Can CPA candidates opt for any available electives (including Tax) at the FMB?
Yes. CPA candidates have access to the full range of CPA PEP electives: Assurance, Tax, Finance, and Performance Management.
What are the key differences between public practice and the FMB with regards to the PPR?
The FMB operates within an industry setting, focusing on financial governance, internal controls, and advisory services. Unlike public practice firms, the FMB does not provide external audits or tax preparation services. As a result, the experience from the FMB aligns more closely with the Assurance and Performance Management electives in the CPA PEP program.
Why choose FMB as a PATO?
The FMB offers a mission-driven work environment rooted in Indigenous values and community impact. CPA candidates gain hands-on experience in financial oversight, strategic planning, and capacity development, making the FMB an ideal setting for those looking to build deep expertise in public sector and Indigenous finance.
Which CPA electives are most relevant to the FMB?
Assurance and Performance Management. These electives support competencies in internal audit, risk management, budgeting, and organizational effectiveness. However, the FMB is supportive of Tax and Finance electives as well.
Will CPA candidates training at the FMB receive a designated CPA Mentor like those in public practice?
Yes. As part of the PPR each CPA candidate is assigned a qualified CPA mentor to support competency development, provide feedback, and validate experience reports.
Are CPA candidates required to complete 30 months of qualifying experience at the FMB under the PPR route?
Yes. All CPA candidates under the PPR route must complete 30 months of relevant employment, as defined by CPA Canada's PER.
What is the difference between the PPR vs. EVR?
The PPR, offered through a CPA PATO (such as the FMB), is a structured pathway with pre-defined roles set by the employer and mapped to competencies. CPA mentors are assigned to the CPA candidate/employee, and the candidate/employee will have multi-year check-ins with the CPA mentor. Mentors assist CPA candidates/employees with CPA practical experience reporting and competency development. Since the FMB (as the employer) underwent a rigorous approval process to become a PATO, the reporting and assessment processes is more streamlined and simplified for CPA candidates.
EVR offers more flexibility in terms of roles and industries. CPA candidates are responsible for tracking their own competencies and securing their own CPA mentor. Candidates submit detailed CPA practical experience reports as they accumulate experience, which are verified by the employer and reviewed by the CPA profession at key milestones.
At the FMB, CPA candidates will be assigned a CPA mentor from the FMB. The mentor will complete check-ins and assist with experience reporting.