The winter 2025 intake is the perfect opportunity to set your path toward the CPA designation. Whether you’re beginning with CPA Preparatory Courses (PREP) to complete your prerequisites or jumping into the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP), there are options to fit your schedule and learning style, whether you want to fast-track your studies, take an extended approach, or follow the traditional pathway.
The majority of candidates take the traditional pathway by taking their courses in a linear sequence, completing one module per semester. This approach allows for steady progress while offering flexibility for breaks when needed and is designed for the working professional. Most candidates finish their coursework in 16 to 24 months, though the program allows up to six years for completion.
Flexible Options for a Balanced Schedule
For aspiring CPAs balancing other commitments, both CPA PREP and CPA PEP offer options designed with flexibility in mind:
- CPA PREP Courses: If you’re working on meeting prerequisites for CPA PEP, CPA PREP courses allow you to build the foundation you need at your own pace. The courses are available each semester and can be taken individually, making it easier to progress while managing work and life.
- CPA PEP Modules: CPA PEP winter intake offers extended versions of Core and Elective modules, allowing you to spread your studies over a longer period. These courses deliver the same content as the traditional and fast-track options but at a slower pace, providing the flexibility to balance your studies with other commitments.
Fast-Track Your CPA Journey
The winter intake of CPA Professional Education Program (PEP) offers a fast-track pathway for students who want to finish their studies faster. This option is great for those who can dedicate about 40 hours a week to their CPA studies, such as candidates not working full-time.
With the fast-track pathway, you can:
- Take Core 1 and Core 2 modules at the same time during your first term.
- Follow that by taking Elective 1 and Elective 2 at the same time in your second term.
This means you can complete your first four modules in just two full-time terms. After that, you can finish the education portion of the program with two part-time terms to complete your final modules (Capstone 1 and Capstone 2).
The fast-track option is a great choice if you’re ready to focus on your studies and want to move through the program quickly. A reminder that 30 months of practical experience is still required before receiving your CPA designation.
What Are Your Next Steps?
To help you decide on the best path, here are resources available to guide you:
Contact an Advisor – Get personalized advice to map out a CPA plan that fits your career aspirations.
Contact your AdvisorAttend an Information Session – Learn more about the flexible options for the CPA program and how they can support your career goals.
Attend an Information SessionReady to begin? To start the admission process, the first step is to contact an advisor to determine your eligibility. Your advisor will provide access to the CPA application where you can proceed to submit your application and provide all the information you need to get enrolled in CPA PEP or CPA preparatory courses.
- For the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP), the registration deadline is Jan. 9, 2025
- For CPA Preparatory courses (PREP), the registration deadline is Jan. 29, 2025.
To ensure a smooth process, submit your application and supporting documents early, as processing can take up to 8 weeks.
Ready to ApplyThe winter 2025 intake provides aspiring CPAs with a flexible and accessible path to the CPA designation. Whether you’re seeking an accelerated route or a balanced approach, CPA Atlantic School offers options to help you achieve your goals. Take the first step today—your CPA journey awaits!