What is ACCA? Course, Fees & More

What is ACCA

ACCA full form is “Association of Chartered Certified Accountants”.

This is a globally recognized course with over 200,000 members and 600,000 students across 180+ countries. This qualification is considered the largest professional accounting qualification in the world. This course is one of the most prestigious certifications in accounting and is preferred by many students who want to build a successful career abroad.

What do you visualize when you think about accounting and finance careers? A few years ago, accounting meant working under heaps of paper. However, the scenario has drastically changed today. The finance and accounting sector has progressed from manual bookkeeping to technology-driven methods. So, to build a career in accounting today, you must choose a dynamic course that matches the evolving accounting field.  ACCA India is a professional certification course that trains candidates according to current market standards and keeps them updated on the changes happening in the industry.  Before looking at careers after ACCA, let us brainstorm a bit about what ACCA is. Eight brilliant accountants formed the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) on 30th November 1904 in the UK. While the association started in the UK, it soon gained recognition globally and is now present in as many as 180 countries worldwide. According to recent records, the ACCA courses in India have more than 2,00,000 registered community members and more than 6,00,000 registered students.  

Benefits of Doing ACCA Course?

The benefits of doing ACCA include global recognition, enhanced employability, comprehensive knowledge of international standards, career flexibility, and access to a vast professional network.

ACCA Course in India

ACCA India offers globally recognised accounting qualifications, providing Indian professionals with the skills and credentials to excel in international finance and accounting careers.

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ACCA Course Eligibility?

Once you have decided to pursue the course, you must know what ACCA course eligibility is and whether you fit in or not. Here are the eligibility criteria to help you join the ACCA course details.

• The minimum acca course eligibility criteria is to pass Class 12th with at least 50% marks. You must Have also scored at least 65% in Accounts, English, and Mathematics. 
• If you do not meet the above criteria, you must pursue and complete the Foundation in ACCA Diploma.

ACCA Course Duration and Details

The ACCA course typically takes 2-3 years to complete, covering 13 exams across fundamental and professional levels, focusing on core accounting, financial management, and ethics.

Summary:

Applied Knowledge Level: Typically completed in 6-9 months. Applied Skills Level: Usually takes 12-18 months. Strategic Professional Level: Typically completed in 12-18 months. Overall Duration: The entire ACCA course can typically be completed in 2.5 to 3.75 years, depending on the candidate’s pace and prior exemptions. 

What are the ACCA Exemptions?

ACCA offers exemptions to Commerce Graduates, Post Graduate (MCom) Inter CA Students and CA Qualified. Students who have just cleared their class 12 examinations, do not qualify as per the aforementioned criteria, but are still qualified to register for the ACCA Exam via Foundation in Accountancy (FIA) route.  Are you now a graduate and regret not joining the course immediately after completing your Class 12th? You do not have to worry because students with higher educational qualifications get ACCA course exemptions.   So, you should know about the exam exemptions before you join the ACCA course. 

• Students who have joined the ACCA course just after Class 12th must appear in all the ACCA exams. 
• However, Commerce Graduates who’ve completed their BCom can gain up to 5 exemptions for their ACCA exams. 
• Also, CA IPCC candidates get exemptions from 5 ACCA exams. 
• Many CA candidates today pursue the course and they get exemptions from 9 ACCA exams. 

• The applicant should have passed 5 subjects including English and Mathematics / Accounts, with 65% in at least 2 subjects and over 50% for the rest. 
• A CA Final candidate is eligible to attain additional exemptions if they’ve scored 40 and above marks in their examination for relevant subjects.

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  What are the ACCA Course Levels? The ACCA course consists of three levels and appears and passes 13 exams to complete the course. These ACCA levels are:

• Foundation Level
• Applied Skills Level
• Professional Level

Let us discuss all these levels one by one. 

ACCA Foundation Level

This first level of the ACCA Papers offers basic knowledge and information in finance and accounting. You appear in 3 exams to clear this level to proceed to the next level. 

Applied Skills Level

This level is all about strategic skills and other accounting skills. These skills are based on the modules you’ve gone through at the Foundation Level. 

Professional Level

The final level is the most essential in the ACCA Papers. It consists of an extended version of the strategic skills with the professional skills required in the accounting industry.  Apart from the study modules, you must have work experience of about 36 months in the relevant field. You can complete this work experience during the course or even after completing all the levels. You can claim the ACCA certification only after clearing all the levels and completing the work experience. 

