Why a CBA gets sent back.
From APEGA's guide, in its own words.
APEGA's guide names what holds an application up: an example that only copies a job description or repeats the indicators, fewer than three validators (the application is declined), and a Canadian environment competency below its minimum score (it can't proceed). You may be asked to revise an example; a changed competency has to be validated and scored again, and more revisions mean a longer wait. Each part also has to fit its character limit. Other regulators don't publish one list we could find: check with yours.
Examples that don't show enough
"Copying a job description or simply repeating the indicators is insufficient." (p. 16)
"Write in the first person (using “I” statements instead of “we”), even when describing team-based work, to show ownership and responsibility." (p. 16)
Revisions
"You may be asked to revise a competency description if the example provided is insufficient. If you make changes, the updated competency must be revalidated and rescored by your validator." (p. 17)
"Multiple revisions will delay processing." (p. 17)
Validators
"Applications submitted with fewer than three validators will be declined, and you will need to reapply." (p. 20)
Canadian environment minimums
"If any of these competencies are scored below the required minimum, the application cannot proceed." (p. 11)
Length
"The Situation and Outcome sections should be concise. Each has a maximum of 400 characters, including spaces, with no overflow. The Action section has a maximum of 1,800 characters, including spaces, with no overflow." (p. 18)
Before you submit
Read each example against the competency's own words, check every part against its limit, make sure every sentence says what you did, and give your validators time to read it before you send it.
Checked against the regulators' own pages on Oct 15, 2026. Checked weekly against every regulator's official guidelines. Always confirm with yours.
Sources: APEGA Competency-Based Assessment Guide, July 18, 2026. Your regulator's current guide is the authority.
Gusset is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by any engineering regulator.