Melbourne, Australia, January 17, 2013 — Aspiring practising accountants in Australia, South East Asia and beyond are set to benefit from a more flexible and efficient path to membership, following the agreement between CPA Australia and Pearson VUE for examination delivery services.
CPA Australia has entered into an 11-year contract with Pearson VUE to deliver a number of services, such as exam development, production, distribution, and delivery; including the marking and delivery of results.
In 2014, the CPA Australia professional level exams will be available in both paper-based and computer-based format in 79 countries. The CPA Program comprises 14 education segments and accompanying exams, allowing candidates to demonstrate the core knowledge required for success in accountancy. The syllabus for CPA Program focuses on strategy, leadership and international business. Content is globally relevant, with a focus on providing flexible learning and delivery modes. Distinctively professional in orientation, CPA Program is designed to build on prior education and experience in a lifelong continuum of learning.
CPA Australia CEO, Alex Malley, said: “Just like our learners, we require flexibility. What quickly became apparent was Pearson VUE’s commitment to customer service excellence and innovation – an approach which reflects our own. Given the importance of accountancy as a profession, and its input into the greater business arena, we are delighted to offer candidates exams to aid career progression. We envisage a greater use of technical innovations to enhance the CPA Program in the coming years.”
Bob Whelan, President and CEO, Pearson VUE, commented: “This agreement ensures the continued provision of talented, certified accountants able to drive economies forward. The introduction of computer-based testing will allow candidates to plan, test and learn their results quicker than before, to the benefit of professionals, employers and citizens. Certification owners throughout the region are quickly realising the virtues of computer-based testing for their exams, adopting the method to reflect changes to work practices and improve the reach, reputation and impact of their program.”
The Australian accounting profession contributes around $16bn a year towards the national economy, and has grown by 3% since 2007.
About CPA Australia
CPA Australia (www.cpaaustralia.com.au) is one of the world's largest accounting bodies with a membership of more than 144,000 finance, accounting and business professionals in 127 countries across the globe.
Its core services to members include education, training, technical support and advocacy. Staff and members work together with local and international bodies to represent the views and concerns of the profession to governments, regulators, industries, academia and the general public.