9 common questions about tax education, answered by our Student Adviser

Choosing the right education pathway is crucial to your future and professional career, but finding the right option for you isn't always as easy as it sounds. We've gathered answers to some of the questions we hear most from aspiring tax professionals like you, to help you get started on your tax education pathway.

Whether you're wondering about program structure, career outcomes, or how our training will set you apart, you'll find clarity here. 

1. What are the entry requirements for The Tax Institute's subjects and programs? 

The minimum entry requirements for studying with TTIHE are:

• to hold a recognised undergraduate qualification, such as a Diploma, a Bachelor's degree, a Graduate Certificate or a Graduate Diploma, a Master's Degree or other tertiary qualification.
• Have a minimum of twelve (12) months of relevant business/ work experience (such as in tax, law, accounting, finance, or a combination thereof). Alternatively,  professional experience from other industries might be considered. 
• and satisfy the English language proficiency requirements. If your highest qualification was not taught or delivered in English, you must provide evidence of English language proficiency demonstrating an equivalent to an overall Academic IELTS score of 7, with a minimum score of 6.5 in speaking and 7 in both reading and writing (or an approved equivalent).

To enrol in an Award & Non-Award Program, you’ll need to meet the above TTIHE’s minimum entry requirements. It’s also good to know that some subjects (such as the CTA3 Advisory, for example) within a program have their own prerequisites. This means you might need to meet a few extra requirements before enrolling in certain subjects. 

Chelsea says: "Remember, each program is made up of a series of subjects, each of which each have their own entry requirements.
You'll have to make sure you meet the entry requirements for the next subject in your program to progress.
Keep this in mind, especially when choosing elective subjects!"

Here is a breakdown of the subject prerequisites when studying at TTIHE:

CTA1 Foundations

When enrolling into CTA1 Foundations (ATL001), you’ll need to meet the above minimum entry requirements. 

CTA2A Advanced

When enrolling into CTA2A Advanced (ATL003), you'll need to:

1. meet the above minimum entry requirements, and
2. have successfully completed CTA1 Foundations (ATL001) or equivalent.

CTA2B Advanced

When enrolling into CTA2B Advanced (ATL004), you'll need to:

1. meet the above minimum entry requirements, and
2. have successfully completed CTA1 Foundations (ATL001) and CTA2A Advanced (ATL003) or equivalent.

CTA3 Advisory

When enrolling into CTA3 Advisory, you'll need to:

1. meet the above minimum entry requirements, and
2. have a minimum of 36 months of relevant Australian tax or tax law experience, and
3. have successfully completed CTA1 Foundations (ATL001) and CTA2A Advanced (ATL003), CTA2B Advanced (ATL004) or equivalent, and
4. meet the eligibility requirements for The Tax Institute's Fellow membership.

CommLaw1 Australian Legal Systems

When enrolling into CommLaw1 (ATL002), you’ll need to meet the above minimum entry requirements. 

CommLaw2 Entities & Business Structures

When enrolling into CommLaw2 (ATL005), you’ll need to meet the above minimum entry requirements.

CommLaw3 Property Law

When enrolling into CommLaw3 (ATL006), you’ll need to meet the above minimum entry requirements. 

Corporate Tax

When enrolling into Corporate Tax (ATL009), you'll need to:

1. meet the above minimum entry requirements, and
2. have successfully completed CTA1 Foundations (ATL001) and CTA2A Advanced (ATL003), CTA2B Advanced (ATL004) or equivalent.

Tax for Trusts: from an SME perspective

When enrolling into Corporate Tax (ATL009), you'll need to:

1. meet the above minimum entry requirements, and
2. have successfully completed CTA1 Foundations (ATL001) and CTA2A Advanced (ATL003), CTA2B Advanced (ATL004) or equivalent.

Advanced Superannuation

When enrolling into Corporate Tax (ATL009), you'll need to:

1. meet the above minimum entry requirements, and
2. have successfully completed CTA1 Foundations (ATL001) and CTA2A Advanced (ATL003), CTA2B Advanced (ATL004) or equivalent.

TASA 2009 and The Code of Professional Conduct Course

There are no enforced prerequisites for enrolling in the TASA 2009 and the Code of Professional Conduct Course.

BAS Agent Exam

There are no enforced prerequisites for enrolling in the BAS Agent Exam.

For more information, please download our Info Pack or better yet get in touch today with our Student Adviser to discuss your options and eligibility on 1300 829 338. 

2. What is the Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) designation? 

The CTA program is the only recognised pathway to achieving an internationally recognised and respected CTA designation, which is synonymous with technical tax mastery. To earn the privilege of using the prestigious CTA post-nominal, you need to complete the CTA program in its entirety.

