A quick-read guide on ACCA certification for up-and-coming accountants

Love number crunching? You sure do. Or, you wouldn’t want to kickstart a career in the highly competitive accounting industry. Certifications, job prospects, and ambitions may vary. But there is one constant. Like the rain during monsoons. The reputable ACCA certification.

It is a word that is a part of almost every accountant’s conversation. Let us dive into the details and better understand what these 4 powerful alphabets stand for.

A deep dive into the world of ACCA

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is an international professional accounting body that confers the Certified Chartered Accountant qualification. It has 198,000 members and 490,000 students spread across 178 countries. The ACCA is headquartered in London and has been an integral part of the accounting landscape from as early as 1904.

By becoming a member of the ACCA you become a part of the world’s most prestigious and forward-thinking accountancy establishment.  The Chartered Certified Accountant is the accountancy body’s main certification.

Need-to-know info about the exams

Students will have to complete 14 professional, extensive examinations, a professional ethical module. And, most importantly three years of relevant accountancy experience monitored and supervised by ACCA.

The examinations are held 4 times annually in March, June, September, and December. Paper-based exams are held. Computer-based examinations are conducted for the first four exams alone. Students will have to attend these exams at ACCA licensed exam centers.

It covers a vast range of subjects such as management accounting, financial accounting, audit and assurance, taxation and financial reporting.

The ACCA also develops several free and paid online courses. The online courses are available for the first 7 foundation level exams.

What happens after you get credentialed?

You get awesome job opportunities all across the globe. ACCA certified professionals are the first choice of employers because they are well versed in financial know-how, business ethics, and possess great business acumen. They’re also widely regarded to be strategic thinkers who can take organizations to the next level. You become a globally recognized accounting professional with a paycheck most people can only dream of.

FAQs about ACCA:

What are the different course levels?

There are 2, course levels. The fundamentals that cover 9 areas of study and is divided into 2 separate modules. The professional level offers advanced skills and has 2 modules namely, Essentials- students will have to pass all 3 papers, and Options- where students can choose to take 2 exams amongst the 4 options available.

2. Is there a time limit to qualify?

There is no time limit to pass the Fundamentals level. After passing the first professional exam there are 7 years given to clear the rest of the papers.

3.   How do I get started?

You’ll have to pay a registration fee and can apply for the ACCA qualification anytime.

4. How do I apply?

The easiest and swift way is to apply online. You can also upload supporting documents online. If you want to fill out a paper application form you’ll have to contact ACCA Connect and the application will be sent to you.

Top Institutes and Colleges in India provide ACCA certification course in India.