ACCA Course

ACCA full form stands for “Association of Certified Chartered Accountants” which is a recognized organization that awards the prestigious 'Certified Chartered Accountant' certification to students. The ACCA Syllabus covers a range of subjects, including Business & Technology Management Accounting, Financial Accounting, Corporate and Business Law, Taxation, Performance Management, Financial Reporting, Audit and Assurance Financial Management, Strategic Business Leader, Strategic Business Reporting, Advanced Financial Management, Advanced Performance Management, Advanced Taxation and Advanced Audit and Assurance.

ACCA Admission can be done through two ways, one is a merit-based admission process and another one is entrance-exam based admission procedure. Some of the top ACCA jobs include auditor, financial analyst, tax consultant, finance manager, etc. The ACCA program is divided into three levels; Knowledge, Skills and Professional. Depending on their background students may be eligible for exemptions from certain exams. For example; those with a B Com or M Com degree only need to take 9 exams out of 13. Similarly, CA qualified individuals are required to sit for 4 exams instead of 13.ACCA exams are held four times a year in March, June, September, and December. 

ACCA course fees range around Rs. 1,70,000 (Indian Rupees) with the fees being denominated in GBP (British Pounds) so the exchange rate of the Rupee becomes an important factor to consider. Upon completion of the course, ACCA salaries ranges between Rs. 7,50, 000 and Rs. 10,00,000 per annum.

Some of the important ACCA course highlights are mentioned below:

The ACCA Qualification, which stands for the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, is a professional accounting certification that has global recognition. It gives people essential abilities in accounting, auditing and financial evaluation as well as strategy and budgeting. Having more than 200,000 members along with 600,000 students around the world makes ACCA an organization offering chances for career advancement across different fields. This study usually needs 2-3 years and has difficult tests. It can lead to good jobs all over the world, particularly in big international companies and respected businesses.

ACCA course takes around 2 to 3 years to complete. This can vary based on different aspects like your previous education and how much time you dedicate to studying. The course has three levels: Knowledge, Skills and Professional; it consists of a total number of 13 exams altogether. You might not have to take all these if you already possess suitable qualifications. For instance, students who hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Accounting or Finance could be exempted from certain tests as well as professional credentials such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CMA (Certified Management Accountant), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) and CA (Chartered Accountant). ACCA is a very respected qualification in the accounting world, giving students thorough study material, tough tests and a symbol of high level professionalism.

ACCA course is a professional qualification for accounting and finance that has good standing around the world. This course gives you complete knowledge of worldwide accounting and auditing rules. It offers many advantages like worldwide experience, solid base in money handling plus current info with better job chances to those who have passed the ACCA exam. Getting this qualification can help you get a higher salary as employers all over the world value ACCA greatly and see it as proof of your financial expertise. The convenient timing of exams and learning resources could be an appealing factor for those aiming to enhance their job opportunities in accounting and finance, such as students or professionals. Furthermore, the ACCA learning path includes many areas like financial management, taxation, law, business administration knowledge as well professional morals along with management accounting plus auditing - this makes it a flexible qualification fitting different kinds of work roles.

The requirements set out by the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) for eligibility differ based on educational background. For individuals who have completed their 12th standard education, it is necessary that they have obtained at least 65% in two subjects - Accounts and Mathematics, as well as no less than a minimum of 50% across the remaining three subjects.

If someone has graduated with a degree in Commerce they are able to take up ACCA exams directly, however those who hold other types of degrees will need to complete the ACCA Foundation diploma first. Course is open for CA students, where chartered accountants are exempted from 9 of 13 exams.

Minimum age for candidates should be not less than 18 years old. Exemptions are available to candidates with existing qualifications or training, allowing them to start their studies at the right level based on their current knowledge and skills.

To become an ACCA member, you must finish 36 months of suitable job experience and the Practical Experience Requirement (PER). The ACCA qualification is placed at Master’s level and contains four levels: Foundation in Accountancy, Knowledge Level, Skill Level as well as Professional Level.

