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CPA Skill Assessment

Your Guide to the CPA Skill Assessment 

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What is CPA Skill Assessment?

The CPA skill assessment is a mandatory process for accountants who wish to migrate to Australia. It evaluates your educational qualifications and work experience against the Australian standards for accounting professionals. This assessment is conducted by CPA Australia, the designated assessing authority. 

According to recent updates from CPA Australia and the Australian Government, the CPA skill assessment now incorporates more advanced digital tools for evaluating qualifications and experience. This includes automated systems for comparing international degrees and verifying employment history. Furthermore, CPA Australia has aligned its assessment criteria with the latest industry standards, emphasizing the importance of digital skills in accounting, such as data analytics and information systems proficiency. 

 

Types of Assessment

As a designated assessing authority, CPA Australia can determine if you meet the educational standard for specific occupations listed below, based on the Australia and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO): 

  • Accountant (General) – 221111 
  • Corporate Treasurer – 221212 
  • External Auditor – 221213 
  • Finance Manager – 132211 
  • Management Accountant – 221112 
  • Taxation Accountant – 221113 

CPA Australia provides the following skills assessment services: 

  • Full Skills Assessment: Evaluates educational qualifications and English language requirements. 
  • Skilled Employment Assessment: Optional and requires a ‘suitable’ outcome from the full skills assessment. 

Note: As of 15 June 2024, CPA Australia no longer provides provisional skills assessment services due to changes in the Temporary Graduate visa programs by the Australian Government. For more information, refer to the Department of Home Affairs website

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Applying for CPA Skill Assessment

Step 

Description 

Prepare Your Documents 

  • Begin by gathering all necessary documentation. This includes your academic transcripts, which should detail your completed coursework and grades.  
  • Obtain employment references that clearly outline your job roles, responsibilities, and durations of employment.  
  • Ensure you have up-to-date English language test results from recognized tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. 

Submit Your Application 

  • Visit the CPA Australia website to begin your application process. The online application system will guide you through each step.  
  • Upload clear and certified copies of your academic transcripts, employment references, and English language test results.  
  • Pay the assessment fee as specified on the CPA Australia website.  
  • Review your application thoroughly before submission to avoid delays. 

Assessment Outcome 

After submitting your application, CPA Australia will review your documents to determine if your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards. This process typically takes 10-12 weeks.  
Once the assessment is complete, you will receive an official outcome.  
If successful, you can proceed with your visa application. If additional information is required, CPA Australia will notify you.  
If unsuccessful, you can address the deficiencies and reapply. 

 

The CPA skill assessment is a detailed and essential process for accountants aspiring to migrate to Australia. By following these steps meticulously, you can ensure a smooth and successful assessment experience. For more information and updates, visit the CPA Australia website. 

Benefits of CPA Skill Assessment

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Recognition

The CPA skill assessment ensures that your qualifications and experience are recognized according to Australian standards. This recognition is crucial as it validates your credentials, making them comparable to those of local professionals. This process involves a thorough evaluation of your academic background, professional experience, and competencies, ensuring they meet the criteria set by CPA Australia. 

Eligibility

Under the General Skilled Migration program, the CPA skill assessment is a prerequisite for various visa applications. It confirms that you possess the necessary skills and qualifications required by the Australian labor market. This assessment is vital for those looking to secure a skilled migration visa, as it forms a fundamental part of your application. 

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Opportunities

Successfully completing the CPA skill assessment opens numerous opportunities for accounting sponsorship and skilled migration in Australia. It enhances your employability by demonstrating that your skills and experience are on par with Australian standards. This recognition can lead to job offers, sponsorship opportunities, and a smoother transition into the Australian workforce.  

Component 

Description 

Degree Comparability 

CPA Australia assesses if your degree is equivalent to an Australian bachelor’s degree in accounting. This involves evaluating your academic transcripts and curriculum for alignment with Australian standards. 

