Working people and ACCA - What you need to know | Zell

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      Can I Pursue ACCA While Working?

      Last Update On 2nd December 2024
      Duration: 7 Mins Read

      Do you feel like you are juggling between work and personal growth? Well, the good news is that you don’t have to drop any one thing to succeed in the other. If you dream of being a global accounting expert, the ACCA is your ticket. And the best part is you can do this while working full-time.

      Yes, that’s correct—ACCA’s flexibility allows you to grow your career and improve your skills at the same time, without needing to stop working. Sounds perfect, right? Let’s dive into how you can make this work for you! 

      Benefits of Pursuing ACCA While Working

      The following are some of the ACCA benefits you will receive:

      Immediate Career Advancement: By studying for ACCA, you are acquiring the knowledge and experience you can use directly in your workplace. This could help you get promotions faster. It may also raise your salary and increase your responsibilities. Employers may see you as someone who needs more expertise.

      Work Experience: ACCA knows that a significant amount of experience is essential. As you work and study together, you accomplish your work experience requirement to achieve your ACCA qualification sooner.

      Enhanced Networking Opportunities: In the course of your work, you are likely to establish connections within your sector. Being an ACCA candidate boosts your credibility. This opens more chances to network with colleagues and mentors. You can connect with ACCA members from around the world too.

      Financial Stability: Working a full-time job ensures that you will not have to worry about financing your studies. Ensuring that you pass your ACCA exams guarantees a steady income. This leaves you with little financial stress and enables you to focus on career and qualification progression.

      ACCA Flexible Study Options

      The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants recognises that many of its students are working professionals, and therefore offers a range of flexible study options to accommodate their needs. The ACCA’s flexible study options include:

      ACCA Study Options

      Online Learning: This option involves studying online through an ACCA-accredited learning provider. Online learning provides students with the flexibility to study at their own pace and from any location with an internet connection.

      Self-Study: This is an option for individuals who prefer to study independently. Students can access the ACCA’s study materials and resources online, and progress through the qualification at their own pace.

      Classroom Learning: This option involves attending classes at an ACCA-accredited learning provider. Classroom learning provides students with the opportunity to interact with their peers and receive guidance from experienced tutors.

      Blended Learning: This option combines classroom learning with online learning. Students attend classes at an ACCA-accredited learning provider but also have access to online resources and support.

      Maintaining a Balance between ACCA and Your Work

      Working while studying can be tough. It can be hard to manage the duties of a full-time job and pursue a qualification at the same time. However, you can achieve this by deploying the right strategies. Here’s how a smooth progression on the dual journey may be achieved:

      Set Clear Goals: Set specific, measurable targets for what you want to achieve with your ACCA qualification. This could mean passing certain exams within a set time. It might also involve using what you’ve learned on specific work projects. Objectives give you a clear focus and motivation.

      Prioritize Your Tasks: Figure out what matters most to you, both at work and in your studies. Use a priority matrix or a to-do list to decide what tasks to complete first. You can effectively manage your time if you concentrate on what matters most to you.

      Create an Organized Study Plan: Create a study schedule that indicates what you have to study in a week. Includes timely slots for studies around your work commitments. Try to follow this schedule as much as you can so that you create a routine with ACCA and work.

      Making Proper Use of Breaks: Take advantage of the breaks at work to prepare short sessions of studying. For example, to remind themselves with flashcards or read concepts. That way, you will make the most of your working hours without piling up too much work outside of the office.

      How to Manage Your Time with ACCA and Your Work?

      The following are some ways you can best manage your time while juggling ACCA with your job:

      • Use the Pomodoro Technique: This time management method involves working in short cycles, usually lasting 25 minutes. After each cycle, you take a 5-minute break. Use it when studying to optimize output and keep the mind focused. After several cycles, take a longer break to refresh.
      • Keep Organized Using Technology: Use tools such as Google Calendar, Trello, or Notion to keep track of deadlines, exam dates, and study sessions. This way you can visualize what your commitments are and then plan for that particular time.
      • Communicate With Your Employer: Let your employer know that you are studying ACCA. Today, many employers support employees who want to continue their education. They often provide flexible schedules and other helpful resources.
      • Be Flexible and Adjust When Necessary: Life is unpredictable, and always prepare to change your plans if needed. If work gets significantly demanding, reassess your study timetables and make necessary adjustments to avoid burnout.
      • Practice Self-Care: Remember to take good care of your body and mind. Make time for rest, exercise, and social activities. This will help you stay balanced and focused on your ACCA journey.

