Frequently Asked Questions
The current business landscape is increasingly data-driven. Employers of CPAs have expressed that data analytics is quickly becoming a necessary skill for careers in accounting and finance.
As a result, data analytics and information systems (DAIS) was added to the CPA Competency Map and made a testable topic on the Common Final Examination (CFE).
Applicants that have completed their degree program requirements before September 1, 2023, will not have DAIS competencies assessed for admission to CPA PEP.
Even though DAIS will not be assessed for entry into CPA PEP in this case, if the applicant can complete any of the DAIS course(s) listed on the CPA transfer credit guide before entering CPA PEP, it will only strengthen their DAIS foundation. Applicants also have the opportunity to refresh their understanding of DAIS topics in the Introduction to PEP module, which is offered to every applicant when they enter CPA PEP.
Applicants entering the CPA PEP starting September 1, 2023, are expected to have an introductory-level understanding of DAIS topics and meet the DAIS competencies before entering the program.
The CPA profession added data analytics and information systems (DAIS) to the CPA Competency Map, and it is a testable topic on the Common Final Examination (CFE). DAIS topics have been integrated throughout the six technical competencies and in the CPA preparatory courses.
Applicants who are completing their degree program requirements on or after September 1, 2023:
Post-secondary programs listed on the CPA transfer credit guide: The DAIS course(s) listed under each program must be completed to meet the requirements for those programs, as outlined by the post-secondary institution.
Applicants who are completing programs other than the ones listed on the CPA transfer credit guide:
You are encouraged, whenever possible, to complete any of the recognized DAIS courses offered at recognized post-secondary institutions listed on the CPA transfer credit guide.
Alternatively, you can complete the Introduction to PEP module, which is offered to every applicant when they enter CPA PEP.
The CPA profession is committed to ensuring you have all the competencies required to be a professional.
Applicants registering in CPA PEP will have the opportunity to refresh their introductory-level understanding of DAIS topics in the Introduction to PEP module, which is offered to every applicant entering CPA PEP.
As DAIS topics have been integrated throughout existing CPA preparatory courses, there is no stand-alone CPA preparatory course to meet the DAIS competency requirement.
However, applicants registering in CPA PEP will have the opportunity to refresh their introductory-level understanding of DAIS topics in the Introduction to PEP module, which is offered to every applicant entering CPA PEP.
