Student support and exams

The spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to be of major national and international concern and, in order to safeguard public health, the government has introduced restrictions on travel and gatherings. It’s important that the service we provide to students continues uninterrupted during this uncertain time and therefore we have made some necessary changes to service delivery.

Our COVID-19 hub provides updates and information relevant to you as a CIPFA student. If you have any questions or issues that you need support with, please contact the student support team – we are here to help.

For information on our September 2020 exams, please see our Exams page.

Moving our face-to-face training online

We recognise that during this period maintaining our tuition for students is essential. As a result we have worked quickly to move our face-to-face classes online, running to the same published timetable in order to minimise disruption to your work and study plans. Our tuition will continue to be of the same high quality you expect from us. Booking for future classes and practice tests is available on our CIPFA Education and Training Centre page.

Exams

In line with government guidelines around COVID-19, CIPFA venues will remain closed for the September 2020 exams session. Students will able to take exams at home or can choose a private setting other than their home, but no exams will be offered at CIPFA venues. Find out more.

Supporting good mental health

In these unique and challenging times, it is important to look after your wellbeing and mental health. To support you, we have commissioned six wellbeing webinars from a qualified Mental Health First-Aider. Find out more.

Latest news from CIPFA

Read CIPFA's latest updates and get an overview of our position on key public finance matters, as well as COVID-19, on our press information pages.

Technical Enquiry Service

Our Technical Enquiry Services remains open and available to all CIPFA registered students across the UK. The service includes guidance on CIPFA's professional codes including the statement of financial reporting practice, the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting and SeRCOP, and other financial reporting, governance and audit issues. Access the service here.

CIPFA Rewards

As a CIPFA student you have access to CIPFA Rewards, which includes special offers and discounts on a range of essential purchases. These include the cashback service offered on in-store purchases at major food retailers including Sainsbury's, Tesco, Marks & Spencers, the Co-op and other retailers. Discounts also apply to technology and computer retailers for individuals and parents who are purchasing PCs and laptops during the lockdown period. Find out more.

Online CPD and resources

Many of you will be exceptionally busy as you continue your studies online, while dealing with the demands of the current crisis. If you would like the opportunity to look at areas for personal and professional development, we've selected four key resources that can support your learning and development:

  • Managing Public Money free online course delivered in partnership with The Open University Business School, our free four-week course is a superb primer or refresher for anyone working in public services and not-for-profits.
  • Management Direct the comprehensive online management and leadership toolkit provided in collaboration with the Chartered Management Institute. Free access to a vast array of resources to support and enhance your career, and contribute to your CPD.
  • CIPFA Speaks!: our popular monthly podcasts bringing together the latest thinking from both CIPFA and the wider public sector on vital issues facing public finance and policy-making.
  • On-demand webinars: our series of pre-recorded 60-minute webinars are a great way to pick up information, hints, tips and knowledge on a range of topics to improve your skills. Also counting towards one hour or one unit of CPD.

CIPFA Futures

CIPFA Futures is our wide-ranging consultation and review of our professional accountancy qualification syllabus. This is part of our work to ensure that CIPFA's professional accountancy qualification continues to support and enable the public finance professionals and public service organisations of tomorrow. The dramatic arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic is an urgent reminder of the critical need for responsive and strategic public financial management. If you would like to be part of the consultation, we would love to hear from you. Find out more.

Renewing your membership for 2021

Payment for the membership year 2021 is due on 1 January. If you would like to pay your membership subscription please visit MyCIPFA. If you are having difficulties in making payment please let us know. You can email our membership team or call us on +44 (0)20 7543 5600.

Please check this page for regular updates for students. Return to our COVID-19 hub or visit our dedicated pages for students and members.

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