ACCA Salary in India 2026: Freshers to CFO Pay Scale Guide
ACCA Salary in India 2026: Complete Salary Guide
The average ACCA salary in India ranges from ₹4-8 lakhs per annum for freshers to ₹40-80 lakhs for senior professionals like CFOs. With over 2 lakh ACCA members globally and growing demand in India's finance sector, understanding realistic salary expectations is crucial for career planning.
Quick Summary: ACCA Salary in India 2026
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range | Monthly Take-Home |
|---|---|---|
| Fresher (0-2 years) | ₹4L – ₹8L | ₹28,000 – ₹55,000 |
| Mid-Level (3-7 years) | ₹8L – ₹18L | ₹55,000 – ₹1.2L |
| Senior (8+ years) | ₹20L – ₹50L | ₹1.4L – ₹3.5L |
| CFO/Director | ₹40L – ₹80L+ | ₹2.8L – ₹5.5L+ |
What is ACCA Salary in India for Freshers?
ACCA freshers in India can expect a starting salary between ₹4 lakhs to ₹8 lakhs per annum. The exact package depends on:
- City of employment
- Type of employer (Big 4, MNC, Indian company)
- Additional skills (Excel, data analytics, ERP systems)
- Articleship/internship experience
ACCA Fresher Salary by City
| City | Fresher Salary (Annual) | Monthly Take-Home |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | ₹5L – ₹8L | ₹35,000 – ₹55,000 |
| Bangalore | ₹5L – ₹7.5L | ₹35,000 – ₹52,000 |
| Delhi NCR | ₹4.5L – ₹7L | ₹32,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹4L – ₹6.5L | ₹28,000 – ₹45,000 |
| Chennai | ₹4L – ₹6L | ₹28,000 – ₹42,000 |
| Pune | ₹4.5L – ₹6.5L | ₹32,000 – ₹45,000 |
| Kolkata | ₹3.5L – ₹5.5L | ₹25,000 – ₹38,000 |
| Tier 2 Cities | ₹3L – ₹5L | ₹22,000 – ₹35,000 |
Entry-level job roles for ACCA freshers:
- Audit Associate
- Accounts Executive
- Junior Financial Analyst
- Tax Associate
- Accounts Payable/Receivable Analyst
Average ACCA Salary in India (2026)
The average ACCA salary in India is approximately ₹10-12 lakhs per annum across all experience levels. However, this varies significantly based on experience:
Mid-Level ACCA Salary (3-7 Years Experience)
| Job Role | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Senior Accountant | ₹8L – ₹12L |
| Financial Analyst | ₹10L – ₹15L |
| Audit Manager | ₹12L – ₹18L |
| Tax Manager | ₹10L – ₹16L |
| Finance Controller | ₹15L – ₹22L |
| Business Analyst | ₹10L – ₹14L |
Senior-Level ACCA Salary (8+ Years Experience)
| Job Role | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Finance Director | ₹25L – ₹45L |
| Head of Internal Audit | ₹30L – ₹50L |
| VP Finance | ₹35L – ₹60L |
| CFO | ₹40L – ₹80L+ |
ACCA Salary in India Per Month
Here's a quick breakdown of ACCA salary in India per month after tax deductions:
| Experience | Gross Monthly | Net Monthly (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresher | ₹33,000 – ₹67,000 | ₹28,000 – ₹55,000 |
| 3-5 Years | ₹67,000 – ₹1.25L | ₹55,000 – ₹95,000 |
| 5-10 Years | ₹1.25L – ₹2.5L | ₹95,000 – ₹1.8L |
| 10+ Years | ₹2.5L – ₹6L+ | ₹1.8L – ₹4L+ |
ACCA Salary by Industry in India
Different industries offer varying compensation for ACCA professionals:
| Industry | Fresher Salary | Mid-Level Salary | Top Employers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big 4 Firms | ₹5L – ₹8L | ₹12L – ₹25L | Deloitte, EY, PwC, KPMG |
| Banking & Financial Services | ₹5L – ₹9L | ₹12L – ₹20L | HDFC, ICICI, Kotak |
| IT & Consulting | ₹5L – ₹8L | ₹10L – ₹18L | TCS, Infosys, Wipro |
| Oil & Gas | ₹6L – ₹9L | ₹15L – ₹25L | Reliance, ONGC, Shell |
| E-commerce | ₹5L – ₹7L | ₹10L – ₹16L | Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho |
| Manufacturing | ₹4L – ₹6L | ₹8L – ₹14L | Tata, L&T, Mahindra |
| Pharma & Healthcare | ₹4.5L – ₹7L | ₹10L – ₹15L | Sun Pharma, Cipla, Dr. Reddy's |
| Startups | ₹4L – ₹7L | ₹8L – ₹15L | Varies (+ ESOPs) |
Big 4 firms (Deloitte, EY, PwC, KPMG) remain the largest ACCA employers in India and often serve as a launchpad for higher-paying industry roles.
