CPA Kenya: levels, exams and how long it takes

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) qualification, examined by KASNEB, is the qualification most Kenyan employers ask for in accounting, audit, tax and finance jobs. This guide explains how it is structured and how to plan it alongside work or university.

Syllabuses, fees and exam dates are set by KASNEB and change. Confirm the current details on kasneb.or.ke before you register or book an exam.

What is CPA Kenya?

CPA is a professional accounting qualification run by KASNEB, the Kenyan examinations body for accountancy and related professions. Passing CPA, together with the required experience, is the main route to membership of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), which is what lets you call yourself a CPA professionally.

What are the CPA levels?

The CPA course is examined at three levels: Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced. Each level has several papers covering areas such as financial accounting, management accounting, tax, audit, law, financial management and, in the reviewed syllabus, data analytics. The Advanced level also includes ethics and practical requirements. KASNEB reviewed the CPA syllabus in 2024, so make sure your study materials match the current version.

How long does CPA take?

KASNEB says each level takes about a year on average, with an extra year advised for practical experience or an internship. Many students take longer because they study while working or at university. Plan the papers you sit each sitting based on how much time you can really give.

What changed in the 2026 exams?

From the April 2026 sitting, KASNEB's professional level exam papers, including CPA, consist of five compulsory questions, with no optional questions. Prepare for every topic in each paper rather than choosing topics to skip.

Can you do CPA without a degree?

Yes. You can register for CPA with the minimum entry qualification KASNEB sets, such as a qualifying KCSE grade or a relevant diploma, and some degree holders are exempted from certain papers. Check KASNEB's current entry requirements and exemptions for your qualifications.

How do you pass CPA while working?

• Sit fewer papers per sitting and pass them, rather than many and repeat them.
• Study a little every day; cramming does not work for papers with compulsory questions.
• Practise past papers under timed conditions.
• Choose work that uses what you study, such as accounts, tax or audit, so the two support each other.

What comes after CPA?

Apply for ICPAK membership once you meet its requirements. Read our guide to ICPAK membership and the practising certificate. Then put "CPA (K)" and your ICPAK number near the top of your CV; our guide to writing an accountant CV shows how. Browse accounting jobs in Kenya.