International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) are widely recognised global accounting standards for governments and public sector organisations. By adopting IPSAS, public bodies strengthen transparency, improve financial accountability, and build trust in public finance reporting.
CIPFA’s globally recognised IPSAS qualifications are designed for finance professionals working with or within governments and public bodies.
What is IPSAS?
International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) are a set of financial reporting standards developed by the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB). Based on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), IPSAS helps public sector organisations improve the quality and consistency of financial statements.
Why Adopt IPSAS?
Adopting IPSAS supports:
- Greater financial transparency and data accuracy
- Improved public accountability and performance tracking
- Alignment of reporting standards across public sector bodies
- Stronger decision-making through credible, accrual-based reporting
Governments, state-owned enterprises, and transnational institutions worldwide are increasingly implementing IPSAS to strengthen trust and financial oversight.
Why Choose CIPFA for IPSAS Training?
CIPFA is the world’s only professional accountancy body exclusively focused on public financial management. As a founding member of IFAC and IASB, we’ve played a key role in shaping IPSAS and guiding governments through its implementation.
IPSAS Online Courses and Certifications
All courses are delivered 100% online, accessible globally, and designed for flexible, self-paced study.
Certificate in IPSAS (Cert IPSAS)
- Introductory level
- Approx. 80 hours of study
- Includes online final assessment
- Ideal for those new to IPSAS
- The course cost is £250
Buy the Certificate in IPSAS e-learning
Course content
The e-learning features eight interactive workbooks, covering:
- Introduction to IPSAS accruals accounting
- Accruals basis financial statements, an introduction
- Accounting for tangible and intangible assets
- Accounting for impairments
- Accounting for revenue and provisions
- Accounting for inventories, accounting policies and events
- The cash flow statement, an introduction
- IPSAS Financial Reporting Under the Cash Basis of Accounting, an introduction
Diploma in IPSAS (Dip IPSAS)
- Advanced technical programme
- Approx. 100 hours of study
- Online final assessment
- Eligible for CIPFA Affiliate membership
- The course cost is £575
Buy the Diploma in IPSAS e-learning
Course content
The e-learning features ten interactive workbooks, covering:
- The financial reporting context for public sector entities
- Accruals basis financial statements, advanced level
- Accounting for tangible and intangible assets, advanced level
- Accounting for impairments, advanced level
- Accounting for revenue and provisions, advanced level
- Accounting for inventories, accounting policies and events, advanced level
- Consolidation
- The cash flow statement, advanced level
- Reporting and disclosing financial performance and position
- IPSAS Financial Reporting Under the Cash Basis of Accounting, advanced level
Key Benefits of CIPFA’s IPSAS Programmes
- Learn from global leaders in public sector accounting
- Gain practical and technical IPSAS knowledge
- Study anywhere, anytime with flexible e-learning
- Receive a professional certificate or diploma upon completion
- Join a global community through CIPFA Affiliate membership
Discounted rates are available for:
- Training providers
- Bulk registrations for organisations
Contact us to discuss your group enrolment options.
Who Should Enrol?
These IPSAS qualifications are ideal for:
- Public sector accountants and auditors
- Finance professionals in government bodies
- Financial controllers, policy advisors, and programme managers
- Organisations transitioning to accrual-based reporting
Start Your IPSAS Training Today
Invest in your public finance career with a globally respected IPSAS qualification.
Contact us
Have questions or need help choosing a course?
Email: hello@cipfa.org
Telephone: +44 (0) 207 543 5600