CPA Courses in Canada for International Students

CPA also known as Chartered Professional Accountant is a globally recognized designation and holds the highest standard of competence in Accounting.

The four subjects of CPA include Auditing and Attestation, Financial Accounting and reporting and lastly business environment concepts.

The duration of CPA courses in Canada can be completed in just 18 months and the exam can be divided into three types namely MCQ based, task based and written communication based.

Top Canadian Universities providing Professional Accountant Courses

Durham College

Durham College is a publicly funded community college located in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. It was established in 1967 and has since grown into a leading institution offering a wide range of programs in various fields. In terms of course offerings related to accounting the college provides Advanced Diploma in Accounting – Business Administration, this program is particularly suitable for individuals who have already completed a college diploma or equivalent education in a related field. The Advanced Diploma in Accounting – Business Administration is likely accredited by the College of Registered Private Colleges of Ontario (CRPO), which is the provincial regulatory body for private career colleges in Ontario.

Program Details

• Course Name: Advanced Diploma in Accounting – Business Administration (Co-op option available)
• Duration: 3 Year
• Application Fees: CAD $100
• Tuition Fees: CAD$ 7442/ Semester
• IELTS Overall: 6
• TOEFL Overall: 80
• PTE Overall: 53

Fanshawe College

The Fanshawe College is a publicly funded college located in London, Ontario, Canada. It was established in 1967 and has since become one of the largest colleges in Canada, offering a wide range of programs in various fields.The Diploma in Business Accounting is a two-year program designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge and skills needed for a career in accounting. This program is suitable for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in accounting or related fields.

Program Details

• Course Name: Diploma in Business – Accounting
• Duration: 2 Year
• Application Fees: CAD $100
• Tuition Fees: CAD$ 7600/ Per Term
• IELTS Overall: 6
• TOEFL Overall: 79
• PTE Overall: 53

Fleming College

The Fleming College is a publicly funded college located in Lindsay, Ontario, Canada. It was established in 1967 and has since grown into a reputable institution offering a wide range of programs in various fields. In terms of courses related to CPA the college provides a Diploma in Business – Accounting program that is suitable for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in accounting or related fields. Some of the fundamental topics covered under the course include financial accounting, management accounting, taxation and auditing.

Program Details

• Course Name: Diploma in Business – Accounting
• Duration: 2 Year
• Application Fees: CAD $100
• Tuition Fees: CAD$8811/ Per Semester
• IELTS Overall: 6
• TOEFL Overall: 80
• PTE Overall: 46

Lambton College

Lambton College is a publicly funded college located in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada. It was established in 1967 and has since become a recognized institution offering a wide range of programs in various fields. Among its various diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate course offerings the university provides Diploma in Business accounting which is a two-year program designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge and skills needed for a career in accounting. In terms of career perspective this course prepares students for entry-level positions in accounting firms, corporations, or government agencies.

Program Details

• Course Name: Diploma in Business – Accounting (Sarnia Campus)
• Duration: 2 Year
• Application Fees: CAD $150
• Tuition Fees: CAD$7626/ Per Term
• IELTS Overall: 6
• TOEFL Overall: 69
• PTE Overall: Nil

Langara College

Langara College is a public post-secondary institution located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It was established in 1965 and offers a wide range of programs, including university transfer programs, career training programs, and continuing education courses. Talking about the CPA related accounting program, this Post-Degree Diploma in Accounting is a one-year program designed for students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree and wish to specialize in accounting. Some of the key features of the program include financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and management accounting.

Program Details

• Course Name: Post Degree Diploma in Accounting
• Duration: 2 Year
• Application Fees: CAD $155
• Tuition Fees: CAD$601/ Credit Hours
• IELTS Overall: 6.5
• TOEFL Overall: 88
• PTE Overall: Nil

Steps for CPA Courses in Canada

Becoming a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) in Canada is a comprehensive process that requires a strong educational foundation and a series of professional examinations. Here’s an overview of the essential steps:

Academic Requirements

To pursue a CPA designation in Canada, candidates are typically required to have completed a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, which is often a four-year program. It is essential to ensure that the educational institution is recognized by the relevant CPA provincial or regional body.

