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Photo credit: Photo by Laurin Steffens on Unsplash
We've recently been getting more questions at Learner Support about the transition to the new CPA Professional Program. If you're a current or prospective learner, you may be wondering whether you're eligible, what happens to the work you've already completed, and whether transitioning is the right move for you.
These are understandable questions when you're trying to map out your path through the program, and you want clarity before deciding. Let's go through the most common questions we hear.
1. Am I eligible to transition?
To determine your options, start with our Transition Policy Guide for candidates. There are eight requirements to transition. The most significant one is that you must have a current program time limit (your practical experience deadline) that ends after December 31, 2028. You can find this deadline in your My CPA portal. If you decide to transition, you must submit a transition application during the transition period. Instructions will be available in Fall 2026.
2. Do I get credit for completed CPA PEP exams?
Yes. You will receive credit for the CPA PEP exams you've successfully completed. See our transition infographic. Select the highest module you have completed on the left, and the infographic will show your starting point in the new program.
3. Is there any advantage to me transitioning?
There is no one answer, as the choice to transition depends greatly on your situation. The Learner Support team can help you understand the options available to you based on your particular situation, so you can make an informed decision. Book a meeting with Learner Support today.
4. I'm not a CPA PEP candidate yet, or I've only just enrolled. Should I put off starting the CPA PEP modules to start the new program instead?
Again, the choice to start CPA PEP or the new CPA Professional Program depends on your personal goals and situation. If you'd like to finish the program sooner rather than later, CPA PEP may help you maintain your progress, but only if you are ready to commit and stay on track until the completion deadline of December 31, 2028. If you do not complete CPA PEP by the deadline, then you must transition to the new program.
If you're not concerned about when you finish the program, or the new program's format looks more appealing to you, it might make sense to wait. Contact the Learner Support team for questions or concerns.
5. Is the new program easier?
No. The new program is designed to be of similar difficulty to CPA PEP. The standard of rigour expected of candidates will remain the same. The new program is changing how the content is delivered and the format to meet the requirements of a changing world in which CPAs play increasingly diverse roles.
6. When will CPAWSB stop offering the current modules?
The schedules for each module, including the date of the last offering, can be found here. For example, clicking on Core 1 shows that Winter 2027 will be the last full offering of the Core 1 module, and you can do the same by clicking on other modules.
7. What will happen to my practical experience if I transition?
Experience completed in CPA PEP that has been reviewed and approved is expected to be considered for recognition in the new program, subject to currency, standards, and provincial body requirements. Practical experience requirements are governed and handled by the provincial bodies. Please reach out to your provincial CPA body to discuss transitioning your practical experience.
Overall
Transitioning to the CPA Professional Program is a personal decision, and for many learners, the existing path works well. If you've read through these questions and still aren't sure what's right for you, reach out to Learner Support and we'll help you figure out the best path forward.
