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Entering the CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP)

Getting into the new CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP) requires an undergraduate degree with specific subject area coverage. Here, we explain the requirements and what to do if you don’t have the necessary prerequisites.

To qualify for the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation, you must demonstrate both the technical and enabling competencies expected of leading professional accountants

The foundation of these competencies is formed as you progress through the CPA program. They build on the prerequisite knowledge and required subject area coverage you gain in your undergraduate degree. If your degree doesn’t include all the required subject area coverage — as in a non-Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) degree, for example — you can get it through our CPA preparatory courses (formerly CPA PREP). In addition, CPA provincial bodies are working directly with post-secondary institutions in their provinces to develop specific course requirements.

CPA preparatory courses were developed nationally by the profession. They are delivered by provincial or regional bodies on a part-time basis through distance learning or in-class sessions.

You need to complete only the subject area modules you lack to gain entry to the CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP). The required subject area coverage is detailed in The CPA Competency Map. 

The competencies you gain while earning your undergraduate degree and covering specific subject areas are refined and honed in the CPA PEP and the mandatory practical experience period.