The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) and Ernst & Young LLP (EY Singapore) have signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding to launch the “EY x ISCA SCAQ Career Mobility Programme”. Announced on 19 August 2025, this initiative seeks to develop and globally position accounting talents from Southeast Asia, particularly from Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, amidst a growing demand for accountants in the region.
The programme arrives at a crucial moment for the accounting profession, which is experiencing growth driven by digital transformation and sustainability reporting. However, the industry faces a talent shortage, with Singapore alone needing an additional 6,000 to 7,000 accountants by 2025. The programme promotes the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification (SCAQ) as a globally recognised pathway, offering university students a chance to gain international career opportunities.
ISCA President Teo Ser Luck highlighted the importance of talent mobility in adapting to industry changes, stating, “Through this partnership with EY, we are building a strong regional pipeline of future-ready Chartered Accountants.”
The collaboration will involve promoting the SCAQ among university students, providing training, and offering cross-cultural work experiences in Singapore. EY Singapore will also guarantee interview opportunities for students completing the SCAQ Foundation Programme, with successful candidates joining EY as full-time graduates.
EY’s Liew Nam Soon emphasised the programme’s role in nurturing talent, noting EY’s investment of $3.7 million (S$5 million) over five years to support local professionals pursuing the SCAQ. With enrolment in the SCAQ rising by 47% in 2024, ISCA aims to exceed 7,000 candidates in 2025, enhancing cross-border exposure and career prospects for aspiring accountants.
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