Aspirants need to finish 13 ACCA papers that are dependent on their qualifications and previous experience. Aspirants also have a requirement of work experience in a practical role related to accounting for nearly three years, along with completing the module of Ethics and Professional Skills for fitting into this membership category.

Skills Required To Pursue ACCA Course 

For the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) course, students need to have various skills. They must be good in technical accounting knowledge, analysis and critical thinking, communication as well as leadership and teamwork.

Students who are pursuing ACCA should have a strong understanding of accounting principles and practices. They must be skilled in financial reporting, taxation, audit and assurance along with management accounting.

Students preparing for this exam need to possess analytical and critical thinking skills which are important when it comes to solving complicated financial problems or making choices based on data. In ACCA, we know how important it is to communicate well when sharing financial details with different interested parties.

Also, abilities like leading and working in a team are useful for advancing in careers. For boosting these skills there can be workshops, webinars, hands-on tasks, internships, case competitions, data analysis projects; study groups; online forums; public speaking clubs as well as leadership positions within college organizations or community initiatives for ACCA students.

ACCA course fees in India have a range of around INR 1.2 lakh to INR 2.6 lakh. This cost will cover the one-time registration fee, yearly subscription and every exam's fee (in GBP). Below mentioned is a breakdown of ACCA course fees for Indian subcontinent; it's always best to check the official website for precise fee data.

Below mentioned is a detailed description of ACCA Syllabus and Subjects for your reference: 

Below mentioned is a detailed breakdown of ACCA course exams for your reference: 

ACCA course also provides exemption for eligible candidates as mentioned below: 

The ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) course includes three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional.

Applied Knowledge Level: It incorporates subjects like:

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

ACCA Diploma in Accounting and Business (RQF Level 4) is given to students who have passed both Management Accounting (MA) and Financial Accounting (FA) exams, with at least one of them being taken as well as completed Foundations in Professionalism.

Applied Skills Level: It includes subjects like:

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

Students who have completed (either passed or must have at least two of these papers have been sat and passed) are awarded the Advanced Diploma in Accounting and Business.

Strategic Professional Level: Students are supposed to prepare for 4 subjects out of 6 in this level. These subjects are divided into essential and optional modules:

• Essentials:Strategic Business Leader(SBL)
• Options: (Any 2) Advanced Financial Management (AFM)

A Strategic Professional Certificate is given to students who finish all the Strategic Professional Essentials exams and pass any two of the Strategic Professional Options exams.

Moreover, students have to finish 20 hours of the Ethics and Professional Skills Module. This module cultivates all the abilities that employers seek for. For someone to be an ACCA member, they must conclude a minimum of 36 months work experience and accomplish 9 performance objectives.

ACCA does not have certifications in a technical sense. It is a single, progressing qualification that you obtain by passing exams and acquiring experience. However, there are various phases within this qualification which signify your advancement:

ACCA Diplomas: They are given after clearing certain groupings of exams in the Skills level. These diplomas show accomplishment in particular fields of accounting such as Financial and Management Accounting, or Audit.

ACCA Certificate in Financial Management: To get this certificate, you must pass the Financial Management (FM) exam and finish the Foundations in Professionalism module. This shows skill in financial analysis and management basics.

ACCA Qualification: This is the final stage. It requires passing all necessary exams, potentially with some exemptions, finishing the Ethics and Professional Skills module as well as gathering three years of suitable practical experience. Getting this certification makes you eligible for a complete ACCA membership designation.

ACCA doesn't have different types of courses in the usual way, but it's a path with various stages that you move along. However, there are some differences to think about within this structure:

Study Modes:

Study on your own: You may make use of materials such as textbooks, online resources and sample tests to prepare yourself for the exams at your preferred speed.

Online Courses: Various providers present online courses that include video lectures, learning resources, and sample questions to provide a more organized learning environment.

Part-time/Full-time Classes: Learning providers who are approved provide instruction in a classroom setting, which allows for direct interaction with teachers and fellow students.

Exam Focus:

ACCA Exams: These are the main tests you have to pass in each of the three stages (Knowledge, Skills and Professional) for moving ahead towards completing the ACCA Qualification.

