ACCA Course Duration: How Many Years Does It Take to Qualify?
ACCA Course Duration? Factors That Affect Your Timeline
How many years of ACCA course? For aspiring accountants, understanding the time commitment for the ACCA course is essential. Generally, the ACCA journey takes two to five years, depending on your qualifications, study methods, and applicable exemptions. This guide will break down the expected timelines, study resources like the BPP ECR online coaching available via Eduyush, and how students and professionals can fast-track their way to becoming ACCA-qualified.
What Is the ACCA Course?
The ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) course is a globally respected accounting, finance, and management certification. This program, covering multiple exam levels, is designed to build expertise in accounting from foundational to strategic management roles. For details on what the ACCA course is, explore our in-depth article.
Factors Influencing ACCA course Duration
Your ACCA journey length will depend on several factors:
-
Prior Qualifications and Exemptions
- ACCA offers exemptions for prior qualifications, reducing the number of required exams. For example, a finance graduate may be exempt from up to five papers.
-
Study Approach: Full-Time vs. Part-Time
- Full-time study often allows completion within three years, while part-time or balancing work may extend to four or five years.
-
Coaching and Study Materials
- Quality study resources such as BPP ECR online coaching via Eduyush can significantly improve study efficiency. Additionally, students in India can purchase official ACCA books from BPP and Kaplan through Eduyush, which offers discounted pricing options.
-
Work Experience (PER)
- ACCA requires three years of Practical Experience Requirement (PER), which can be completed alongside exams.
-
Exemption Discounts
- Eduyush also discounts ACCA registration and exemptions, helping students manage costs effectively.
Typical ACCA Course Duration Based on Qualifications
Each student’s background influences the ACCA timeline. Here’s a look at how different education pathways impact study length.
After High School (No Exemptions)
The journey generally takes three to four years for students starting ACCA without exemptions.
Suggested Timeline:
- Year 1: Knowledge Level (3 exams)
- Year 2: Skills Level (6 exams) & Ethics and professional skills module
- Year 3: Strategic Professional Level (4 exams)
- Year 4: Complete PER requirements if not done during the study
After Graduation in Accounting/Finance (Up to 5 Exemptions)
Graduates in finance or accounting typically qualify for up to five exemptions at the Knowledge and Skills Level, which can reduce the duration to around two to three years.
Suggested Timeline:
- Year 1: Skills Level (Complete remaining four exams)
- Year 2: Strategic Professional Level (4 exams) & Ethics and professional skills module
- Year 3: Complete any remaining PER requirements alongside studies
After Professional Qualification (e.g., Chartered Accountant)
Qualified accountants may receive exemptions for most of the Knowledge and Skills exams, allowing them to focus on the Strategic Professional Level and complete ACCA in about one to two years.
Suggested Timeline:
- Year 1: Strategic Professional Level (4 exams) & Ethics and professional skills module
- Year 2: Complete PER (if not already done)
Study Scenarios and Resources for ACCA Success
Structured coaching, regular practice, and high-quality materials can significantly impact your preparation to support your study journey.
Full-Time Student Scenario
- 30-40 Weekly Hours Needed: Full-time students benefit from consistent study to cover ACCA’s vast syllabus.
- Bridging Practical Knowledge Gaps: Without job experience, students need more study time to grasp real-world applications, which is critical for ACCA exams.
- Compensating for Limited Foundation: Non-graduates often need more background knowledge in accounting, requiring additional hours to build foundational concepts.
- Covering Theory Thoroughly: Full-time study allows an in-depth understanding of complex topics that ACCA assumes at the professional level.
- Developing Exam Techniques: More study time enables students to master ACCA’s exam structure and timing, boosting performance.
- Structured Learning with Eduyush: BPP ECR coaching via Eduyush helps streamline studies, offering expert guidance and targeted exam practice.
Working Professional Scenario
- 10-12 Hours Weekly: Part-time study suits busy working professionals well.
- Manageable Timeline: A two to four-year duration is typical basis where you start with exemptions.
- Flexibility Benefits: Allows steady progress without overwhelming work commitments.
- Simultaneous PER Completion: Work experience meets ACCA’s PER requirement efficiently.
- Balanced Approach: Study and job demands align for gradual, effective learning.
- Breakdown of ACCA Levels and Estimated Study Time
Knowledge Level
- Subjects: Business Technology, Management Accounting, Financial Accounting
- Average Duration: 6-12 months
- Goal: Build foundational knowledge for advanced topics
Skills Level
- Subjects: Corporate Law, Taxation, Financial Reporting, Financial Management, Audit and Assurance
- Average Duration: 12-18 months
- Study Resources: For affordable access to trusted materials, use BPP ECR coaching or purchase official ACCA books at Eduyush India pricing.
Strategic Professional Level
- Subjects: Strategic Business Leader (SBL), Strategic Business Reporting (SBR), plus two optional papers
- Average Duration: 12-18 months
- Study Tip: Leverage practice papers are available from BPP and Kaplan through Eduyush.
Optimizing ACCA Studies with BPP ECR Online Coaching via Eduyush
BPP ECR Online Coaching, accessible at India pricing via Eduyush, is an effective way to manage ACCA studies, especially for students looking for structured guidance and targeted resources. This online coaching offers:
- Interactive Classes: Covering essential exam content with expert instructors
- Practice Questions: Realistic questions that mirror ACCA exam difficulty
- Exam-Focused Materials: Tailored to help students focus on high-yield areas
- Flexibility: Ideal for both full-time and working students who need adaptable schedules
With comprehensive BPP study support, many students can shorten their preparation time and enhance their understanding of core ACCA subjects. Have a quick video description of what the BPP ECR is.
