Practical Experience
The application of practical experience, concurrent with the study of conceptual knowledge, is an integral component of developing a well-rounded professional. One of the major advantages of the CGA certification process is the freedom to obtain experience in a variety of accounting and financial management positions. You may obtain practical experience in any sector of the economy: industry, commerce, non-profit, government or public practice.
In order to meet the practical experience requirement, it is recommended that every student in Level 3 and above be concurrently employed in a full-time position progressing toward acquiring sufficient competency. Though it usually takes students thirty-six months to achieve the appropriate breadth and depth of work competencies for certification, some students may be able to achieve the requirement in as few as twenty-four months of full-time work. To meet the competency requirements, a student should be employed in a position that requires the application of knowledge, independent thinking and the responsibility for the preparation and interpretation of financial information.
The Practical Experience Assessment Questionnaire
Students can go to the MyCGA Web Services, under Professional Experience Required for Certification (PERC) and report their employment experience by completing the online Professional Experience Requirement and Assessment questionnaire. This questionnaire is the tool that CGA uses to assess your practical experience. When you have completed the questionnaire, you can review your evaluation under Requirements Assessment. Students are advised to begin reporting Professional Experience Required for Certification when 10 or fewer courses are remaining in the program.
Experience Obtained Outside of Canada
In certain cases, the Association may recognize employment experience gained in another country with appropriate third-party confirmation and position details. A minimum of one year's current employment experience in Canada in an acceptable accounting or financial management position is required for certification.