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Principles of Taxation

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Here are some resources you will find useful if you are studying for the Principles of Taxation exam.

Exam overview

The Principles of Taxation exam has 42 questions. 40 questions (80% of the overall marks) are presented in the form of multiple-choice, multi-part multiple-choice, multiple-response or numeric entry. Two questions are scenario-based (worth 20% of the overall marks, 10% each), each question will cover a single syllabus area: income tax and NIC, and corporation tax.

Optional Survey 

Certificate Level exams scheduled from after 1 March 2026 will now include an additional five minutes within the overall 'Appointment Length' in the exam booking confirmation e-mails for an optional survey.  Please note that this does not form part of the exam time, the survey and separate five minute timer will only start once the exam has ended. Confirmation of the exam length, without the survey and any access arrangements, is shown at the beginning of each exam.

Exam preparation

Syllabus

Errata sheet

Sample assessments

The Principles of Taxation sample exam has been provided to demonstrate the format of the objective test questions that you can expect within the exam - please note this is not intended for use as a mock exam.

Student Insights

Tax grids

Exam study support

Inheritance Tax and Stamp Duty (Certificate Level)  If you have passed the Certificate Level Principles of Taxation exam and will be sitting the Professional Level Tax Compliance and Planning exam, you should review the supplementary content. This supplement includes two chapters – Inheritance Tax and Stamp Duty – taken from the Certificate Level Tax Fundamentals materials to ensure that you are prepared for the Tax Compliance and Planning Exam.
Principles of Taxation: your guide to common mistakes - webinar  In this webinar Kaplan tutor, Nikkie Floater, discusses common mistakes students can make during the exam and how to avoid them.
Introduction to the Principles of Taxation exam In this guide we will cover how to prepare to retake the Principles of Taxation exams what to expect when sitting the exam and how to prepare for your retake.
Retaking the Principles of Taxation exam In this guide we will cover how to prepare to retake the Principles of Taxation exams including reviewing what went wrong and how to prepare for your retake.
Tips for success  In this guide we introduce some tips for success to help you master the Principles of Taxation exam.
Library & Information Service We offer a range of services and resources to support chartered accountants in all aspects of their work. The Library is located at Chartered Accountants' Hall, but you don't need to visit in person to get the most from the service – we offer many resources online and are ready to answer your questions wherever you are.
Transitional arrangements

We are currently refreshing our qualifications. Please make sure you refer to the transitional arrangements so that you can plan your studies effectively.

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