ACCA-X Online Courses: ACCA provides its online courses centered on basic subjects such as Bookkeeping and Management Accounting. These can be beneficial for getting ready prior to handling the main exams.

The ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) offers four specialised advanced courses that allow individuals to develop in-depth expertise in a particular area of accounting and pursue specialised career paths. These courses cover advanced topics and provide a competitive edge in the accounting profession.

Advanced Financial Management (AFM): This course delves into advanced financial concepts, including risk management, investment appraisal, and working capital management. It equips individuals with the skills to make sound financial decisions and contribute to the strategic financial planning of organisations.

Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA): This course focuses on the complexities of auditing and assurance in today's dynamic business environment. It covers topics such as internal controls, corporate governance, and fraud prevention, enabling individuals to conduct rigorous audits and provide assurance to stakeholders.

Advanced Taxation (ATX): This course explores the intricacies of taxation, including international tax planning, corporate tax compliance, and tax dispute resolution. It equips individuals with the expertise to navigate complex tax issues and provide valuable tax advisory services to businesses.

Advanced Performance Management (APM): This course examines advanced performance management techniques, including strategic performance management, business process management, and change management. It empowers individuals to develop effective performance management systems and drive organisational success.

Pursuing these advanced ACCA courses demonstrates a commitment to professional development and positions individuals for senior-level positions within the accounting profession. With specialised knowledge and expertise, individuals can command higher salaries and enjoy greater career opportunities.

Here's a table comparing the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) with CA (Chartered Accountant), CPA (Certified Public Accountant), and CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst):

ACCA vs CA

ACCA vs CPA

ACCA vs CFA

After completing ACCA, individuals unlock a wide range of global career opportunities. They can pursue roles such as financial analyst, auditor, tax consultant, management accountant, or even aspire for leadership positions like CFO. ACCA qualification enhances employability, providing a solid foundation for success in the dynamic fields of accounting and finance.

ACCA Jobs 

ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is a global professional accounting body offering the premier Chartered Certified Accountant qualification (ACCA). ACCA members are equipped with the skills and knowledge to work in a wide range of finance and accounting roles across various industries.

Here are some of the common ACCA jobs:

Accountant: Accountants are responsible for preparing and analysing financial statements, managing financial records, and providing financial advice to businesses or individuals.

Audit Manager: Audit managers lead teams of auditors in conducting financial audits of businesses or organisations to ensure the accuracy and compliance of their financial statements.

Financial Analyst: Financial analysts gather and analyse financial data to identify trends, make investment decisions, and prepare financial reports.

Business Analyst: Business analysts gather and analyse data to understand business processes, identify areas for improvement, and develop solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

Financial Controller: Financial controllers oversee the financial activities of a business, including financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting.

Tax Manager: Tax managers are responsible for managing the tax affairs of businesses or individuals, including tax compliance, tax planning, and tax dispute resolution.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO): CFOs are the senior financial executives of businesses, responsible for overseeing all financial activities, including financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial planning.

These are just a few examples of the many ACCA jobs available. With an ACCA qualification, you will have the skills and knowledge to work in a wide range of accounting and finance roles across various industries.

Here are some additional tips for finding ACCA jobs:

• Network with other ACCA professionals: Attend ACCA events and join ACCA online forums to connect with other professionals in your field.
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job you apply for: Highlight your ACCA qualification and any relevant experience you have.
• Use online job boards: There are many online job boards that list ACCA jobs, such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and Monster.
• Contact recruitment agencies: Recruitment agencies can help you find ACCA jobs that match your skills and experience.

With an ACCA qualification and the right job search strategies, you can be well on your way to a successful career in accounting and finance.

ACCA Salary 

ACCA salaries vary depending on experience, location, and the specific job title. However, ACCA professionals typically earn higher salaries than non-ACCA professionals. Since these are only averages, individual incomes may differ based on the previously listed variables. However, ACCA professionals are in high demand around the world, and they can expect to command competitive salaries.