The CTA program explores key tax compliance principles, processes and requirements, while building the skills needed to manage complex compliance matters and provide tax advice across a range of tax specialisations. With its practical, real-world focus, the CTA program ensures you graduate as a highly skilled tax adviser, ready to deliver exceptional tax advice to clients.

Chelsea says, "As the capstone subject, CTA3 Advisory marks the final step towards attaining the coveted CTA designation and reaching the highest level of tax expertise. It allows experienced tax professionals to showcase their advisory skills through a realistic client‑based case study, culminating in a client-ready Letter of Advice."

3. How are The Tax Institute's subjects delivered? 

All TTIHE’s subjects and exams are delivered 100% online as they are designed to fit in with your busy schedule.

All ATL subjects are offered in either a 12-week Distance mode or a 6-week Intensive mode. CTA3 Advisory is only available in a 14-week Distance mode.

This enables you to begin your study when it suits you, and choose to enrol in the next subject of your program in the next study period, or take a break when life gets busy.

Chelsea says, "The level of support available is one of the most fantastic things about our education programs. If you're in need of a helping hand, it's only ever a phone call or email away."

For the latest enrolment and exam dates, please view the 2026 Study Timetable. 

4. How many intakes are there per year? 

All ATL subjects are offered in three (3) intakes per year, which we call Study Periods, but you might think of them as trimesters.  

The CTA3 Advisory subject is offered in two (2) Study Periods per calendar year.

Chelsea says, "Flexibility is great for busy working professionals, but I always recommend enrolling in the next subject in a program in the next study period if you can. It keeps the momentum going and makes it easier to build on the knowledge you're developing, so it makes more of an impact on your professional practice."

For the latest intake dates, please view the 2026 Study Timetable. 

5. What is the difference between Distance and Intensive Mode? 

The difference between these two modes is the duration over which you can study your selected subject. Both offer the same quality content, learning materials, assessments, and qualification on completion. Here's the breakdown:

Distance learning mode

• 12 weeks in duration 
• recommended minimum 10 hours of study per week
• the workload is spread out, making it significantly easier to maintain steady progress without disrupting your professional or personal life
• great if you're balancing work, family, or other commitments
• more time to absorb, practice, reflect, and pace yourself through the material.

Intensive learning mode

• 6 weeks in duration
• recommended minimum 20 hours of study per week
• involves self-directed learning utilising online learning assets and interactive sessions
• ideal if you are working part-time or are ready to fully immerse yourself
• fast-paced, intense and requires serious dedication – think of it as a deep dive, not a sprint

So which one is better for you? It comes down to how many hours you can dedicate per week while maintaining a high quality or learning, work and life.

Chelsea says, "I always recommend Distance mode as it gives you the flexibility and time to master complex tax concepts at a steady pace, making it easier to balance study with work while building stronger, longer‑lasting expertise."

6. Do you offer subject exemptions or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for subjects completed through other institutions? 

Yes. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available if you have successfully completed equivalent Australian tax subjects through recognised higher‑education institution or eligible professional bodies, such as CA ANZ or CPA Australia.

If you haven’t completed equivalent Australian tax subjects but have extensive experience in Australian taxation, your RPL application will still be considered. 

Chelsea says, "If you’d like to check your eligibility for exemptions, the best approach is to contact me directly so we can discuss your circumstances. Everyone’s situation is different, and the most accurate guidance comes from a personal conversation."

If you’d like to find out if you are eligible for RPLs or exemptions, please email your current CV along with all official academic transcripts to our Student Adviser for assessment at ttiadvice@taxinstitute.com.au.

7. I live overseas, can I still study with TTI outside of Australia? 

Absolutely! We proudly welcome students from all over the world. Whether you’re an Australian abroad, preparing to migrate to Australia, advising clients on Australian tax matters, or ready to launch your tax career, we’re here to walk alongside you throughout your tax education journey.

Chelsea says, "Because all our learning is facilitated online, it's available to anyone learning from outside Australia and gain world‑class tax expertise, global recognition, and the confidence to stand out wherever your career takes you."

8. How much does it cost? 

When you study with us, either as a single subject or as part of a program of learning, you pay an enrolment fee per individual subject when you enrol. That means no lump sum payment at the beginning of the year, meaning you only pay for each subject when you're ready to enrol.

Each ATL subject attracts an enrolment fee of $2,095 (GST exempt) for the Distance learning mode. CTA3 Advisory is a bit different and has an enrolment fee of $2,595 (inclusive of GST).

Some other fees may apply for things like deferring or transferring subjects. Check our Schedule of Fees for the full details. 

9. When can I start? 

There's no better time than right now! You can check out our timetable for the next enrolment deadline and embark on your tax education journey today. 

Chelsea says, "Every day that passes is time your skills, confidence, and professional momentum could already be growing, so get started today!"

Get in touch today to discuss your options and eligibility. Simply call 1300 829 338 or submit an enquiry online to discuss your individual situation.