the international gold standard in tax 2014/2015
Course Information & Regulations 2014/2015 Copyright Irish Tax Institute 2014 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 3
Dear Student Welcome to the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme, Ireland s leading professional tax qualification which opens a world of opportunity. AITI Chartered Tax Advisers (CTA) are highly sought after throughout practice, and the corporate and public sectors both at home and abroad. The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) brand is the international gold standard in tax and a hallmark of tax expertise worldwide. The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification is designed, delivered and assessed in keeping with best practice in professional education. Leveraging best-in-class technology, this blended learning qualification transforms the knowledge, skills and professional career prospects of its graduates. This handbook contains vital information to support and guide you throughout your studies. Please read it carefully and refer to it regularly. We look forward to working in partnership with you over the coming year to help you achieve your study goals. We wish you every success. Yours sincerely Martina O Brien Director of Educational Strategy AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 5
Your Education Team Eimear Fetherston Part 1 Coordinator Tel.: +353 1 663 1748 Email: efetherston@taxinstitute.ie Miriam Kidney Part 2 & 3 Coordinator Tel.: +353 1 663 1735 Email: mkidney@taxinstitute.ie Ciara Quigley Examinations Coordinator Tel.: +353 1 663 1712 Email: cquigley@taxinstitute.ie Róisín Richardson Assessment Manager Tel.: +353 1 663 1701 Email: rrichardson@taxinstitute.ie Grace McRandal Senior Manager of Professional Education Tel.: +353 1 663 1713 Email: gmcrandal@taxinstitute.ie Student queries will be answered within 2 business days. @TaxInstituteIrl 6 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
Table of Contents Your Education Team... 6 Key Dates 2015... 8 Exam Timetable 2015... 9 About the Irish Tax Institute... 10 About The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) Qualification... 12 What Will I Study?... 13 Part 3 Changes to Syllabus for 2014/2015... 14 The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) Syllabus... 15 The Roles and Skills of an AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA)... 16 The Student Experience... 17 Key Features of the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) Qualification... 18 Assessment... 19 Entry Requirements... 20 Exemptions... 21 How to Register...26 Fees...27 Student Services...29 Venues and Timetables...30 Examination Awards...34 Student Regulations 2014/2015... 35 Frequently Asked Questions... 48 Frequently Asked Questions for Transitional Students...50 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 7
Key Dates 2015 COURSES WINTER COURSE 2014/2015 SUMMER COURSE 2015 Registration Opens* August 2014 March 2015 Register by** 19 September 2014 10 April 2015 Part 1 Course Commences 4 October 2014 25 April 2015 Part 2 Course Commences 11 October 2014 25 April 2015 Part 3 Course Commences 18 October 2014 25 April 2015 Registration Closing Date 28 November 2014 8 May 2015 Part 1 Course Complete 22 March 2015 19 July 2015 Part 2 Course Complete 22 March 2015 19 July 2015 Part 3 Course Complete 12 April 2015 26 July 2015 ASSESSMENT SUMMER SITTING 2014 AUTUMN SITTING 2014 Application Deadline* 28 November 2014 8 May 2015 Professional Skills Assignment Due** 5 January 2015 8 June 2015 Interim Examination 24 January 2015 27 June 2015 Part 1 Exams 13-17 April 2015 10-14 August 2015 Part 2 Exams 13-17 April 2015 10-14 August 2015 Part 3 Exams 11-15 May 2015 24-28 August 2015 Continuous Assessment Results 27 February 2015 24 July 2015 Part 1 Exam Results 10 June 2015 23 September 2015 Part 2 Exam Results 10 June 2015 23 September 2015 Part 3 Exam Results 8 July 2015 14 October 2015 * Early registration is recommended ** Applications received after this date will be subject to a late fee of 50 8 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
Exam Timetable 2015 Part 1 Summer DATE TIME EXAM April 9.30 a.m. 12.30 p.m. Income Tax Monday 13 April 9.30 a.m. 12.30 p.m. Fundamentals Capital Gains Tax Tuesday 14 April 9.30 a.m. 12.30 p.m. Fundamentals Financial Reporting Thursday 16 April 9.30 a.m. 12.30 p.m. & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Law Friday 17 Fundamentals Part 1 Autumn DATE TIME EXAM August 9.30 a.m. 12.30 p.m. Income Tax Monday 10 August 9.30 a.m. 12.30 p.m. Fundamentals Capital Gains Tax Tuesday 11 August 9.30 a.m. 12.30 p.m. Fundamentals Financial Reporting Thursday 13 August 9.30 a.m. 12.30 p.m. & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Law Friday 14 Fundamentals Part 2 Summer DATE TIME EXAM April 2.30 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Personal Taxes: Monday 13 April 2.30 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Application & Interaction Business Taxes: Tuesday 14 Application & Interaction April 2.30 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Indirect Taxes: Thursday 16 April 2.30 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Application & Interaction Capital Taxes: Friday 17 Application & Interaction Part 2 Autumn DATE TIME EXAM August 2.30 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Personal Taxes: Monday 10 August 2.30 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Application & Interaction Business Taxes: Tuesday 11 Application & Interaction August 2.30 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Indirect Taxes: Thursday 13 August 2.30 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Application & Interaction Capital Taxes: Friday 14 Application & Interaction Part 3 Summer DATE TIME EXAM May 9.30 a.m. 1.15 p.m. Advanced Monday 11 May 2.00 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Direct Tax: Domestic Advanced Tuesday 12 May 9.30 a.m. 1.15 p.m. Direct Tax: International Advanced Thursday 14 May 2.00 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Indirect Taxes Professional Advice Friday 15 & Ethics Part 3 Autumn DATE TIME EXAM August 9.30 a.m. 1.15 p.m. Advanced Monday 24 August 2.00 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Direct Tax: Domestic Advanced Tuesday 25 August 9.30 a.m. 1.15 p.m. Direct Tax: International Advanced Thursday 27 August 2.00 p.m. 5.45 p.m. Indirect Taxes Professional Advice Friday 28 & Ethics Students should note that there is 15 minutes reading time at the start of the Part 2 and Part 3 examinations. AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 9
