STEP proudly administers the Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP) designation, which recognizes top professionals in the field of trusts and estates. The TEP designation distinguishes leading practitioners from their peers, providing a competitive edge and trusted insight needed to guide clients through the significant transfer of intergenerational wealth.
Why TEP Professionals Stand Out
TEP professionals are recognized as leading experts because they:
The STEP Canada Diploma in Trusts and Estates is the most common pathway to the TEP designation and is the leading program for professionals seeking specialized knowledge in trusts and estates. The program consists of four self-paced online courses, with optional interactive instructor-led case study seminars, and enhanced resources to help you prepare for exams such as virtual office hours, instructor Q&A boards and practice materials.
Built for flexibility, you can study at your own pace and complete exams twice each year: on the last Monday of each May and the first Monday of each November. Most learners complete the program in about two years, or as little as 1.5 years with eligible exemptions. You have up to four years to complete the four courses.
Approximately 90-120 hours per course is recommended.
Course Fee: $1,095* per course.
Annual STEP Affiliate/Associate Membership Fee: $220*
* plus applicable taxes. Fees subject to change.
| Exam Date | Last Day to Register Online |
|---|---|
| November 2, 2026 |
|
After completing the Diploma program, you may apply for the TEP designation (full STEP membership) once you meet the experience requirement (at least two years of current, continuous work experience in trusts and estates).
* Exemptions may be available for those who have completed specific courses/designations. Below outlines the exemptions available for each course.
| Course | Exemption * Eligibility requires that the course or designation has been completed within the past five years from when applying for the exemption. |
|---|---|
| Law of Trusts |
|
| Taxation of Trusts & Estates |
|
| Wills, Estates & Trust Administration |
|
| Trust & Estate Planning |
|
To apply for an exemption(s) (excluding the Blended Tax exemption), students must submit the exemption form, payment and applicable back up for review (including school transcript or copy of designation certificate / letter showing when it was earned). There is a maximum of two (2) exemptions allowed.
All documents are to be submitted to education@step.ca for review and approval.
* To apply for the Blended Tax exemption, please contact education@step.ca for further details on exemption criteria and submission requirements.
Diploma Program courses are also available in French and tailored to Civil Law. These courses mirror the English offerings in both structure and learning objectives.
Please note that Civil Law courses are currently offered in French only; English versions are not available at this time.
To register for the French Diploma Program, please contact the Education Department at education@step.ca.
Schedule a meeting with our Education team through our Calendar or education@step.ca.
1. Create and Activate Your MY STEP Account
Begin your journey by creating a new STEP Canada account. After registering, you'll receive an activation email—don't forget to check your junk or spam folder.
2. Enroll Through the MY STEP Portal
Once your account is activated, log in to your MY STEP portal. Under the Education menu, select Diploma Route Registration to register. We'll process your enrollment within two business days, and you'll receive an email with everything you need to access your course.
