BOA Accreditation: Complete Guide to Public Practice in the Philippines

Passing the CPA board exam is a significant milestone, but it is only the beginning for those who aspire to practice public accountancy. To sign audit reports, express opinions on financial statements, or offer attestation services, CPAs in the Philippines must obtain accreditation from the Board of Accountancy (BOA). This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about BOA accreditation for public practice.

What is BOA Accreditation and Why It Matters

BOA accreditation is the official authorization granted by the Board of Accountancy that allows licensed CPAs to engage in public practice. Under RA 9298 (Philippine Accountancy Act of 2004), only BOA-accredited CPAs and CPA firms can:

• Sign audit reports and express opinions on financial statements
• Perform external audit engagements
• Provide attestation services to the public
• Audit SEC-registered companies, banks, and other regulated entities
• Represent themselves as practicing public accountants

Why Accreditation is Non-Negotiable

Without BOA accreditation, a CPA cannot legally offer audit and assurance services to the public, regardless of experience or expertise. Companies that need audited financial statements for SEC, BIR, or bank loan requirements must engage only BOA-accredited practitioners. Violating this requirement exposes both the CPA and the client to legal consequences.

The Difference from PRC License

Your PRC license (Certificate of Registration) proves you passed the CPA board exam and are a licensed accountant. BOA accreditation, on the other hand, specifically authorizes you to practice public accountancy. Think of it this way: the PRC license is the foundation, while BOA accreditation is the permit to build.

The 3-Year Meaningful Experience Requirement

Before applying for BOA accreditation, CPAs must complete a mandatory experience period. Per BOA regulations and subsequent amendments, applicants must have:

At least three (3) years of meaningful experience gained after passing the CPA board exam in any of the following areas:

What Counts as "Meaningful Experience"

Not all accounting work qualifies as meaningful experience. The BOA evaluates whether your work involved substantial exercise of professional judgment in:

• Financial statement preparation and analysis
• Application of accounting standards (PFRS/PAS)
• Internal control evaluation
• Audit procedures and methodology
• Tax compliance and planning
• Management advisory services

Experience Calculation Guide

Important: Experience gained before passing the CPA board exam does not count toward the 3-year requirement. The clock starts only after you become a licensed CPA.

Types of BOA Accreditation

The BOA issues different types of accreditation depending on how you intend to practice:

Comparison of Accreditation Types

1. Individual CPA in Public Practice

This accreditation is for CPAs who wish to:

• Practice as sole proprietors
• Serve as signing partners in CPA firms
• Offer audit and assurance services independently

Individual accreditation is the foundation. Even if you join a partnership, you need personal accreditation before the firm can be accredited.

2. Partnership/Firm Accreditation

CPA firms organized as partnerships or professional corporations must obtain separate firm accreditation. Requirements include:

• All partners must be individually BOA-accredited
• The firm must have adequate professional liability insurance
• Proper registration with SEC, BIR, and LGU
• Compliance with firm practice standards

3. Quality Assurance Review (QAR) Requirements

Per SEC Memorandum Circular and BOA regulations, CPA firms auditing certain entities must undergo Quality Assurance Review:

Entities Requiring QAR-Enrolled Auditors:

• SEC Category A companies (publicly listed, large enterprises)
• Banks and financial institutions supervised by BSP
• Insurance companies supervised by Insurance Commission
• Pre-need companies
• Other entities as mandated by regulators

The QAR process involves periodic review of the firm's audit methodology, working papers, and compliance with Philippine Standards on Auditing (PSA).

Documentary Requirements for Accreditation

Individual CPA Accreditation

Prepare the following documents for your application:

Partnership/Firm Accreditation

In addition to individual partner accreditations, firms must submit:

QAR Enrollment

For firms seeking QAR enrollment:

• Letter of intent to enroll in QAR
• Firm's quality control policies and procedures manual
• List of SEC Category A clients (if any)
• Training records for audit staff
• Payment of QAR review fees

Step-by-Step Application Process

For Individual CPA Accreditation

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

• Confirm you have completed 3 years of meaningful experience
• Ensure your CPD units are complete and updated
• Obtain Certificate of Good Standing from PICPA

Step 2: Gather Documents

• Collect all documentary requirements listed above
• Have your Statement of Experience notarized
• Ensure all documents are current (within validity periods)

Step 3: File Application

• Submit application to the BOA through PRC Central Office or designated regional offices
• Pay the accreditation fee at the cashier
• Obtain official receipt and claim stub

Step 4: Wait for Processing

• BOA reviews application and verifies documents
• Additional documents may be requested
• Background verification may be conducted

Step 5: Release of Accreditation

• Upon approval, BOA issues the Certificate of Accreditation
• Your name is included in the Registry of Accredited CPAs
• Accreditation is valid for 3 years from date of issue

For Partnership/Firm Accreditation

The process is similar but requires:

1. All partners to obtain individual accreditation first
2. Submission of partnership/corporate documents
3. Verification of firm's physical office and resources
4. Compliance review of quality control policies

Fees and Processing Time

Accreditation Fees (per BOA Resolution No. 92, Series of 2016)

Note: Fees shown are based on BOA Res. 92-2016 and may have been updated. Always verify current rates with BOA/PRC before applying.

