As a world-class professional accountancy body, the ICAEW provides leadership and practical support to over 132,000 members in 160 countries, working with government, regulators and industry to maintain the highest standards.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales was incorporated by Royal Charter in May 1880 following the coming together of six local societies of accountants in London, Liverpool, Manchester and Sheffield. The Institute received a Supplemental Charter in 1948. As a chartered body, the Institute operates primarily in the public interest

The Institute is the largest professional accountancy body in Europe with 130,000 members running and advising businesses across all economic sectors. Widely respected as an expert commentator on business and industry issues, the ICAEW spans 162 countries and counts the majority of the FTSE CEOs and FDs as members. Over 15,000 members live and work outside the UK. The Institute also has some 9,000 students.

The Institute's qualification is recognised around the world as a prestigious professional business qualification. Members of the Institute are entitled to the description chartered accountant and to the designatory letters ACA or FCA.

The Institute undertakes or facilitates a wide range of professional activities including education and training of students, continuing professional development for members, maintenance of professional and ethical standards, cutting-edge work on technical accounting issues, and provision of advice and services to members.

The Institute is the largest member of the Consultative Committee of Accountancy Bodies (CCAB), a grouping of the UK's six professional accountancy bodies, and has a significant representational role with government, the European Commission and influential worldwide bodies.