Does it seem like nearly everyone in Toronto has, or will get, their CPA? I know the percentage is lower among older generations, but in my 20s circle, it feels like every single person I know has either passed the exams or is just one step away. I attended a decent school in Toronto, and the only friends who didn’t pursue Accounting have shifted towards consulting, but honestly, they were often the smarter ones in our group, so I have no doubt they could have easily passed if they had chosen that path.
I work at a small non-profit, and even there, everyone has successfully passed their CPA exams. And for those in the Big 4, I just assume that they’ve all got their CPAs as well.
Reading the US CPA subreddit, it sounds like passing the CPA is really challenging and that many people struggle with it. I can’t help but think there’s a bit of bias, especially considering Toronto is a highly competitive city with a significant immigrant population—it definitely skews the perception!
One response
It definitely seems like there’s a strong focus on Accounting and finance in Toronto, especially among younger professionals. The competitive job market, combined with the prestige associated with the CPA designation, makes it a common goal for many. It’s interesting how different regions have varying perspectives on certifications like the CPA.
In the U.S., the CPA exams are notoriously challenging, and while many people do pass, the perception is that not everyone can successfully navigate it. This could be due to differences in education systems, job markets, or cultural attitudes towards certification.
Ontario’s strong job market and high demand for CPAs might also contribute to more individuals pursuing that path. It’s not uncommon for cities with a high concentration of universities and a diverse population to see trends emerge like this. It’s great that you’ve found a community of peers who are achieving these professional goals together! It does make you wonder how other fields compare in the same context.