About the Irish Tax Institute The Irish Tax Institute is the leading representative and educational body for Ireland s AITI Chartered Tax Advisers (CTA) and is the only professional body exclusively dedicated to tax. Our members provide tax expertise to thousands of businesses, multinationals and individuals in Ireland and internationally. In addition many hold senior roles within professional service firms, global companies, Government, Revenue and state bodies. The Institute is the leading provider of tax qualifications in Ireland, educating the finest minds in tax and business for over thirty years. Our AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification is the gold standard in tax and the international mark of excellence in tax advice. A respected body on tax policy and administration, the Institute engages at the most senior levels across Government, business and state organisations. Representing the views and expertise of our members, we play an important role in the fiscal and tax administrative discussions and decisions in Ireland and in the EU. The Institute provides a dynamic and comprehensive range of professional taxation qualifications, offered nationwide. These qualifications are specifically tailored and designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to enable them to pursue successful and well rewarded careers within the taxation profession. Our hands-on approach to professional education means that students are immersed in real-life challenges that develop their ability to provide comprehensive solutions within their work environment. The Institute strives to bring quality programmes which are designed, delivered and assessed by a team of taxation specialists drawn from a diverse range of backgrounds. 10 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
About our Qualifications AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) The Irish Tax Institute provides a comprehensive three Part professional qualification for those wishing to become AITI Chartered Tax Advisers (CTA). Designed and delivered in accordance with best practice in professional education, on completion students will have detailed tax knowledge and the requisite professional skills to work as AITI Chartered Tax Advisers (CTA). Fellowship by Thesis (FITI) The Irish Tax Institute oversees the Institute s Fellowship by Thesis programme. Candidates who submit a thesis that meets the requirements of the Institute will be eligible for the award of a Fellowship by the Irish Tax Institute. Tax Technician Qualification (TMITI) The Tax Technician programme gives students the knowledge and practical skills to manage tax compliance affairs for both individuals and companies. Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning Offered in conjunction with the LIA (Life Insurance Association) and the Institute of Bankers School of Professional Finance (a recognised school of UCD), the Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning is a prestigious qualification aimed at those who wish to develop their financial planning knowledge and skills to the highest international standards. This Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning also meets the main educational requirements for those who wish to apply for the prestigious, internationally recognised Certified Financial Planner or CFP certification. Developing outstanding professionals Tax is a dynamic and fast-paced career. The constantly evolving nature of tax legislation in Ireland, the EU and internationally means that the legal, taxation and commercial implications of a transaction are changing almost every day. Upskilling is key to career success. The Irish Tax Institute s professional development programme provides wide-ranging continuing professional development, appropriate advice, specialist seminars and other support services for members. This ensures that our members remain professionally competent throughout their working lives. The Irish Tax Institute also produces a comprehensive suite of taxation publications covering the full range of tax topics. The Institute offers a range of Certificates and Diplomas for those who wish to specialise in a particular area of tax. These programmes are delivered by leading experts and are attended by experienced professionals, many of whom are qualified AITI Chartered Tax Advisers (CTA): > > Certificate in Employment Tax > > Certificate in VAT > > Certificate in Accounting for the Tax Professional > > Certificate in Taxation of Funds AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 11
ART1PART2PART& ETHICSP3About The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) Qualification The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification is Ireland s leading taxation qualification and is held by the majority of Ireland s most experienced tax advisers, many of whom are involved in delivering the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme. The qualification has been established for over 30 years and the many AITI Chartered Tax Advisers (CTA) working throughout the public and private sectors are testament to the prestige of the qualification and the calibre of its graduates. Students gain a deep insight into how our tax laws are formed and how these laws are applied to key commercial transactions. Students acquire the professional skills required of an outstanding tax adviser. They learn about the relevant corporate, legal and accounting issues which underpin, broaden and enhance the skill set of a CTA. The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification provides students with the skills necessary to provide technically correct and commercially sound tax advice. Tax is an ever-changing and ever-increasing body of legislation, precedents and practice. Our students must achieve the vital competency of learning to learn so AITI Chartered Tax Advisers (CTA) can keep abreast of relevant developments throughout their career. The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme is a cumulative and fully integrated curriculum. Each Part builds on the knowledge and skills acquired by students at previous Parts. AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) Programme INCOME TAX FUNDAMENTALS FINANCIAL REPORTING & TAX ACCOUNTING FUNDAMENTALS LAW FUNDAMENTALS CAPITAL GAINS TAX FUNDAMENTALS PERSONAL TAXES: APPLICATION & INTERACTION BUSINESS TAXES: APPLICATION & INTERACTION INDIRECT TAXES: APPLICATION & INTERACTION CAPITAL TAXES: APPLICATION & INTERACTION ADVANCED DIRECT TAX: DOMESTIC ADVANCED DIRECT TAX: INTERNATIONAL ADVANCED INDIRECT TAXES PROFESSIONAL ADVICE 12 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
