Practical Experience Transition Information
Learn how recognized practical experience in the current CPA certification program will transition into the new CPA Professional Program for eligible students.
To understand what your practical experience transition options could be, please use the drop-down menu for both questions below. If you need to update your selections, click "Clear Filters".
Important: This page provides general guidance only and applies to students whose earliest expiry date is on or after January 1, 2029. Guidance is limited to students in these two categories:
- Experience Verification Route (EVR) students with experience reports in “Reviewed” status.
- Pre-approved Program Route (PPR) students with all experience shown in the Consolidated Summary in PERT, regardless of report status.
If you do not fall into the above categories, ensure your PERT reporting remains up to date and review the PERT reviewer’s feedback carefully for each experience report, as it confirms which experience has been recognized and highlights any required updates.
*You can be exempted from Foundational Work Experience if you have eight or more months of experience (net of absences) and three technical sub competencies assessed at Level 1 in PERT. Any additional experience may be credited toward the Professional Work Experience during the work plan review process.
The above recommendations may not apply based on individual circumstances such as job changes, extended leaves, or missed mentor meetings which may increase required experience duration and result in a need to transition. In some cases, completing your current practical experience requirements may be recommended by a PERT reviewer. Experience duration is calculated net of absences and must be validated by CPA Ontario. Final placement and transition eligibility are determined by CPA Ontario based on your PERT record.
Important Reminders
To count toward the new CPA Professional Program Experience Requirements, all practical experience must be reported and assessed in PERT. Staying up to date with your reports and reviewing PERT reviewer feedback is essential, as this feedback confirms recognized experience and identifies any required updates.
If your earliest expiry date is on or before December 31, 2028, you are not eligible to transition and must complete the current CPA Practical Experience Requirements in PERT by your deadline.
If you are eligible to transition, you may submit a final experience report in PERT up to December 31, 2028, and complete any remaining experience requirements under the new framework, subject to applicable exemptions.
Before transitioning, familiarize yourself with the new Experience Requirements and review the Education Transition Chart to understand any impacts on your education requirements. If you have questions visit the student Student Support Centre for additional support or contact us.