Processing Timeline

Note: These timelines are estimates based on typical PRC processing experience. BOA does not publish an official processing timeline.

Processing may take longer if:

• Documents are incomplete or require clarification
• Additional verification is needed
• Application volume is high (typically after board exam results)

CPD Requirements for Accredited CPAs

BOA-accredited CPAs must maintain active CPD compliance throughout their accreditation period.

CPD Unit Requirements

Per RA 10912 (CPD Act of 2016) and BOA Resolution No. 53, Series of 2022:

Relevant CPD Activities for Public Practice

For BOA-accredited CPAs, priority should be given to:

• Updates on Philippine Standards on Auditing (PSA)
• Financial reporting standards (PFRS/PAS) updates
• Tax law updates and regulations
• Quality control and audit methodology
• Ethics and professional responsibilities
• Anti-money laundering compliance
• Industry-specific regulations (banking, SEC, insurance)

Maintaining CPD Records

• Keep certificates of attendance for all CPD activities
• Register CPD units with PRC through accredited providers
• Monitor compliance through PRC Online Services
• Plan CPD activities early to avoid last-minute cramming

Renewal Process

BOA accreditation must be renewed every 3 years before expiration.

Renewal Requirements

When to Renew

• Ideal: 60-90 days before expiration
• Deadline: Before the expiration date
• Late renewal: Subject to penalties and may require reapplication

Consequences of Expired Accreditation

If your accreditation expires:

• You cannot sign audit reports or offer public practice services
• Ongoing engagements may be affected
• Late renewal fees apply
• Prolonged expiration may require full reapplication

Violations and Penalties

The BOA takes accreditation violations seriously. Common violations and their consequences include:

Common Violations

Penalty Ranges

Per RA 9298:

• Suspension or revocation of registration: At the discretion of the BOA under Section 23, based on the gravity of the offense
• Fines: Not less than PHP 50,000 upon conviction (Section 36)
• Imprisonment: Not exceeding two (2) years, or both fine and imprisonment, at the discretion of the court (Section 36)
• Criminal prosecution: For practicing without license/accreditation or other violations of the Act

Important: Violations are recorded and may affect future applications, including renewal and reciprocity with foreign accountancy bodies.

Career Implications of BOA Accreditation

Expanded Career Opportunities

With BOA accreditation, you can:

Building Your Practice

After obtaining accreditation, consider:

1. Niche specialization: Focus on specific industries (real estate, manufacturing, BPO)
2. Geographic focus: Build reputation in specific localities
3. Service bundling: Combine audit with tax and advisory
4. Network building: PICPA involvement, referral relationships
5. Technology adoption: Cloud accounting, audit software

Long-term Professional Standing

BOA accreditation demonstrates:

• Commitment to public practice
• Meeting of rigorous experience standards
• Ongoing professional development
• Accountability to regulatory oversight

This standing enhances credibility with clients, banks, regulators, and the business community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for BOA accreditation while still employed in an audit firm? Yes, you can apply while employed. Many CPAs obtain accreditation while working as seniors or managers before transitioning to their own practice.

Does experience in a non-audit role (e.g., tax or advisory) count? Yes, as long as it involves substantial professional judgment and accounting/auditing skills. Document your experience thoroughly.

What if my employer cannot provide a Certificate of Employment? If the company has closed, provide alternative documentation such as SSS contributions, BIR records, or notarized affidavits from colleagues.

Is PICPA membership required for accreditation? While not strictly mandatory, you need a Certificate of Good Standing from the Accredited Professional Organization (APO), which is PICPA for CPAs.

Your Path to Public Practice

BOA accreditation is the gateway to building a career in public practice. Whether you aspire to join a prestigious audit firm as a partner, start your own practice, or serve as external auditor for major corporations, accreditation is an essential credential.

Start planning early by gaining meaningful experience, tracking your CPD units, and understanding the requirements. The 3-year journey to accreditation is also a period of professional growth that prepares you for the responsibilities of public practice.

For those still preparing for the CPA board exam, focus on building a strong foundation. Our platform provides AI-powered tutoring, comprehensive practice exams, and study tools to help you pass the board exam - the first step toward BOA accreditation and public practice.

Start your free trial and take the first step toward your career in public accountancy.

Sources

• RA 9298 - Philippine Accountancy Act of 2004 - Legal basis for BOA accreditation
• BOA Resolution No. 53, Series of 2022 - CPD requirements for accountancy profession
• BOA Resolution No. 30, Series of 2022 - CPA board exam structure and regulations
• RA 10912 - CPD Act of 2016 - Continuing professional development requirements
• BOA Resolution No. 92, Series of 2016 - Accreditation fee schedule
• PRC - Professional Regulation Commission - Registration and accreditation procedures
• PICPA - Philippine Institute of CPAs - Professional organization requirements
• SEC - Securities and Exchange Commission - QAR and auditor accreditation for listed companies

Last updated: February 2026. Requirements and fees are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with BOA/PRC before applying.