What Will I Study? The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme covers all tax heads, building from the fundamental to the advanced level. Fundamentals Part 1 Students cover the key principles for the taxation of individuals while gaining the competence to use tax legislation and case law and translating the principles for taxpayers. Students acquire the skills and knowledge to undertake financial reporting and disclosures for tax figures and obtain knowledge of the Irish and EU legal systems and the fundamental legal concepts required to provide comprehensive tax advice. Application & Interaction Part 2 Through interpreting relevant income, capital and indirect tax provisions, and applying the findings to the circumstances of individuals and companies, students learn to advise individual and corporate tax payers on their tax issues. Students obtain a thorough understanding of Revenue powers and Revenue audits. Students learn how to clearly set out tax advice and to project manage the effective implementation of the advice provided including knowing when input is required from other professionals. Related legal and accounting issues are also covered. Advanced Part 3 Students acquire the knowledge and skills to deal comprehensively with complex multi-tax scenarios which they will encounter as tax professionals. Students will gain an understanding of international and domestic tax policy which will facilitate students ability to understand tax legislation, whether they are working in practice, the public sector or the corporate sector. Students on completion of Part 3 understand the importance of providing efficient tax advice and of offering alternatives which reflect the commercial reality of the taxpayer. Students obtain a thorough understanding of general anti-avoidance legislation and mandatory reporting requirements. Students consider the ethical issues that qualified AITI Chartered Tax Advisers (CTA) may face when giving tax advice. Professional Skills AITI Chartered Tax Advisers (CTA) need to have the skills to gather facts, carry out focused research, identify relevant legal and accounting issues and formulate advice to a taxpayer. They need to communicate complex tax matters as professional tax advice and project-manage the effective implementation of the advice provided to include any compliance related issues. These essential skills are developed in the Professional Skills workshops, which are delivered through small interactive tutorial groups. PART 1 Income Tax Fundamentals Capital Gains Tax Fundamentals Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Law Fundamentals PART 2 Personal Taxes: Application & Interaction Business Taxes: Application & Interaction Indirect Taxes: Application & Interaction Capital Taxes: Application & Interaction PART 3 Advanced Direct Tax: Domestic Advanced Direct Tax: International Advanced Indirect Taxes Professional Advice & Ethics Implement Research Professional Skills Communicate Evaluate The skills will specifically be examined through Professional Skills Assignments throughout the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme. These skills are also key to performing well in the end-of-course examinations. AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 13
Part 3 Changes to Syllabus for 2014/2015 The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme continuously changes to meets the needs of the market. We have made significant changes in recent years with the introduction of professional skills assignments, interim examinations and the roll out of Blackboard, our learning management system. These changes have been welcomed by both students and employer firms. Further changes to Part 3 have been made for 2014/2015. These changes have been introduced primarily to enable students to think more laterally and to embed international and domestic tax policy into the syllabus. The Part 3 assessments 1 require students to cover multi-tax heads; the proposed changes to the Part 3 syllabus will support students further to acquire the knowledge and skills to deal comprehensively with the complex multi-tax scenarios they encounter as tax professionals. Understanding international and domestic tax policy will facilitate students ability to understand tax legislation whether they are working in practice, the public sector or the corporate sector. In order for students to appreciate tax policy we put the foundations in place over the last two years with the introduction of Economics and Political Science in Part 1 and Fiscal Theory and Policy in Part 2. The changes made in 2014/2015 are the reorganisation of the learning outcomes for 2 of the Part 3 modules and the introduction of international and domestic tax policy. The two modules being reorganised are Advanced Personal Taxes & Advanced Business Taxes. The elements of Advanced Personal Taxes and Advanced Business Taxes which cover: > > Irish tax issues in an international context will be covered together in Advanced Direct Tax: International, and > > Irish tax issues in a domestic context will be covered together in Advanced Direct Tax: Domestic. Apart from the introduction of international and domestic tax policy the material covered in these modules will remain the same. 1 The Part 3 assessment includes end of course examinations, an interim examination and a professional skills assignment. Transitional Students Advanced Personal Tax International Domestic Advanced Business Tax International Domestic Advanced Indirect Tax Professional Advice, Tax Audits & Ethics New Students Advanced Direct Tax Domestic Business Personal Advanced Direct Tax International Business Personal Advanced Indirect Tax Professional Advice & Ethics 14 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) Syllabus Throughout the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme, students will study the tax consequences of many events such as: THE TAX, LEGAL AND ACCOUNTING CONSEQUENCES OF DOING BUSINESS Multinationals doing business in Ireland including principles of international taxation, the Irish holding company regime, international anti-avoidance measures and exit tax issues Setting-up, acquiring, expanding, operating, closing down or winding-up a business Group structures such as payment groups, use of losses, transfer of assets, VAT grouping, restructuring or reorganisations THE TAX AND LEGAL CONSEQUENCES OF FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS Borrowing and lending money Leasing Investment and disposal of investments: > > Property > > Financial assets > > Tax shelters > > Overseas THE TAX AND LEGAL CONSEQUENCES OF LIFE EVENTS Marriage Marital breakdown Migration inwards and outwards including foreign employments and secondments Termination payments Individuals setting up in business as a sole trader or a company Planning for retirement through use of pensions Succession planning passing wealth to the next generation Personal wealth management THE TAX AND LEGAL CONSEQUENCES OF EVERYDAY ISSUES Most common personal and commercial transactions Determining whether someone is employed or selfemployed Employer payroll tax issues including share-based methods of remuneration, benefits and pensions VAT implications of business transactions Revenue powers, Revenue audits and antiavoidance provisions Transactions between companies and their shareholders, such as dividends Tax Policy Tax Policy has been fully integrated into the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) syllabus, providing students with the fiscal framework to consider and evaluate specific aspects of tax policy. At Part 1, students are introduced to the basic Economic and Political Science principles. This is built on at Part 2 where the Fundamental Concepts of Fiscal Theory provides students with an insight into the basic concepts of fiscal theory, key tax areas, tax expenditure and incentives. Finally at Part 3, domestic and international tax policy is embedded in the Advanced Direct Tax: Domestic & Advanced Direct Tax: International modules. AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 15
