Valuable professional experience in an approved Australian workplace alongside classroom study
The Accounting Professional Year Program (Accounting PYP – previously known as SMIPA), is approved by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and is available to overseas students with an Australian accounting degree with at least two years of study in Australia.
The program provides valuable professional experience in an approved Australian workplace and ensures participants complete relevant accounting tasks. The professional development and practical learning focusses on preparing for work, including culture, ethics and expectations.
The Accounting PYP consists of at least 44 weeks' training, including classroom study for 32 weeks and a 12-week internship placement. It is recognised as a pathway to permanent residency under the general skilled migration (GSM) for 485 visa holders.
CPA Australia worked with partners including Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and the Institute of Public Accountants to develop the Accounting PYP. These three professional accounting bodies approve all providers registered to deliver the program.
Successful completion of the Accounting PYP may earn additional points under the GSM points test. Membership of one of the professional accounting bodies is not a required to complete an Accounting PYP and is independent of any DHA approved pathway to permanent residency.