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What is SAICA articles?
In the context of becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA) in South Africa, "articles" refer to a period of practical training that aspiring accountants must undergo. These articles are an essential part of the journey towards becoming a fully qualified CA(SA).
Traditionally , this practical training happens after your postgraduate (or CTA) year, although this is not always the case.
What is SAICA?
The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) is the leading professional accounting body in South Africa. SAICA approves the training offices that are able to offer articles programs, set the competencies that need to be achieved during your articles, as well as set both the ITC and APC board exams.
How long does it take to do accounting articles?
The articles period typically spans three years. During these years, trainees work under the guidance of Registered Training Offices (RTOs) to gain practical experience and develop professional skills. This is the traditional route for a candidate who has completed their undergraduate degree, and the relevant Postgraduate qualification.
If you are pursuing a SAICA-accredited qualification on a part-time basis, you have the opportunity to commence a training contract with a registered training office right away. The contract then spans five years in duration. Eligibility to take the Initial Test of Competence (ITC), finish the professional program, and participate in the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) is granted only upon the successful completion of your PGDA at a SAICA-accredited degree
The primary purpose of articles is to provide aspiring CAs with hands-on experience in various aspects of accounting and finance. Trainees work on real-world projects, gaining insights into auditing, taxation, financial management, and management accounting. This practical exposure complements the theoretical knowledge gained during academic studies.
What is the purpose of SAICA Articles?
What can you expect during your Articles?
During the practical training period in the journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA) in South Africa, candidates are expected to gain hands-on experience and develop the necessary skills and competencies.
Candidates gain practical experience in accounting, auditing, and related fields, during which candidates apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.
Candidates often rotate through different departments or areas within the training office, or work on different clients, to gain a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of the accounting profession. Candidates work under the supervision of experienced professionals who serve as mentors, providing guidance and support throughout the training period.
The articles period allows candidates to integrate theoretical knowledge gained through academic studies into practical applications, reinforcing their understanding of accounting principles.
Emphasis is placed on developing professionals with a strong sense of professional ethics and integrity, ensuring candidates adhere to ethical standards in their work.
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Where do board exams fit in?
In the journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA) in South Africa, candidates face two key board exams: the Initial Test of Competence (ITC) and the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC).
The ITC tests fundamental knowledge in accounting, financial management, Tax, and Corporate governance acquired during university studies. Candidates are eligible to write this after completing an accredited postgraduate qualification at a SAICA-accredited institution.
The APC Purpose is an assessment to evaluate practical application of technical knowledge, professional skills, and ethical judgment. This is taken after passing the ITC, following completion of the professional program (also known as the “board course”), and having completed a minimum of 20 months in your training contract.
How much do SAICA Articles pay?
The salary for individuals during their articles varies based on factors such as the size and location of the firm, the candidate's qualification, whether they have written the ITC or not, the type of work the firm does, and other considerations. In South Africa, salaries for trainee accountants undergoing articles typically range from entry-level to moderate, reflecting the training nature of the position.
It's also common for firms to provide additional benefits, such as study support for professional exams, which can contribute to the overall compensation package. As candidates progress in their articles and gain more experience, there are typically opportunities for salary increases, meaning the salary between a first year trainee and a third year trainee will look different.
Picking your articles stream.
Candidates pursuing their articles have a wide array of options Exploring these options opens up a world of diverse experiences and opportunities. Here's a granular look at various options:
Big 4 Firms
Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG are renowned for their global presence and comprehensive training programs. However, they aren't the only players in the field.
Mid-Tier Firms
Firms like BDO, Mazars, and Grant Thornton provide a balance of challenging work and a supportive environment. These mid-tier firms often offer a more personalized experience.
Specialised Firms
Niche firms specialising in areas like forensic accounting, tax advisory, or risk management can provide unique insights and expertise.
Government and Public Sector
Some candidates find fulfilling roles in government agencies or the public sector - one such example is the Auditor General
Industry
Joining the finance or internal audit departments of large corporations provides a different perspective, with a focus on in-house financial management.
Entrepreneurship
Embrace the dynamic environment of entrepreneurship driven programmes, gaining exposure to various aspects of business.
As you can see, there are numerous routes you can take when it comes to articles, and often exploring these 600+ options is overwhelming. Apti's personalized approach ensures a tailored match for a fulfilling articles journey.
Find the articles programme best suited to you.
In just 30 minutes get a better understanding of the options available and the firms that offer them.
Where can you do your articles?
Trainees can complete their articles at registered training offices (RTOs) accredited by SAICA. These RTOs are typically reputable accounting firms, both large and small, as well as select corporate entities. The geographical options for completing your articles are quite extensive, offering a range of experiences. Here are some considerations:
Large cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria and Durban offer a concentration of opportunities with diverse firms, from global players to local businesses.
Explore opportunities in regional centers and growing cities. These locations, such as Gqeberha, Bloemfontein, and Stellenbosch may have a demand for financial expertise and can provide a unique experience.
Don't overlook the potential in rural areas. Some firms in less urbanized settings may offer a different pace of work and exposure to a variety of clients.
For a global perspective, consider international placements. Some (very limited) firms have offices in multiple countries, providing a chance to work in different cultural and business environments, while still qualifying as a CA(SA). So if the thought of working in London appeals to you, this could be an option.
One way to help choose a location based on the industry you're interested in. For example, if you're keen on the tech industry, , cities with a thriving tech scene like Cape Town or Johannesburg might be ideal. Similarly, if you’d like to be working with big listed clients, a smaller regional office may not be ideal.
Have you considered a TOPP programme? Read more on TIPP vs TOPP programmes here
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Embarking on Your CA Journey Embarking on the SAICA articles phase of your CA(SA) journey is a significant step.
It's not just about fulfilling requirements; it's an opportunity to learn, grow, and apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. By choosing the right training office, staying committed to your learning, and preparing diligently for your board exams, you're setting yourself up for a successful career as a Chartered Accountant in South Africa. Remember, dedication and continuous learning are your keys to unlocking the doors of professional excellence. Good luck!
Unsure where to do your articles? Take our articles aptitude test.