ACCA Course Structure, Exam Structure & Levels

Embarking on an accounting career is a commendable choice, and if you’re aiming for professional excellence, you’ve likely heard of the renowned Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualification. In this comprehensive guide, we will unravel the ACCA course structure equipping you with vital insights to make an informed decision that propels your accounting aspirations.

Why Choose ACCA Course?

Accountancy serves as the backbone of every business, driving financial stability and growth. Within this realm, the globally recognized Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) offers a transformative platform for a rewarding career in the dynamic business landscape. With an ACCA qualification, you gain the flexibility to pursue opportunities worldwide, leveraging the skills and values instilled through our preparatory course to secure esteemed senior management positions.

Decoding the ACCA Course Structure:

To achieve the coveted ACCA qualification, you must successfully navigate the examination process, which entails three levels and the completion of the following papers:

Fundamental Level:

Knowledge Modules:

• Accountant in Business
• Management Accounting
• Financial Accounting

Skills Modules:

• Corporate and Business law
• Performance Management
• Taxation
• Financial Reporting
• Audit and Assurance
• Financial Management

Professional Level:

Essentials:

• Strategy Business Leader
• Strategic Business Reporting

Optional (Choose any 2):

• Advanced Financial Management
• Advanced Performance Management
• Advanced Taxation
• Advanced Audit and Assurance

Roadmap for ACCA Course Structure

Duration of the ACCA Course:

The online ACCA courses in the UK allocate two months for each module. The block of time allows you ample preparation for the ACCA examination ahead of the March, June, September, and December ACCA exams.

Unveiling the ACCA Exam Structure:

ACCA exams employ a computer-based objective testing format, where you have the flexibility to complete the first four papers (AB, MA, FA, and LW) at your convenience within a specific year. To become eligible for the fifth paper, you have to perform well in an examination consisting of multiple-choice, subjective, and objective questions, which are held at specified windows throughout the year. Besides, at the professional level, four papers have to be passed within six to nine months after the successful completion of skill-level exams.

To know more about the above topic, read our blog Preparing for the ACCA Exam? Ace with these Preparation Tips

The Popularity of ACCA: Unveiling Its Appeal

ACCA still stands out as one of the most valued qualifications among professionals within the business industry. The degree will provide in-depth knowledge to students about the specificities of finance and accountancy courses. With online ACCA courses, you may complement your learning with practical training and therefore unlock many more opportunities, building a great profile and catching the attention of potential employers.

Pursuing ACCA After 12th Grade:

If you want to pursue an ACCA qualification, then the earlier you start directly after school, the better. This will allow you to complete your practical experience early on, meaning you’ll be able to perform well and have an edge as an ACCA professional. It also helps registration with international accountancy bodies, which open up professional placements and highly coveted internships in the corporate world.

ACCA After Graduation: Expanding Opportunities

Graduates holding relevant degrees such as B.Com can easily step into ACCA courses and subsequently benefit from the exemptions accrued based on their academic and professional experience. Obtaining exemptions in at least four papers hastens your pace of qualification in ACCA while enhancing your chance of getting professional employment even better. 

The Strategic Professional Level

The strategic ACCA professional level requires a dedicated investment of time, exceeding the preparation required for fundamental-level papers. Preparatory courses tailored to UK standards ensure you stay up-to-date with the latest skills and techniques, enabling you to achieve exceptional marks in the strategic professional examinations.

Is ACCA Certification Right for You?

If you dream of becoming a competent accountant or finance professional, then ACCA provides an all-encompassing qualification tailored to that aspiration. It can equip you with the most holistic knowledge and, on the other hand, with global recognition so you can always perform perfectly well in this fast-changing financial world. 

Conclusion

The ACCA qualification opens up infinite opportunities in the accounting world, coupled with a solid foundation for a fulfilling career. This blog explains the ACCA course structure and exam format with all the benefits it offers to you so you can start your ACCA journey in confidence. ACCA not only opens doors but enables one to possess the skills and expertise required to flourish in the challenging world of finance and accounting.

FAQs 

How many levels are there in ACCA?

ACCA has three levels- Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional. Every level builds upon the previous one, dealing with core financial and business principles that every student should know.

Can I finish ACCA in 1 year?

Finishing ACCA in 1 year would be quite challenging since most students take 2 to 3 years, but yes, it is achievable through intensive study and passing all the exams on the first attempt. But if you are balancing work and study, you will need more time than a year.

Is the ACCA syllabus hard?

The ACCA syllabus is indeed broad and challenging as it includes all topics related to accounting, finance, and business. Yet, with dedication, it can be learned. Strategic preparation can certainly improve your chances.

Does ACCA have an articleship?

Yes, ACCA requires 36 months of practical experience – much like articleship that other qualifications required, either during or after your studies. Such practical training lets your skills match real-world applications, adding value to your career.