Eligibility for becoming a CPA
Learn more about your eligibility to become a CPA depending on your career stage
- Careers
How to apply
Begin or continue your application now to become a member of CPA Australia
- Careers
Information sessions
Attend an information session to discover how becoming a CPA can advance your career
- Education
Study your way
You can study the CPA Program via distance learning, and via full-time or postgraduate options in some regions
- Careers
Foundation exams
Our foundation exams allow you to demonstrate the competencies required to begin the CPA Program
- Education
Pathways to CPA Australia from other designations
Find out if your membership with another accounting body will assist you in becoming a member of CPA Australia
- Personal and career development
The CPA Program pathway
Integrating education and practical experience, our program uses current and internationally relevant content to provide an understanding of the issues that organisations face every day.
If you’ve studied an accounting-related degree, it's likely you can enter the CPA Program directly. In some cases, you may need to complete further studies.
Below are the elements that make up the CPA Program.
Pathway to CPA status
Preparing for the CPA Program
Many CPA Program candidates follow a traditional entry pathway by completing an accredited degree, but we also welcome applicants with diverse educational backgrounds.
Foundation exams provide the background required to begin the CPA Program. They are flexible and self-paced – you can enrol any time and choose where and when you’ll sit your exam.
Read more information on Foundation exams
Ready to apply?
Our application process is simple and fast. Begin your journey to CPA certification today.
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Understanding academic integrity
Learn more about academic integrity and how to ensure you comply with our Academic Misconduct Policy
- Education
Academic misconduct policy
The academic misconduct policy sets out the process and procedures for identifying and responding to incidents of Academic Misconduct. Learn more.
- Education
Reasonable adjustment policy
This policy covers reasonable adjustments that may be made to a study guide or exam conditions offered by CPA Australia
- Education
Our founders
CPA Australia's founding membership and their vision
- Education
Exam scheduling and delivery policy
This policy establishes guidelines and procedures for CPA Program exam scheduling, rescheduling and delivery
- Education
Subject cancellations and deferrals policy
This policy establishes guidelines and procedures for subject cancellations and deferrals
- Education