By CA X ACCA
Introduction
If you’re studying for the ACCA qualification, you probably already know about the Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM).
It’s a required part of ACCA and teaches you professional and ethical skills that you’ll use in your career. But many students ask:
“How can I pass ACCA EPSM fast? It feels too long and confusing!”
In this article, we’ll explain what EPSM is, how it works, and give you practical tips to complete it quickly and easily without stress.
Let’s get started!
What Is ACCA EPSM?
EPSM stands for Ethics and Professional Skills Module.
It’s an online course that you need to finish before you can qualify as an ACCA member.
The module:
- Has 10 units
- Takes about 15–20 hours to complete
- Is self-paced (you can do it any time after finishing Applied Skills level)
- Costs around £70–£80 (check ACCA website for current fee)
It’s not a traditional exam it’s more like an interactive learning course where you watch videos, answer questions, and complete tasks.
Why Is EPSM Important?
✅ Improves your communication, leadership, and ethical decision-making.
✅ Helps you prepare for Strategic Professional exams (especially Strategic business leadership (SBL).
✅ Makes you job-ready by teaching real workplace skills.
✅ It’s mandatory to qualify as an ACCA member.
So, don’t ignore it but also don’t overthink it.
How Long Does EPSM Take?
ACCA says it takes 15–20 hours.
But many students finish it in 1–2 days, especially if they focus and use the tips we share below.
Tips to Pass ACCA EPSM Quickly
Here are some simple, real tips from students who completed EPSM fast:
1️⃣ Don’t Overcomplicate It
Remember: EPSM is not a test of your memory or technical knowledge.
It’s about understanding situations and making good decisions.
You don’t have to “study” for it — just stay focused during the tasks.
2️⃣ Set Aside a Full Day
If you have time, dedicate one full day (6–8 hours) to finish it.
Turn off your phone, avoid distractions, and go through unit by unit.
Some students even finish in one long day.
3️⃣ Watch Videos at 1.25x or 1.5x Speed
Many videos are slow use the speed option to save time if u want.
But don’t skip completely because some videos include answers to later tasks.
4️⃣ Take Screenshots or Notes of Key Answers
In some units, you’ll make choices or write short answers.
Take screenshots or note down what you select it helps if you need to go back.
5️⃣ Unit 8 and 10 Take the Most Time
Students say Unit 8 (Integrated Case Study) and Unit 10 (Final Test) are the longest.
👉 Plan more time for these.
👉 But even these are not hard — just carefully follow the instructions.
6️⃣ Don’t Rush the Final Test
At the end of Unit 10, there’s a final test (not hard, just scenario-based).
Read carefully — and you can redo it if needed.
7️⃣ Do It Before Your Strategic Professional Exams
EPSM also helps with Strategic Business Leader (SBL) exam.
Many students say doing EPSM before SBL improves their chances.
💬 FAQs About EPSM
Q: Can I fail EPSM?
➡️ No — it’s designed to help you learn, not to fail you.
Q: Can I pause and come back later?
➡️ Yes — you can log out anytime and pick up where you left off.
Q: Do I need books or extra materials?
➡️ No — everything is included in the online module.
The ACCA Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM) is an important step in your ACCA journey, but it doesn’t have to be stressful.
If you stay focused, follow the tips above, and don’t overthink it, you can easily complete it in 1–2 days.
Remember: EPSM is about improving your skills for the real world not testing how much you can memorize.
Good luck and if you need help with ACCA kits, IFRS notes, or study tips, explore the rest of CA X ACCA!