’ll have your job position pre-assessed by CPA Ontario before you can begin reporting. You have the flexibility to go at your own pace and manage more of your experience.
CPA PEP can be completed by taking modules through CPA Ontario or an accredited program at a post-secondary institution (PSI) or, if needed, a mix of both.
CPA Ontario CPA PEP
Complete your graduate-level study through our part-time modules. They’re offered 2-4 times a year using a blended learning model that combines online learning, self-study, virtual classroom learning and teamwork.
Study at a CPA Accredited Program
Complete a graduate degree program at a PSI, accredited to deliver all or part of CPA PEP. Carefully review each program’s requirements before applying to the PSI.
To enrol for CPA PEP modules with CPA Ontario, you'll need to submit a transcript assessment application and register as a student. You must meet all the following requirements to be eligible.
If you're enrolled in a CPA Accredited Program, you can register as a CPA Ontario student during or after you complete the graduate-level program.
If you're enrolled in a CPA Accredited Program, you can register as a CPA Ontario student during or after you complete the graduate-level program.
Prerequisite learning
meet the grade requirements in prerequisite learning
120 credit hours
(or equivalent) of education from an approved PSI
Hold a degree
from an approved PSI
Good character
evidence of good character (demonstrating attributes like integrity, empathy and honesty)
CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP)
The CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP) is the graduate-level component of the CPA certification program. You’ll need to successfully complete your prerequisite learning before starting this program. CPA PEP consists of a series of modules culminating in the three-day Common Final Examination (CFE).
CPA PEP Details
Common Final Examination (CFE)
The Common Final Examination (CFE) is your opportunity to show you know what it takes to be a CPA. It’s the culmination of all your education: over three days, you’ll need to demonstrate your competencies and knowledge. It takes place twice a year, in May and September. It can only be taken through CPA Ontario.
Admission to Membership
Successful CFE? Check. Completed practical experience? Check. CPA Ontario will now invite you to submit an Admission to Membership application. Provide the required documents and evidence of good character and submit the fee for file review.
Congratulations!
You are now a CPA.
Discover your CPA career
Read about the next steps after your designation, including career paths, the skills you need for the future and the latest CPA trends.
