What is an EIT? | MIT vs EIT
- Emman For Real
- Feb 11
- 3 min read
What Even is an EIT?
If you’re an engineering student, you’ve probably heard the term "EIT" tossed around. But what does it actually mean? And is it even worth it? Let’s break it all down in simple terms (Speaking from the Alberta, Canada perspective). This blog was inspired by the video below:
What’s an EIT Anyway?
An Engineer-in-Training (EIT) is basically a fancy way of saying you're on your way to becoming a Professional Engineer (P.Eng). Every province in Canada has its own engineering association that manages EITs. For example, if you're in Alberta, APEGA (Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta) is the governing body.
If you've got an engineering degree from a CEAB-accredited school (which most Canadian universities are), you’re good to go! If you graduated from a Non-CEAB program, there might be another process for you (ex: writing exams for the Academic Review) so be sure to take a look at what process your province has.
EIT vs. MIT – What’s the Difference?
You might have heard MIT (Member-in-Training) thrown around too. So, what’s the deal?
EIT (Engineer-in-Training) – For those working toward their P.Eng.
MIT (Member-in-Training) – A broader category that includes EITs and GITs (Geoscientists-in-Training).
APEGA covers both engineers and geoscientists, which is why these terms exist. But if you're an engineering student, you're aiming for EIT.
Do You Need an EIT to Become a P.Eng?
Nope! One of the biggest misconceptions is that you must be an EIT before becoming a P.Eng. But that’s not true (at least in Alberta). So if it’s not mandatory, why even bother?
Here’s why.
Why You Should Get Your EIT
1. It Makes It Easier When You Apply for Your P.Eng
One of the biggest reasons people get their EIT is to familiarize themselves with APEGA's systems, this will streamline the P.Eng application process. Being an EIT will hopefully help you understand how your province’s system works, with the aim of making everything less stressful when you eventually apply for your full license.
2. More Job Opportunities
There might be some job postings looking specifically for engineers-in-training. Employers like hiring EITs because EITs are already under APEGA; it also means you’re already following the engineering association’s code of ethics. Basically, it makes you a safer bet for companies.
3. Discounts & Membership Perks
This one’s not a direct reason to become an EIT, but something worth considering is that the engineering associations may offer discounts* for EITs.
Are these perks life-changing? Probably not. But hey, discounts are discounts!
*Disclaimer: please make sure you check your provinces/countries' associations for the discounts you're eligible to receive.
How Much Does an EIT Cost?
Getting an EIT isn’t free. As of writing this blog, the application fee for new applicants in Alberta is $175. Fees might be different depending on your province, so check your local engineering association’s website for the latest info.
Is Getting an EIT Actually Worth It?
So after all this, is an EIT actually worth it? Well… it depends.
If you’re planning on getting your P.Eng, then yes, it’s 100% worth it. It makes your life easier, helps with job opportunities, and comes with some neat perks. But if you’re unsure about getting your P.Eng, then it might not be a priority for you.
Also, its possible provinces are thinking about changing the program. For example, Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) recently scrapped their EIT program. Will other provinces do the same? Who knows. But for now, most engineers and employers highly recommend getting your EIT.
What’s Next? How to Get Your P.Eng
If you’re wondering how to actually become a P.Eng, check out my guide on how to get licensed as a Professional Engineer in Canada.
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Got questions about the EIT process? Drop them in the comments below! 👇
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