The CA CTA Joint Programme is changing

1 September 2025

Last updated: 7 October 2025

ICAS

The CA CTA Joint Programme is changing. The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) is evolving the CA CTA Joint Programme to better support future learning and align with the proposed new CTA qualification updates coming in 2028 and the refreshed CA syllabus.

The key changes you need to know about

Introduction of the Tax Knowledge and Skills paper

A brand-new Level 6 in England (Level 9-10 in Scotland) equivalent assessment that reflects the modern workplace and profession developments such as tax technology. The new paper provides a smoother transition to the Advanced-level paper.

Revised assessment structure

The new assessment structure ensures breadth and specialisation. Every student must now complete:

Professional Responsibilities and Ethics
Tax Knowledge and Skills (Direct or Indirect tax)
One Advanced-level paper (either Advanced Technical or an Application and Professional Skills paper)

View the updated programme structure

Transition arrangements for existing students

Existing CA CTA Joint Programme students have until the May 2026 CTA exam sitting attempt their specialist Advanced Technical paper. Anyone who has either attempted or passed CTA papers under the existing route by May 2026 will continue under those Joint Programme arrangements and finish their studies accordingly.

Students who have not attempted or passed any CTA papers under the existing Joint Programme arrangements by May 2026 will be transferred to the CA CTA Joint Programme 2026+.

Registration information and deadlines

The existing programme

Registrations for the existing CA CTA Joint Programme will remain open until 31 December 2025. Students wishing to follow the existing Joint Programme must have registered with CIOT by 31 December. They must also be entered for their specialist Advanced Technical paper by the end of February 2026 for the May 2026 sitting.