Throughout each Core and Elective module in the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP), candidates are required to submit responses for Unit Integrated Problems (IPs) and Practice Cases (PCs). The following submission deadlines apply:
Unit Task | Due Date | Due Time |
Integrated Problems | Friday | 11:55 p.m. Pacific Time |
Practice Cases | Friday | 11:55 p.m. Pacific Time |
These deadlines are fixed and it is important to ensure that all file submission requirements are met before uploading your response.
File Submission Format
Integrated problem and practice case responses must be submitted as one Word file and/or one Excel file, unless otherwise specified.
For example, your response to the Unit 1 Integrated Problem should be submitted as one Word file and/or one Excel file. Your response to the Unit 1 Practice Case should be submitted separately as its own Word file and/or Excel file. Do not combine different assignments into the same file.
Responses must meet the following formatting requirements:
- Use one of Microsoft Office’s default fonts: Aptos, Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman
- 12-point font size
- Single-spaced
- One-inch (1”) Margins
- Word file extension: .doc or .docx
- Excel file extension: .xls or .xlsx
File Naming Convention
Files must be named using the convention: LastnameFirstname-XX#
Where:
- # is the unit number
- XX is one of the following:
- MW = Module Workshop pre-work
- IP = Integrated Problem
- PC = Practice Case
Examples:
- SmithJohn-IP1
- SmithJohn-PC3
- SmithJohn-MW2
Dropbox Submission Requirements
All Integrated Problem and Practice Case submissions must meet the following requirements:
- Only final responses will be accepted
- Ensure you upload your files to the correct dropbox
- Facilitators cannot review or provide feedback on late submissions unless a formal extension has been approved by CPAWSB
- If you accidentally submit incorrect files to the dropbox, you will need to email your facilitator with an explanation of the issue and attach the correct files before the dropbox deadline
Examples of incorrect file submissions include:
- Uploading an Integrated Problem response to a Practice Case dropbox
- Uploading a Practice Case response to the Integrated Problem dropbox
The following situations are not considered incorrect file submissions:
- Submitting a revised version of a previously uploaded file.
- Uploading a blank Word or Excel document.
If your submission is classified as an “incorrect file submission”, your facilitator will delete the original file submission and instruct you to submit the same file(s) you emailed to them before the dropbox deadline.
Submit early and double-check your file submissions
Before submitting an Integrated Problem or Practice Case response, carefully verify that:
- You are uploading the correct file(s).
- You are submitting to the correct dropbox.
- Your files meet the required naming and formatting standards.
Submitting your work before the deadline allows time to identify and resolve any submission issues. Read the following CPAWSB blog, Set Yourself Up for Success: Staying on Track with CPA PEP Deadlines, to learn more about the importance of submitting your responses in advance of the dropbox deadline.
Helpful reminders when submitting your case response
For additional guidance on the file submission process, refer to the "Submitting Activities" section of the CPA Professional Education Program Candidate Guide.
If you require additional time to complete a submission, please review the CPAWSB blog, Let’s Talk: Support for Assignment Extensions & Academic Progress, for information on the assignment extension process.
By following these requirements, verifying your files before uploading, and submitting your work early, you can help ensure your response is received successfully and avoid last-minute submission issues.
About the Authors
Mandeep Bains, CPA, CA, is the Manager, Learner Support at CPAWSB. He advises candidates throughout their CPA PEP journey, helping them navigate challenges and build confidence. Mandeep draws on his experience as a CPA and professional education leader to offer practical, grounded advice tailored to each learner’s needs.
Alanah Bury is the Operations Lead, Learner Support at CPA Western School of Business. She is passionate about learner success and works closely with CPA candidates to guide them through the CPA Professional Education Program. Through her role, she provides support, helps resolve challenges, and ensures learners have access to the resources they need to thrive.