Educational Knowledge 

This component ensures your educational background covers key areas such as financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, and auditing. CPA Australia requires candidates to meet specific competency standards in these areas. 

English Proficiency 

Candidates must demonstrate English proficiency by providing results from recognized tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic.  
A typical requirement is a minimum overall score of 7.0 in IELTS, with no individual band score less than 6.0. 

Work Experience 

CPA Australia evaluates your work experience, especially if relevant to your field. You need to provide detailed references from employers outlining your roles and responsibilities to ensure they meet Australian professional standards. 

Additional Requirements for Specific Occupations 

Depending on your specific role within accounting, additional requirements might apply. For example, auditors may need to provide evidence of specific audit experience to demonstrate specialized skills and knowledge relevant to their role. 

 

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the CPA skill assessment and migration policies, it is always advisable to refer to the Australian Government’s official immigration website and CPA Australia’s migration services page. 

Processing Times for CPA Skill Assessment

Standard Processing Times: The standard processing time for a CPA skill assessment is approximately 20 business days. 

Fast Track Processing: For those opting for expedited service, the processing time is approximately 10 business days. This fast track option applies to full skills assessments and additional ANZSCO code applications only. 

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Important Points to Note

  • Processing times are indicative and can change based on application volumes. 
  • Processing times exclude weekends, public holidays, and the end-of-year office closure period. 
  • Delays can occur if additional supporting details are required, restarting the processing time calculation from the date additional information is received. 
  • Ensure all required documentation is provided at the time of application to avoid delays. 
  • Incomplete applications can be deactivated if supporting information is not received within six months, requiring reapplication and repayment of fees. 

Assessment Fees and Documentation Standards 

  • Assessment Fees: The fees for a CPA skill assessment vary depending on your location. It’s essential to check the specific fee structure applicable to your region. 
  • Documentation Standards: To ensure a smooth assessment process, it is critical to provide all required documentation at the time of application. This includes academic transcripts, proof of employment, and English language test results. Adhering to CPA Australia’s document standard requirements is crucial for the timely processing of your application. 
cpa skill assessment

Important Points to Note

  • Notification: CPA Australia will notify you via email if additional information is required. 
  • Application Hold: Your application will be put on hold until the required information is provided. 
  • Six-Month Deadline: If the requested information is not received within six months from the date of application submission, the application will be deactivated. 
  • Reapplication: A deactivated application requires reapplication and repayment of the application fee. 
  • Preparation: Meticulous preparation and submission of complete documentation are essential to avoid delays and additional costs. 

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on assessment fees and documentation requirements, it is advisable to refer to the CPA Australia website. 

Contact us today for a free consultation! 

KnN Migration’s experienced team will guide you throughout the process, ensuring a smooth journey.

FAQs

The CPA skill assessment is an evaluation process conducted by CPA Australia to verify if your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards for accounting professionals. 

Accountants who wish to migrate to Australia under the General Skilled Migration program need a CPA skill assessment. 

You need academic transcripts, proof of employment, and English language test results. 

The assessment process typically takes 10-12 weeks from the date of document submission. 

You need to provide proof of your English language proficiency through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. 

Yes, as long as your degree is comparable to an Australian bachelor’s degree and meets the required competencies. 

Yes, relevant work experience is part of the assessment criteria, especially for the skilled employment assessment. 

The fee varies, so it’s best to check the CPA Australia website for the most current fees. 

Yes, you can address the deficiencies noted in your initial assessment and reapply. 

For detailed information, visit the CPA Australia website or contact KnN Migration Consultancy. 

Contact KnN Migration!

Our team of experts can assess your eligibility, guide you through the application process, and ensure a smooth journey towards your Australian dream. 

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    Disclaimer

    The details shared above were accurate as of July 2024, but it’s important to note that migration regulations change over time. This information is meant for general understanding and should not be taken as legal advice. Keep in mind that information can change, so reach out to us for the latest guidance tailored to your situation. We look forward to assisting you!

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