Eligibility Requirements for CPA Canada
1. Educational Background
To be eligible for the CPA Canada program, candidates must have a recognized undergraduate degree. This degree should include a minimum of 120 credit hours, with specific courses in accounting, finance, and business. For instance, if you have a Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Accounting, you meet this requirement. However, if your degree lacks certain core courses, you may need to complete additional prerequisites before proceeding.
2. Relevant Work Experience
Candidates must also demonstrate relevant work experience. This typically involves working in a financial or accounting role for a minimum of 30 months. The experience should be verified by a CPA or a designated professional. For example, if you have worked as an accountant in a public firm for two and a half years, you would meet this criterion. This requirement ensures that candidates have practical knowledge and skills that complement their academic background.
3. Completion of CPA Prerequisite Courses
Before enrolling in the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP), candidates must complete specific prerequisite courses. These courses cover areas such as financial accounting, management accounting, finance, and taxation. For instance, if you have taken courses like "Intermediate Financial Accounting" and "Managerial Finance" during your undergraduate studies, you may already meet some of these prerequisites. However, if you lack certain courses, you can take them through recognized educational institutions to fulfill this requirement.