ACCA vs CA Salary in India: Comparison
| Parameter | ACCA | Indian CA |
|---|---|---|
| Fresher Salary | ₹4L – ₹8L | ₹6L – ₹10L |
| Mid-Level (5 years) | ₹10L – ₹18L | ₹12L – ₹22L |
| Senior (10+ years) | ₹25L – ₹50L | ₹30L – ₹70L |
| Signing Rights in India | No | Yes |
| Practice Eligibility | No (in India) | Yes |
| Global Recognition | 180+ countries | India-centric |
| Pass Rate | 45-55% | 10-20% |
| Total Exams | 13 papers | 20+ papers |
Key Insight: Indian CAs command a 15-25% salary premium in domestic companies due to statutory signing rights. However, ACCA holders often earn comparable or higher salaries in MNCs, GCCs, and international roles.
Factors Affecting ACCA Salary in India
1. Geographic Location
Metro cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi offer 20-40% higher salaries than Tier 2 cities due to the concentration of MNCs and Big 4 offices.
2. Industry Sector
Banking, consulting, and oil & gas sectors typically pay 15-30% more than manufacturing or retail sectors.
3. Employer Type
- Big 4 Firms: Structured growth, moderate starting salary
- MNCs/GCCs: Higher salaries, global exposure
- Indian Corporates: Varies widely based on company size
- Startups: Lower base + equity potential
4. Additional Certifications
ACCA professionals with additional credentials earn premium salaries:
- ACCA + CFA: 20-30% premium
- ACCA + DipIFR: 15-20% premium for IFRS reporting roles
- ACCA + Data Analytics: 15-25% premium
5. Practical Experience
Candidates who completed articleship with Big 4 or reputed firms command 10-20% higher starting salaries.
How to Maximize Your ACCA Salary in India
- Start with Big 4 or MNCs – The brand value accelerates career growth
- Build Technical Skills – Learn Power BI, Python, SAP, or Oracle
- Get IFRS Specialization – High demand for IFRS reporting expertise
- Network Actively – 60% of senior finance roles are filled through referrals
- Consider International Opportunities – ACCA salaries in UAE, UK, and Singapore are 2-3x higher than India
- Pursue Complementary Certifications – CFA, CMA, or DipIFR add significant value
Top Companies Hiring ACCA in India (2026)
| Company | Typical ACCA Roles | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Deloitte | Audit Associate, Tax Consultant | ₹6L – ₹20L |
| EY | Assurance, Advisory | ₹6L – ₹22L |
| PwC | Financial Services, Risk | ₹6L – ₹20L |
| KPMG | Audit, Deal Advisory | ₹6L – ₹18L |
| Amazon | Finance Analyst, Controller | ₹10L – ₹25L |
| Genpact | FP&A, Accounting | ₹5L – ₹15L |
| HSBC | Financial Reporting | ₹8L – ₹18L |
| JP Morgan | Corporate Finance | ₹10L – ₹22L |
ACCA Salary Growth: Career Progression
Typical career path and salary progression:
Year 0-2: Audit Associate / Accountant → ₹4-8L
↓
Year 3-5: Senior Accountant / Analyst → ₹8-15L
↓
Year 6-10: Manager / Controller → ₹15-25L
↓
Year 10-15: Senior Manager / Director → ₹25-45L
↓
Year 15+: VP Finance / CFO → ₹40-80L+
ACCA Salary Predictions for 2026: The Candid Outlook
1. Oversupply Crisis: 30,000+ ACCA Students Entering the Market Annually
ACCA has aggressively partnered with Indian universities, embedding its qualification within B.Com programmes. Institutions like Chandigarh University, Chitkara University, Jain University, Garden City University, and SVYASA now offer integrated B.Com + ACCA programmes, flooding the market with ACCA-qualified graduates.
The numbers are stark:
- Estimated 30,000+ students pursuing ACCA annually through university partnerships alone
- Compared to approximately 20,000 CA students clearing finals yearly
- Unlike Indian CAs, ACCA holders lack fiduciary signing rights in India
Impact on salaries: When supply exceeds demand, employers hold negotiating power. We anticipate ACCA fresher salaries stagnating or contracting slightly in 2026-27 due to this surplus.
2. ACCA Syllabus Overhaul in 2027: Recruiter Perception Unknown
ACCA is reducing exams from 13 to 11 papers starting September 2027. While this may seem beneficial for candidates, the recruiter response remains uncertain.
