HMRC Tax Specialist Programme (TSP) 2020

The TSP is open again now so I thought I’d get things started since I used the 2019 thread so much!

You can apply at:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tax-professional-development-programme

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Reply 1

Shingiep

Hi did you get into the 2019

Reply 2

StevenP83

Original post by Shingiep

Hi did you get into the 2019

I did 😊 I was an internal candidate and started the TSP earlier this month. Happy to answer any questions that I can!

Reply 3

Mohammedg

Hi Steven,Thanks a lot for being available to answer our questions.I will be applying to the TSP within the next few days and was wondering if you know anything about what kind of qualification, if any, TSP 2020 starters will be working towards as it says on the website that those on the scheme will no longer receive a BA (Hons) in Professional taxation.One of the great allure of the TSP was the very fact that you will get a degree by the end of it for free, but now it seems like they will no longer be. Perhaps, being sponsored towards the prestigious CTA qualification will be a better move? your thoughts?

Reply 4

StevenP83

At the moment we’re waiting to find out more information on this but I’m sure the Tax Academy will have an update in the future- as it stands the TSP 2019 trainees will also not be accredited so I’m looking forward to finding out.

Although it would be great to get some kind of accreditation, I’m also aware that there were a lot of people who passed this programme or its predecessors that weren’t accredited and there’s still a great opportunity to progress right to the top of HMRC either way so I would say certainly don’t let it put you off applying.

Reply 5

Chrissyburr

Hi guys, has anyone taken the tests yet?

Reply 6

R00ster

Original post by StevenP83

The decision on accreditation isn't final yet. I would prepare for the worst (i.e an unaccredited programme) but I understand a case has been put forward for accreditation - there are just a few hoops to jump through.

I echo the sentiment that the programme is still great without accreditation. If you're worried about applying for a Masters in taxation without the accreditation - if you perform well on TSP you should be able to get onto a Masters programme based on demonstrable experience working in a tax technical environment.

Reply 7

Shingiep

Original post by StevenP83

I did 😊 I was an internal candidate and started the TSP earlier this month. Happy to answer any questions that I can!

I only scored 14 at video interview. Do you have any pointers please

Reply 8

StevenP83

Original post by Shingiep

I only scored 14 at video interview. Do you have any pointers please

I can’t really tell you what the assessors look for in a video interview- as a general rule I would say be as clear and concise as possible, and make sure you’ve read the Civil Service Competency Framework so that you know what sort of examples would be suitable to give.

Reply 9

gingerwizard

Does anyone know what the training will be now? The details for this years application says previously it was via modules which led to the Man Met degree, but now it's saying it is exploring ways that might lead to an external qualification. Can anyone shed any light on this? I know it won't be ICAS as this has now been stopped within HMRC, since ICAS decided to scrap the ITP qualification which a handful of TSPers had gone through.

Edit: Just seen this has already been brought up, when you talk about accreditation surely you don't mean the Man Met degree being accredited by CTA/CIOT. This has never been the case so I can't imagine it being a possibility now, especially given the vast gap in difficulty between the internal hmrc/man met modules and the CTA. Apologies if I have misunderstood the accreditation question completely!

Reply 10

gingerwizard

I think one of the big appeals of the HMRC TSP scheme, at least from those who are on it, is that you aren't absolutely required to do the CTA in order to reach G7 and the massively increased salary. Obviously at accountancy firms/big 4 this is somewhat of a requirement. Many more factors too but I think this is one that is particularly appealing. The sheer amount of study leave received for the TSP/tax academy course is also fantastic.

Reply 11

gingerwizard

Also does anyone know what counts to be eligible for reasonable adjustment in the application process?

Reply 12

A.janjua1996

Hi, could anyone share what the online tests are like?

Reply 13

NMP16

There are plenty of practice and example questions before each section. On another note, I’ve just done the first 2 and noticed the feedback section from last year is no longer in the same place due to the new system. Anyone know if we can still access feedback scores online?Thanks

Reply 14

fchoudry94

Original post by Chrissyburr

Hi guys, has anyone taken the tests yet?

I have completed both verbal reasoning and numeracy test. I found it okay because I have done such tests before for other job applications.

Reply 15

fchoudry94

Original post by A.janjua1996

Hi, could anyone share what the online tests are like?

So you have following tests:
1st= verbal reasoning
2nd = numeracy
3rd = civil service judgement test

I have completed the first 2 test and it was pretty simple. it allows you to practice each test before you begin it. so, you understand what it's like.

Reply 16

fchoudry94

Original post by NMP16

I think it said you get the feedback after you have completed all the tests.
I have also completed the first 2 test and not sure what the 3rd would be like. So, would do it tomorrow.

(edited 4 years ago)

Reply 17

NMP16

Original post by fchoudry94

I think it said you get the feedback after you have completed all the tests.
I have also completed the first 2 test and not sure what the 3rd would be like. So, would do it tomorrow.

Ah ok, thanks.

Reply 18

Mohammedg

Original post by StevenP83

I definitely am aware that this HMRC TSP is an outstanding opportunity but if as part of the programme you don't get an accredited qualification, then how can you say that you are knowledgeable/skilled in tax and subsequently what impact does this have on the kind of exit opportunities you have access to, after say, 3-5 years at HMRC?

With the Big 4 / accountancy firms you get receive world class training, a brand name on your cv, prestigious clients and a worldwide recognise qualification. All these factors set you up perfectly for the numerous exit opportunities you have at your disposal should you decide to leave the big 4 post-qualification. Is there anything comparable for the HMRC? I have looked at many tax job/vacancy postings and ALL of them require to have studied the ACA or CTA.

Reply 19

gingerwizard

Original post by Mohammedg

ATT would be a start and should be fine to complete with the knowledge from 3 yrs of TSP. All of the people I know who have left to join Big 4/Top 6 are now embarking on studying the CTA as without progression about Exec/Assistant Manager level is nigh on impossible. That's what I've heard anyway. Certainly not saying the TSP isn't a great scheme though, with the end salary still superior to the equivalent level at Big 4 I would imagine.