(Posted November 2025)
Starting the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP) is a big milestone. Many candidates underestimate the transition from undergraduate studies to PEP’s self-directed and case-based format. By the time Core 1 begins, you will already be expected to manage heavy readings, assignments, and case writing—all on top of work and personal commitments. Preparing in advance can make the difference between starting the modules with confidence versus constantly feeling behind.
Here are some steps to take before your first PEP module begins.
Start Early with the Introduction to PEP
Every candidate is automatically enrolled in the Introduction to PEP module, and it is a valuable tool you will have access to before Core 1. Designed for both new and transitioning candidates, it includes an overview of the program, a case-writing tutorial, technical review resources, and a Diagnostic and Self-Assessment (DISC) tutorial with adaptive learning features.
These resources are your chance to build a foundation before the module workload intensifies. The case-writing tutorial introduces you to the style of writing expected in PEP, while the technical review modules and diagnostics help you identify and close knowledge gaps. The DISC tutorial guides you through how to approach self-study and adapt your learning strategies for success in a professional program. Even a few hours spent here can save you significant stress later because you’ll start Core 1 with a clearer sense of expectations and fewer technical surprises.
Refresh Your Prerequisite Knowledge
PEP builds directly on what you studied in your prerequisite courses, such as Financial Reporting, Management Accounting, and Finance. If it has been a while since you covered these areas, use the pre-study period to review. Revenue recognition, inventory, liabilities, cost accounting, variance analysis, and personal and corporate tax basics are all frequent building blocks in Core 1 and Core 2.
The technical review resources provided in the Introduction to PEP are designed to reinforce this knowledge. They include diagnostics so you can focus on the areas that need the most attention. Candidates who take the time to complete these reviews enter Core 1 better prepared.
Complete the Pre-Study Materials
Each module provides pre-study requirements to ensure you have the baseline technical knowledge needed. Completing the pre-study tasks before Core 1 bridges the gap between your prerequisites and the module content, making it easier to follow along once the real workload begins.
Think of the pre-study and Introduction to PEP as a package. One reviews and strengthens your technical foundation, while the other introduces you to case writing and self-study techniques. Skipping either will leave you playing catch-up when Core 1 assignments begin.
Understand the Workload and Plan Ahead
PEP is structured into eight units per Core or Elective module, along with required workshops. The CPA PEP Candidate Guide recommends planning for 15–20 hours of study per week, more if your prerequisite knowledge needs brushing up. This is on top of full-time work for most candidates, so planning is essential. The CPA PEP program is demanding, but much of the stress can be reduced with advance preparation. Use the Introduction to PEP module as your launchpad—it was designed for exactly this purpose.
Take a realistic look at your calendar before the module begins. Plot out deadlines, workshop dates, and personal commitments. Build a weekly study plan that emphasizes steady progress rather than last-minute cramming. Consistency will help you absorb more, avoid burnout, and reduce stress as the final module exams approach.
Get Comfortable with the Case Writing
One of the biggest changes in PEP is the shift from technical memorization to applied case writing. If you have never written a case before, the Introduction to PEP module’s case-writing tutorial is essential. It explains how assessment opportunities are scored and demonstrates how to link technical criteria to case facts.
Try at least one practice case before Core 1 begins. Write a short response and compare it to the sample solution or annotated guide. This simple step can give you confidence heading into your first module, because you will already know how cases are structured and what markers are looking for.
Organize Your Resources Early
Finally, set yourself up with the tools you will need. Ensure you can access Knotia for the CPA Canada Handbook and practice navigating it by using both the table of contents and the keyword search. Explore the eBooks, adaptive review modules, and practice MCQs included in your materials. A word ofcaution with eBooks:It is easy to get bogged down in detail. Start with the chapter summaries to anchor the key points and only dive into the full text when you need deeper understanding. The more familiar you are with these resources before Core 1 begins, the smoother your study process will be. It also helps to create a system for tracking deadlines and notes as organizing your resources ahead of time allows you to focus on learning, not scrambling.
Final Thoughts
Preparing before the modules begin will not make the PEP program easy, but it will make it manageable. By the time Core 1 starts, you will already be one step ahead. For more strategies on managing workload and staying balanced, see our blog on How to Balance Work, Life, and PEP Modules
The Introduction to PEP is a solid starting point, but it’s only the beginning. As you move through the Core, and later the Elective, modules, the demands will shift – from refreshing technical foundations to applying them in complex case writing. At Densmore, we can support you along the way with our Competency Map Study Notes to keep your technical knowledge sharp, and Core and Elective EDGE courses that give you guided practice in writing and debriefing real exam-style cases, as well as marking options. Using these tools consistently helps you stay on top of each stage of PEP and build the confidence you’ll carry forward to the CFE.