How to Pass the APEGS Competency Assessment?

If you're an internationally trained engineer looking to work in Saskatchewan, Canada, one of the biggest steps youll face is passing the APEGS Competency Assessment , also known as the Competency Based Assessment (CBA) .

I remember when I first heard about the APEGS Competency Assessment , I was completely overwhelmed. What do they want? What kind of examples should I write? Do I need a report writer? These were all questions running through my head.

But over time, and after going through the process myself (and helping a few friends too), I realized that with the right approach, passing the Competency Based Assessment is totally achievable whether you write it yourself or get help from a professional.

Let me walk you through what I learned so you can feel more confident and prepared.

What Is the APEGS Competency Assessment?

The APEGS Competency Assessment or Competency Based Assessment (CBA) is a structured way that APEGS uses to evaluate whether your education and experience meet the standards required to practice engineering in Canada.

Think of it like this: APEGS wants to make sure that every engineer working in Saskatchewan has the right skills, knowledge, and experience to protect public safety and maintain high professional standards.

So even if you have a degree from another country or years of experience, APEGS needs to verify that what youve learned and done lines up with what a Canadian-trained engineer would have learned and practiced.

Why You Need to Take This Seriously

In many countries, your academic degree alone might be enough to start working as an engineer. But in Canada, especially when applying through APEGS, its not just about your degree its about proving that you can do the job safely and competently.

This is where the Competency Based Assessment comes in. It helps APEGS understand:

• What you studied
• Where you gained experience
• How your background compares to Canadian standards

Its part of their effort to ensure all engineers practicing in Saskatchewan are qualified to the same level, no matter where they came from.

Step-by-Step Guide Through My APEGS CBA Experience

Let me take you through how I approached the APEGS Competency Assessment step by step. This is based on my own experience, so you can see how real people get through this process.

Step 1: Start Your Application with APEGS

Before diving into the Competency Based Assessment , you need to officially apply to become a licensed professional engineer (P.Eng.) in Saskatchewan.

I started by creating an online account on the APEGS website and filled out the application form. Make sure to select the correct category usually Professional Member if youre applying as a licensed engineer.

Youll also pay an initial application fee at this stage.

Step 2: Submit Academic Documents

Next, APEGS will ask for your academic transcripts and degree certificate. If your documents arent in English, you must get them translated by a certified translator.

I made sure to send official transcripts directly from my university to APEGS. They accepted both electronic and hard copies, but I went with the postal service because that was easier for my school.

Step 3: Wait for Academic Evaluation

Once APEGS receives your academic records, theyll review them to see if your degree is comparable to a Canadian undergraduate engineering degree.

This took about 46 weeks in my case. During this time, I got an email saying my degree was acceptable phew!

If your degree isn't equivalent, APEGS may suggest upgrading courses or exams before proceeding to the Competency Based Assessment .

Step 4: Prepare for the Competency Based Assessment

Now comes the main event the Competency Based Assessment (CBA) .

APEGS gives you a list of core competencies that Canadian engineers are expected to demonstrate. These include things like:

• Applying engineering knowledge
• Solving problems
• Working ethically
• Communicating effectively
• Leading teams or projects

For each competency, you must provide a real-life example from your studies or work experience that shows how you met that skill.

Step 5: Write Your Competency Examples

This part takes time and care. Each example should clearly describe:

• What you did
• How you did it
• Why you did it that way
• What result came from it

I found it helpful to write short stories like mini case studies that showed off my engineering abilities. For instance, one of my examples was about designing a water distribution system during an internship.

Make sure your examples match the exact wording of the competency areas. Also, avoid using too much jargon keep it simple and focused.

Step 6: Get Feedback Before Submitting

Before submitting my final report, I had a friend who was already licensed in Canada read through my examples. He gave me great feedback on how to structure them better and align more closely with Canadian expectations.

Dont skip this step. Another set of eyes can really help catch gaps or unclear sections.

Step 7: Submit Your CBA Report

Once you feel confident, upload your Competency Based Assessment report through your APEGS portal. Along with it, youll need to submit:

• Rsum or CV
• At least two references (preferably from licensed engineers)
• Any additional documents requested

Theres also a separate fee for the CBA process around $850 CAD last time I checked. Fees can change, so always check the latest rates on the APEGS website.

Step 8: Wait for Review and Interview

After submission, APEGS reviews your report. This can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks depending on their workload.

If they accept your report, youll be invited for a CBA interview a 45-minute to 1-hour conversation with a panel of licensed engineers.

Theyll ask you questions about your examples and maybe dig deeper into your thought process. Dont panic its not an exam. Think of it as a chance to explain your work and show your confidence.

Step 9: Pass the Interview

I was nervous going into my interview, but I reminded myself that I knew my own work best. I prepared summaries of each example and rehearsed explaining them clearly.

The interviewers were friendly and asked follow-up questions to understand how I handled specific challenges. I answered honestly and stuck to what I had written.

A few days later, I got the good news I passed the APEGS Competency Assessment !

Step 10: Final Steps Toward Licensure

Once you pass the Competency Based Assessment , APEGS moves forward with the rest of your application. This includes checking references, verifying identity, and ensuring you meet character and ethics requirements.

Youll also need to complete a professional practice exam (PPE) unless you qualify for an exemption.

After all that, youll receive your license as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) in Saskatchewan!

Tips for Success with the APEGS Competency Assessment

Based on my journey, here are some quick tips to help you succeed in the Competency Based Assessment :

• Start early : Give yourself plenty of time to gather documents and write strong examples.
• Be specific : Use concrete details in your examples numbers, names, dates, and outcomes.
• Use active verbs : Show action and decision-making in your reports.
• Tailor your examples : Match each one carefully to the listed competencies.
• Ask for help : Reach out to mentors, peers, or online communities for support.

Final Thoughts

Going through the APEGS Competency Assessment can feel overwhelming at first, especially if English isnt your first language or youre unfamiliar with Canadian workplace culture. But trust me its totally doable.

The key is to approach the Competency Based Assessment with honesty, clarity, and a willingness to learn. Take it step by step, and dont hesitate to reach out to APEGS support or other engineers whove gone through the same thing.

Remember, APEGS isnt trying to trip you up they just want to make sure youre ready to contribute safely and professionally to Saskatchewans engineering community.

Good luck on your journey toward becoming a licensed engineer in Canada. You've got this!