What is ACCA? Course Details, Salary & Comparison 2025

Introduction and Overview of ACCA

The ACCA full form Association of Chartered Certified Accountants is a globally recognized qualification that opens doors to rewarding careers in accounting, finance, and business. With over 241,000 members and 542,000 students in 178 countries, ACCA equips professionals with the skills and knowledge to excel in multinational corporations, financial institutions, and top-tier accounting firms. Whether you aim for a career in audit, taxation, consulting, or financial management, ACCA provides a competitive edge, high earning potential, and international career opportunities.

What is ACCA?

Full form of ACCA is Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and it is a globally recognized course and has over 200,000 members and 600,000 students across 180+ countries. It’s one of the finest professional accounting qualifications in the world. Many students who want to build a successful career abroad prefer it.

What do you visualize when you think about accounting and finance careers? A few years ago, accounting meant working under heaps of paper. However, the scenario has drastically changed today. The finance and accounting sector has progressed from manual bookkeeping to technology-driven methods. With ACCA you can learn everything you need to know about these new technology-driven methods.

How to Build an Accounting Career with ACCA Global?

ACCA which is also known as  Association of Chartered Certified Accountants India is a professional certification course that trains candidates according to current market standards. The ACCA global body regularly updates the students on industry changes.

To make an accounting career in ACCA, you must choose a dynamic course that matches the evolving field. Eight brilliant accountants formed the ACCA on 30th November 1904 in the UK. While the association started in the UK, it gained recognition globally. It is now present in as many as 180 countries worldwide. According to recent records, the ACCA courses in India have 2,00,000+ registered community members and 6,00,000+ registered students.

Benefits of Doing the ACCA Course

The benefits of doing an ACCA course include global recognition, enhanced employability, comprehensive knowledge of international standards, career flexibility, and access to a vast professional network.

ACCA Course in India

ACCA India offers globally recognised accounting qualifications, providing Indian professionals with the skills and credentials to excel in international finance and accounting careers.

ACCA Course Eligibility in 2025

Once you have decided to pursue the course, you must know what ACCA course eligibility is and whether you fit in and the requirements are discussed below:

• The minimum acca course eligibility criteria is to pass Class 12th with at least 50% marks. Must score at least 65% in Accounts, English, and Mathematics.
• If you do not meet the above criteria, you must pursue and complete the Foundation in ACCA Diploma.

ACCA Course Duration

The course duration is 2-3 years. It covers 13 exams across fundamental and professional levels, focusing on core accounting, financial management, and ethics.

The Complete ACCA Course Duration and Details are mentioned in the table below:

ACCA PER Requirements

The Practical Experience Requirement (PER) is a crucial part of the ACCA qualification. It ensures that candidates not only pass their exams but also gain the practical skills needed to succeed in the real-world business environment.

• To become an ACCA member, you must complete 36 months (3 years) of relevant work experience in a finance, accounting, or audit role. This experience can be gained before, during, or after completing your ACCA exams. It does not have to be completed in one go or with the same employer.
• Along with gaining work experience, ACCA students must demonstrate competence in five Essential Performance Objectives (POs) and choose four Technical POs relevant to their job role. These objectives cover key areas such as ethics, communication, audit, financial reporting, and management accounting.
• You must also regularly update your PER record through ACCA’s MyExperience tool and get your experience signed off by a qualified workplace mentor—usually a senior finance professional or line manager.

By completing the PER, you prove that you can apply the knowledge learned in exams to real-life professional situations, making you a well-rounded and job-ready finance professional.

ACCA Exemptions

ACCA exemptions are waivers on certain exam papers. It offers exemptions to commerce graduates, post-graduates (M.Com) inter-CA students, and CA Qualified. Students who have just cleared their Class 12th examinations, do not qualify as per the criteria. However, they still qualify to register for the exam via the Foundation in Accountancy (FIA) route.

Are you now a graduate and regret not joining the course immediately after completing your Class 12th? Then you certainly don’t have to worry because students with higher educational qualifications get ACCA course exemptions. Let’s take a look at the exam exemptions before you join the this course.

• Students who have joined the course just after Class 12th must appear in all the exams. 
• However, Commerce Graduates who’ve completed their B.Com can gain up to 5 exemptions for their  exams. 
• Also, CA IPCC candidates get exemptions from 5 exams. 
• Many CA candidates today pursue the course and get exemptions from 9 exams.

