CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT (CPA) PROGRAM
Verify a CPA Certificate
Confirm the authenticity and status of a CPA Somaliland certificate.
Apply for a Practicing Certificate
Submit your application to obtain a CPA Somaliland practicing license.
JOINT CPA PROGRAM
The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Somaliland (ICPAS), in partnership with the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR), has launched a joint CPA program to offer internationally recognized qualifications to accounting professionals in Somaliland. Through this collaboration, students can pursue the CPA Rwanda certification and CPA Somaliland simultaneously, ensuring access to globally relevant credentials. Formalized by a Memorandum of Understanding signed on February 28, 2025, the partnership focuses on professional development, capacity building, and aligning ICPAS with international standards.
Upon successful completion of the program, candidates will receive both the CPA Somaliland and CPA Rwanda qualifications. These dual certifications enhance recognition of professional accountants in Somaliland and regional mobility.

ABOUT THE JOINT CPA PROGRAM
Eligibility/ Entry Requirements
Candidates eligible for the joint CPA program under the collaboration with ICPAR must hold at least one of the following qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, Banking, or a related field; OR
- A Certified Accounting and Tax Technician (CATT) qualification issued by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Somaliland (ICPAS), or a technician-level qualification from another recognized professional body (e.g., ACCA’s CAT program); OR
- A diploma in Accounting or an Accounting certificate from a recognized university; OR
- Enrollment in the third year of a recognized university program specializing in Accounting or Business; OR
- Any other certificate or diploma as may be approved by ICPAR in collaboration with ICPAS.
CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
To qualify for CPA Somaliland and CPA Rwanda:
- Complete and pass all papers across all levels (administered by ICPAR Rwanda).
- You must demonstrate at least 2 years of practical experience
Exemptions
Depending on your qualifications and fulfillment of the exemption criteria, you may be exempted from certain papers. Exemptions are granted upon formal request to registered students who hold degrees, certificates, or diplomas recognized by ICPAR in collaboration with ICPAS, and are awarded on a paper-by-paper basis.

Regulatory and oversight body for the accounting profession in Somaliland.

Accredited examining body, responsible for curriculum and assessments.