Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification

Professional body qualification

Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification

CTA (Chartered Tax Adviser); CIOT (Chartered Institute of Taxation)

The CIOT's chartered qualification for tax advisers. It is a professional title, not a licence; registering with HMRC as a tax adviser is a separate requirement.

Awarding body

Chartered Institute of Taxation

Level

Professional qualification (chartered)

Where it applies

UK

Exams

7 exams: 1 Awareness, 3 computer-based exams, 2 Advanced Technical, 1 Application and Professional Skills

Entry

• Register as a CTA student at least 4 months before your first exam (registration valid for 3 years).

Also required

• Three years' relevant professional experience before the CTA is awarded, and CIOT membership. Most students finish the exams in 2 to 3 years.

Exemptions

The CIOT charges £246 to claim an exemption from a tax exam and £127 for a computer-based exam.

Assessment and registration fees

• CIOT's 2026 fees; they are reviewed annually from 1 January. The CIOT sets the syllabus but does not offer tuition — course prices are set by tuition providers.

Membership and subscriptions