The Roles and Skills of an AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) Tax advisers work across multiple sectors and bring a range of expert skills to bear across a wide variety of roles as illustrated in the diagram below. Employed in professional services firms, and throughout the corporate and public sectors, individual tax professionals use the roles and skills as defined in the grid below in a variety of ways. These roles are diverse, such as: > > Professional Services: Tax Adviser specialising advising high net worth individuals > > Corporate sector: International tax specialist in a major multinational > > Public sector: Assistant Principal in the Department of Finance Roles and Skills of a CTA Analysis Judgement Communication Project Management Interaction Tax Compliance Financial Accounting Advice Financial Investigation and Evaluation Representation 16 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
The Student Experience In keeping with the latest developments in best practice for adult education, the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme offers a blended learning experience. This flexible approach allows students to combine face-to-face lectures and tutorials with online and e-lectures. Assessment comprises both formative and summative elements ranging from self-assessment quizzes to Professional Skills Assignments, interim exams and end of course exams. Course Materials Legislation Student Manuals Student TaxFind Tuition Lectures Professional Skills Workshops e-learning & Online Lectures STUDENT Student Resources Learning Management System Student Support Mentor Scheme Assessment Assignments Continuous Assessment Examinations Internet access is vital On first registering students will be issued with a student number and password to login to the Learning Management System (LMS) area. Students are expected to visit the LMS regularly to: > > Update personal details online > > View announcements and check timetables > > Access lecture notes and other course materials > > View e learning lectures and tutorials online > > Complete self-assessment quizzes > > Download case studies and Professional Skills Assignments > > Submit their Professional Skills Assignment for correction > > Obtain examination results online It is important to access the student area regularly, or students risk missing important information. Students are asked to ensure that their personal details are correct, including email address, as they may periodically receive emails containing important information. If there is a change, students should update their profile online. In case of emergencies, such as the last minute timetable changes, the Irish Tax Institute may, where possible, send an SMS message to students. AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 17
Key Features of the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) Qualification The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) Syllabus > > A fully integrated and comprehensive syllabus. > > Highlights the integration and interaction of taxes. > > Maps to the course materials to assist students in planning and tracking their studies. > > A transactional approach to taxation learning as no tax exists in isolation. > > A standalone qualification which provides students with a deep knowledge of tax law and practice and also covers the requisite accounting and law to support that knowledge. Flexibility for you > > Winter and summer courses offer even greater flexibility as students can choose when best suits them and their employer to study and sit examinations. > > Students with full Part 1 exemptions can qualify as an AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) in one year (where they complete the winter and summer courses) > > Students can choose from two examinations sittings per year (summer and autumn). > > Flexible payment options are available for fees. Comprehensive course materials > > Bespoke manuals for each module written and edited by leading tax specialists incorporating each module s learning objectives in each chapter, as well as tasks to test understanding of the material covered and directions for further reading. > > Relevant tax legislation for each Part. > > Past papers, with model solutions which have been updated and/or annotated to reflect subsequent Finance Acts with examiners reports. > > Access to Student TaxFind, a comprehensive online tax research database provided to students which contains a wealth of information including all student manuals and legislation titles and additional reference materials. > > Professional Skills materials. > > TaxFax, the Irish Tax Institute s weekly information service on the latest tax news, tax cases, tax publications, Irish Tax Institute representations, Revenue legislation and forthcoming tax deadlines. An expert faculty The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme is designed, written, delivered and assessed by some of the most highly regarded individuals in the tax profession. The Irish Tax Institute s lecturers and tutors bring learning to life with real life examples which foster a keen sense of commercial awareness and focus on current issues. AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) manuals are produced for use by the student in conjunction with the courses offered by the Irish Tax Institute. Various Irish Tax Institute publications, other than the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) manuals, are provided to students attending courses. These publications should be used by students to complement the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) manuals and may also be used by students at their place of work. The commitment and technical expertise of our writers and editors is evident in the quality of our course materials. We harness the talent of both senior tax specialists and recently qualified AITI Chartered Tax Advisers (CTA) to ensure that our continuous assessment and examination programmes are relevant and fair, yet challenging. 18 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
