The Institute of Financial Accountants (as established in 1916 and is the oldest professional body in the world representing accountants (but not Chartered) and financial managers.  Together with its close, collaborative partner organisations, including the IAB Qualifications for Business, it represents nearly 30,000 members and students in more than 80 countries.  IFA itself provides qualifications for those wishing to work in financial management and provides continuous professional development for qualified Financial Accountants.

The Institute sets it own technical and ethical standards.  Recent independent studies show that in the UK, outside of the six major accountancy institutes, IFA has the best accountancy qualification.  This can be demonstrated by the fact that from January 2008 ICAEW will offer IFA members six exemptions as of right (they can get up to four further only get two exemptions depending on previous studies and also successfully completing the ‘fast-track’ qualification)