Important: Looking for the course listings for the new CPA Professional Program? Visit the Course Listings for the New CPA Professional Program.
This page lists the prerequisite requirements for admission to the CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP).
Applicants who complete all 14 prerequisite courses outlined in the guide by December 31, 2028, will be exempt from the Knowledge Assessment requirement for admission to the new CPA Professional Program.
The 14 prerequisite courses may be completed through:
The Academic Prerequisites Guide identifies recognized prerequisite course equivalents offered by publicly recognized post-secondary institutions in Western Canada which are required for entry into the CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP).
The CPA Academic Prerequisites Guide is reviewed annually. When assessing transcripts, CPAWSB grants exemptions based on the requirements in effect when the course was completed, provided the course meets the applicable grade and currency-of-education requirements for CPA PEP admission.
Courses completed before the launch of CPA PEP in 2013 are assessed using the 2013 CPA Academic Prerequisites Guide or recognized equivalencies, provided they meet the 10-Year Currency of Education Policy for core prerequisite courses.
Applicants who receive exemptions based on previous versions of the Academic Prerequisites Guide may have knowledge gaps and are encouraged to address them before entering CPA PEP. Self-study resources are available after admission; however, applicants are responsible for ensuring they possess the knowledge required to successfully complete the program.
Applicants seeking prerequisite information for post-secondary institutions outside Western Canada should consult the appropriate provincial CPA body. Contact information is available on each provincial CPA organization's website.