• The applicant should have passed 5 subjects which include English and Mathematics or Accounts, with 65% and over 50% for the rest. 
• A CA Final candidate is eligible to attain additional exemptions. This depends on whether you’ve scored 40 or above in the examination for certain subjects.

You can also check Our Video on ACCA Course Exemptions 

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ACCA Course Levels

The ACCA qualification is structured across three main levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional. Each level is designed to build upon the previous one, progressively developing your technical, ethical, and professional skills. The Applied Knowledge level introduces the fundamentals of accounting and business. Applied Skills dives deeper into core finance areas like taxation, audit, and financial management. Finally, the Strategic Professional level focuses on advanced topics, leadership, and strategic decision-making, preparing students for senior roles in the finance industry.

The course consists of three levels and appears and passes 13 exams to complete the ACCA course structure. These levels are:

• Applied Knowledge Level
• Applied Skills Level
• Professional Level

Let us discuss all these levels one by one. 

ACCA Knowledge Level

This first level of the Papers offers basic knowledge and information in finance and accounting. Here, you have to appear in 3 exams to clear this level to proceed to the next level.

Applied Skills Level

This level is all about strategic skills and other accounting skills. You will learn how to apply the concepts you have learned at the Foundation Level.

Professional Level

The final level helps build strategic skills with the professional skills required in the accounting industry.  Apart from the study modules, you must have work experience of about 36 months in the relevant field. You can complete this work experience during the course or even after completing all the levels. You can claim the ACCA certification only after clearing all the levels and completing the work experience.

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ACCA Course Syllabus and Subjects in 2025

The ACCA syllabus covers a comprehensive range of topics, including financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, audit, and financial management. ACCA subjects equip students with essential accounting and business skills.

Step-by-Step Process on ACCA Admission

Here is a complete step-by-step ACCA admission process along with its eligibility, documents, and how to apply. 

Step 1: Eligibility Criteria: 

First, while applying for ACCA, you have to cater to the ACCA eligibility after 12th factor. You have to ensure that you are eligible for application. Therefore, the first step in the admission process is eligibility. 

For Students (Foundation Level): No formal educational requirements; ideal for beginners.

For Direct Entry (ACCA Qualification):

• 10+2 with at least 65% in Mathematics/Accounts and English and 50% in other subjects.
• Graduates (B.Com, BBA, or equivalent) can receive exemptions for certain exams.
• CA, CMA, or MBA degree holders may also be eligible for exemptions.

Step 2: Documentation:

Once you are dim fit for the application of the ACCA, you would need to submit the necessary documents for the same. Applicant needs to submit the following documents: 

• Scanned copy of academic certificates (10th, 12th, and graduation, if applicable).
• Valid government-issued ID proof (passport, Aadhaar, or driver’s license).
• Passport-size photograph (as per ACCA specifications).
• Proof of English proficiency (if required for international applicants).

Step 3: Application:

• Visit www.accaglobal.com to register and create your account 
• Provide all the necessary personal and professional documents along with valid documents 
• Pay the online registration fee and annual subscription fee online 
• Once the verification is done, you will get your own unique student registration number 
• Start your ACCA journey by taking coaching classes or self-study. 

ACCA Qualification Pathway

ACCA Course Knowledge Level

Class 12th students have to appear in all the exams. The commerce graduates and master’s degree holders get an exemption from appearing in these subject exams.

• Business and Technology (BT)
• Management Accounting (MA)
• Financial Accounting (FA)

ACCA Course Skill Level

CA IPCC candidates get exemptions from the above-level exams and 2 subjects from this level. 

• Corporate and Business Law (LW)
• Performance Management
• Taxation (TX)
• Financial Reporting (FR)
• Audit and Assurance (AA)
• Financial Management (FM)

ACCA Strategic Professional Level 

CA candidates just have to appear in this level exam to get the ACCA certification and membership.  Essential

• Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)
• Strategic Business Leader (SBL)

Optional (2 of 4)

• Advanced Financial Management (AFM)
• Advanced Performance Management (APM)
• Advanced Taxation (ATX)
• Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA)

Ethics and Professional Skills Module

This module helps you gain the professional and ethical skills required in real-time work situations.

ACCA Affiliate

Students need to complete 36 months of work experience to achieve Affiliate membership. A supervisor should sign this experience documentation.

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ACCA Course Exam Details for 2025

The course exam takes place four times a year, offering candidates the flexibility to appear in the exam at their convenience. You can appear in the exams in March, June, September, or December every year. However, there are some common elements that you must remember while understanding ACCA exam details.

