Which steps would I need to complete to become a CPA in Canada as an Indian student?
27 Oct 2026 · Answered by Muskan Jain · 1 min read
Quick Answer
verified
Becoming a CPA in Canada typically involves four milestones: prerequisite education through CPA PREP, core and elective modules, the three-day Common Final Examination, and around 30 months of supervised practical experience. Check the official CPA Canada pages for current rules.
The CPA Canada qualification typically follows a fixed path of milestones. You start with prerequisite education, move through modules, pass the Common Final Examination and then complete practical experience.
CPA Canada Milestones
| Milestone | What it involves |
|---|---|
| Prerequisite education (CPA PREP) | If you lack a recognized 4-year Canadian accounting degree, you complete up to 14 foundational courses covering financial reporting, corporate finance and commercial law |
| Core modules | Cover financial accounting and reporting, management accounting, assurance and taxation |
| Elective modules | Choose 2 from assurance, tax, performance management or finance |
| Common Final Examination (CFE) | A national 3-day evaluation testing professional competence, ethical judgment and complex case analysis |
| Practical experience (PERT) | 30 months of verified, full-time progressive accounting experience supervised by a designated CPA mentor |
How to Plan the Path
- Check whether your degree is recognized, since this decides how many prerequisite courses you need.
- Plan your module sequence so you reach the final examination on time.
- Line up an employer who can offer supervised experience.
My Advice
Ask the official CPA Canada body to assess your education before you commit to a plan. Requirements can change, so confirm each step on the official pages.
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