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Path to Designation
Becoming a licensed CPA requires dedication & time.
Familiarize yourself with the essential steps!
First, admission to the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP) - under CPAWSB (CPA Western School of Business).
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma & BBA in Accounting students will have completed the pre-requisite courses for PEP upon graduation.
CPA Modules
Second, is completion of the CPA PEP.
This is a graduate level program consisting of 6 modules,
under CPABC (CPA British Columbia).
Core 1 & 2 - around the CPA core competencies
Electives 1 & 2 - four options**
(Performance Management, Finance, Assurance, Tax)
Capstone 1 & 2 - integrating accounting knowledge
with practical skills & professional judgment.
Work Experience
Third - comes the Practical Experience Requirement (PER).
Students have two available options to achieve this.
It is important to determine which choice is right for you.
1) Pre-Approved Program Route (PPR) | View Offices
At minimum 30 months, with direct support from your employer.
PPR listed firms can be a great place to start.
2) Experience Verification Route (EVR)
This path typically takes longer than 30 months, and students may not receive direct support from employers. Candidates are required
to report experience in alternative ways.
EVR positions are generally outside of public accounting, allowing students some greater freedoms. These include the ability to PEP choose electives such as Finance, & Performance Management.
** Note: PPR / public accounting offices will require candidates to complete Assurance & Taxation for Electives 1 & 2.
2025 Spring Recruit Timeline
Consult with other organizations you are interested in, on their hiring timeline.
1
TBA
Application Deadline
2
TBA
First Interview/Offers Out
3
TBA
Deadline - Accept Offer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is recruitment only for senior students?
We encourage students to start networking with firms as early as possible.
This approach helps you feel confident and comfortable in professional settings, explore various career opportunities, and begin building meaningful relationships with firm representatives.
This can also open doors for co-ops, or internships as a junior student.
How do I participate?
We highly recommend attending as many networking events as possible. Attend events - even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone. CPA Recruit is your chance to learn about different firms and the opportunities they offer.
We will host numerous events throughout the recruiting period to help you discover where you fit best. Some firms will also organize their own events, so be sure to join the KPU Accounting Hub, or follow us @kwantlenaccounting to stay informed!
What do I need to participate?
Be yourself! Bring an open mind, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn to each event, along with your own business cards. Dress codes may vary from business casual to business formal, so make sure you understand the differences and are appropriately attired.
Am I guaranteed a job if I participate?
Unfortunately, not every participant will secure a job on their first attempt at CPA Recruit. Many students may need to participate two or three times before successfully finding a position. Several factors can influence this outcome, such as the number of available positions, the quality and quantity of applicants, as well as your ability to establish meaningful connections with firm representatives.