FAQs
Call the IFA Education Team on +44 (0)1732 458080
How do I know which qualification is right for me?
If you complete the student application here and include your qualification information and if you have work experience in tax or accountancy we can help determine the best place to start. This first stage is regarded as an enquiry stage so you don’t need to worry that you are being signed up being fully aware of the commitment involved.
Do I need to study at a centre?
It’s not necessary to study at a centre. Many students study independently using the recommended resources, past papers and reading lists. This allows you to plan your learning according to the time you have available for your studies and fit study alongside work
How do I get access to IFA study resources?
You can order them when you apply to be a student. New online materials are being made available to support the new IFA units and qualifications.
How do I register as a student with the IFA?
What does student registration offer me?
The IFA student registration gives you a support package while you are studying for the IFA qualifications. It includes: a dedicated support team at the IFA, discounted study materials, access to past papers, bi-monthly Financial Accountant magazine, free access to the IFA library hosted by the ICAEW and IFA branch network.
Why do I need to register for my examination?
You need to complete an exam registration form to allow us to ensure that you are entered for the correct exam. Registration will ensure that an exam paper is allocated to you and made available at your venue of choice.
Can I sit more than one examination per examination session?
Yes. We recommend you consider if you have sufficient time to prepare for one or more exams at the exam session.
When must I register for my examination?
At least 6 weeks before the exam date for exam sittings in the UK, and at least 9 weeks before the exam date for international entrants. The deadlines are listed on the exam registration form. If you miss the deadline you may be able to register for an exam but there will be a charge for this. Please check the exam timetable to see the actual dates and deadline for your proposed exam.
Where can I sit the examination?
In the UK there are Pitman centres. International students should contact their local British Council office. If you are studying at an IFA accredited training provider check with your centre on where the exam will be sat.
How much do I need to pay the exam centre to sit the examination in their premises?
The fee will vary depending on the exam centre. Please contact your local exam centre for their pricing.
Do you have study and examination tips to help me with my study?
Yes - please see attached articles which provides study, revision and examination techniques and tips to help you with your study
How long does it take before I get my results?
Your results will be issued 10 weeks from the date of the exam.
If I don't pass, how many times can I retake the exam?
The IFA don’t limit the number of sittings, however, we do monitor student performance in exams and if we see that repeat entries for an exam are not resulting in passes we will be in touch to see how we can support you or advise you about your way forward.
How long can I stay registered as an IFA student?
Student registration for an Award programme is for one year, while student registration for a Diploma programme is valid for two years. If at the end of the registration period you have not successfully completed your qualification you can re-register for a further period of time.
I see that there are new units being introduced. I already have passed some IFA modules. Can I complete the qualification with the new units?
Yes. The IFA will be in touch with individual students to advise you of your way forward.
What is the difference between the previous IFA modules and the new IFA units?
The new IFA units are based upon the outgoing 2010 IFA syllabus. The units are expressed in a more succinct and concise way. They essentially address the same learning points and help you develop the skills you need in the different areas of financial accounting but are worded in a simpler format.
What are the Ethics Units for?
The ethics units are there to ensure that you have some structured ethics training and assessment to prove your fitness to progress to IFA membership. The assessment is scenario- based with short questions which the IFA pass to you via email and you complete in your own time.
What level of membership will I be eligible for if I complete the IFA qualifications?
International Contacts