ACCA Recruiters

There are a lot of reputed firms across the globe hiring Certified Chartered Accountants in India and globally. Following is a list of a handful of them:

ACCA Recruiters in India:

Big Four Accounting Firms:

Deloitte

PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)

EY (Ernst & Young)

KPMG

Corporate Sector:

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

Infosys

Wipro

Reliance Industries

Aditya Birla Group

Financial Services:

HDFC Bank

ICICI Bank

Axis Bank

Kotak Mahindra Bank

Bajaj Finance

Consulting Firms:

Accenture

Boston Consulting Group (BCG)

McKinsey & Company

Capgemini

IT Sector:

Tech Mahindra

Cognizant

HCL Technologies

ACCA Recruiters Abroad:

United Kingdom:

Grant Thornton

RSM

BDO

United States:

Goldman Sachs

J.P. Morgan

Morgan Stanley

Canada:

Deloitte Canada

Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD Bank)

Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)

Australia:

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

Macquarie Group

ANZ Banking Group

Singapore:

DBS Bank

United Overseas Bank (UOB)

Singtel

UAE (Dubai):

Emirates NBD

Dubai Islamic Bank

Etihad Airways

South Africa:

Standard Bank

Nedbank

Old Mutual

Malaysia:

Maybank

CIMB Bank

Petronas

These are just a few examples, and ACCA-qualified professionals are sought after by a diverse range of employers across industries and geographies. The qualification's global recognition opens doors to varied career opportunities in finance, accounting, consulting, and more.

Completing the ACCA qualification opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities in accounting, finance, and business. However, many individuals seek further education to enhance their skills, specialise in a particular area, or pursue leadership positions. Here are some popular courses to consider after ACCA:

CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) Institute Designation: The CFA designation is a globally recognized credential for investment professionals. It assesses candidates' knowledge of investment analysis, portfolio management, and ethical and professional standards. Pursuing the CFA designation complements the ACCA qualification and enhances employability in investment banking, asset management, and financial advisory roles.

CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) Professional Qualification: The CIMA qualification focuses on management accounting and operational finance. It complements the ACCA qualification by strengthening skills in business planning, performance management, and risk management. CIMA professionals are often sought after by organisations seeking expertise in strategic financial planning and decision-making.

MBA (Master of Business Administration): An MBA provides a comprehensive understanding of business management principles, including marketing, operations, strategy, and leadership. It equips ACCA professionals with the broader business acumen necessary to advance into senior management or executive roles.

Master's Degrees in Accounting or Finance: Specialised master's degrees in accounting or finance allow ACCA professionals to delve deeper into specific areas of interest, such as taxation, financial reporting, or corporate finance. These degrees provide advanced knowledge and expertise, enhancing career prospects in specialised roles.

Data Analytics and Business Intelligence Courses: Data analytics and business intelligence are becoming increasingly important in the accounting and finance profession. Courses in these areas equip ACCA professionals with the skills to collect, analyse, and interpret data to gain insights and inform business decisions.

Risk Management Courses: Risk management is a critical aspect of accounting and finance. Courses in risk management provide ACCA professionals with the skills to identify, assess, and manage various types of financial and operational risks.

Corporate Governance and Compliance Courses: Corporate governance and compliance are essential for organisations to operate ethically and legally. Courses in these areas equip ACCA professionals with the knowledge to understand and implement corporate governance principles and compliance requirements.

Digital Technology and Fintech Courses: Digital technology and fintech are transforming the accounting and finance profession. Courses in these areas provide ACCA professionals with the skills to leverage technology to automate tasks, enhance data analysis, and develop innovative financial solutions.

Leadership and Management Development Courses: Leadership and management skills are crucial for career advancement in accounting and finance. Courses in these areas equip ACCA professionals with the skills to lead teams, manage projects, and navigate organisational change.

Foreign Language Courses: In today's globalised business environment, foreign language proficiency is an asset. ACCA professionals who can communicate effectively in multiple languages can expand their career opportunities and work with international clients.

These are just a few examples of the many courses that ACCA professionals can pursue to enhance their skills and advance their careers. The specific course of study will depend on individual career goals, interests, and experience.