Are you curious about how long it takes to complete the ACCA qualification? Let’s simplify the path to becoming a globally recognized accounting professional. This blog covers everything you need to know about ACCA, from its structure and exams to exemptions and duration, tailored to your starting point.
What is ACCA?
ACCA stands for the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, a leading global professional body for accountants. With over 200,000 members and 600,000 students in 180+ countries, ACCA is a trusted qualification that opens doors to various career opportunities in accounting, auditing, and finance. Whether you’re fresh out of school or a seasoned professional, ACCA is a versatile qualification that adapts to your career aspirations.
What Does the ACCA Qualification Entail?
The ACCA qualification is structured into three levels, each designed to build your expertise in accounting and finance progressively:
- Applied Knowledge: Introduces foundational accounting concepts.
- Business and Technology (BT)
- Financial Accounting (FA)
- Management Accounting (MA)
- Applied Skills: Focuses on practical finance and business skills.
- Corporate and Business Law (LW)
- Taxation (TX)
- Financial Reporting (FR)
- Performance Management (PM)
- Financial Management (FM)
- Audit and Assurance (AA)
- Strategic Professional: Prepares you for leadership roles.
- Essentials:
- Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)
- Strategic Business Leader (SBL)
- Options (choose any two):
- Advanced Financial Management (AFM)
- Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA)
- Advanced Taxation (ATX)
- Advanced Performance Management (APM)
- Essentials:
Ethics and Professional Skills Module
This module complements the technical syllabus by focusing on ethical decision-making and professional skills that make you stand out to recruiters.
How Many Exams are There in ACCA?
The ACCA qualification includes 13 exams spread across its three levels. However, the number of exams you need to take depends on your prior qualifications, as exemptions may apply.
Breakdown of Exams:
- Applied Knowledge: 3 papers
- Applied Skills: 6 papers
- Strategic Professional: 4 papers (2 Essentials + 2 Options)
ACCA Course Duration
The time it takes to complete ACCA varies based on factors such as the number of exemptions, study pace, and whether you’re studying full-time or part-time. Here’s a breakdown:
- Starting After Class 12:
Students typically complete the qualification within 3 to 4 years, as they usually combine their ACCA studies with an undergraduate degree. - For Undergraduates:
Many students pursue ACCA alongside their college education, completing the exams in about 3 years. - For Graduates:
If you’ve already earned a degree, you may receive exemptions for up to 5 papers, enabling you to finish ACCA in 1.5 to 3 years. - For Professionals with Qualifications:
Those with relevant qualifications (e.g., CA, CA Inter, or CMA US) can claim up to 9 exemptions, reducing the time to 6-9 months. - For Chartered Accountants (CA):
CAs only need to complete 4 papers, which can be achieved in 6-9 months.
Can You Complete ACCA in 1 Year?
While ACCA offers flexibility, completing it within a year is highly unlikely due to the time required for exam preparation and practical experience requirements. At most, students can take four exams per session (up to eight annually), but combining this with practical and ethical modules makes the timeline longer.
ACCA Exam Schedule
Exams are held quarterly in March, June, September, and December. This schedule allows students to pace their studies and plan strategically, taking up to four papers in a session.
ACCA Eligibility Criteria
Whether you’re a school graduate, university student, or working professional, ACCA offers tailored entry points:
- After Class 12: Start your ACCA journey immediately after high school.
- During College: Combine ACCA with your undergraduate degree for dual qualifications.
- After Graduation: Graduates, especially those with degrees in accounting, finance, or business, may qualify for up to 5 exemptions.
- For Professionals: Enhance your credentials with ACCA. Professionals like CAs or CMA US holders may claim up to 9 exemptions.
ACCA Course Fees
The cost of ACCA course depends on your location, exemptions, and exam structure. In India, the total fees range from ₹72,000 to ₹2,00,000.
Fee Breakdown:
- Registration Fee: £30 (~₹3,300)
- Annual Subscription: £134 (~₹14,700)
- Exam Fees (per paper):
- Applied Knowledge: Varies by provider
- Applied Skills: £143 (~₹15,700)
- Strategic Professional: £180–£405 (~₹18,000–₹40,500)
Benefits of Pursuing ACCA
- Global Recognition: ACCA is recognized in over 180 countries, opening international career opportunities.
- Career Flexibility: The qualification equips you to work in various fields, including corporate finance, auditing, and consulting.
- Exemptions: Prior qualifications can significantly reduce the time and cost required to complete ACCA.
- Earning Potential: ACCA-certified professionals are in high demand, with competitive salaries worldwide.
Why Choose Us as Your Learning Partner?
Choosing the right learning partner can make all the difference in your ACCA journey. Here’s why Synthesis Learning is the ideal choice:
- Platinum Approved Learning Partner: Recognized for top-tier education standards.
- Exceptional Pass Rates: Our students achieve excellent results, with many earning global ranks.
- Comprehensive Support: From tailored study plans to expert mentorship, we’re here to help you succeed.
Conclusion
ACCA offers a flexible, globally recognized pathway to a successful career in accounting and finance. Whether you’re starting after high school, during college, or as a professional, ACCA adapts to your needs with exemptions and a manageable timeline. With determination and the proper guidance, achieving ACCA is not just a dream but an attainable goal.
Ready to take the next step? Join us at Synthesis Learning and embark on your journey to becoming an ACCA-certified professional.