• Each exam has two sections – Section A and Section B
• Section A will have objective-type questions while Section B comprises long pattern questions.
• The exam papers have 100 marks for each module.
• You must secure at least 50% to pass the exam.
• ACCA does not charge negative markings for wrong answers. 

People usually don’t consider ACCA as difficult as CA. However, passing the exam levels can get more difficult than your graduation exams if you do not prepare well. The difficulty level increases with each level. For example, you may not find the Foundation Level difficult.

However, the ACCA Skill Level exam fees will get more and  will get tougher than the first level, and so on. Consult a guide to prepare for the ACCA exam well and pass it smoothly.  Along with the ACCA learning skills, you must also have these many skills for your accounting career in the future.

• Mathematics skills
• Accounting skills
• Analytical skills and critical thinking
• Decision Making skills
• Professional ethics
• Creativity
• Global mindset
• Communication skills

Why should you pursue ACCA when there are so many other accounting and finance courses available in the market? Here are some of the potential answers to that question:

Global Recognition:

So, what is so special about ACCA that even CA candidates are pursuing this course? One of the prominent reasons is global recognition. Today, it is available in as many as 180 countries worldwide. After ACCA, you can either work in a multinational company in your country or explore opportunities in other countries.

Promising Career:

Another essential reason to pursue ACCA is – career growth. Most multinational companies wish to hire candidates with professional qualifications. ACCA candidates are experts in strategic skills. Apart from these skills, their communication and leadership qualities make them a favourite of various multinational companies.

Decent Salary Package:

With career growth, you will start earning a decent salary package. According to Ambition Box, the annual salary of an ACCA is Rs. 12 LPA. This salary keeps on increasing with time and experience.

A Part of the ACCA Community:

Lastly, you happen to become a part of the reputed community. The association updates the ACCA members regularly with the latest happenings in the accounting industry. Also, you can discuss and seek advice on various doubts you may have from other community members.

Which Countries Offer ACCA Signing Authority?

The countries offering ACCA signing authority are the UK, Ireland, UAE, Germany, Canada, and many other countries have signing authority. In all these countries, ACCA professionals sign audit reports and financial statements. However, you might need additional qualifications, like a practicing certificate or registration with local regulatory bodies.

While ACCA candidates can work in 180+ countries, they don’t have signing authorities globally. Now you must be thinking which countries have ACCA signing authority till now? Many countries recognize ACCA. Here is a list of popular countries:

• United Kingdom and Ireland
• European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the European Union
• Türkiye
• United States
• Canada
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Hong Kong
• South Africa

ACCA Fees in India?

The ACCA course fees in India and ACCA exam fees in Indian rupees are around INR 1.8 lakhs. The first thing that you must do is register for the course with an initial fee of Rs. 7625. The next step leads you to paying an annual subscription of Rs. 10,000. You have to pay every year till the completion of the course.

Registration and Subscription Fees

 1. Initial registration: £30 A one-time fee that students must pay when registering with ACCA Global body.

 2. Re-registration:£30 (~INR 3,120) students who fail to pay ACCA fees in India when due will have their names removed from the ACCA register. They must pay a re-registration fee (plus any unpaid fees) to regain their student status.

 3. Annual subscription 2025: £134 (~INR 13,940) An annual subscription fee is due each year to keep your student status active.

 4. Exemption fees: An exemption fee is charged for each exam when you are awarded an exemption.

 5. Applied Knowledge exams: £84  (ACCA exam fees in Indian rupees ~INR 8,740) The fee is chargeable per exemption awarded.

 6. Applied Skills exams: You need to pay an amount of £111 (~INR 11,550) per exam. You may have to pay exemption fees if you take exam exemptions. The exemption charges are different for different papers. You must contact a professional guide or coaching centre to assist you with the ACCA course fees in India and other charges.

ACCA Course Coaching Fees:

The ACCA course coaching fees depend upon the ACCA institute you are taking it from, your geographical location and more. To make your degree truly count, you need a coaching ACCA institute that is known for this course throughout the globe. Zell’s Platinum ALP status entitles you to exemption waivers of: Subjects: ₹1,00,000 Registration: ₹8,000 Subscription: £112

The following table showcases coaching fees at Zell Education: 

Interesting Facts on ACCA Subscription and Membership:

These subscription charges may, however, differ based on your current status.

 If you are an affiliate, it means you’ve passed the ACCA exams and the ethics module. However, you may not have completed your mandatory work experience. In that case, you must pay an annual fee of £135. You can then hold ACCA affiliate status for almost three years. After that, you must pay an annual fee of £270 to extend your affiliate status.

