HK Institute of CPAs shows the way

A commitment to ensure those who aspire to become a certified public accountant (CPA) can achieve their goals is a key aim for the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

"We offer a number of pathways that enable people to become CPAs," says deputy executive director Jonathan Ng.

These include the internationally recognised Qualification Programme (QP) for those with accounting or related degrees, and tailor-made conversion programmes.

"One of our main philosophies is to make sure that people who want to become a CPA will not be deprived of an opportunity," Ng says.

To qualify as a CPA, candidates must complete at least three years of practical work experience under the institute's authorised employer scheme and pass the QP exam. Applicants can study and work at the same time.

With more than 34,000 members, the institute is the only body authorised by law to register and grant practising certificates to CPAs in Hong Kong. To ensure that training programmes remain fresh and relevant, the institute has introduced insolvency and taxation specialisations to provide CPAs who wish to specialise with additional skills and increased recognition for their competencies.