ART1PART2PART3Assignment 15%PFeedback To facilitate our ongoing commitment to quality and excellence the Irish Tax Institute will periodically canvas for feedback via online surveys and focus groups. We welcome feedback as it is vital to ensure the ongoing development of our professional education programmes. If students have a query or would like to discuss any aspect of the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme or examinations, please do not hesitate to contact the Institute s Education team (see page 6). Assessment Students are required to complete Professional Skills Assignments, Interim Examinations and Final Examinations at all Parts. Continuous Assessment Students are expected to complete continuous assessment in a number of specific modules at each Part (see below). Continuous assessment carry marks towards the final examinations and comprise Professional Skills Assignments and Interim Examinations. > > Interim Examinations will take place on 24 January 2015 and 27 June 2015. > > Students must complete Professional Skills Assignments in certain modules during the academic year which will carry marks towards the final examination. These assignments will assess the key skills acquired in the Professional Skills workshops. AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) Programme Income Tax Fundamentals Exam 85% Assignment 15% Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Exam 100% Law Fundamentals Exam 100% Capital Gains Tax Fundamentals Exam 80% Interim Exam 20% Personal Taxes Application & Interaction Business Taxes Application & Interaction Indirect Taxes Application & Interaction Capital Taxes Application & Interaction Exam 85% Assignment 15% Exam 100% Exam 80% Interim Exam 20% Exam 100% Advanced Direct Tax: Domestic Exam 85% Interim Exam 15% Advanced Direct Tax: International Exam 100% Advanced Indirect Taxes Exam 100% Professional Advice & Ethics Exam 85% AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 19
Entry Requirements Applicants for the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme must hold, at minimum, an undergraduate degree at honours level (Level 8 of the National Framework of Qualifications) or equivalent. A copy of an officially certified transcript of your qualification is required to process an application. Please do not send in originals. If you do not hold a Level 8 qualification Applicants who do not hold a Level 8 qualification or equivalent may be considered on a case by-case basis, through the recognition of prior learning. These applications should include: > > A one-page summary outlining: > > why you wish to study the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification > > how completion of the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification will benefit your career > > why you think you will be able to successfully complete the course > > A two-page resume detailing relevant professional experience and education to date > > Any other supporting documentation that you feel is relevant to your application (e.g. supporting letter from your employer or suitable referee, evidence of training courses undertaken, relevant voluntary work, etc.) Applications should be submitted to the Senior Manager of Professional Education with supporting documentation as appropriate. All decisions to accept an applicant based on the recognition of prior learning are at the discretion of the Irish Tax Institute. An applicant may lodge an appeal in accordance with Student Regulation 6.1 (see page 38). Mutual Recognition If you hold a professional tax qualification from another body within the European Union, you may be eligible to apply to the Irish Tax Institute for mutual recognition under the European Directive 2005/36/EC. For further information please refer to our website or contact the Senior Manager of Professional Education. 20 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
EXEMPTION APPLICATION DEADLINE* Summer examinations: 28 November 2014 Autumn examinations: 8 May 2015 *Applications received after this date will subject to a late fee of 50. Exemptions The Irish Tax Institute may grant exemptions from certain modules where applicants have successfully completed other Level 8 or 9 examinations. A list of recognised exemptions is set out are on pages overleaf. Applicants are required to submit an official transcript from the awarding body, which must include the applicant s name and the date on which the examinations were passed. Internet printouts are not acceptable. Each applicant is responsible for ensuring they are aware of the relevant deadline for applying for examinations and ensuring that their application for exemptions is submitted on time. Applications will not be registered for continuous assessment and examinations or be issued with and examination number until they have received notification of their exemption. The Education Committee may review the exemptions at any time. Any changes will be published on the Irish Tax Institute website. These amendments will not apply retrospectively. What if a qualification is not listed? Applicants may apply for exemptions which are not listed if they can satisfy the Education Committee that they have passed an examination equivalent to the standard set in the Part 1 examination or have relevant work based learning. If your qualification is not listed, please submit an application for an exemption prior to registering online as a student. The application should include: > > An official transcript from the appropriate body with a detailed syllabus and sample examination papers of the relevant modules. > > The syllabus and examination papers must be cross referenced in detail to the learning outcomes of the module for which the exemption is being sought. > > Applications which are not cross-referenced to the Part 1 syllabus will be returned to the applicant. If you wish to apply for exemptions based on the recognition of significant workbased learning, please submit your application as follows: > > Outline evidence of how, through your work experience, you meet each of the learning outcomes of the modules from which you are applying for an exemption > > Submit a two-page resume detailing relevant professional experience and education to date > > Enclose any other supporting documentation that you feel is relevant to your application (e.g. supporting letter from your employer or suitable referee, evidence of training courses undertaken, relevant voluntary work, etc) Applications should be submitted to the Senior Manager of Professional Education with supporting documentation as appropriate. Each application will be considered individually on its own merits and is made at the discretion of the Irish Tax Institute. AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 21
