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IAC CA of the Future Competency Framework

IAC CA of the Future Competency Framework

To reflect the changes set out in the new Competency Framework, first introduced by academic programmes in 2021, the Initial Test of Competence (ITC) will change name and be called the Initial Assessment of Competence (IAC). Even though the exam name changes, the standard and quality of the exam will not change. Here is what you can expect regarding format changes in the IAC:

CA of the Future Competency Framework applicable to IAC January 2025

Current ITC

IAC January 2025

Four papers written over two consecutive days

Three papers written over three consecutive days (Tuesday to Thursday).

Each paper is currently 100 marks (total 400 marks)

Each paper will be increased to 120 marks (total 360 marks) and will comprise only ONE scenario (they will be split into parts for marking purposes)

Each paper comprises a half-hour of reading time (without the required) plus 2 and a half hours of writing time (3 hours in total)

Each paper will be four hours long; and

The required reading is to be provided with the scenario and writing time commences immediately.

What content will be assessed in 2025 IAC

The Learning outcomes as proposed and agreed to by CAPDC in June 2023 and as updated in October 2023 for the Professional Values, Attitudes and Acumens (PVAAs) will be assessed.

Digital acumen (as per the updated competency framework) will not be assessed in any of the papers, either theory or practice in 2025.

The level of integration will remain as has been seen in recent ITC exams.

There will be a limited assessment of the PVAAs.

Note: PVAAs include communication skills which are already assessed

Transition period and further changes

Further changes will be made to the IAC in 2026 with the final changes being implemented in IAC 2027

These further changes include:

  • Assessment of Digital Acumen.
  • Assessment of the Public Sector.
  • Further assessment of the PVAAs in an integrated manner; and
  • A new format third paper (this will be competence-based, and marking will be done based on a rubric).

Further details about a step up for IAC 2026 will be confirmed later in 2024. This first requires further discussion with academics and various SAICA structures.