Disclaimer:
The reader bears the sole responsibility for independently verifying the accuracy, reliability, and completeness of the information provided before taking any action based on it. While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate, up-to-date, and provided in good faith, no express or implied representations, warranties, or guarantees are made regarding its accuracy or completeness.
The Entry-to-Practice Exam (EPE), administered by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), is a critical milestone for individuals seeking to become Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs). This guide outlines the essential components of the EPE, how it differs from academic programs like GDipICL, and offers expert advice for preparation and post-exam requirements.
EPE vs. Academic program: Key Differences
| Criteria | Academic program | EPE |
| Duration | 12 to 36 months to complete 9 courses | Few weeks to a few months of preparation |
| Purpose | Academic assessment | Professional licensing |
| Format | MCQs, short answers, case studies, written assignments (open/closed book) | 135 MCQs (closed book), Exam duration: 180 mins |
| Passing Mark | 70% | Undisclosed |
| Difficulty | Flexible, course-by-course | Higher; tests applied legal knowledge and critical thinking |
| Retake Policy | Retake failed course(s) | Retake the full exam only; modules are not separate |
Competency Areas Covered in EPE
- Foundational Knowledge
- Case Management
- Legal Research and Informatics
- Business Management and Leadership
- IRB and Administrative Tribunals
- Professionalism
- Cultural Competence
- Communication, Counselling, and Advocacy
- Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Evidence-Based Practice
Question distribution and scoring:
If you want to know about questions distribution by the competency areas and the details about scoring, please follow this link from college’s website.
Preparation Tips from an Experienced EPE Candidate
Sid, who successfully completed the EPE in December 2022 (currently a RCIC-IRB bearing the license no: R713190) and have been mentoring multiple exam batches till date, shares the following advice:
Study Hours:
- 3–4 hours of study with 100% focus daily if you plan to study for 5–6 weeks
- 5–6 hours of study with 100% focus daily if you plan to study for 3–4 weeks
(The lower the % of focus, the greater the number of study hours required in inverse proportion.)
Time Management Strategy for EPE exam:
Please try to attempt the questions as per the timing below:
- 1st Hour: 60 questions
- 2nd Hour: 50 questions
- 3rd Hour: 25 questions + review questions which were flagged during 1st & 2nd hour
Highly Recommended Knowledge Areas To Be Focused
Please note that CICC has not prioritized any one knowledge area over another. However, given the limited preparation time, it may not be realistic to review every single word and detail you have studied so far. To maximize your readiness, we recommend placing greater focus on the following areas to ensure you are thoroughly prepared and leave no critical topics overlooked.
- CICC professional code of conducts
- CICC regulations (please check the following paragraph** to know more about this part)
- Inadmissibility
- Conviction and Rehabilitation
- FSWP, CEC, FSTP, PNP
- Family sponsorship
- Citizenship
- IRB- Refugee law
- SP, PGWP, OWP and restoration
- LMIA and other close work permits
- Visitor visa, Transit, eTA, Visitor record
- Super visa
While purchasing paid materials is not mandatory—and none are endorsed by CICC—the flashcards and practice tests we provide are carefully designed to cover the key areas outlined above in a thoughtful and structured manner. Details of our materials and services can be found here.
**The CICC regulations cover an extensive range of topics. Outlined below are our recommended areas for focused study.
Highly Recommended:
- Agents Regulation
- Annual Fees, Other Fees, Fines and Penalties Regulation
- Changes in Information Regulation
- Client Account Regulation
- Client File Management Regulation
- Licensee Leave of Absence Regulation
- Planned or Unplanned Absence Regulation
- Retainer Agreement Regulation
Moderately Recommended:
- Bankruptcy, Insolvency, Creditor Proposal and Garnishment Regulation
- Compliance Audit Regulation
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Regulation for RCICs
- Good Character and Good Conduct Regulation
- RCIC Resignation Regulation
What you DON’T need to memorize for the EPE
The EPE tests application — not your ability to memorize endless numbers.
- IRPA / IRPR section numbers
- CICC code & regulation section numbers
- MNI / Cut off amounts
- NOC code numbers
- EE / PNP points
- Case law names & citations
Why? Because there are simply too many to memorize.
What matters most: knowing how to APPLY them in the question.
Support Programs:
ImmiMentor offers a range of EPE preparation resources and services, including:
1. Flash Cards
Over 800+ flash cards designed for self-assessment, concept reinforcement, and confidence building.
2. Practice Tests (MCQs)
Full-length mock exams with 135 questions in 3 hours, mirroring the real EPE exam. Each test set includes detailed explanations and a performance report by knowledge area. You may purchase either 2 sets or 4 sets of mock exams, depending on your preparation needs.
3. The EPE CheatSheet
A concise 100-page study guide (theory only) covering all major EPE knowledge areas, ideal for quick revision before the exam. This also has an enhanced version named as The EPE CheatSheet PLUS which comes as Theory and 135 MCQs. Details can be found here.
4. Individual & Group Consultations
Personalized 1-on-1 or small group sessions (up to 6 students) to help identify and strengthen your knowledge gaps.
All the services and materials we offer can be found in this link.
You can also Book a Free 15-Min Consultation if you have any question or concern related to any of our materials and/or services.
After Passing the EPE
- CICC Application Deadline: Submit full application within 120 days of results
- Document Delay Allowance: Additional 180 days if documents (e.g., Police Clearance) are delayed
- Membership Fees: $1,809.25+Tax/year (payable annually or quarterly)
- Professional Liability Insurance: Approx. $400/year
- Mentorship Program:
- Required after licensing
- Fee: $665 + Tax
- Must be completed upon CICC’s notification, cannot be enrolled before receiving the notification from CICC
- PME Courses: 9 courses (3–6 hours each), to be completed in your first year as an RCIC
- CPD Hours: 16 hours/year (cost: $200–$400 or discounted ($100+Tax) through Immilink / ImmiMentor)
(The above timeline, $ amount and policies are subject to change. Please consult the CICC website for the most up-to-date information before taking any action.)
Continuous Learning & Networking
- Articles by RCICs: Access practical insights and case studies here: Immilink Knowledge Base
Final Thoughts
Success in the EPE depends on more than just memorization. You must demonstrate deep understanding, critical analysis, and professional judgment. With structured preparation and the right resources, aspiring RCICs can clear this milestone confidently.
For any further contact:
-
- LinkedIn: Sid’s Profile
- WhatsApp: +1 (639) 316 4943
- Email: support@immimentor.ca
