IFAC Releases 2026 Handbook of International Education Standards

Posted 19 January 2026 Written by Acts Online
Category Financial and Accounting

Brought to you by SA Accounting Academy: The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) has released the 2026 edition of the Handbook of International Education Standards (IES), which replaces the 2019 edition and introduces revised standards effective from 1 July 2026.

In terms of the global regulatory framework for accountancy education, the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) has published the 2026 Handbook of International Education Standards. This comprehensive volume compiles the full suite of International Education Standards (IES) 1–8, the supporting Framework, and the Glossary of Terms.

The 2026 Handbook incorporates all recently revised and updated standards designed to support the consistent adoption and implementation of principles that underpin high-quality accountancy education. These standards establish the requirements for:

  • Entry requirements to professional accounting education programs;
  • Initial Professional Development (IPD) regarding technical competence, professional skills, and professional values, ethics, and attitudes;
  • Practical experience and the assessment of professional competence;
  • Continuing Professional Development (CPD); and
  • Competence requirements for engagement partners responsible for audits of financial statements.

The revised standards contained within this handbook become effective on 1 July 2026. Professionals and educational institutions are encouraged to begin the transition from the 2019 edition to ensure compliance with the updated competency and development frameworks by the effective date.

Click here to download the IFAC 2026 Handbook of International Education Standards.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: You must ensure that your professional development activities and record-keeping align with the updated IES 7 (Continuing Professional Development) requirements before the July 2026 implementation date.
  • For your business: Firms providing training for candidate accountants must update their internal curricula and assessment protocols to reflect the revised technical and professional skill requirements set out in IES 2 through IES 6.
  • For your clients: While there is no direct filing requirement for clients, they will benefit from the enhanced quality control and competency standards mandated for audit engagement partners under IES 8.

Originally published at https://accountingacademy.co.za/news/read/ifac-2026-edition-of-the-handbook-of-international-education-standards

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