Practical Work Experience

Qualifying practical experience is defined in terms of both the duration of the practical experience term and the depth and breadth of competency development during that term. The minimum term of practical experience in Canada is 3 years. To meet the depth and breadth requirements, a CA Student must develop and demonstrate:

• Pervasive qualities and skills, comprising Ethical Behaviour and Professionalism, Personal Attributes and Professional Skills: while many of these pervasive qualities and skills are fundamental to all successful professionals, CA qualification ensures that the CA Student develops these qualities and skills as an entry-level CA; and
• Specific competencies, comprising the specific competency areas of the CA profession grouped into six categories:
  • Performance Measurement and Reporting;
  • Assurance;
  • Taxation;
  • Governance, Strategy and Risk Management;
  • Management Decision-Making; and
  • Finance

For a complete list of competencies, refer to The UFE Candidates’ Competency Map [PDF].

Qualifying CA Training Programs must meet the minimum requirements for depth and breadth of competency development as outlined in the CA Practical Experience Requirements.

The Institute will evaluate your international experience and decide if your experience meets these practical experience requirements. You may be exempted from some or all of the practical work experience requirement, or you may have to work for a specified period in an approved training office in Ontario to meet the practical experience requirement.

Visit the ICAO website for a list of approved training offices in Ontario.

For more information about the practical work experience requirement, see the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants publication CA Practical Experience Requirements.