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ACCA Course Syllabus

The ACCA syllabus encompasses a comprehensive range of topics, including financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, audit, and financial management, designed to equip students with essential accounting and business skills.

Summary:

Applied Knowledge: Foundation level focusing on the basics of business, management accounting, and financial accounting. Applied Skills: Intermediate level covering corporate law, performance management, taxation, financial reporting, auditing, and financial management. Strategic Professional: Advanced level with essential exams on strategic business leadership and reporting, plus optional exams on specialized areas like advanced financial management, performance management, taxation, and audit.

Subjects in ACCA Course?

The ACCA course has three levels: Applied Knowledge, which comprises Business and Technology, Management Accounting, and Financial Accounting; Applied Skills, which includes Corporate and Business Law, Performance Management, Taxation, Financial Reporting, Audit and Assurance, and Financial Management; and the third level called Strategic Professional, where Strategic Business Leader and Strategic Business Reporting are mandatory while the optional comprises of Advanced Financial Management, Advanced Performance Management, Advanced Taxation, and Advanced Audit and Assurance. These subjects cover all aspects of accounting, finance, and management. ACCA has three levels to cross for which you have to pass 13 exams. In total, there are 15 subjects available in the ACCA curriculum. You have to complete all the subjects in the first two levels. However, when you reach the third level, you have the option to select your subjects according to your specialization.  Thinking about what are the 13 subjects in ACCA?  Here are the level-wise subjects to go through in ACCA Course syllabus:

ACCA Qualification Pathway

ACCA Course Knowledge Level

While Class 12th students have to appear in all the exams, commerce graduates and master’s degree holders get an exemption from appearing in these subject exams. 

• Business and Technology (BT)
• Management Accounting (MA)
• Financial Accounting (FA)

ACCA Course Skill Level

CA IPCC candidates get exemptions from the above-level exams and 2 subjects from this level. 

• Corporate and Business Law (LW)
• Performance Management
• Taxation (TX)
• Financial Reporting (FR)
• Audit and Assurance (AA)
• Financial Management (FM)

ACCA Strategic Professional Level 

CA candidates just have to appear in this level exam to get the ACCA certification and membership.  Essential

• Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)
• Strategic Business Leader (SBL)

Optional (2 of 4)

• Advanced Financial Management (AFM)
• Advanced Performance Management (APM)
• Advanced Taxation (ATX)
• Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA)

Ethics and Professional Skills Module

This module helps you gain the professional and ethical skills required in real-time work situations.

ACCA Affiliate

To become an Affiliate member, students are required to complete 36 months of work experience and achieve about nine performance objectives. This experience documentation should be signed by a supervisor.

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ACCA Course Exam Details

ACCA organizes its exam four times a year offering candidates the flexibility to appear in the exam at their convenience. You can appear in the ACCA exams in March, June, September, or December every year.  Exam patterns for modules at each level will be different. However, there are some common elements that you must remember while understanding ACCA exam details. 

• Each exam has two sections – Section A and Section B
• Section A will have objective-type questions while Section B comprises long pattern questions.
• The exam papers have 100 marks for each module.
• You must secure at least 50% to pass the exam.
• ACCA does not charge negative markings for wrong answers. 

ACCA is not as difficult as CA. However, passing the exam levels can get more difficult than your graduation exams if you do not prepare well for them. The difficulty level increases with each level. For example, you may not find the Foundation Level very difficult. However, the Skill Level will get tougher than the first level, and so on. Consult a guide to prepare for the ACCA exam well and pass it smoothly.  Along with the ACCA learning skills, you must also have these many skills for your ACCA course and your accounting career in the future. 

• Mathematics skills
• Accounting skills
• Analytical skills and critical thinking
• Decision Making skills
• Professional ethics
• Creativity
• Global mindset
• Communication skills

Why Should you Pursue ACCA?

One of the major questions that arise in many minds is why should you pursue ACCA when there are so many other accounting and finance courses available in the market. Here are some of the potential answers to this question.

More than CA:

A few years back, CA was the most prestigious accounting course in India. However, you will find now that many CA candidates also pursue the ACCA course. Even so many candidates prefer to choose CA over ACCA today. One of the major reasons is the difficulty level. Reliable sources have claimed that if the ACCA passing rate is 40%, the CA passing rate is just 4%. 

Global Recognition:

So, what is so special about ACCA that even the CA candidates are pursuing the course? One of the prominent reasons is global recognition. Today, it is available in as many as 180 countries worldwide. So, after completing the course, you can either work in a multinational company in your country or enjoy exposure to other countries.

