EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT Before qualifying for certification, students
must have obtained three years of full-time practical bookkeeping
experience where they have demonstrated the skills and knowledge
acquired in the academic program.
Students are expected to have been involved in most of the bookkeeping
functions.
Employment experience may be obtained before, during or after
completion of the academic requirements. Students will be
required to complete a questionnaire to verify work experience.
For students starting a new career, it
is recommended that practical work experience be obtained
while the professional development program is undertaken.
PART-TIME EXPERIENCE At times, while seeking full-time work,
some bookkeepers may take on part-time work. Other bookkeepers
prefer to work part-time because of other commitments or by
choice.
This kind of experience is acceptable: however, because three
years of full-time work experience is required, it may take
longer for these individuals to become Certified. Individual
circumstances are evaluated to determine additional time requirements.
SELF-EMPLOYED EXPERIENCE Self-employed bookkeepers also need to verify
the work experience requirement. This is usually done by supplying
a representative list of clients who can attest to the length
and quality of service provided. In addition, any professional
accountant who is directly familiar with the individuals work
can verify the requirements.
FOREIGN EXPERIENCE Foreign bookkeeping methods can be similar
to Canadian methods; however, at the same time, they can be
quite different. Employers do require facility in local practices.
Consequently, CIB's professional development program requires
three years of Canadian bookkeeping experience. However, in
certain circumstances and with proper verification, credit of
up to one year of foreign experience may be granted.
PAST EXPERIENCE
Many bookkeepers have years of experience, but have not engaged
in any formal academic studies. In such cases, it may be advantageous
to take the required courses. CIB may offer credits directly
for certain courses in Level I and II. Alternatively, you could
have a Prior
Learning Assessment completed
by your local Community College to determine your proficiency
in any area.
