FAQ

We are currently reviewing our admission requirements and program structure for the May 2027 intake. This may result in changes to this page. Please continue to monitor our website for updates.

 

To help answer some of our most common questions, please review the Graduate Diploma in Professional Accountancy FAQ below. Don’t see the information you’re looking for? Contact us.

 

General Program Questions

The Graduate Diploma in Professional Accountancy runs from the beginning of May to the first week of August.

 

It gives candidates the opportunity to start Capstone 1 in the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP) directly after graduation by covering the technical competencies of Cores 1 + 2 and Electives 1 + 2 in the curriculum.

 

No. The McMaster GDPA program is offered only during Spring/Summer.

 

Majority of courses take place in person at the DeGroote School of Business McMaster Hamilton Campus. With the exception of some workshops located at the DeGroote School of Business Ron Joyce Centre in Burlington.

 

Students must receive a minimum of 70% in each course, and an overall average of 70% or more.

 

Students cannot opt out of classes in this program. Opting out of courses would not place a student in a position to graduate, nor would it allow the student to start CPA PEP at the Capstone 1 module.

 

 

Education and Documentation Requirements

Currently, the Graduate Diploma in Professional Accountancy at McMaster only accepts students who have completed their 4-year Undergraduate Degree, inclusive of all required PEP entry courses, at a Canadian university.

 

To qualify for the Graduate Diploma in Professional Accountancy program at McMaster, all PEP entry requirements must be satisfied within the same 4-year undergraduate degree. Diploma courses are not accepted.

 

Students may be able to complete the equivalency of up to 2 CPA preparatory courses outside of their primary program. Please visit the CPA website to ensure that any courses you are taking outside of your primary program are approved by CPA Ontario. We strongly advise that you contact us prior to registering for any such courses to discuss your plans.

Please note that the requirements for admission to this program are distinct from the degree requirements of your current program. Be sure to fulfill both sets of requirements.

 

 

Financial Matters

Yes, there is a non-refundable application fee associated with this program. Please visit the Finances section for further information. Please note that there are no exemptions for the cost of the application.

 

Please refer to the Finances section of the website for comprehensive information regarding fees and fee deadlines.

 

The fees for this program are the same for domestic and international students. Please see the Finances section of the website for more information about fees and fee deadlines.

 

Application Submitted – Next Steps

After you have submitted your application, you will receive an email confirming the receipt of your application and how to monitor its status. Please monitor your email in case our Program Office has any questions about the materials you have submitted. If there is an issue with any of your application components, we will contact you at the email you provided on your application.

 

Reviewing applications and their components is a manual process and not done immediately after submission. We will correspond with you regarding the results of your application at the email you have provided on your application.

 

About CPA Ontario

The Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario (CPA Ontario) serves as both the certifying and regulatory authority for over 90,000 members and more than 21,000 aspiring CPAs, as highlighted in its 2017 Annual Report.

Chartered Professional Accountants are recognized across Canada as trusted business leaders. Their expertise spans financial analysis, strategic thinking, business acumen, management, and leadership.

The CPA Certification Program is designed to meet the needs of businesses, public practices, and government in Canada. Through rigorous education and training, students are prepared to navigate the fast-paced global economy, gaining valuable skills in analyzing financial data, understanding its impact on organizational performance, and leveraging it to drive success.

Earning the CPA designation opens doors to a rewarding and prosperous career.

CPA Professional Program
The CPA Professional Program is a bold path to becoming a Chartered Professional Accountant – one that prepares future CPAs for any industry, any challenge, and any possibility, no matter how markets, business or the world evolves.

We are preparing a new Graduate Diploma in Professional Accountancy in 2027 to deliver this Program and support your path to the CPA designation. This program is currently under review for accreditation by CPA Ontario. More information will be available in Fall 2026.

If you’re exploring a career in business or finance, it’s important to choose a designation that will expand your knowledge, boost your career opportunities, and strengthen your professional reputation.

Here’s why the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation could be the perfect fit for you:

  1. Job security and career growth: In today’s competitive market, more organizations require candidates to hold a professional designation. Earning your CPA gives you the edge needed to secure a prosperous career, whether in Canada or internationally.
  2. Global career mobility: The CPA designation is recognized and respected worldwide. With this credential, you can work in various industries and sectors, allowing you to take your skills across the globe and into diverse organizations.
  3. Higher responsibilities: Achieving a CPA shows your dedication to excellence and high professional standards. Employers trust that a CPA-certified professional can handle complex challenges and lead with confidence.
  4. Enhanced skills and expertise: The CPA Certification Program is designed to meet the demands of businesses, public practice, and government. Through a rigorous and comprehensive education, students master the skills needed to excel in the fast-paced global economy, from interpreting financial data to optimizing organizational performance.

Start your journey towards a fulfilling career and learn more today.