Promising Career:

Apart from global exposure, another essential reason to pursue ACCA is career growth. Most multinational companies wish to hire candidates with professional qualifications such as ACCA. ACCA candidates are experts in strategic skills and also highly trained in professional skills of communication and leadership, making them a favorite of various big-shot companies globally. 

Decent Salary Package:

It is quite obvious that with career growth, you will start earning a decent salary package. Ambition Box mentioned that the annual salary of an ACCA is Rs. 12 lacs per annum with a few years of experience. This salary keeps on increasing with time and experience.  

A Part of the ACCA Community:

Lastly, you happen to become a part of the reputed community. The association updates the ACCA members regularly with the latest happenings in the accounting industry. Also, you can discuss and seek advice on various areas from other community members. 

What are the job Opportunities for ACCA?

The accounting industry offers ample job opportunities to members globally. Also, today ACCA candidates are very much in demand because of their dynamic training and updated skills. So, what are the job opportunities for ACCA? Here is a list of the most popular job opportunities that one can get after completing the ACCA course. 

• Management Accountant
• Credit Controller
• Tax Specialist
• Forensic Accountant
• Auditor
• Financial Accountant
• Finance Manager
• Corporate Treasurer
• Chief Financial Officer

Who Should Pursue the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Course?

Even though you have the right eligibility to pursue the ACCA course, you may not have enough reasons to do so. It is essential to understand that the ACCA course details are exactly for whom. 

Education Qualifications:

If you have the educational eligibility required for the course, you are always welcome to pursue the course. However, you can either start immediately after Class 12th or pursue the course after graduation and even after completing your CA program. 

An Interest in Accounting:

The ACCA course details are all about accounting in finance. So, you must have a keen interest in the accounting field to pursue the ACCA course. 

Working Professionals:

The ACCA course demands you to complete work experience of 36 months along with the learning modules. So, if you already have work experience in accounting and finance, you can always pursue the ACCA course for career growth. 

Which Countries Have ACCA Signing Authority?

Not every country has ACCA signing authorities, wondering which countries have that? UK, Ireland, UAE, Germany, Canada, and many other countries have ACCA signing authority. In all these countries, ACCA professionals sign audit reports and financial statements; they need additional qualifications, like a practicing certificate or simply a registration with local regulatory bodies. Currently, ACCA is available worldwide. However, ACCA candidates do not have to sign with authorities all over the world. So, which countries have ACCA signing authority till now? Here is a list of popular countries where you can practice ACCA. 

• United Kingdom and Ireland
• European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the European Union
• Türkiye
• United States
• Canada
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Hong Kong
• South Africa

What is the ACCA Course Fees in India

The very first thing that you must do is to register for the ACCA course with an initial fee of Rs. 7625. Next, you must pay an annual subscription of Rs. 10,000, which you have to pay every year till the completion of the course.  1. Initial registration: £30 (~INR 3,120) 2. Re-registration: £30 (~INR 3,120) 3. Annual subscription: £134 (~INR 13,940) 4. Exemption fees: £84 (~INR 8,740) to £111 (~INR 11,550) per exam  

Registration and Subscription Fees

1. Initial registration: £30 A one-time fee that students must pay when registering with ACCA. 2. Re-registration: £30 (~INR 3,120) ACCA students who fail to pay fees when due will have their names removed from the ACCA register and must pay a re-registration fee (plus any unpaid fees) to be reinstated as students. 3. Annual subscription 2024: £134 (~INR 13,940) An annual subscription fee is due each year to keep your student status active. 4. Exemption fees An exemption fee is charged for each ACCA exam you are awarded an exemption from. 5. Applied Knowledge exams: £84  (~INR 8,740) The fee is chargeable per exemption awarded. 6. Applied Skills exams: £111 (~INR 11,550) per exam Apart from this basic fee structure, you also may have to pay exemption fees if you take exam exemptions. The exemption charges are different for different papers. So, you must contact a professional guide or coaching centre to assist you with exactly what ACCA course fees and other charges are. 

Interesting Facts on ACCA Subscription:

These subscription charges may, however, differ based on your current status. If you are an affiliate, which means if you’ve passed the ACCA exams and the ethics module, but haven’t completed your mandatory work experience you must pay an annual fee of £135. You can then hold ACCA affiliate status for almost three years. After that, if you wish to extend your affiliate status you will be required to pay an annual fees of £270.

