In 2011 ACCA launched the Foundation in Accountancy (FIA) to align its Traditional Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) qualification to the needs of its key stakeholders such as the students and employers alike.

Foundations in Accountancy (FIA) consist of a suite of awards comprising two certificates, a diploma and a revised Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) qualification.

These flexible awards focus on the core skills of financial accounting, management accounting and a wider role of the accountant in business and the ethical and professional conduct that underpin those roles.

The range of awards means employers can pick the level of qualification which most appropriately meets their business needs. In addition, it provides students with flexible entry points with certification awarded at each level, allowing students to tailor the awards, making them an attractive and relevant choice for employers.