Please note that, due to large numbers of applications received, we cannot confirm receipt of individual submissions or return documentation. You will be notified by email of exemptions granted. Law degrees and Law Society examinations Students who have a Level 8 law Degree are granted a Group 4 exemption. Students who have a Level 8 degree and who have passed the entrance examination to the Law Society of Ireland Final Examination First Part (FE-1) are granted a Group 4 exemption. They may also be entitled to further exemptions based on their Level 8 degree. PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS > > Associates of Chartered Accountants Ireland > > Associates of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales > > Associates of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Scotland > > Associates of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants > > Associates of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland > > Unqualified ACA Accountants who have passed the CAP 2 examinations > > Unqualified ACCA Accountants who have passed Advanced Taxation (P6) > > Unqualified CPA Accountants who have passed Advanced Taxation (Paper 6) at Prof 2 > > Associates of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants > > Associates of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries (Financial Stream) > > Unqualified Accountants who have passed the first stage in their accountancy qualification > > Qualified Solicitors and Barristers EXEMPTION Group 1 Group 1 Group 1 Group 1 Group 1 Group 1 Group 1 Group 1 Group 2 Group 3 Group 3 Group 4 All Part 1 GROUP 1 GROUP 2 Income Tax Fundamentals Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Law Fundamentals GROUP 3 Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Law Fundamentals GROUP 4 Law Fundamentals GROUP 5 Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals GROUP 6 All Part 1 Business Taxes: Application & Interaction All Part 1 All Part 2 GROUP 9 GROUP 12 All Part 1 Business Taxes: Application & Interaction Capital Taxes: Application & Interaction 22 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
All Part 1 GROUP 1 GROUP 2 Income Tax Fundamentals Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Law Fundamentals GROUP 3 Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Law Fundamentals GROUP 4 Law Fundamentals GROUP 5 Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals GROUP 6 All Part 1 Business Taxes: Application & Interaction All Part 1 All Part 2 GROUP 9 GROUP 12 All Part 1 Business Taxes: Application & Interaction Capital Taxes: Application & Interaction ATHLONE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY > > Master of Arts in Accounting > > Bachelor of Business Studies > > Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Accounting BLANCHARDSTOWN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY EXEMPTION Group 1 Group 3 Group 3 > > Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Accounting & Finance Group 3 CARLOW INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY > > Bachelor of Accounting Group 5 CORK INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY > > Bachelor of Business (Honours) in Accounting Group 2 DUBLIN BUSINESS SCHOOL > > Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Accounting & Finance Group 5 DUBLIN CITY UNIVERSITY > > Master of Business Studies in Accounting > > Professional Diploma in Taxation > > Professional Diploma in Accounting > > Bachelor of Arts in Accounting & Finance > > Bachelor of Business Studies > > Bachelors of Arts in Economics, Politics & Law > > Bachelor of Science (Applied Mathematical Sciences) DUBLIN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY > > Master of Science in Accounting and Finance > > Master of Science in Accounting > > Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting > > Bachelor of Science (Management) > > Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance > > Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Business & Legal Studies DUNDALK INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY > > Master of Accounting > > Bachelor of Business Studies (Honours) in Accounting and Finance > > Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Accounting and Finance GALWAY-MAYO INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY > > Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting > > Baitsiléirí Ealaíoní ngnó agus Cumarsáid > > Bachelor of Business Studies (Accounting) GRIFFITH COLLEGE DUBLIN Group 1 Group 12 Group 1 Group 2 Group 3 Group 4 Group 5 Group 1 Group 1 Group 3 Group 2 Group 3 Group 4 Group 1 Group 2 Group 3 Group 2 Group 2 Group 2 > > Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business and Law Group 4 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 23
LETTERKENNY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY > > Master of Arts in Accounting > > Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting > > Bachelor of Business Studies (Accounting) > > Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies with Taxation LIMERICK INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY > > Bachelor of Business in Law and Taxation > > Bachelor of Business Studies in Accounting and Finance NATIONAL COLLEGE OF IRELAND > > Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Human Resource Management (Accounting Stream) > > Bachelor of Arts in Accounting > > Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Human Resource Management (Human Resources Stream) NUI GALWAY > > Master of Accounting > > Master of Business Administration > > Bachelor of Commerce (successfully completed both tax papers) > > Bachelor of Commerce (who has not completed both tax papers) > > Bachelor of Commerce (International) (successfully completed both tax papers) > > Bachelor of Commerce (International) (who has not completed both tax papers) > > Bachelor of Commerce and Accounting > > Bachelor of Commerce (part-time) > > Bachelor of Corporate Law > > Higher Diploma in Business Studies NUI MAYNOOTH > > Master of Accounting > > Bachelor of Arts in Finance and Accounting > > Bachelor of Arts in Finance and Economics > > Higher Diploma in Finance SLIGO INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY > > Bachelor of Business Studies (Honours) > > Bachelor of Business in Accounting INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY TALLAGHT Group 1 Group 1 Group 2 Group 4 Group 1 Group 3 Group 2 Group 2 Group 3 Group 1 Group 3 Group 2 Group 3 Group 2 Group 3 Group 2 Group 3 Group 3 Group 5 Group 1 Group 3 Group 5 Group 5 Group 5 Group 3 > > Bachelor of Business Studies (Honours) (Accounting) Group 2 TRALEE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY > > Bachelor of Business Studies Group 3 All Part 1 GROUP 1 GROUP 2 Income Tax Fundamentals Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Law Fundamentals GROUP 3 Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Law Fundamentals GROUP 4 Law Fundamentals GROUP 5 Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals GROUP 6 All Part 1 Business Taxes: Application & Interaction All Part 1 All Part 2 GROUP 9 GROUP 12 All Part 1 Business Taxes: Application & Interaction Capital Taxes: Application & Interaction 24 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
