If you’re planning to become a certified accountant in Nigeria, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) is one of the most recognized professional bodies to help you achieve that goal.
Whether you’re a secondary school graduate, an undergraduate, or a working professional, ICAN offers a structured pathway to becoming a chartered accountant.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything about ICAN admission requirements, registration fees, stages of the exam, and the qualifications you need to get started.
What is ICAN?
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria is a professional accounting body established to regulate and develop the accounting profession in Nigeria. Becoming an ICAN member gives you credibility, career opportunities, and global recognition in finance and accounting.
Who Can Apply for ICAN?
ICAN is quite flexible when it comes to entry requirements. You can apply if you fall into any of these categories:
- Secondary school leavers
- OND/NCE holders
- University graduates (any discipline)
- Professionals looking to switch to accounting
However, your qualification will determine the stage you start from.
ICAN Admission Requirements
To register for ICAN, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Educational Qualification
You need at least one of the following:
- Five (5) credits in West African Examinations Council, National Examinations Council, or NABTEB, including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- A degree (BSc/HND) from a recognized institution
- OND or NCE certificate
2. Required Documents
During registration, you will typically provide:
- Passport photograph
- Valid ID (National ID, Voter’s Card, or International Passport)
- Academic certificates
- Birth certificate
ICAN Registration Fees (2026 Updated Estimate)
While fees may change slightly, here’s a general breakdown:
1. Registration Fee
- Professional student registration: ₦7,000 – ₦10,000
2. Annual Subscription
- Students: Around ₦2,000 – ₦4,000
3. Examination Fees
These vary by stage:
- ATS (Accounting Technician Scheme): ₦20,000 – ₦30,000 per diet
- Professional Level:
- Foundation: ₦30,000 – ₦40,000
- Skills: ₦35,000 – ₦50,000
- Professional: ₦40,000 – ₦60,000
4. Induction & Membership Fees
- Induction: ₦30,000+
- Membership: ₦50,000+
Note: Fees are subject to periodic review by ICAN.
ICAN Stages and Exam Structure
ICAN has two main pathways:
1. ATS (Accounting Technician Scheme)
This is ideal for beginners without a university degree.
ATS Levels:
- ATS I
- ATS II
- ATS III
After completing ATS, you earn the ATS certification and can proceed to the professional level.
2. ICAN Professional Exams
This is the main route to becoming a chartered accountant.
Stage 1: Foundation Level
Covers basic accounting knowledge:
- Accounting
- Economics
- Business Law
- Quantitative Techniques
Stage 2: Skills Level
Builds technical competence:
- Financial Reporting
- Audit and Assurance
- Taxation
- Performance Management
Stage 3: Professional Level
Focuses on advanced knowledge and strategy:
- Corporate Reporting
- Strategic Financial Management
- Advanced Audit
- Case Study
ICAN Exemptions (Who Can Skip Some Stages?)
Depending on your qualification, you may not need to start from scratch.
You may get exemptions if you have:
- A degree in Accounting
- HND in Accounting
- ATS certification
- Recognized international accounting qualifications
For example, accounting graduates may skip the Foundation level and start from the Skills level.
How to Register for ICAN
Follow these simple steps:
- Visit the official ICAN website
- Create a student account
- Fill in your personal and academic details
- Upload required documents
- Pay the registration fee
- Submit and print your application
Once approved, you can begin preparing for exams.
Duration of ICAN Program
The duration depends on your entry level:
- ATS route: 1 – 2 years
- Professional route: 2 – 4 years
With dedication, some candidates complete the program faster.
Benefits of Becoming ICAN Certified
- Professional recognition in Nigeria and beyond
- Higher earning potential
- Career opportunities in finance, banking, and auditing
- Ability to work independently as an accountant
Many ICAN members work in top organizations like Deloitte, KPMG, and PwC.
Conclusion
Pursuing certification with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria is a smart move if you want a solid career in accounting and finance. The requirements are flexible, the stages are well-structured, and the rewards are worth the effort.
Whether you’re just starting out or already have a degree, ICAN provides a clear path to becoming a respected professional. The key is consistency, proper preparation, and understanding the stage that best fits your qualification.