      What Challenges Do Students Face While Studying ACCA?

      Here are some of the challenges students face while studying for the ACCA:

      Time Management: The main challenge of studying ACCA is balancing work, family, and other commitments with study time. Balancing work, personal life, and study sessions are extremely stressful.

      Consistency: ACCA requires maintaining constant efforts for a long period. Students find it problematic to concentrate, especially if one has a full-time job or other kinds of responsibilities.

      Student Distress: ACCA is known to be quite difficult regarding study and pressure. Most students find topics like Financial Reporting and Audit too overwhelming to understand when preparing for exams.

      Burnout: Burnout can occur because of the strenuous workload, constant studies, and subsequent exams. It can decrease productivity and motivation, which can then influence the outcome.

      Financial Cost:  It is costly to do the ACCA qualification. The exam fees and study materials can be a heavy financial burden for some students. This adds stress on top of their academic challenges.

      Best Way to Stay Motivated While Studying for the ACCA?

      Here are some of the best ways to stay motivated while studying for the ACCA:

      Set Small, Achievable Goals: Break down the huge goal of ACCA completion into minor achievements. Each win, either a paper you passed or a rough topic you completed, will keep you lively throughout the entire process. 

      Visualize End Result: Remind yourself always why you are studying ACCA. Is it just for a career boost, a higher salary, or maybe for international opportunities? Visualizing your end goal helps to keep you motivated when things get tough.

      Join a Study Group or Community: Maintaining contact with other ACCA students keeps you encouraged. Join online forums, study groups, or social communities. You can share experiences, and tips, and support each other. You would be surprised to find that you are not on this journey alone.

      Reward Yourself: Reward yourself with something fun when you reach a certain study milestone or pass an exam. A reward is a positive reinforcement that heightens your enjoyment of the process and motivates you to continue.

      Mix Up Your Study Routine: Try a new study place or use different learning tools. You can use flashcards, videos, or apps if you feel stuck. Changing things up in your routine keeps things interesting and helps to fend off boredom.

      ACCA Exam Tips for Success

      The following are some of the exam tips for success in your upcoming ACCA exam:

      Start Early and Plan Ahead: Preparation for the ACCA exam should not be left for the last minute. You should begin your preparation much before the date of the exam. Prepare a detailed schedule that enables you to understand all the topics, hence no cramming at the time of the exam.

      Be Aware of the Exam Pattern: Get familiar with the ACCA pattern, question types, and marking scheme. Try to use past papers as much as you can. This will help you get used to the types of questions. It will also help you manage your time during the exam.

      Focus on Weak Areas: While it is as important to revise the entire syllabus, focus more on those topics in which you are weak. Provide more time to difficult subjects so that no weak points are left uncovered.

      Use All Available Resources: ACCA has all sorts of material for students to study from. So use it! ACCA textbooks, online courses, webinars, and even ACCA’s student forums can be useful in helping you to pass the exam.

      Remain Cool and Rational in the Examination: Keep your cool during the exam. Read each question carefully, and do not rush through the paper. If you have no idea about a question immediately, then move on to another question and return to that one later.

      Conclusion 

      Studying for the ACCA course while working is challenging. However, having the right mindset and good time management can help. Using ACCA’s flexible learning options also makes it easier to succeed. With these strategies, you could make this dual commitment a super-effective career accelerator for acquiring valuable skills and progress in your present role.

       

      FAQs on Can I Pursue ACCA While Working

      Can I do ACCA from home?

      Yes, ACCA offers online learning and remote exams. Therefore, it makes it possible to finish the course at home.

      How long to complete ACCA while working?

      On average, it will take 2-3 years to complete ACCA while you continue working. Again, this will depend on how many papers you sit for within each session.

      Can I pass ACCA while working?

      Of course, yes! Even with proper planning and time management, many professionals do successfully balance work and ACCA studies.

      Can you do a degree and ACCA at the same time?

      Yes, it is possible to do both, although it needs careful scheduling and proper time management.

      Is ACCA difficult for average students?

      ACCA is indeed challenging, but not impossible. Even average students can achieve success with proper resources and consistent efforts.

       

      Partham Barot is an ACCA-certified professional. showcasing his expertise in finance and accountancy. he’s revolutionising education by focusing on practical, real-world skills. Partham’s achievements underscore his commitment to elevating educational standards and empowering the next generation of professionals.
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