All Part 1 GROUP 1 GROUP 2 Income Tax Fundamentals Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Law Fundamentals GROUP 3 Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals Law Fundamentals GROUP 4 Law Fundamentals GROUP 5 Financial Reporting & Tax Accounting Fundamentals GROUP 6 All Part 1 Business Taxes: Application & Interaction All Part 1 All Part 2 GROUP 9 GROUP 12 All Part 1 Business Taxes: Application & Interaction Capital Taxes: Application & Interaction TRINITY COLLEGE DUBLIN > > Bachelor of Business Studies (BESS Legal Stream) Group 3 UNIVERSITY COLLEGE CORK > > Bachelor of Science (Accountancy) > > Bachelor of Commerce (Accountancy Stream) UNIVERSITY COLLEGE DUBLIN > > Master of Accounting > > Master of Accounting (who have successfully completed the UCD Summer School tax elective) > > Bachelor of Commerce (Accountancy) (who has successfully completed Taxation I and Taxation II) > > Bachelor of Commerce (Management) (who has successfully completed Taxation I and II) > > Bachelor of Business and Law (who has successfully completed Taxation I and II) > > Bachelor of Commerce (Accountancy Stream) > > Bachelor of Commerce (Management Stream) > > Bachelor of Business and Law UNIVERSITY OF LIMERICK > > Masters in Taxation Those who have met the required standard will be eligible for exemptions from all Part 1 and Part 2 exams > > Bachelor of Arts in Applied Taxation > > Bachelor of Business Studies (Accounting and Finance) > > Bachelor of Arts in Law and Accounting > > Bachelor of Law and European Studies WATERFORD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY > > Master of Business Studies in Accounting > > Bachelor of Arts in Financial Services > > Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Management with Law > > Bachelor of Business (Honours) (Accountancy Stream) > > Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Accounting > > Bachelor of Business Studies (Accountancy Stream) > > Bachelor of Arts in Business and Legal Studies > > Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Finance and Investment Group 3 Group 3 Group 1 Group 6 Group 2 Group 2 Group 2 Group 3 Group 3 Group 3 Group 9 Group 1 Group 2 Group 2 Group 4 Group 1 Group 3 Group 3 Group 3 Group 3 Group 3 Group 4 Group 5 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 25
How to Register Please go to www.taxinstitute.ie and register online. 1. Read this Student Handbook in detail prior to registration and review the Student Regulations contained within. 2. Fill in personal details and qualification history on the online registration form. 3. Provide an official Level 8 transcript as proof of eligibility to register for the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme. 4. Apply for exemptions (if relevant) and provide an official transcript as proof of entitlement. 5. Apply for the relevant course, selecting venue as appropriate. 6. Provide a day time address and contact number for delivery of course materials. 7. Indicate which continuous assessment and examination sitting you intend to present for and at which venue. 8. Check all details are correct before submitting the online registration application. 9. Pay fees by credit card, cheque or direct debit mandate. 10. For more information on fees and the flexible payment options available please see page 27. In order to complete your registration, you must return your signed registration document, proof of payment and official transcript of results. Your registration will be confirmed on receipt of this material. Continuing students should review this Student Handbook, update their personal details online and register for the relevant course and examinations. You must register for your continuous assessment and examinations by the relevant closing date. Applications for exemptions with proof of entitlement must also be submitted before this deadline. Registrations received after this date will be subject to a late fee of 50. If you decide to change your selected examination sitting after your examination number has been issued for the Continuous Assessment or end-of-course examination, a 50 charge is payable. This charge arises where you change the timing of the examinations, or where you change your examination venue. Register online Confirm personal details Apply for exemptions Supply transcript Register for relevant course Register for assessment Arrange payment The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme is not a modular programme, and students must register for and sit examinations in all relevant modules at each Part. Places are granted on a first come, first served basis. Delivery of course materials Every effort will be made to deliver course materials within two weeks of processing a complete application. However, deliveries will not commence before 8 September 2014. All deliveries occur during office hours and must be signed for. It is essential to provide us with a day time address and contact number which will be passed to our delivery company. Our delivery company cannot predict when deliveries will occur. On receipt of your course materials you must check and ensure that you have received all relevant materials for your Part. To facilitate this a full list of course materials, relevant to each Part, is available from www.taxinstitute.ie. 26 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
