The Qualified Practitioner (Essay) route to full membership is open to you if you have a recognized professional qualification and a minimum of two years of post-qualification practical experience in trusts and/or estate planning. After joining STEP as a student member and satisfying the assessment criteria, you may apply for admission as a full member of the Society.

As a student member, you will receive all STEP mailings and will be welcome to attend all functions of your local branch, of STEP Canada and of STEP Worldwide. Full membership in STEP entitles you to use the designation Trust and Estate Practitioner ( TEP ) after your name.

For other benefits and the obligations of STEP membership, see Membership: Benefits and Membership: Obligations.

Qualified Practitioner route students submit three essays between 2,500 and 3,000 words each from the list of set topics found on this website. You are expected to demonstrate depth and originality in addressing issues that are at the forefront of professional practice.

This route is intended for practitioners who have a minimum of two-years current post-qualification practical experience in trusts and/or estate planning. If you prefer writing exams to essays, or do not qualify for the Qualified Practitioner route, you should consider the Diploma route.

To apply for student or associate student membership by the Qualified Practitioner (Essay) route, please complete the STEP Canada Qualified Practitioner Membership Application Form after you have read the information in the related links to ensure you qualify for membership and understand the process and requirements. If you have any questions about which route to pursue or otherwise, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Introduction

Criteria