What evidence makes CPD 'verifiable'?
Verifiable means you can produce documented proof of the learning if audited. Acceptable evidence varies by body but typically includes: certificates of completion from accredited online courses, attendance records from webinars and conferences (often emailed automatically), course outlines paired with reflection notes, formal in-house training records signed by a manager, or assessment outcomes (for example, passing a CPD-tagged assessment). Self-study and informal reading don't count as verifiable unless paired with a formal reflective summary articulating what you learned and how it changes your practice.
What topics should I prioritise in year one?
For newly qualified accountants, the highest-value year-one CPD topics tend to be: (1) practical applications of the technical knowledge you just learned — many newly qualified members find a gap between exam-level understanding and workplace application; (2) emerging areas like AI in accounting, data analytics, sustainability reporting (ISSB / CSRD), and MiCA crypto regulations; (3) soft skills — communication, presenting financial information, business partnering; (4) ethics — most bodies require a minimum number of ethics CPD hours and starting with this early establishes a good habit.
How do I track CPD efficiently from year one?
Set up your CPD log in the first month of your CPD year. Most bodies provide an online tracker (ACCA's My CPD, ICAEW Online Records). Add each activity as you complete it — don't try to remember at year-end. Record: date, topic, hours, body category (technical / ethics / professional skills), evidence file location. Save evidence files in a single cloud folder (Google Drive or OneDrive) with date-prefixed filenames. This approach takes 5 minutes per activity but saves hours if you're audited or if you change employers mid-year.
Frequently asked
Does on-the-job learning count as verifiable CPD?
Yes, but only if formally documented. A complex audit engagement, a first-time tax return on a new entity type, or implementing a new system can all count if your line manager signs off a formal reflection summary describing what you learned. Without the formal sign-off, work experience usually counts as non-verifiable CPD only.
Can I count my exam-prep study after qualifying?
No — CPD starts after you qualify. Pre-qualification study counts toward initial qualification, not CPD. Once you're a member, the CPD year typically begins on your membership renewal date (1 January for ACCA, 1 November for ICAEW, etc.).
What if I miss CPD in my first year?
Most bodies have a recovery path. ACCA, for example, allows you to make up missed CPD in the following year (sometimes at a 1.5× multiplier). Communicate proactively with your body — they're generally understanding if you contact them before year-end. Bigger problems arise from missing CPD silently and being audited.
Is there CPD specifically for newly qualified members?
Yes. Most bodies offer newly-qualified CPD packs and pathways: ICAEW's First Five Years programme, ACCA's My Career Hub for newly qualified members, Chartered Accountants Ireland's First Year Member resources. These are usually free or discounted for members and explicitly designed to fit the post-qualification learning curve.