The Masterclass for Holders of Foreign Accountancy Qualifications (FAQ) gave holders of accountancy qualifications obtained outside the East African Community a simpler route to ICPAU membership and the CPA(U) designation.
The 2025 masterclass, held from 21 to 25 July 2025 at Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala, was announced as the last edition, for those who missed the 2024 class.
Why the masterclass
In September 2011 the East African Community Institutes of Accountants signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement. The ICPAU Council then determined, under section 5(3) of the Accountants Act, that professional accountancy qualifications obtained outside the East African Community are Foreign Accountancy Qualifications, whose holders sit some examinations before they enrol as members. The masterclass was set up for FAQ holders who missed the 2011–2013 moratorium window and could not go through the normal examinations system.
Who qualified
Holders of a Foreign Accountancy Qualification who completed their FAQ studies by the end of 2013, before 2014.
What it covered
A one-week, full-time, interactive class covering four CPA(U) syllabus subjects, with study materials issued on registration:
- Business and Company Law
- Public Financial Management
- Audit Practice and Assurance
- Advanced Taxation
Participants attended every session. Each subject ended with a compulsory examination with a pass mark of 50%. The class closed with sessions on membership benefits and obligations, and ethics for accountants.
Steps to membership
- Register as a student.
- Receive the study materials.
- Attend the masterclass.
- Write the corresponding examinations.
- Qualify as a Certified Public Accountant and apply for membership.
Successful participants applied for membership with the signed online application form, recommendation letters from a current or recent employer and from a full member of ICPAU in good standing, a CV, certified academic documents including the CPA certificate, proof of payment of the enrolment fees and a passport photograph. See Full Member.
For enquiries, email faqholders@icpau.co.ug.