Professional Program

The Institute's Professional Program has two components:

•   the Core Knowledge Examination (CKE)
•   the School of Accountancy (SOA)

Core Knowledge Examination

The Core Knowledge Examination (CKE) is a four-hour, multiple-choice examination that tests your knowledge about the fundamentals of accounting. You must pass this examination before you are eligible to attend the School of Accountancy (SOA). You can write the Core Knowledge Examination in January or May.

School of Accountancy

The School of Accountancy (SOA) is a four-week period of full-time study in June. In the months before the School of Accountancy begins, you will be provided with readings and assignments to prepare for the School. The Institute also offers a course with lectures and workshops during the winter months before the School of Accountancy to help you prepare.

End-of-School Examination

At the end of the four-week School of Accountancy, you will write the End-of-School examination. This examination consists mainly of essay questions based on cases.

Exemption

If you are a member of a designated accounting body outside Canada, you are automatically exempt from the Professional Program.

Members of non-designated and non-assessed accounting bodies are required to complete the Institute's Professional Program requirement. In rare cases, exemptions are granted. You can ask the Institute to evaluate your qualifications to determine if you are eligible for any exemptions. See the section Evaluation of Qualifications.