My girlfriend graduated from a US university, but will have to move to Canada because of Visa issues, is it true that she would need to re do her bachelor’s in order to be a licensed accountant in Canada?

Navigating Accounting Credentials: What You Need to Know About Practicing in Canada

Transitioning from the U.S. to Canada can be a daunting task, especially for professionals looking to continue their careers in a new country. This is particularly true for those in regulated fields, such as Accounting. A recent query from a concerned partner sheds light on a common dilemma faced by many: the requirements for becoming a licensed accountant in Canada after graduating from a U.S. university.

The situation described involves a graduate from a reputable U.S. institution who is moving to Montreal due to visa challenges. Despite having completed a rigorous Accounting program, accrued significant work experience with one of the “Big Four” firms, and passed two sections of the CPA exams, the new reality dictates a need to reassess her qualifications in the Canadian context.

Canada has its own accounting standards and licensing requirements, primarily governed by the Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) designation. The concerns about needing to repeat an entire bachelor’s degree can indeed feel overwhelming, especially when considering the effort invested in her previous education and professional experience.

Understanding the Certification Process

While it may seem excessive to redo an entire bachelor’s degree, it’s important to know that Canada often requires internationally trained professionals to undergo an assessment to determine how their education and experience compare to local standards. This assessment is facilitated by the CPA Canada, which evaluates credentials to decide whether additional coursework or examinations are necessary.

Alternatives to a Full Degree Repetition

1. Credential Evaluation: The first step for your girlfriend should be to have her academic credentials evaluated by CPA Canada. This will provide a clear understanding of what courses or qualifications she may be missing to meet Canadian standards.

2. Bridging Programs: Should any gaps be identified, she might have the option to enroll in a bridging program designed for internationally educated accountants. These programs typically focus on Canadian accounting laws, taxation, and business practices, allowing her to gain the specific knowledge needed to qualify for the CPA designation.

3. Examinations: There may also be opportunities to demonstrate competence through exams rather than redoing coursework. Depending on the findings of her credential evaluation, she could be eligible to take specific exams that validate her knowledge of Canadian accounting practices.

4. Professional Development Courses: Participating in short courses or workshops offered by CPA Canada or local universities can also bolster her understanding and may count toward continuing education requirements.

Next Steps

It can be disheartening to think