CPA Professional Education Program (PEP)

After fulfilling the academic requirements, candidates must enroll in the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP). This program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills required for a successful career in accounting and finance. It consists of several core and elective modules, including:

• • Core Modules: Some of the core modules include Financial Reporting, Strategy and Governance, Management Accounting, Audit and Assurance and Taxation.
  • Elective Modules: Students can choose from various electives to tailor their CPA education based on their career goals.

Practical Experience

Alongside PEP, candidates are required to complete a period of practical experience. This allows aspiring CPAs to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world situations. The duration of this experience varies by province, typically ranging from 30 to 36 months.

Capstone Modules

After successfully completing PEP and fulfilling the practical experience requirement, candidates must take the Capstone modules, which are designed to integrate the knowledge and skills gained during the program.

Common Final Examination (CFE)

The final hurdle to becoming a CPA in Canada is passing the Common Final Examination (CFE). This three-day examination evaluates candidates’ abilities to apply their knowledge and problem-solving skills to complex accounting scenarios.

ACCA Exemptions for CPA Canada

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a globally recognized accounting body that offers its own qualification. ACCA qualification holders often find themselves exploring opportunities to become CPAs in Canada. Fortunately, there are potential exemptions for ACCA members pursuing the CPA designation. These exemptions can save candidates time and effort in their journey towards becoming a CPA in Canada.
ACCA members seeking to become CPAs in Canada may be eligible for exemptions from specific modules of the CPA PEP. The exemptions are generally based on the equivalency of the content and rigor of the ACCA qualification to the CPA program. It’s essential to check with the relevant provincial or regional CPA body for the most up-to-date information on ACCA exemptions.

Benefits of ACCA Exemptions for CPA Canada

Accelerated Path

ACCA members with exemptions can often complete the CPA program more quickly, reducing the time required to obtain the CPA designation.

Reduced Costs

Exemptions may also result in cost savings as candidates won’t need to pay for certain modules in the CPA PEP.

Competitive Advantage

Having both ACCA and CPA designations can significantly enhance a candidate’s marketability and open doors to more diverse job opportunities.

Enhanced Knowledge

The combination of ACCA and CPA qualifications equips candidates with a broader and more comprehensive skill set, making them highly competitive in the job market.

Eligibility Criteria for CPA in Canada

The eligibility criteria for Chartered Professional Accounting courses in Canada for international students are:

Education

• A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from any recognized Canadian university.
• Have enrolled in the CPA PEP (CPA Professional Education Program).

Experience

• A candidate should have completed 30 months of relevant accounting experience.
• Have completed four education modules during full-time work experience.
• The candidate must have passed the 3-day UE (Uniform Evaluation) exam.

Conclusion

Becoming a chartered Professional Accountant is a rewarding journey that offers numerous opportunities in the world of finance, accounting and business. The process involves meeting academic requirements, enrolling in a CPA professional education program, gaining practical experience and successfully passing the common final Examination (CFE). For ACCA members, there is the added benefit of potential exemptions from certain CPA modules, offering an accelerated and cost effective pathway to achieving the CPA designation. The combination of ACCA and CPA qualifications positions individuals for success in the dynamic and ever evolving field of accounting. So, whether you are just starting your journey or considering furthering your qualifications, the path to becoming a CPA in Canada is filled with potential for professional growth and career success.

FAQs

Can international students study CPA in Canada?

Yes, definitely international students can easily study CPA courses in Canada, however they need study and work permits to enroll in a program if they are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

What is the cost of a CPA course in Canada?

The cost of a CPA course can differ from one university to another in Canada, however in general the cost can start from $12500 (Excluding other fees).

Is CPA worth it in Canada?

Achieving the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation in Canada demands commitment and diligence. For those who harbor a genuine passion for accounting and finance and are ready to invest the requisite time and energy in their pursuit, the benefits of this demanding yet fulfilling career journey far outweigh the challenges.