Profile

History

The Association of International Accountants (AIA) was founded in the UK in 1928 as a professional accountancy body and from conception has promoted the concept of ‘international accounting’ to create a global network of accountants in over 85 countries worldwide.

Recognition

AIA is recognised by the UK Government as a Recognised Qualifying Body for statutory auditors under the Companies Act 2006, across the European Union under the Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications directive and as a Prescribed Body under the Companies (Auditing and Accounting) Act 2003 in the Republic of Ireland.

The AIA professional qualification is currently recognised in over 30 countries worldwide.

Exams

AIA exams are held twice a year around the world and are split into three blocks, each of which build on the knowledge and skills achieved in the previous level. The exams are based on International Financial Reporting Standards and International Auditing Standards, complemented by a range of variant papers applicable to local tax and company law in key jurisdictions.

Membership

Successful completion of the exams and three years relevant work experience is required before qualification to full membership. AIA members are equipped with the relevant skills to explore a wide range of career options and are part of a growing network of professionals who hold key positions in multinationals, SMEs, private practice and the public sector across the globe.

AIA members use the designatory letters FAIA, as a Fellow and AAIA as an Associate.

Those who achieve the AIA’ Recognised Professional Qualification as a statutory auditor are able to register with a recognised supervisory body (RSB) and undertake statutory audits of companies of all sizes in the UK in accordance with the UK Companies Acts.

All AIA members must undertake Continuing Professional Development, are subject to Disciplinary Procedures and adhere to the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) Code of Ethics. AIA is regulated by the Professional Oversight Board, part of the UK’s Financial Reporting Council and the Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority (IAASA).

Reputation and Global Network

The AIA is constantly working with its people and partners in financial centres worldwide to encourage trust, clarity and shared international standards in the accounting profession. Many of its members are at the top of the industry, from senior management to director level, representing some of the most important and profitable firms in the world. With a select membership demographic including high numbers of these influential decision makers, the AIA is a truly prestigious organisation.