Practical experience requirement

The practical experience requirement is the practical component of the CPA Program. CPA Australia offers you the opportunity to develop and demonstrate skills in the workplace and combine your formal education with relevant practical experience. In the highly competitive global market, combining practical experience with your education, will give you the knowledge and skills you need for a highly rewarding career.

CPA Australia recommends that if you are employed in a professional role, you should enrol in the practical experience requirement as soon as you become an Associate member. You can use any combination of the following methods to complete your practical experience.

Enrolling with a mentor
Completing the practical experience requirement with a mentor and the professional level segments at the same time has many advantages. It allows you to advance to CPA status sooner and our studies show that these members consistently perform better in their segments.  

Working for a Recognised Employer Partner
Enrol with a Recognised Employer Partner and you will satisfy the practical experience requirements while you are working for this employer.

Applying for recognition of professional experience
You can apply if you have six months or more professional work experience. Relevant work experience from the last six years can be recognised.