With ICAS creating the syllabus, material and exams there is a focus on consistency between these three elements, giving students confidence in the scope of the qualification. We review this annually to ensure that the course remains relevant and interesting. Our focus is on more than just passing the examinations, and we aim to educate to excel.
Our specialised team of lecturers are dedicated to providing high quality tuition. While they bring a diverse range of industry, academic, financial and legal expertise, they have one common aim – to support you in achieving the CA qualification. Passing exams is important, but to qualify as a CA some knowledge can only be acquired and applied at work. So in order to gain relevant and practical experience, all students train with an employer who has been authorised by ICAS.
The CA qualification
To study for the CA qualification you enter into a training contract with an ICAS authorised employer. This contract is in addition to your terms and conditions of employment and is a contract between you, ICAS and your authorised employer. It acknowledges the commitment of your employer to provide effective training and requires your commitment to contribute to the work of the employer.
Steps to becoming a CA
In order to be eligible for membership of ICAS, you must:
- Confirm you meet ICAS entry requirements
- Enter and complete a training contract with an ICAS authorised employer for the prescribed period, normally three years
- Achieve relevant work experience requirements and achieve key competencies
- Study for and pass three stages of examinations (subject to exemptions)
- Complete a course and assignment in Business Ethics
As a CA student, we provide you with all the study materials you need. The majority of our teaching is carried out in a classroom setting combining lectures and workshop exercises, however depending on your exact route learning may include an element of self-directed blended learning. The CA Blended Learning Environment (CABLE) gives students online access to resources that cover elements of the course whilst they are away from the classroom environment. We believe this interactive approach is the best and quickest way to help you develop.
Applying what you’ve learnt in the classroom directly to your work situation really helps you understand the subject. And personal, real-world experience proves invaluable come exam time. We also find our qualification delivery gives you the advantage of being able to make a valuable contribution to your employer and clients from day one. At ICAS, professional values are key and our innovative Business Ethics course forms a vital part of the qualification.
Training centres
Depending on where your authorised employer is based, you will attend a training centre in one of the following locations: Aberdeen, Birmingham, Bristol, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, Reading or Southampton. For those further afield, we also offer training opportunities in the Channel Islands.
No matter where you are based, we teach the same material in a consistent format across all of the training centres, which is why we are so well recognised for our consistency and high standards.
Education syllabus
Classroom study takes place on intensive, day or block release, thus ensuring that you have the right study package that meets the needs of both you and your employer here.