Professional Accounting Certifications enhance the accountant’s expertise in specific areas of practice, aiming to strengthen their professional skills and competencies, differentiate them among peers, and increase promotion opportunities. A university degree alone might not always be sufficient—these certifications can give accountants a competitive edge in the job market. So, what are the most important certifications, and how can you obtain them?

Key Professional Accounting Certifications

Professional Accounting Certifications are credentials awarded to individuals who complete educational or training programs in a specific field, proving they have acquired sufficient skills and expertise. The types of Professional Accounting Certifications vary depending on the program topic and the issuing authority. Accountants can select certifications relevant to their work—such as those applicable in accounting and auditing firms in Saudi Arabia—to strengthen their abilities in those areas. This can be a starting point for expanding their professional skills into related fields.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

The CPA certification is issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and enhances employability as a licensed accountant in major institutions. The program includes:

• Financial Accounting

• Auditing

• Accounting-related laws

• Work environments and principles

Requirements: A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, passing an entrance exam, and completing 150 additional credit hours. Cost ranges from $2,000 to $3,500. Applications are submitted through the AICPA website.

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

The CFA certification, issued by the CFA Institute, includes three exam levels covering investment tools, asset valuation, and wealth planning.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, valid international passport, and at least four years of full-time work experience. The cost ranges from $1,250 to $1,550. Applications are accepted through the CFA Institute website.

Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

One of the most recognized Professional Accounting Certifications, issued by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), covers topics like financial planning and corporate financial management.

Requirements: Two years of experience, a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. Application windows: February, June, October. Costs range from $114 to $1,600.

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Issued by ISACA, this certification is widely respected in the field of information systems auditing. It focuses on both theoretical and practical components.

Requirements: Minimum of five years of professional experience and a Bachelor’s degree. Costs: $575 for members, $760 for non-members.

Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)

Granted by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), this certification is renowned in the field of fraud detection and prevention. The exam includes four sections: fraud prevention, fraudulent transactions, fraud examinations, and legal elements of fraud. The total cost is approximately $300.

Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)

Offered by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and AICPA, this is one of the top Professional Accounting Certifications in finance and management, focused primarily on management accounting.

Requirements: Membership in CIMA or AICPA, and three years of work experience. Cost: $950–$1,350.

Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)

Issued by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), this certification is highly valued in internal auditing.

Requirements: University degree and two years of experience. The program covers: internal audit basics, internal audit knowledge elements, and auditing practices. Total cost: $1,325.

Accounting Technician Certificate (CAT)

Granted by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), this certification is proof of professional competence in basic accounting skills. Requires a diploma or Bachelor’s in Accounting. Exam topics include: financial accounting, financial statements, cost accounting systems, and decision analysis. Approximate cost: $320.

Diploma in International Financial Reporting (DipIFR)

Offered by ACCA, this diploma is essential for understanding IFRS. Cost ranges from $850 to $1,000. Requires a relevant degree and 2–3 years of experience. Topics include: financial statements, external financial reporting, and financial data presentation.

Conclusion

We have reviewed the most important Professional Accounting Certifications available to professionals in Saudi Arabia, highlighting their critical role in enhancing employability and career growth. For more information about accounting certifications and licensure in Saudi Arabia, please visit the official website of the Saudi Organization for Chartered and Professional Accountants (SOCPA).