After completing all your papers, ethics module and mandatory work experience. You can apply for a full-time membership of £270.

Contact details: You can reach out to the experts at Zell Education through this number +91 7022878870.

Head office address: 602, Eco Space IT Park New Nagardas Road Mogra Village, Mogra Pada, Natwar Nagar, Jogeshwari East, Maharashtra. 

Get Directions

The ACCA qualification is recognized in over 180 countries including Canada, Singapore, and Australia. If you’ve decided to become a global CA and are contemplating your next move? We can help you take a step forward. Check out our Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) course to learn more.

ACCA Scope and Salary in India and Abroad

The scope of ACCA in India helps you find great career opportunities in various multinational companies. Some of the best career opportunities that you can have in India after ACCA certification are in accounting and reporting, financial accounting, business valuation and more. Companies such as TATA, Deloitte, and many more in India pay ACCA almost equivalent salary packages to CA. You can get good salary packages in these companies based on your skills, experience, and your interview.  You can work for any organisation in a variety of roles.

The ACCA Salary in India is up to INR 12 lakh per annum. ACCA candidates in India and worldwide pocket a good salary package from the start of their careers. Here is a detailed overview of the ACCA salary in India & worldwide.   

Here is a detailed comparison of salaries for ACCA in India and worldwide with job roles

The above salaries are indicative ranges. Salary can vary based on experience, specific job responsibilities, company size, and location within the country. India: Rs. 7 lacs – 19 lacs UK: GBP 39,000 – 68,200 Hong Kong: KHD 17,4000 – 31, 900  UAE: AED 60,000 – 2,40,000

We at Zell Education, have placed hundreds of students in various companies across India, in Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune. Simultaneously, we are in contact with thousands of ACCAs across India placed in prestigious corporations in all departments.

Let Zell Education take your career search a notch higher with detailed course training for ACCA.

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ACCA Vs Other Global Accounting certifications

ACCA: Globally recognised accounting certification

• Duration: 3–4 years
• Exams: 13 papers + Ethics module (retakes allowed)
• Eligibility: 10+2 qualification + 3 years of relevant work experience
• Fees: £89 registration, £116 per exam
• Careers: Auditor, Financial Analyst, Accountant, Consultant
• Pass Rate: 40%–50%

CA (India): Prestigious Indian certification, globally recognised

• Duration: 4–5 years
• Structure: Foundation, Intermediate, Final + 3-year articleship
• Eligibility: After 10+2 or direct entry post-graduation
• Fees: ₹10,900 (Foundation), ₹27,000 (Intermediate), ₹39,800 (Final)
• Careers: Auditor, Tax Consultant, CFO, Finance Manager
• Pass Rate: 5%–10% (very competitive)

CFA: Globally recognised in investment and portfolio management

• Duration: 1.5–4 years
• Structure: 3 levels, exams 2–3 times a year
• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree or 4 years of relevant work experience
• Fees: $450 enrolment, $900–$1,200 per level
• Careers: Financial Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Investment Banker
• Pass Rate: 40%–50% depending on the level

CPA (US): Recognised in the US and internationally

• Duration: 1–2 years
• Structure: 4 exam sections (FAR, AUD, REG, BEC), 4 exam windows per year
• Eligibility: Bachelor’s in accounting or similar field + 1–2 years work experience
• Fees: $1,000–$3,000 depending on state and review course
• Careers: Auditing, Tax Consultancy, Financial Control
• Pass Rate: Around 50% per section

US CMA: Recognised in the US and internationally, no audit signing authority

• Duration: 6 months to 3 years
• Structure: 2 parts, multiple attempts allowed
• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree + 2 years related work experience
• Fees: $415 per part + $250 membership fee
• Careers: Management Accountant, Financial Analyst, Cost Accountant
• Pass Rate: 45%–50% per part

Best ACCA Institutes in India

Choosing the right ACCA institute can significantly impact your ACCA journey. Here are some of the best ACCA institutes in India that offer quality training, experienced faculty, and strong placement support. These colleges also offer flexible payment plans to help manage ACCA costs in India effectively.

1. Zell Education (Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, Hyderabad, Online)

Zell is one of the top ACCA colleges in India, offering live online and in-person coaching. Known for its global curriculum delivery and placement support, it helps students plan their ACCA course fees in Bangalore and across other cities with flexible options.

