If you're exploring options to study towards your ACCA qualification, you've likely come across terms like 'ACCA Approved Learning Partner' or 'ACCA Content Partner.' While these distinctions may seem minor at first glance, there are some key differences.
Let's explore what it means to be an ACCA Approved Learning Partner, the difference between learning partners and content partners, and why Kaplan is a leader in ACCA tuition.
What is an 'ACCA Approved Learning Partner'?
An ACCA Approved Learning Partner (ALP) is a status awarded by ACCA to providers that meet rigorous standards for tuition, student support, and course delivery. Approval levels include silver, gold, and platinum, with platinum being the highest recognition.
What does this mean for you as a learner?
When you study with an approved partner like Kaplan, you can expect:
- High-quality tuition: ALPs meet ACCA’s global benchmarks for best practices in course management and student support.
- Rigorous quality assurance: ACCA conducts regular audits and reviews to ensure standards are maintained.
- Higher success rates: Platinum ALPs, in particular, demonstrate exam pass rates above global averages, giving you a better chance of success.
Kaplan is proud to hold the Platinum ALP status, a testament to the exceptional quality of our ACCA courses and materials.
The difference between ACCA Learning Provider (ALP) and Content Partner
An ACCA Learning Provider offers the course tuition or delivery - this includes teaching, classes (online or in-person), and academic support to help you prepare for exams. These providers are recognised by ACCA for meeting high standards or tuition.
On the other hand, a content partner supplies the printed or digital study materials that you would use as part of a course or for self-study. Materials typically include study texts, exam kits, and pocket notes.
In a nutshell, ALP delivers the learning experience, while the content partner delivers the study materials to support your learning. This means that our Kaplan courses fall under the ALP, and our Kaplan Publishing materials fall under the content partner category.
The transition from content 'provider' to 'partner'
Previously, Kaplan was part of the ACCA Approved Content Provider programme, a collaboration between ACCA and content publishers like Kaplan. This designation recognised Kaplan’s ability to create high-quality study materials perfectly aligned with the ACCA syllabus.
Recently, ACCA has evolved this programme into the ACCA Content Partner programme. We are one of just two ACCA Content Partners in the world. While the programme name has changed from ACCA Approved Content Provider to ACCA Content Partner, the core aspects of the partnership and the exceptional standard of Kaplan materials remain the same.
Why Kaplan’s materials are the best
If you take a Kaplan course, you'll get access to Kaplan Publishing materials as part of your course. Our ACCA materials are designed to help you succeed. Here's what sets our materials apart:
1. Exclusive access to exam content
We remain contractually authorised by ACCA to include recent past exam questions and official examiners' answers in our study materials. This unique access means you’ll prepare with the most accurate and relevant content possible.
2. Designed by experts
Our study resources are crafted by experienced tutors who actively teach ACCA courses. This ensures the materials are both practical and tailored to real classroom and exam experiences.
3. Regular updates
Our strong partnership with ACCA means we maintain a close relationship with their examining team. This allows us to raise syllabus-related questions during content development, ensuring you receive information directly from those who assess you. As a result, our resources are updated annually to reflect syllabus changes and developments, guaranteeing you always have the most current and accurate materials.
4. Comprehensive support
You won't just be learning the theory. Our materials help you apply it with exam kits, mock exams, and supplementary resources that solidify your knowledge and boost exam readiness.
The difference between ACCA's Study Hub and ACCA Content Partners
With the launch of the ACCA Study Hub, you may wonder whether to use ACCA’s internal learning system or continue with your tried and tested courses and resources. Here’s what the ACCA recommends:
- The Study Hub is designed to complement your studies, not replace them.
- ACCA explicitly states that learners studying with an Approved Learning Partner or using study materials from an ACCA Content Partner should continue with their current method.
Kaplan’s resources form the core study materials, providing in-depth content coverage. Meanwhile, the Study Hub could help reinforce your learning with additional exercises and practice.
What does 'Platinum Approval' mean?
As a Platinum Approved Learning Partner, this means we exceed ACCA’s highest global standards for tuition delivery. This means that studying with us at Kaplan isn't just about the high-quality resources - you'll also receive the best-in-class teaching and student support.
Here’s why we are the platinum choice:
- Proven results: Kaplan achieves pass rates consistently above global averages.
- Comprehensive exam focus: Our materials and teaching methods are explicitly aligned with what ACCA exams demand.
- Unmatched flexibility: We offer courses in multiple formats, from live classes to fully flexible online learning platforms, meeting the diverse needs of students across the globe.
Support for Kaplan learners
Enrolling in a Kaplan ACCA course means more than just great materials. We support you further throughout your ACCA studies:
Personalised learning experience
You’ll have access to flexible learning options, expert tutors, and tools like practice exams and progress tracking, making it easy to customise your study experience.
Community and support
From online forums to personal tutor feedback, we foster a supportive learning environment that encourages collaboration and helps you stay on track.
Summary and FAQs
1. Can I trust Kaplan’s materials to be accurate and up-to-date?
Absolutely. Our materials are updated annually and closely aligned with ACCA’s syllabus and exam formats.
2. What’s the difference between Kaplan's resources and the ACCA Study Hub?
If you're studying with Kaplan, you'll receive everything you need to succeed, including expert content specifically designed to help you pass your exams. Upon enrolling in a course, you’ll gain access to digital materials, which include marked mock exams, practice questions, and more, when you enrol on a course. Printed materials are also available through Kaplan Publishing.
The ACCA Study Hub is designed to complement your studies, providing additional exercises and practice opportunities.
3. Does Kaplan offer digital resources?
Yes. Kaplan’s online platform provides access to eBooks, practice exams, and progress tracking tools.
4. Why is Platinum status important?
Platinum approval signifies Kaplan’s commitment to excellence in tuition, ensuring you receive the best possible preparation for ACCA exams.
Ready to start your studies?
Navigating your ACCA qualification is easier when you choose a trusted partner. With Kaplan, you’ll benefit from comprehensive, expertly crafted materials, superior tuition, and a proven track record of student success.
Experience the difference of studying with a Platinum Approved Learning Partner.