Minimum requirements
The minimum requirements for studying CIPFA's Professional Qualification are as follows.
- Three GCSEs, grades A–C, and two A-Levels, grades A–C, or equivalent. Scottish, Northern and Southern Ireland equivalents also accepted. Subjects must include Maths and English at either level.
- BTEC and SCOTVEC national certificates are also accepted.
- The minimum vocational requirement is NVQ/GNVQ level 3, or Scottish equivalent.
If you do not meet the academic requirements above, you can become a CIPFA student if you are 21 or over and have over three years' relevant work experience and the support of your employer.
Entry routes
Entry routes (exemptions are available) include:
Graduates
All graduates are welcome to study for the Professional Qualification. Those with a relevant finance or accountancy-related degree will be granted exemptions.
AAT
Many AAT graduates study for the Professional Qualification and find it supports their career development. Full details including exemptions, case studies and special offers, are available on the AAT entry route page.
Fully qualified accountants
For members of ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW, ICAS or ICAI, becoming CIPFA qualified is simple: you will need to sit just two papers in our fast track route.
Part qualified accountants
If you are studying with another accountancy body we can help you switch to CIPFA. See which exemptions you may be eligible for or contact us to find out more.
Chartered internal auditors
Fully qualified members of the IIA are eligible for a fast track route to becoming CIPFA qualified, sitting just three papers. Learn more about our CMIIA entry route.
Senior professionals
Senior finance professionals who do not currently hold a professional accountancy qualification can take advantage of the accelerated route to the Professional Qualification.
Contact us
Contact the Student Recruitment team if you have any questions (T: +44 (0)20 7543 5656, E: students@cipfa.org)
