The GDPA application for the May 2024 start date will launch on October 1st, 2023 and close on December 31st, 2023.
Please review the Admissions Requirements page before applying.
What is the length of this program and what is involved?
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.
Is this program offered during a Fall or Winter term?
The McMaster GDPA program is offered only during Spring/Summer.
Will classes be virtual or in person?
Classes will be delivered in person on our McMaster main campus in Hamilton, Ontario.
Once I am a student in the GDPA program, what are the minimum grades I need to achieve?
Students must receive above 60% in each course, and an overall average of 70% or more.
Can I opt out of any of the courses offered in this program?
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.
I have completed my degree at a university outside of Canada; do I qualify for this program?
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.
I have met all PEP entry requirements of CPA Ontario by completing an undergraduate degree and a diploma; will I be considered for this program?
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.
Is there an application fee to apply to the GDPA program?
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.
What is the cost for the GDPA program?
Please refer to the Finances section of the website for comprehensive information regarding fees and fee deadlines.
I am an international student who has completed my undergraduate degree in Canada; will the fees for this program be different?
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.
I have submitted my application online – what should I do now?
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.
When will I receive an update on the decision of my 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.
