Who it’s for
Entry requirements
You can join the joint programme at the start of your ACA training agreement or later, as long as you work in tax. No prior tax knowledge is required, but you’ll need to demonstrate ongoing tax work experience to complete the qualification.
The following requirements also apply:
- You must have completed the ACA's Tax Fundamentals Certificate Level paper before the CTA Tax Knowledge and Skills paper.
- You must sit the Tax Knowledge and Skills paper before, or at the same time as, sitting your choice of CTA Advanced Technical or Application and Professional Skills paper.
- You must register as a joint programme student with the CTA at least four months before your first CTA exam.
- You must pass the Ethics and Law CBEs before entering for your choice of Advanced Technical or Application and Professional Skills paper.
For full details of the ACA/CTA Joint Programme, including FAQs and transitional arrangements, please refer to the CIOT website.
Learning outcomes from the course
- Comprehensive knowledge of accountancy and taxation
Develop a strong understanding of core accountancy principles and specialised taxation practices, equipping you to manage complex financial and tax-related matters with confidence.
- Specialist expertise in taxation
Choose from two tax specialisms — Larger Companies and Groups (LCG) or Owner-Managed Businesses (OMB) — to tailor your skills to your career goals.
- Ethical and professional standards
Learn how to apply professional ethics in practice, ensuring you uphold the highest standards of integrity and responsibility throughout your career.
Apprenticeships
You may be eligible for a Level 7 Apprenticeship through your employer, depending on your circumstances. This can cover the ACA CTA joint programme, except for the final CTA exam paper.
For more information, contact our Student Services team.