Part 1 COURSE FEES All 4 Modules 1,615 Cost Per Module 500 Part 2 All 4 Modules 1,715 Cost Per Module 550 Part 3 All 4 Modules 2,200 Cost Per Module 755 Student Subscription Delivery of course materials* Part 1 235 13.50 REPEAT STUDENTS All 4 Modules 1,175 Cost Per Module 360 Part 2 All 4 Modules 1,250 Cost Per Module 400 Part 3 All 4 Modules 1,600 Cost Per Module 515 EXAMINATIONS ONLY Part 1 All 4 Exams 305 Cost Per Module 85 Part 2 All 4 Exams 330 Cost Per Module 95 Part 3 All 4 Exams 350 Cost Per Module 105 * Outside Republic of Ireland, costs may vary, contact us for cost details. Fees There is one simple fee structure for the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme. The course fee covers: > > All relevant student manuals and past papers > > Relevant tax legislation > > Access to Student TaxFind > > Attendance at face-to-face lectures > > Access to online lectures and e-learning content > > Attendance at Professional Skills workshops > > Revision course prior to examinations > > Examination fees > > Access to a mentor for the duration of the course Student Subscription All student members are required to pay their student subscription of 235 annually. The student subscription year runs from 1 October to 30 September. Students must ensure that the payment of their subscription is up to date. Student subscriptions are due on 1 October 2014. Students must retain his/her student membership status and pay all related student subscriptions during any break taken within the provisions of Student Regulation 8.10 (see page 40), during any year in which examinations are not undertaken and when repeating examinations. Repeat students Students who are repeating a course of lectures are entitled to a discount on course fees. Repeating examinations only Students who do not wish to repeat a course of lectures may choose to repeat examinations only. Students who choose to repeat an examination only are advised to purchase up to date legislation, manuals and access to Student TaxFind. A late examination registration fee of 50 will arise for students who register after 28 November 2014 in respect of the summer examinations and after 8 May 2015 in respect of the autumn examinations. Payment options Students can pay their fees by credit card, cheque, bank draft, cash or in instalments by direct debit over the duration of the course. The direct debit mandate is available to download from the website and terms & conditions apply. There is a 50 fee for each monthly direct debit that fails. AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 27
Refund of fees If you decide not to pursue the course and request a refund of course fees prior to having received any of the materials and before the course commences, the Irish Tax Institute will refund the fee, less a 20% administration charge. All requests for refunds must be made in writing. Change of examination sitting If you decide to change your selected examination sitting after your examination number has been issued for the Continuous Assessment or end-of-course examination, a 50 charge is payable. This charge arises where you change the timing of the examinations, or where you change your examination venue, for example, changing from Limerick to Dublin. An application form must be completed and a fee paid before any change is made. Please note that, apart from this limited exception, no refund or transfer of course or examination fees will be permitted. If you are paying by direct debit, any outstanding instalments will continue to be payable. Associates A registration fee of 170 is payable by each person upon first becoming an Associate of the Irish Tax Institute. The Irish Tax Institute must receive applications to register as an Associate within 12 months of a student having passed Part 3. Any applications after that time will be considered by the Council. An annual subscription, currently 330, is payable by Associates. This subscription is payable upon first admission to Associateship and subsequently on 1 April in respect of each year in accordance with the subscription rate for the year. 28 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015
Student Services A dedicated team of coordinators are available to respond to your queries. Learning Management System Our Learning Management System (LMS) will allow students to track the progress of their studies, ensuring they are achieving key milestones during the programme. The LMS contains all information relevant to the course, including teaching plans, timetables, online lectures, additional course materials, self-assessment quizzes and important announcements. Student News Students will also receive Student News, a dedicated e-zine especially designed for AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) students. Containing important notifications, articles of interest and student information relating to courses and exams, this e-zine is vital reading for all students. Mentor Programme Our mentor programme is one of the most highly-valued supports available to our course participants. The one-on-one engagement with someone who has recently completed the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification will provide insights, guidance and support which will be a great help to you throughout your studies. Benefitting from their recent experience of completing the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification, mentors will be able to advise students on their approach to their studies. Significant levels of commitment are required to attain the AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification. Students who engage early and who work consistently to prepare for examinations have a far greater chance of exam success. Mentors support students in their studies and mentor them based on their experience. They guide students in their approach to study and encourage them to ensure that they are well-prepared for examinations. Mentors (as per Student Regulation 4) will be given your mobile telephone number and will contact you at intervals throughout your studies, should students wish to avail of this. Student Travelcards AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) students are eligible for Student Travel cards, Ireland s largest National student ID and discount card offering discounts with Irish Rail, Dublin Bus, DART, LUAS, Bus Éireann and other carriers as well as over 200 retailers. Tax Research Portal The Institute s research portal, available at www.taxinstitute.ie consists of a range of tax research resources including links to leading tax cases, fiscal policy and other international sources. AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015 29
Venues and Timetables Lecture Venues The AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) programme is run twice each year to offer even greater flexibility for students and their employer in planning study and exam leave. The winter course runs from October to March/April, while the summer course runs (in Dublin only) from April to August. Courses (subject to demand) are offered by the Irish Tax Institute in the following venues: Dublin: National College of Ireland, Mayor Street, Dublin 1 Cork: Limerick: Athlone: University College Cork, College Road, Cork Venue to be confirmed Venue to be confirmed Part 1 lectures will be run in Dublin only. These lectures will also be available online. Examination Venues Examinations will be held in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Athlone. All examination venues are subject to confirmation and demand. Please check our website for further details. The venue you have been assigned to is confirmed by email in an examination notification, which will be issued approximately two weeks before the Interim Examinations and Examinations at all Parts. 30 AITI Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) 2014/2015