How to Apply for a Training Contract (Private & Public)

Embarking on a training contract is a key step toward becoming a Chartered Accountant. In Zimbabwe, training contracts can be pursued in two environments:

Training Inside Public Practice (TIPP)

This is a contract with an auditing/accounting firm (often referred to as “private” accounting firms, even though the term is public practice). These include audit firms that train articled clerks. Typically 3 years if you have an accounting degree, or 5 years if entering with A-Levels.

Training Outside Public Practice (TOPP)

This is a contract with an accredited organization in commerce, industry, or the public sector (corporations, banks, government, or parastatals). The duration is similar to TIPP.

1. Learn About Training Contracts and Options

Read up on the ICAZ Training Programme requirements. ICAZ provides information for prospective trainees on its website. The Student tab (often under “Students” on the ICAZ site) explains TIPP vs TOPP and what a training contract entails. In summary:

• A TIPP contract is typically 3 years (if you have an accounting degree) or 5 years (if entering with A-Levels), served at an Accredited Training Office in public practice (audit firm).
• A TOPP contract is of similar duration but served at an accredited company or public sector institution.
• All training offices, whether audit firms or companies, must be accredited by ICAZ and follow the Training Regulations (which govern your work experience and mentorship).

2. Find Accredited Training Offices (Firms/Organizations)

Identify where you can train. ICAZ maintains a list of Accredited Training Offices (ATOs) – these are the only organizations where you can do an official training contract. The list includes audit firms, corporations, government departments, etc., categorized by TIPP or TOPP accreditation.

1. To find the list: Visit the ICAZ website and look for “Accredited Training Offices” under the Students Tab. You may find a page listing names of approved firms and companies, or a PDF download with all ATOs. For example, ICAZ’s list includes firms like Axcentium, Ernst & Young, KPMG, Vista, Grant Thornton, BDO, and others for TIPP, as well as companies like CBZ Bank, Delta Corporation, Econet Wireless, and many more for TOPP. Each entry often indicates whether it’s TIPP or TOPP. Ensure the place you apply is on this list – “accredited organisation approved to train Chartered Accountants”.
2. Get contact information: On that list or page, there may be contact emails or phone numbers for the training offices. If not, use the organization’s website or professional networking to find out their recruitment contacts.

3. Apply to Training Offices

Applying is like job hunting. ICAZ does not place students centrally, so approach employers directly.

• Timing: Audit firms often recruit a year in advance; TOPP timing varies.
• Prepare Your CV: Highlight education and experience.
• Cover Letter: Explain why you want to train with them and your CA(Z) goals.
• Submit Applications: Use firm career pages or email HR directly. Apply to multiple places.
• Interviews/Assessment: Prepare for interviews and tests; research typical questions.

4. Secure a Training Contract Offer

If successful, you’ll get a contract offer outlining terms (start date, duration, conditions). Review and sign it to enter into a training contract.

5. Register the Training Contract with ICAZ

Once you have a signed training contract with an accredited office, you must register this contract with ICAZ to get credit for your training period. Registration is typically done online through the ICAZ portal:

1. The training officer or HR of your firm may assist with this process, but you as the trainee also have to confirm it on the ICAZ website.
2. Login to ICAZ: Use your ICAZ account (if you created one as a student or create one now – see “Create a New Account” article if you haven’t).
3. Navigate to the Training or Student section of the portal. There is usually an option like “Register Training Contract” or “Join Now – Training Contract”. For instance, ICAZ’s site has a Join Now – Training Contract page where you log in and then enter personal info and training office details.
4. Complete Contract Registration Form: You’ll provide details such as: training office name (the system might list the accredited offices to select), contract start date (and expected end date), your designated training officer’s name, and maybe your university/academic info. Fill all required fields.
5. Submit/Pay Fees: There might be a nominal registration fee for the training contract registration (some training offices cover this cost for you). Provide any necessary information and finalize the submission. After this, ICAZ’s Education department will have your training record on file.

6. During the Training Contract

• Work required hours and gain competencies.
• Complete ICAM or ZCTA courses and ICAZ ITC/APC exams.
• Meet with Registered Assessors at your training office who will sign off your progress.

Every training office must have at least one ICAZ-certified assessor to maintain accreditation.

7. After the Training Contract

Upon completing the contract and passing exams, you’ll receive a discharge certificate. Then, apply for ICAZ membership and become a qualified Chartered Accountant.

Additional Advice

• Attend ICAZ events and career fairs to find opportunities if not yet employed by an accredited office.
• Consider differences between TIPP (audit) and TOPP (industry/public sector) to align with your career goals.
• Maintain good communication with your training office and ICAZ training officer for support and queries.
• Keep all training records and correspondence organized and backed up for your ICAZ registration process.

For detailed info, visit www.icaz.org.zw or contact the education@icaz.org.zw