Key changes include:
- New modules covering AI, sustainability, and leadership
- Introduction of "Employability Essential Modules"
- Restructured levels and renamed papers
The concern: Indian employers already perceive ACCA as "easier" than CA. Reducing exam count may reinforce this perception, potentially suppressing salary premiums. We recommend a wait-and-watch approach before drawing conclusions about post-2027 ACCA salaries.
3. Skills Mismatch: AI & Data Analytics Gap
Modern finance roles demand proficiency in AI, data analytics, Python, and automation tools. The current ACCA syllabus, while comprehensive in accounting fundamentals, lags behind in these areas.
- CPA (US) has incorporated data analytics components more aggressively
- CMA certification now emphasizes technology-driven decision making
- Employers increasingly seek hybrid finance-tech skillsets
ACCA's 2027 update attempts to address this with sustainability and data modules, but implementation timing may leave current students at a disadvantage.
4. ROI Concerns for 2026
Combining all factors – oversupply, syllabus uncertainty, skills gaps, and CPA competition – we don't foresee significant salary growth for ACCA holders in 2026. Candidates should pursue ACCA with realistic expectations rather than inflated salary projections found elsewhere.
Is ACCA Worth It for Salary in India?
Yes, ACCA is worth it if:
- You're targeting MNCs, GCCs, or international careers
- You want flexible, self-paced study alongside work
- You're seeking global mobility (UK, UAE, Singapore, Australia)
- Your employer values global accounting credentials
ROI Calculation:
- Total ACCA cost: ₹2.5-4 lakhs (with exemptions)
- Starting salary: ₹5-7 lakhs
- Payback period: 6-12 months of employment
ACCA Registration & Next Steps
Ready to begin your ACCA journey? Understand the complete ACCA course structure, eligibility, and fees before committing.
For B.Com graduates and CA students seeking exemptions, our ACCA registration service includes guidance on exemption claims and BPP online training access.
FAQs: ACCA Salary in India
What is the starting salary for ACCA freshers in India?
ACCA freshers in India typically earn between ₹4-8 lakhs per annum. Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi offer the highest starting packages, while Tier 2 cities offer ₹3-5 lakhs.
What is ACCA salary in India per month?
ACCA monthly salaries range from ₹28,000-55,000 for freshers, ₹55,000-1.2 lakhs for mid-level, and ₹1.4-3.5 lakhs for senior professionals after tax deductions.
Is ACCA salary higher than CA in India?
CA typically commands a 15-25% premium over ACCA in Indian domestic companies due to signing rights. However, ACCA holders often earn equal or higher in MNCs and international roles.
Which city offers the highest ACCA salary in India?
Mumbai offers the highest ACCA salaries in India, followed by Bangalore and Delhi NCR. Freshers in Mumbai can expect ₹5-8 lakhs compared to ₹3-5 lakhs in Tier 2 cities.
What is the maximum salary for ACCA in India?
Senior ACCA professionals in CFO or Finance Director roles can earn ₹40-80 lakhs or more annually. Some ACCA-qualified CFOs in large MNCs earn over ₹1 crore.
Do Big 4 hire ACCA in India?
Yes, all Big 4 firms (Deloitte, EY, PwC, KPMG) actively hire ACCA professionals in India for audit, tax, and advisory roles. They also offer articleship programs for ACCA students.
How can I increase my ACCA salary in India?
To maximize your ACCA salary: gain Big 4 experience, develop data analytics skills, pursue additional certifications (CFA, DipIFR), and consider international opportunities in higher-paying markets.
Conclusion on ACCA salary in India
ACCA salary in India offers competitive compensation ranging from ₹4-8 lakhs for freshers to ₹40-80+ lakhs for senior executives. While CA may offer slightly higher domestic salaries, ACCA provides excellent ROI through global recognition, flexible study options, and strong demand from MNCs and Big 4 firms.
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Questions? Answers.
How many attempts do I have to pass the ACCA exam?
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.
Are there any exemptions available for ACCA exam?
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 ACCA exemptions calculator to know more.
What is the passing rate for the ACCA exam?
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 ACCA pass rates to know more.
Is ACCA after CA worth it?
The answer to this lies on your context and individual career objectives.
What are the benefits of being an ACCA member?
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
What happens if you don't pay your annual subscription?
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.
Is Eduyush.com an ACCA RLP?
Yes. Eduyush (Yush Consultants) is anACCA Registered Learning Partnerfor DipIFR online classes. Verify our RLP status on ACCA's official directory →
What is the better certification between CA, CFA & ACCA?
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.
Is ACCA better than a degree?
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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