Professional Accounting Certification in Saudi Arabia is considered one of the most important requirements in the job market for the accounting field, especially in prestigious companies.
These certifications significantly enhance employment opportunities or promotions for their holders, as they are officially recognized evidence of the holder’s knowledge and competence.
In today’s article, we will discuss the most important Professional Accounting Certification options available in Saudi Arabia and provide an overview of each one.
Professional Accounting Certification in Saudi Arabia
Although academic degrees are the foundation for selecting employees, Professional Accounting Certification plays a major role in hiring and promotion.
These certifications contribute to skill development and professional competence, and they can be a determining factor in nominating candidates for job positions.
There are many types of certifications in the accounting field, each covering specific educational areas and professional specializations.
Let us explore some of the most well-known Professional Accounting Certification options in Saudi Arabia and take a brief look at their content.
SOCPA – Saudi Organization for Certified Public Accountants Certification
This certification is issued by the Saudi Organization for Certified Public Accountants (SOCPA) and is unique in that its content is in Arabic rather than English.
The program covers the following subjects: accounting, auditing, zakat and tax, Islamic financial jurisprudence, and commercial law.
A bachelor’s degree in accounting is required to apply, and the certification cost is approximately 2,500 SAR.
CME – Capital Market Authority Certification
Issued by the Capital Market Authority (CMA) in Saudi Arabia, the CME certification helps increase knowledge in the field of securities and enhances employability.
The program topics include the Saudi financial market system, its regulatory framework, types of securities, and investment risks.
Eligibility requires a high school diploma or higher, along with at least two years of professional experience in the securities field.
The training course lasts about 10 days, and candidates must score at least 70/100 to pass. The course fee is 1,000 SAR.
VAT Specialist Certification
The VAT Specialist exam is offered by SOCPA and is recognized as evidence of professional knowledge and competence in VAT-related matters.
Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or an equivalent qualification, including SOCPA fellowship.
Diploma holders in accounting or bachelor’s degrees in administrative sciences may also apply, provided they complete SOCPA’s preparatory training.
The exam covers topics such as the VAT system, Gulf Cooperation Council VAT Agreement, and VAT guidelines.
Accredited Economic Establishment Valuer Certification
Offered by the Saudi Authority for Accredited Valuers, this certification allows individuals to obtain a fellowship in evaluating economic establishments under specific conditions.
Applicants must hold a relevant academic degree, meet required experience hours, pass interviews, and clear fellowship exams.
The certification involves a three-level training path and provides the opportunity to practice valuation and acquire professional licenses.
DipIFR – Diploma in International Financial Reporting by SOCPA
The DipIFR is an international Professional Accounting Certifications offered in Saudi Arabia and aims to enhance understanding of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
Its content includes key areas such as international accounting standards, fundamental reporting requirements, and financial report preparation.
Accounting Technician Certificate (CAT) by SOCPA
SOCPA also offers the Accounting Technician Certificate (CAT), which is awarded upon successful completion of its exam.
Topics covered in the exam include financial accounting framework, cost accounting, financial statement elements preparation, and decision analysis.
A passing score of 60% is required to earn the certificate, and the exam fee is 1,200 SAR.
Conclusion
We have reached the end of our article on Professional Accounting Certification in Saudi Arabia. We introduced several well-known certifications and their key details.
If you are a beginner in the accounting field, it is advisable to start with a certification that matches your area of specialization, and then explore other related fields over time.