Interesting Facts on ACCA Membership:

Once you’ve completed all your papers, ethics module and mandatory work experience, you can apply for a full time membership of  £270.

ACCA Course Coaching Fees

To make your ACCA degree truly count, you need a coaching institute that is known for this course throughout the globe. For this, you need to look for a platinum approved learning partner that ensures that your learning journey is a seamless one. Zell Education is a platinum approved coaching provider for ACCA that’s trusted by a thousands of students in India and abroad. Due to Zell’s Platinum ALP status, you are entitled to exemption waivers of Subjects: ₹1,00,000 Registration: ₹8,000 Subscription: £112     Here’s how much Zell’s coaching fee will cost you. Our Expert Faculty   Contact details: You can reach out to the experts at Zell Education through this number +91 90046 92555. Head office address: 602, Eco Space IT Park New Nagardas Road Mogra Village, Mogra Pada, Natwar Nagar, Jogeshwari East, Maharashtra The ACCA qualification is recognized in over 180 countries including Canada, Singapore, and Australia. If you’ve made the decision to become a global CA and are contemplating your next move, we can help you take a step forward. Check out our Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) course to learn more.

Scope of ACCA in India

If you are pursuing the ACCA course in India, you will find great career opportunities in various multinational companies working in India. Here are some best career opportunities that you can have in India after ACCA. 

• Accounting and Reporting
• Financial Accounting
• Business Valuation
• Tax Consulting
• Treasury & Cash Management

Companies such as TATA, Deloitte, and many more in India pay ACCA almost equivalent salary packages to CA. You can get good salary packages in these companies based on your skills, experience, and your interview.  Apart from joining a suitable company in different job positions, you can even join different coaching centre’s in India as ACCA faculty. Many ACCA candidates today prefer to start a fresh career as an ACCA learning partner with a standard institute after retiring from their actual jobs.  We at Zell Education, have placed hundreds of students in various companies across India, in Mumbai and Delhi and Pune. Simultaneously, we are in contact with thousands of ACCAs across India placed in prestigious corporations in all departments.

ACCA Salary in India and World Wide with Job Role 

ACCA candidates in India and worldwide pocket a good salary package from the start of their careers. Here is an overview of the ACCA salary in India & worldwide.  

Notes:

1. India: Salary figures are provided in INR (Indian Rupees).
2. UK: Salary figures are supplied in GBP (British Pounds).
3. Hong Kong: Salary figures are provided in HKD (Hong Kong Dollars).
4. UAE: Salary figures are supplied in AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham).

The above salaries are indicative ranges and can vary based on experience, specific job responsibilities, company size, and location within the country. India: Rs. 7 lacs – 19 lacs UK: GBP 39,000 – 68,200 Hong Kong: KHD 17,4000 – 31, 900  UAE: AED 60,000 – 2,40,000

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ACCA Course Comparison with CFA and US CMA

What Type of Qualifications Does ACCA Offer?

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) not only offers ACCA courses but multiple other certification courses designed to enhance your career in finance and accounting.

Here’s a list of the various qualifications provided by ACCA:

• Certificate in International Public Sector Accounting Standards

• Certificate in Business Accounting

• Certificate in Sustainability for Finance

• Certificate in International Auditing

• Diploma in International Financial Reporting

• Foundations in Accountancy

• Advanced Diploma in Accounting and Business

• Certified Accounting Technician

• Certificate in Public Financial Management

FAQs on ACCA

What is the registration process for ACCA Course in 2024?

You have to complete the registration process on the official website of ACCA Global. Create your account on the website and proceed with the registration payment and subscription payment. Contact a professional coaching centre such as Zell to help you well with the process. 

Can I pass ACCA on my first attempt?

Experts mention that about 40% to 50% of candidates pass the exams on the first attempt. Moreover, if you are dedicated and act according to proper study strategies, you can always clear your ACCA levels on the first attempt. 

How much does ACCA certification cost?

Several factors impact the certification cost. However, it may range between Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2,50,000 depending upon the exemptions you are taking and other factors. 

What is the ACCA’s full form?

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants is the full form of ACCA. 

Can a student take multiple exams at once?

Yes, students can take multiple exams at once. However, once you have reached the Professional Level, you have seven years to clear all the exams. 

Can I pass ACCA on my first attempt?

To pass on the first attempt, you must study dedicatedly to complete the entire syllabus. Also, you must practice a lot of question banks and previous year’s question papers to understand the pattern and the question type. Getting help from a guide always helps in passing on the first attempt.   

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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