ACCA Exam Timing and Flexibility
ACCA exams are held every quarter, allowing students to set a pace that suits their schedule. This flexibility also enables students to sit for one or multiple exams per session, so balancing study with work or personal obligations is manageable. Visit ACCA exam dates for the latest schedule.
Tips for Effective ACCA Preparation
- Create a Weekly Study Plan: Consistency is vital; set weekly study targets.
- Use Quality Study Resources: Leverage BPP ECR online coaching via Eduyush for structured, exam-focused learning.
- Practice Past Papers: Mock exams and past papers help you understand the exam format and question style.
- Engage with a Study Community: Connect with ACCA candidates for shared resources and advice like on reddit.
Additional Support
Books from BPP and Kaplan are available through Eduyush at India pricing, helping students access high-quality study guides without high costs. Eduyush also offers discounted registration and exemption fees, a valuable resource for candidates managing a budget.
FAQs ACCA course duration
How long does it take to complete the ACCA course?
On average, ACCA takes three to four years for full-time students and up to five years for working professionals.
Can exemptions reduce ACCA duration?
Yes, exemptions allow you to skip exams, saving time. For instance, finance graduates may receive up to five exemptions, shortening the journey to two or three years.
How can I study more effectively for ACCA?
BPP ECR online coaching through Eduyush provides structured lessons, real exam questions, and flexible study options that streamline preparation.
How often can I take ACCA exams?
ACCA exams are offered quarterly, allowing you to set your own pace.
Where can I buy ACCA books affordably?
Official ACCA books from BPP and Kaplan are available through Eduyush at affordable India pricing.
Does ACCA require work experience?
ACCA requires three years of Practical Experience Requirement (PER), which you can complete alongside your exams.
Conclusion on ACCA course duration
The ACCA course duration can vary, but students can achieve their ACCA goals efficiently with thoughtful planning, structured study, and targeted resources like BPP ECR coaching via Eduyush. The path to ACCA may seem long, but understanding your options and leveraging exemptions can set you up for a smooth journey. Start planning your ACCA timeline today and get one step closer to a rewarding accounting career.
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Questions? Answers.
You have an unlimited number of attempts to pass the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) exams.
ACCA does not impose a limit on the number of times you can retake an exam.
You can keep attempting until you successfully pass each exam, which provides flexibility for candidates to learn and improve their performance over time.
Yes, ACCA offers exemptions for certain exams for candidates who have completed certain academic programs or have relevant professional qualifications.
To request exemptions, you will need to provide documentation and submit an exemption application to the ACCA. Review our comprehensive exemptions calculator to know more.
The pass rate for the ACCA exams varies from exam to exam and from year to year. In general, the pass rate for the ACCA exams is between 35% to 50%. Read our blog on subject wise pass rates to know more.
The answer to this lies on your context and individual career objectives.
The ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) membership provides numerous benefits, including:
- Professional development opportunities, such as access to the latest technical resources, CPD modules and e-learning tools
- A global community of like-minded professionals to collaborate and share knowledge with
- The ability to connect with employers through the ACCA Jobs service
- Eligibility for reduced rates on a range of products and services, such as insurance, stationery and more
The consequences of non-payment of the annual subscription fees are
As a member:
1) you can't call yourself an ACCA member, and you won't be able to use the ACCA name or logo.
2) You also won't be able to use any resources, including the online resources.
3) if you're working as an accountant, you may be unable to use the term "ACCA-qualified" or "ACCA-registered".
4) If your membership expires and isn't renewed within three years. In that case, your name will be removed from the Register of Members.
5) If you need to apply for CPA accreditation with another accounting body like CPA Australia or Canada, you will be required to furnish a good standing certificate from ACCA for five years. If you haven't paid your membership fees, you won't be able to get your good standing letter
As a student
1) You will not be able to use the members' website or log into MyACCA. You will lose access to many resources, including past exam papers and helpful articles.
2) You will no longer be eligible to sit the examinations or progress through the qualification.
3) You won't be able to pursue any other qualifications like the DIPIFR
If this is something that happens accidentally, then it is usually quickly resolved by simply paying the outstanding amount of 89 GBP.
If you're looking to become a chartered accountant in the United States, the value of the ACCA qualification cannot be understated.
To be accepted into one of the regional accountancy bodies that confer chartered status (such as the AICPA), you must have completed an accredited course of study from a college or university and have spent at least two years working in the accounting field.
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants is globally recognized as one of the leading institutions for providing such accredited courses, and their stamp of approval on your degree will go a long way in getting your foot in the door with some of the top accounting firms in America.
It is a difficult question because it depends on your specific situation and goals.
However, in general, we would say that the CA (Chartered Accountant) certification is better for those interested in pursuing a career in accounting and finance.
In comparison, the CFA (Certified Financial Analyst) certification is better for those interested in investment banking or portfolio management.
The ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) certification is more internationally recognized than the CA or CFA, so it may be worth considering if you're interested in working abroad.
Ultimately, though, the best way to decide which certification is proper for you is to speak with experts in each field and get their advice.
The decision of whether ACCA or a degree is better for you depends on your individual goals and circumstances.
ACCA is a professional accounting qualification that is recognized and respected globally and it is focused on accounting and finance. It is a good option for those who want to pursue a career in accounting or finance and do not want to spend the time and money required to earn a degree.
On the other hand, a degree program offers a more well-rounded education and provides a broader range of career options. It also provides more in-depth knowledge in specific field of study and it is good for those who want to pursue a career in a field outside of accounting and finance.
Both ACCA and a degree can be valuable qualifications, it depends on the person's career goals and what they want to achieve in the long term. It's also worth noting that in some countries, it is mandatory to have a degree in order to practice as an accountant.
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