The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualification is one of the world's leading accountancy qualifications, recognised by employers in more than 180 countries. It's designed for anyone looking to build a career in accounting, finance or business, whether you're leaving school, changing careers or already working in finance.
The ACCA qualification combines technical knowledge, practical skills and professional ethics to prepare you for a wide range of finance careers. Depending on your previous qualifications, you'll complete up to 13 exams across three levels, alongside the Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM) and practical work experience before becoming an ACCA member.
Most students complete ACCA within three to five years, although this varies depending on your study method, the number of exams you sit each year and whether you're eligible for exemptions.
Why study ACCA?
Choosing ACCA can open the door to exciting career opportunities in the UK and around the world.
Some of the benefits include:
- Global recognition – ACCA is recognised by employers in more than 180 countries, making it an excellent choice if you're considering an international career.
- Career flexibility – ACCA prepares you for roles in practice, industry, public sector organisations and financial services.
- Professional skills – You'll develop expertise in financial reporting, taxation, audit, management accounting, business strategy and ethics.
- Career progression – ACCA can help you progress into senior finance and leadership positions.
- Higher earning potential – Becoming ACCA qualified can increase your opportunities for promotion and higher salaries throughout your career.
- A respected qualification – ACCA is equivalent to a Master's degree in the UK once fully completed, demonstrating a high level of professional knowledge and expertise.
How many ACCA exams are there?
The ACCA Qualification is made up of three stages:
This introductory level builds your understanding of business and finance fundamentals.
Subjects include:
- Business and Technology (BT)
- Management Accounting (MA)
- Financial Accounting (FA)
You'll develop the technical knowledge needed to work as a professional accountant.
Subjects include:
- Corporate and Business Law
- Performance Management
- Taxation
- Financial Reporting
- Audit and Assurance
- Financial Management
The final stage develops strategic thinking and leadership skills.
It includes:
- Strategic Business Leader (SBL)
- Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)
Two optional exams chosen from advanced taxation, audit, financial management or performance management.
Depending on your previous qualifications, you may receive exemptions from some exams, meaning you could complete fewer than 13 exams.
How long does ACCA take?
The time it takes to complete ACCA depends on your starting point and how many exams you choose to sit each year.
Many students complete the qualification in three to five years, while those studying part time alongside work may take a little longer. If you're eligible for exemptions, you may be able to qualify more quickly.
With four exam sessions each year and flexible study options, you can progress at a pace that works for you.
Who can study ACCA?
One of ACCA's strengths is that there are several routes into the qualification.
School leavers
If you've completed A Levels or equivalent qualifications, you may be able to start the ACCA Qualification directly if you meet ACCA's entry requirements.
Graduates
If you've studied accounting, finance or a related subject at university, you may be eligible for exemptions from some exams, allowing you to progress more quickly.
Existing finance professionals
If you're already working in finance or bookkeeping, previous qualifications such as AAT may provide exemptions and reduce the number of exams you'll need to complete.
Foundations pathway
If you don't yet meet the entry requirements for ACCA, the ACCA Foundations route provides an excellent starting point before progressing to the full qualification.
Apprenticeships
Many employers support ACCA study through apprenticeship programmes, allowing you to earn while you learn and gain valuable workplace experience alongside your studies.
How to become ACCA qualified
Becoming ACCA qualified is a structured journey that combines exams, professional skills and practical experience.
- Register with ACCA and confirm your eligibility.
- Check whether you're entitled to any exemptions based on your previous qualifications.
- Choose a study method that suits your lifestyle and learning preferences.
- Complete the Applied Knowledge level (if required).
- Progress through the Applied Skills exams.
- Complete the Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM).
- Pass the Strategic Professional exams.
- Complete ACCA's Practical Experience Requirement (PER).
- Apply for ACCA membership and become a qualified chartered certified accountant.
Can I get ACCA exemptions?
Many students don't need to complete every ACCA exam.
If you've previously studied accounting, finance or business, or you've completed qualifications such as AAT or a relevant degree, you may be eligible for exemptions from some of the earlier exams.
The number of exemptions available depends on your previous qualifications, so it's worth checking before you begin your studies.
Is ACCA equivalent to a Master's degree?
Yes. Once you've completed the ACCA Qualification, including the required exams, ethics module and practical experience requirements, it is recognised as being equivalent to a Master's level qualification in the UK.
This makes ACCA a highly respected professional qualification that combines academic achievement with practical workplace skills.
What careers can ACCA lead to?
ACCA prepares you for a wide range of finance and business roles, including:
- Assistant Accountant
- Management Accountant
- Financial Accountant
- Financial Analyst
- Auditor
- Tax Associate
- Finance Business Partner
- Finance Manager
- Financial Controller
- Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Many students begin in entry-level finance positions before progressing into management and strategic leadership roles as they gain experience and complete the qualification.
How can I study ACCA?
At Kaplan, we offer four flexible study methods, so you can choose the learning experience that best suits your lifestyle.
| Study method | Delivery | Tutor interaction | Structure | Weekly commitment | Best for |
|---|
| Classroom | Face-to-face teaching at one of our centres | High | Fixed timetable | Regular weekly classes | Students who enjoy learning in person and benefit from a structured schedule. |
| Live Online | Live tutor-led classes from home | High | Fixed timetable | Regular weekly classes | Students who want the classroom experience with the flexibility to study from anywhere. |
| OnDemand | Pre-recorded online learning | Support available when you need it | Flexible | Study whenever suits you | Independent learners balancing study with work or family commitments. |
| Distance Learning | Self-study with comprehensive materials | Tutor support available | Flexible | Study at your own pace | Self-motivated learners who prefer to study independently. |
Whichever study method you choose, you'll have access to expert tutors, comprehensive learning materials and dedicated support throughout your ACCA journey.
Why study ACCA with Kaplan?
Kaplan has been helping students achieve professional qualifications for decades and is one of the UK's leading ACCA tuition providers.
When you study with Kaplan, you'll benefit from:
- Expert tutors with industry experience.
- Comprehensive study materials, practice questions and mock exams.
- Flexible study methods to suit different learning styles.
- Dedicated student support throughout your studies.
- Strong student outcomes, with Kaplan learners regularly achieving pass rates above ACCA's global averages. For example, Kaplan Live Online students achieved a 72% pass rate in the Audit and Assurance (AA) exam, compared with the 44% global average.
Whether you're just starting your finance career or looking to take the next step, Kaplan can help you achieve your ACCA goals.
Ready to start your ACCA journey?
Studying ACCA is an investment in your future. With globally recognised qualifications, flexible study options and expert support from Kaplan, you'll be building the knowledge and confidence to progress your finance career.
Explore our ACCA courses to find the study method that's right for you, or if you're not quite ready to commit, take advantage of our free five-day trial and experience studying with Kaplan before you enrol.
FAQs
Is ACCA difficult?
ACCA is a challenging professional qualification, but with the right study plan, support and commitment, it's achievable. Choosing a study method that suits your learning style can make a significant difference.
Can I work while studying ACCA?
Yes. Many ACCA students study alongside full-time employment. Kaplan's flexible study methods are designed to help you balance work, study and personal commitments.
How often can I sit ACCA exams?
Most ACCA exams are available during four exam sessions each year, allowing you to plan your studies around your work and personal commitments.
Is ACCA recognised internationally?
Yes. ACCA is recognised in more than 180 countries, making it an excellent qualification for anyone considering an international finance career.