Recognition for Prerequisite Learning at Post-Secondary Institutions
Post-secondary institutions (PSIs) have two options when offering instruction that can lead to the CPA designation: prerequisite learning for admission to the CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP) and/or accreditation to deliver CPA PEP. Prerequisite learning provides the specific subject area coverage required by the CPA Competency Map as an entrance requirement for enrolment in the CPA PEP.
A list of current Ontario PSIs offering approved prerequisite courses can be found on our prerequisites page.
If you have any questions, contact our team.
Eligibility for recognition
PSIs accredited by the appropriate regulatory authorities in Ontario to grant degrees are eligible to have courses and programs recognized by CPA Ontario.PSIs are eligible to deliver prerequisite learning through undergraduate, graduate and/or continuing education programs that have been recognized by CPA Ontario. This may include a non-degree granting academic unit of a PSI that is authorized in Ontario to confer degrees.
Other education pathways delivered at a PSI may meet CPA entrance standards for entry to CPA PEP, subject to review and assessment by CPA Ontario.Process for recognition
To apply for recognition of new degree-credit prerequisite courses and programs, contact our team for the submission package. You will be asked to submit a letter of support, a recognition report and course syllabi.Any course or suite of courses developed must meet the competencies of the CPA Competency Map and demonstrate substantial coverage of a specific subject area. Please note that a major update to the Competency Map will come into effect on January 1, 2023.
Prerequisite learning delivered at a PSI is approved in accordance with Section 3 of the CPA National Recognition and Accreditation Standards, the CPA Competency Map and CPA Ontario Regulation 9-1.
Courses and programs recognized by CPA Ontario are automatically accepted in other Canadian provinces and regions for entry into the CPA PEP.Maintaining recognition
To maintain recognition of courses and programs, CPA Ontario must be notified in writing of any proposed substantive changes.
A written request outlining the proposed changes, including an updated course syllabus, must be submitted to our team. Please allow 2-4 weeks from the date of receipt for the review.
In May of each year, all CPA-approved PSI programs will be contacted by CPA Ontario to confirm changes to recognized CPA prerequisite courses for the upcoming academic year. PSIs will have until August of that year to confirm any changes.