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About the Program

CPA Program Overview

The CPA program consists of the Professional Education Program (PEP) which is part-time academics of six modules, one Common Final Exam (CFE), and 30 months of Practical Experience Requirements (PER).

2.5

YEARS

Work full-time and study part-time

$14k

CPA program cost for both domestic and international students

HOURS

Weekly study time

67.3%

CFE pass rate on first attempt, 2024

The CPA program is an earn-while-you-learn program, where candidates work full-time and study part-time, simultaneously. Estimated time to complete the program is 2.5 years; however, candidates have a time limit of 6 years to complete the program, with 1 extra year to complete any outstanding experience.

Education

The CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP) is a graduate-level program to obtain the CPA designation. Students focus on enhancing their ability to apply professional knowledge, values, ethics, and attitudes in a professional context.

More about Professional Education Program

Examination

The Common Final Examination (CFE) is a three-day examination in which CPA candidates demonstrate the depth and breadth of their competency development in accordance with the CPA Canada Competency Map.

More about Common Final Examination

Experience

The practical experience requirement (PER) is 30 months full-time, paid employment in accounting and finance with the relevant technical and enabling competencies.

More about Practical Experience Requirements

Administration Bodies

The CPA program was developed nationally and is delivered by provincial or regional bodies across Canada.

In BC, the CPA Western School of Business (CPAWSB) delivers the academic components of the program, while CPABC administers the practical experience requirements.

Ready to Apply?

See information on program admission requirements.

Program Admission Requirements

Please note: The new CPA Professional Program launches in May 2027. We encourage you to continue your path towards completion of the CPA certification program. All program requirements must be successfully completed by December 2028. After that date, eligible students will be required to transition to the new CPA Professional Program. For more details on the CPA Professional Program, sign up for an upcoming info session.