Pathways to becoming a CPA
Enrolments for Semester 2, 2026 will open on Tuesday 9 June
Take the next big step towards a limitless career by submitting your membership application today. Once you receive the outcome, you’ll be ready to enrol in your first CPA Program subject and take advantage of early bird pricing when enrolments open.
Apply for CPA Australia membership now to start your journey towards becoming a CPA.
Discover your pathway to becoming a CPA
To become a CPA there is one set of requirements you need to meet, parts of which can be exempted depending on your situation. The core requirements of becoming a CPA are as follows. You need:
- relevant working experience
- a degree recognised by CPA Australia
- competency of certain CPA Program (and foundation) subjects
Learn more about our eligibility requirements for becoming a CPA.
Your pathways to membership
Becoming a CPA via our CPA Program
The CPA Program is the most commonly taken pathway to becoming a CPA. It involves both a study and an experience component. Follow the link below to learn more about the CPA Program.
Streamline your path to becoming a CPA through recognition
We offer flexible pathways to becoming a CPA depending on which areas of recognition you may qualify for. The pathway options below explain how your experience, memberships and prior study can help you reach your goal of becoming a CPA in a more streamlined way.
Where your experience counts
Experience-Based Pathway
Leverage your experience in business to become a CPA
- Personal and career development
Executive Leadership Pathway
Leverage your executive expertise and accelerate your career with a CPA designation
- Personal and career development
Academic Pathway
Leverage your academic experience and capabilities to become a CPA
- Personal and career development
Where your other memberships count
Learn more about applying
Check your eligibility for becoming a CPA
Learn more about your eligibility to become a CPA depending on your career stage
How to apply
Begin or continue your application now to become a member of CPA Australia
CPA Program FAQs
All about the CPA Program, foundation exams, experience requirements and membership pathways
Scholarships and subsidies
Some candidates may be eligible for financial support. There are a range of different scholarships available, and the Oceania Regional Scheme offers subsidies for members living in select Pacific regions.
Information sessions - live or on-demand
Discover more
CPA Congress 2024
- Careers
Moving towards retirement
Stay connected to your peers and the industry
- Careers
The future of work
Explore trends and insights on the future of the accounting profession
- Careers
Future careers podcasts
Stay up-to-date with all the latest trends and developments
- Careers
Future careers news and features
Learn more about the future of the profession
- Careers
Young Professionals Exchange Program
CPA Australia Recognised Employer Partner Opportunity (Malaysia-Australia)
- Careers