2. IMS Proschool (Multiple Cities)

With centers across major metros, IMS Proschool provides comprehensive ACCA coaching, including practical training and soft skills. They offer detailed guidance on ACCA skills level exam fee and manage ACCA fees in Indian rupees with structured installment plans.

3. Grant Thornton Academy (Pan India)

This leading firm-run institute offers ACCA coaching with a focus on real-world case studies. Grant Thornton also supports students in understanding ACCA cost in India and ensures they are well-informed about ACCA skills level exam fee.

4. EduPristine (Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Online)

EduPristine is widely recognized among ACCA colleges in India. They provide end-to-end support for ACCA aspirants, including budgeting ACCA fees in Indian rupees and understanding the full ACCA course fees in Bangalore and other locations.

5. International College of Financial Planning (ICoFP)

Based in Delhi and Mumbai, ICoFP combines academic excellence with financial industry exposure. Their curriculum is tailored to help students manage ACCA cost in India while preparing thoroughly for exams.
Each of these institutes is known for delivering quality education and guidance, making them top choices among ACCA colleges in India.

Conclusion

ACCA qualification provides access to a great career in finance and accounting with global recognition, diversified career opportunities, and a complete curriculum that prepares professionals with skills that are currently in demand. It could be a stepping stone for you whether you want to work with top companies, explore international markets, or develop your skills in finance. With the use of quality ethical considerations and practical knowledge, ACCA enhances your career prospects while preparing you for success in a dynamic financial world. Start your journey with ACCA today and unlock a world of opportunities!

FAQs on ACCA 

What is the ACCA full form?

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants is the full form of ACCA.

Can I pass ACCA on my first attempt?

Experts mention that about 40% to 50% of candidates pass the exams on the first attempt. In addition, you can pass your ACCA levels on the first try if you work hard and follow a good study plan.

Can a student take multiple exams at once?

Yes, students can take multiple exams at once. However, once you have reached the Professional Level, you have seven years to clear all the exams.

How to finish ACCA in 2 years while also working?

Plan your schedule strategically, focusing on 2-3 papers per sitting with effective time management techniques. Utilize online classes and self-study resources to help you better utilize your time.

What are the secrets to success in the ACCA Course?

You should be consistent, and manage your time. Divide your syllabus into smaller fragments, practice past papers, and keep yourself updated with examination tips and techniques.

⁠How should I start the ACCA course after graduation?

First, you should register with ACCA. Check for exemptions available to you based on your degree, and start by preparing for the Applied Knowledge exams. Invest in quality study material and draw out a timeline for your preparation.

How hard is the ACCA level 2 papers?

Level 2 Applied Skills papers are challenging as they require an advanced knowledge of concepts and their application. By practicing past papers and case studies you will perform well.

What should be my preparation strategy for ACCA?

Understand key concepts; leave ample time to revise and practice mock exams. Motivate yourself with a combination of resources from ACCA, tutors, and peer interaction.

How is the job market for ACCA affiliates?

Every sector needs ACCA affiliates globally in the financial, accounting, and auditing sectors. Recently, Indian markets have developed a greater need for professionals with ACCA certification because of globalization.

⁠How many papers get exempted after a BBA for ACCA?

It varies on the major and university, but you can avail of 1 exemption for your BBA degree. However, sometimes you can avail more exemptions based on your major. You check the ACCA website regarding specific exemptions.

How is ACCA as a career option?

ACCA certification is one of the finest professional qualifications out there. ACCA offers immense opportunities in a variety of fields such as finance, auditing, taxation, and management. It facilitates global mobility and recognition in the accounting field.

How many levels are there in the ACCA Course?

There are three levels in the ACCA also known as Association of Chartered Certified Accountants course – Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional. Each level builds on the knowledge of the previous one and is designed to develop your technical, ethical, and professional skills.

How long does it take to complete the ACCA course?

On average, it takes about 2 to 3 years to complete the ACCA course if you’re studying consistently. However, the duration can vary based on the number of exemptions you receive, your study plan, and work commitments.

What job opportunities are available after completing the ACCA qualification?

After completing ACCA, you can pursue roles like Financial Analyst, Auditor, Management Accountant, Tax Consultant, and Finance Manager. ACCA is recognized globally, so career opportunities span across various industries and countries.

Partham Barot is an ACCA-certified professional. showcasing his expertise in finance and accountancy. he’s revolutionizing education by focusing on practical, real-world skills. Partham’s achievements underscore his commitment to elevating educational standards and empowering the next generation of professionals.