AACI — Accredited Appraiser Canadian Institute

About

The Accredited Appraiser Canadian Institute designation is awarded by the Appraisal Institute of Canada. It shows that an appraiser has met national standards for education, practical experience and ethical conduct.

Appraisers with the AACI value many kinds of property, including offices, apartment buildings, shopping centres, industrial sites and land. Many work for appraisal firms, banks, lenders, government bodies or run their own practice.

You do not need the AACI to work in every part of the field. But it is widely seen as the mark of a fully qualified professional, and it can open doors to more senior and higher-value work.

How to get it

1. Meet the entry requirements
   You usually need a university degree or equivalent education before you begin. The Appraisal Institute of Canada can tell you how your past studies are assessed.
2. Join as a candidate
   Apply to the Appraisal Institute of Canada as a candidate member. You will also need to work under a supervising appraiser who holds the AACI.
3. Complete the required courses
   Take the appraisal education program set by the Institute. It covers valuation theory, methods, law and professional standards, and is often done part-time while you work.
4. Gain supervised experience
   Build a record of real appraisal work over several years. Your supervisor reviews and signs off on this experience.
5. Complete the demonstration of competence
   Submit sample appraisal reports and take part in a review of your work. This shows you can handle complex assignments to a professional standard.
6. Receive your designation
   Once all requirements are met and approved, you earn the right to use the AACI after your name.

The exam

The final stage is a demonstration of competence rather than a single test. You submit detailed appraisal reports and may take a written exam and an interview or review. Assessors check your technical skill, judgment and ethics.

Careers that mention it

Keeping it

The designation is kept current through ongoing membership with the Appraisal Institute of Canada. You pay annual dues, follow the professional code of conduct and complete continuing education on a regular cycle.