How to Become a Registered Auditor (RA) in South Africa

Becoming a Registered Auditor (RA) is a rewarding career path, offering opportunities to uphold financial transparency and support economic integrity. This guide outlines the steps to becoming an RA and explores what life looks like after achieving this qualification, including career opportunities and professional responsibilities.

Steps to Becoming a Registered Auditor

1. Qualify as a Chartered Accountant CA(SA)

Becoming an RA begins with qualifying as a Chartered Accountant. This involves:

• Completing a SAICA-accredited academic program.
• Completing a SAICA training contract to gain practical experience.
• Passing the Initial Test of Competence (ITC) and Assessment of Professional Competence (APC).

2. Complete the Audit Development Programme (ADP)

After qualifying as a CA(SA), you must complete the IRBA’s Audit Development Programme (ADP). This 18-month program enhances your auditing skills by providing senior-level practical experience. You will compile a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your technical and ethical competencies.

3. Register with IRBA

Once you’ve completed the ADP and met all competency requirements, you can register with the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA). This designation authorizes you to conduct statutory audits in South Africa.

Life After Becoming a Registered Auditor

1. Upholding Professional Standards

As an RA, your work is regulated by the IRBA and must adhere to:

• Auditing Standards: Including International Standards on Auditing (ISAs).
• Ethical Codes: IRBA’s Code of Professional Conduct emphasizes independence, integrity, and objectivity.
• Continuous Professional Development (CPD): Ongoing education is essential to maintain your registration and stay updated on industry changes.

Registered Auditors are expected to demonstrate impartiality, especially when performing independent financial audits. This impartiality builds trust in the financial statements of organizations and ensures compliance with regulatory frameworks.

2. Career Opportunities

Becoming an RA opens doors to diverse career paths, including:

• Independent Practice: Establish your own auditing firm to serve clients across various industries.
• Corporate Sector: Work as an internal auditor or in governance and risk management roles.
• Public Sector: Conduct audits for government departments or public entities.
• Consulting: Offer specialized advice in areas such as fraud detection, compliance, and forensic auditing.
• Academic Roles: Teach aspiring auditors and accountants, contributing to the profession’s future.

RAs are in demand in industries such as banking, insurance, and mining, where compliance and transparency are critical.

3. Professional Responsibilities

As an RA, you play a crucial role in the financial ecosystem. Your responsibilities include:

• Ensuring the accuracy and fairness of financial statements.
• Detecting and reporting irregularities, such as fraud or mismanagement.
• Advising organizations on improving internal controls and processes.

Your work directly contributes to the credibility of financial information, fostering confidence among investors, regulators, and the public.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Registered Auditor is a prestigious achievement that comes with significant responsibilities and opportunities. As an RA, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards, commit to lifelong learning, and contribute to the financial integrity of organizations and industries.

For more information on the journey to becoming an RA or exploring opportunities in this field, visit the IRBA website.