EPE Exam Format
EPE Exam Format & Structure
Everything you need to know about what to expect on exam day.
3 Hours
Total Time
135 Questions
Multiple Choice
4 Options
Per Question
Open Book
Data Booklet
Exam Overview
The Entry-to-Practice Exam (EPE) is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam administered by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). It is the final step to becoming a licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).
Question Types
The EPE contains two types of questions:
Independent Questions
Stand-alone questions that test specific knowledge points. Each question presents a scenario or asks about a particular rule, deadline, or requirement.
Example: “What is the minimum CRS score required for Express Entry candidates to receive an ITA in the most recent draw?”
Scenario-Based Questions (Case Studies)
A case study presenting a client situation, followed by 3-5 related questions. These test your ability to apply knowledge to realistic consulting scenarios.
Example: A scenario about a family class sponsorship, followed by questions about eligibility, processing, and potential inadmissibility issues.
Time Management
With 135 questions in 180 minutes, you have approximately:
1 minute 20 seconds per question
This is tight. You cannot spend 5 minutes on a difficult question. The strategy: answer what you know, flag difficult questions, and return to them at the end.
The 9 Competency Areas
Questions are distributed across 9 CICC-defined competency areas:
| # | Competency Area | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Professional Conduct and Ethics | ~10% |
| 2 | Initial Assessment and Consultation | ~10% |
| 3 | Temporary Residence | ~15% |
| 4 | Permanent Residence - Economic Classes | ~15% |
| 5 | Permanent Residence - Family Class | ~10% |
| 6 | Permanent Residence - Refugee and Humanitarian | ~10% |
| 7 | Citizenship | ~10% |
| 8 | Immigration Hearings and Appeals | ~10% |
| 9 | Business Skills and Practice Management | ~10% |
The Data Booklet
The EPE is an open-book exam. You receive a data booklet containing reference information such as:
- Fee schedules
- Processing times
- Key numerical thresholds
- Selected sections of IRPA/IRPR
Important: The booklet does NOT contain everything. You still need to understand concepts and how to apply them. Know what's in the booklet so you don't waste time looking for things that aren't there.
Scoring
Each question is worth one point. There is no penalty for wrong answers, so always answer every question — even if you have to guess. The passing score is not publicly disclosed but is determined by the CICC using statistical methods.
Practice the Exact Format
PassRCIC mock exams replicate the real EPE format — 135 questions, 3 hours, scenario-based cases. Practice under real conditions.
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