Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy

CIPFA is one of the leading professional accountancy bodies in the UK and the only one that specialises in the public sector. Founded in 1885 and with an estimated 13,400 members and 2,200 students, CIPFA is responsible for the education and training of professional accountants and for their regulation through the setting and monitoring of professional standards.

In addition, CIPFA also provides a catalogue of courses, conferences and publications as well as a range of advisory, information, training and consultancy services.

Professional Qualification

CIPFA's Professional Accountancy Qualification develops excellent accounting, management and general business skills. The emphasis is on developing practical core skills to help accelerate your career. When you qualify as a Chartered Public Finance Accountant, you will be able to use the letters CPFA after your name.

You can study for CIPFA if you have a minimum of 3 GCSEs (grades A-C) and 2 A levels (or the Scottish, Irish or Northern Irish equivalent). Subjects must include Maths and English at either level. Minimum vocational qualification is am NVQ/GNVQ at level 3 or the Scottish equivalent.

The syllabus is split into three stages: Certificate; Diploma; and Final Test of Professional Competence. Certificate stage comprises five exams while Diploma stage has seven. As part of the final stage, you will complete a Finance and Management case study. If you are CCAB qualified, you can complete a fast track scheme that will enable you to become CIPFA qualified in just 9 months.

Source: www.cipfa.org.uk

Contact details

CIPFA - Chartered Institute of Public
Finance and Accountancy
3 Robert Street
London WC2N 6RL
Telephone: 020 7543 6758
Fax:  020 7543 5700
Email: etis@cipfa.org
Web: www.cipfa.org.uk