What is ACCA? A Complete Guide to Becoming a Global Chartered Accountant

Professional credentials with international recognition are becoming increasingly valuable in an increasingly linked society. The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, or ACCA, is one such credential that has gained popularity in India and elsewhere.
ACCA could be your doorway to a high-potential worldwide profession, regardless of whether you're a commerce student, a prospective CA searching for options, or someone looking for international accounting and finance prospects.

What is ACCA?

Based in the United Kingdom, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a worldwide professional accounting organization. It provides the Chartered Certified Accountant credential, which is accepted in more than 180 nations.
One of the most prestigious finance degrees in the world, ACCA offers a wide and global perspective on financial management, taxation, audit, and ethics, in contrast to standard accounting programs that solely concentrate on local laws or practices.

Why is ACCA Gaining Popularity in India?

The following factors are contributing to the rise in ACCA enrollment in India:
  • Global Recognition: Professionals with ACCA qualifications can find employment in Singapore, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and other countries.
  • Flexible Structure: Students can take tests every three months and study at their own speed in this course.
  • Increased Demand: ACCAs in India are being hired by multinational corporations (MNCs), Big 4 enterprises, and international financial services firms for audit, taxation, and consulting positions.
  • Alternative to CA: With a more flexible exam structure, ACCA provides an internationally competitive option for students who are having trouble with India's traditional CA route because of its high difficulty and low pass rates.

Course Structure of ACCA

The thirteen ACCA papers are broken down into three levels:


1. Three articles on applied knowledge
  • Technology and Business (BT)
  • Accounting for Management (MA)
  • Accounting for Finance (FA)

2. Skills in Practice (6 papers)
  • Business and Corporate Law (LW)
  • Management of Performance (PM)
  • Taxes (TX)
  • Reporting on Finances (FR)
  • Assurance and Audit (AA)
  • Management of Finance (FM)

3. Professional in Strategy (4 papers)
  • Leader of Strategic Business (SBL)
  • Reporting on Strategic Business (SBR)
  • Two optional papers from:
  • Advanced Assurance and Audit (AAA)
  • AFM, or advanced financial management
  • Management of Advanced Performance (APM)
  • ATX, or advanced taxation

In addition, you must finish a module on professional skills and ethics as well as 36 months of real-world experience, either before or after tests.

Job Opportunities After ACCA

ACCA-qualified professionals are in demand for a wide range of roles, including:

  • Financial Analyst
  • Auditor
  • Tax Consultant
  • Management Accountant
  • Finance Manager
  • Internal Auditor
  • Business Analyst

Top employers hiring ACCA candidates in India and abroad include:

  • Big 4 Firms (PwC, EY, Deloitte, KPMG)
  • Accenture
  • Grant Thornton
  • BDO
  • JP Morgan Chase
  • HSBC
  • Standard Chartered
  • Infosys, Wipro, TCS

What is the Salary After ACCA?

  • New ACCAs in India can make between ₹6 and ₹8 LPA.
  • Salary increases to ₹10 to ₹20 LPA are possible with three or more years of experience, particularly in multinational corporations or abroad employment.

IN ACCA vs CA: Which One Should You Choose?

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Feature ACCA CA (India)
Recognition Global Mainly India-focused
Duration 2-3 years (flexible) 5+ years (avg.)
Difficulty Level Moderate Very High (low pass rates)
Articleship 36 months (flexible) 3 years (mandatory during course)
Job Opportunities Global MNCs, Big 4s Indian firms, Govt. jobs
Ideal for Global career, MNC jobs Indian practice, Govt. exams

Final Thoughts

For thousands of Indian students hoping to work for prestigious multinational corporations or relocate overseas, ACCA is now their first choice qualification rather than only a fallback option.
It is ideal for people looking for a contemporary profession in finance and accounting because of its adaptability, global reach, and pragmatic attitude.

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FAQs

Does India Have a Need for ACCA?

Indeed, there is a significant need for ACCA in India, especially with the growing number of foreign and multinational companies setting up shop here in this era of globalization. Professionals with ACCA certification are highly sought after in a variety of fields, such as consulting, taxes, and finance.

Do the Big 4 hire ACCA in India?

Indeed, the Big Four accounting companies employ Indian ACCA professionals throughout the year. Professionals with ACCA certification are qualified for positions in audit, taxes, and other fields. This is because ACCA professionals get a wide range of skills and a global perspective during their ACCA certification process.

What does ACCA stand for?

A worldwide recognized qualification in accounting, finance, and company management is the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). It gives professionals the abilities required for positions in audit, taxes, financial management, and business advising services.

How many levels are there in the ACCA Course?

The three levels of the ACCA course are Professional, Knowledge, and Skills. Essential subjects including advanced financial management, taxation, auditing, and financial reporting are covered at each level.