If you’re dreaming of a successful career in accounting or finance, the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualification can be your golden ticket. But in real the journey is not easy. It takes hard work, smart planning and consistency.
This guide breaks down the key milestones of the ACCA journey, helping you navigate exams, gain experience, and land a rewarding career without stress.
1.ACCA Registration & Entry Requirements
Before diving in, make sure you are eligible:
- Minimum Qualification: You need at least 2 A-Levels + 3 GCSEs (or equivalent).
- No Degree? No Problem! Even if you don’t have a finance background, you can start with the Foundations in Accountancy (FIA) route and later switch to ACCA.
- Exemptions? If you have a relevant degree (e.g., B.Com, BBA), you might skip some exams for this purpose check ACCA’s exemption calculator which have link below:-
ACCA EXEMPTION CALCULATOR
💡 Pro Tip: Register directly on the ACCA Global website and choose a study method (self-study, online courses, or tuition).
2. The ACCA Exam Structure: 3 Key Levels
ACCA has 17 exams for those who are entering from foundation level but if u have A levels ACCA has 13 exams (but you may skip some with exemptions). They’re divided into three levels:
A. Applied Knowledge (3 Exams)
- Subjects: Business & Technology (BT), Management Accounting (MA), Financial Accounting (FA).
- Difficulty: Basic great for building a strong foundation.
B. Applied Skills (6 Exams)
- Subjects: Corporate Law (LW), Performance Management (PM), Taxation (TX), Audit and Assurance, financial reporting, financial management (FM).
- Difficulty: Moderate and it requires deeper understanding and practice.
C. Strategic Professional (4 Exams – 2 Essentials + 2 Options)
- Essentials: Strategic Business Leader (SBL) & Strategic Business Reporting (SBR).
- Options: Choose 2 from Advanced Audit, Advanced Taxation, etc.
if u choose advanced audit and andvanced taxation in choice then u are elligible for more exemptions in icaew.
- Difficulty: Tough and real-world case studies and strategic thinking needed.
💡 Pro Tip: Take mock exams seriously—they mimic real test conditions and boost confidence. Also practice the past papers and mocks of your tuition provider.
3. Gaining Practical Experience (PER – 36 Months)
ACCA isn’t just about exams—you need 3 years of relevant work experience to become a member. This is not so easy. As it also requires hard work and determination as it hard to manage your future studies or remaining exams with your job.
- Where to Work? Accounting firms, corporate finance departments, or even internships. Many accounting firms and industries offers trainee programs which u can see on official acca website.
- Skills Requirement: You must demonstrate 9 key competencies (e.g., financial reporting, audit, leadership).
4. Final Step: Becoming an ACCA Member
Once you’ve:
✔ Passed all exams
✔ Completed 36 months of experience
✔ Submitted your Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM)
…You can officially apply for ACCA membership and add those prestigious “ACCA” letters after your name!
5. Career Opportunities After ACCA
An ACCA qualification opens doors globally in:
- Audit & Assurance (Big 4 firms like PwC, EY)
- Corporate Finance (Financial Analyst, CFO roles)
- Tax & Consulting (Tax advisor, business consultant)
- Forensic Accounting & Risk Management
💡 Salary Check: ACCA affiliates earn 30-35% more than non-certified accountants (varies by country).
Is ACCA Worth It?
Yes, if you’re serious about a high-paying, globally recognized accounting career. The journey is challenging, but with the right plan, discipline, and support, you’ll cross the finish line.
NOTE
ACCA is evolving! By mid-2027, the qualification will see new exam papers and updated syllabuses to align with digital skills, sustainability, and evolving finance roles. Expect more focus on tech (AI, data analytics) and green finance keeping ACCA members future-ready. Stay tuned for official announcements, and prepare to adapt your study plan! 🚀
(Want details on specific changes? Check ACCA’s website or subscribe to their updates.)
Whats next?
we will talk about the coming ACCA qualification and
✅ ACCA exam fees (country-wise breakdown)
✅ Passing rates & tips to clear exams in first attempt
✅ Important terms & conditions (retakes, deadlines, refunds)
Keep visiting for more helpful guides! 😊