Kaplan vs BPP ACCA Books 2025 – Which to study from?

by Eduyush Team

Kaplan vs BPP ACCA Books for 2025 – Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between BPP and Kaplan ACCA books is one of the most common dilemmas faced by ACCA students. Both publishers are ACCA-approved learning providers, and both align with the official syllabus. However, the better choice depends on your study style, subject, and exam goals.

In this updated guide, we answer the key questions:

  1. Which is better, BPP or Kaplan?
  2. Should you use Kaplan for theory-based subjects and BPP for technical ones?
  3. Is BPP better for self-study?
  4. Which one helps you pass faster?

We base our analysis on real student feedback from over 12,000 purchases made through Eduyush.com, categorised by ACCA levelsubject, and study approach.

ACCA coaching vs self-study – which is better?

1. What Students Say About BPP and Kaplan ACCA Books

After analyzing years of feedback and thousands of purchases, here’s what students consistently report about each publisher.

Students who prefer BPP:

  1. Want detailed, technical explanations with real-life case studies.
  2. Prefer self-studying for ACCA exams.
  3. Choose BPP’s affordable online training options (from INR 4,800 / £50).
  4. Use BPP’s interactive revision kits to simulate exam conditions.

Students who prefer Kaplan:

  1. Like straightforward language and concise explanations.
  2. Attend ACCA tuition classes and want to supplement learning.
  3. Have limited accounting experience and need easy-to-understand books.
  4. Prefer reading material with a quicker pace and less complexity.

2. Kaplan vs BPP at the Knowledge Level (BT, MA, FA)

The Knowledge Level introduces fundamental accounting and business principles. Here’s what our data shows based on sales through Eduyush.

Subject Kaplan Sales % BPP Sales %
F1: Business and Technology (BT) 39% 61%
F2: Management Accounting (MA) 72% 28%
F3: Financial Accounting (FA) 52% 48%

Key Takeaways:

  1. Kaplan is preferred by 67% of Knowledge-level students due to its simplified language and smoother learning curve.
  2. BPP is chosen by students with strong academic backgrounds or those who want more in-depth conceptual clarity.

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Verdict for Knowledge Level:

Choose Kaplan if you're new to ACCA and want easier-to-follow books. Choose BPP if you're self-studying or already have a solid foundation in finance fundamentals.

3. Kaplan vs BPP at the Skills Level (LW to FM)

The Applied Skills Level helps build practical finance and accounting skills. Preferences shift here depending on the subject’s complexity.

Subject Kaplan Sales % BPP Sales %
F4: Corporate and Business Law (LW) 54% 46%
F5: Performance Management (PM) 52% 48%
F6: Taxation (TX) 28% 72%
F7: Financial Reporting (FR) 40% 60%
F8: Audit and Assurance (AA) 40% 60%
F9: Financial Management (FM) 32% 68%

Key Takeaways:

  1. Kaplan excels in subjects like Law (LW) and PM, where clarity and theory are most important.
  2. BPP dominates technical papers like TX, FR, FM, and AA due to its deeper analysis and tougher practice questions.
  3. BPP’s online training (₹5,300 or £50) makes it a go-to for independent learners who need extra exam support.

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Verdict for Skills Level:

Use Kaplan if you're attending coaching classes and prefer easier concepts. Use BPP if you're self-studying or facing complex, number-heavy subjects.

4. Kaplan vs BPP at the Strategic Professional Level

This level comprises two compulsory and four optional papers, making student choices even clearer.

Subject Kaplan Sales % BPP Sales %
SBL: Strategic Business Leader 39% 61%
SBR: Strategic Business Reporting 29% 71%
AFM: Advanced Financial Management 22% 78%
APM: Advanced Performance Management 37% 63%
ATX: Advanced Taxation 37% 63%
AAA: Advanced Audit and Assurance 42% 58%

Key Takeaways:

  1. BPP is the clear leader for technical strategic papers, such as SBR, AFM, and ATX, due to its case study-heavy, real-world approach.
  2. Kaplan sees higher usage for SBL and AAA, where exam technique and simpler content presentation are key.
  3. BPP’s strategic-level training includes CBE mocks, recorded video lectures, and structured guidance.

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Verdict for Strategic Level:

Choose BPP if you’re preparing for technical papers and studying independently. Choose Kaplan if you need straight-to-the-point theory and are guided by a tutor.

5. Summary Comparison Table: BPP vs Kaplan

Feature BPP Kaplan
Language Style Technical, exam-focused Simple, concise
Best For Self-learners, technical subjects Tuition-supported learners, theory subjects
Revision Kits Advanced, exam simulation Moderate, easier practice
Online Support CBE mocks, recorded lectures MyKaplan eBooks, quizzes
Price (India) From INR 3,468 From INR 3,560
Top Subjects SBR, TX, AFM, FR, FM SBL, PM, AAA, BT

6. Which One Should You Choose?

Choose BPP if:

  1. You are self-studying and need detailed conceptual clarity.
  2. You want in-depth case studies and technical knowledge.
  3. You prefer practice-driven revision kits and mock exams.
  4. You are preparing for Taxation, Financial Reporting, or Strategic Business Reporting.

Choose Kaplan if:

  1. You are enrolled in a tuition program and want simpler books.
  2. You need quicker, easier-to-digest explanations.
  3. You’re studying theory-dominant subjects like Law, Audit, or Business Leadership.

7. Most Popular Student Choices by Level

  1. Knowledge Level – Kaplan (67% of purchases)
  2. Skills Level – BPP (60–70%) for TX, FR, FM
  3. Strategic Level – BPP (70–80%) for technical papers

8. FAQ – Kaplan vs BPP ACCA Books 2025

1. Is BPP better than Kaplan for ACCA?

BPP is better for self-study and technical papers. Kaplan is better for theory-based subjects and tuition support.

2. Are BPP books enough to pass ACCA exams?

Yes, BPP provides comprehensive study materials, revision kits, and mock tests that are sufficient for passing when used effectively.

3. Are there digital versions of BPP and Kaplan books?

Yes, both publishers offer eBooks. Eduyush offers discounted access to physical and digital formats in India.

4. Can I use Kaplan for Strategic Professional exams?

You can, especially for SBL or AAA, but BPP offers better support for technical topics and CBE mock preparation.

5. Can I switch between BPP and Kaplan?

Yes. Many students use Kaplan for theory papers and BPP for technical subjects. Mixing both works well depending on your strengths.

9. Conclusion – Kaplan or BPP?

There is no universal “best” ACCA book. It depends on:

  1. Your learning style
  2. Whether you’re self-studying or attending classes
  3. The complexity of the paper

That said, BPP is the preferred choice for most students tackling technical ACCA subjects independently, while Kaplan is a strong choice for students attending coaching or handling theory-heavy papers.

Still unsure? Drop your question in the comments or contact us for personalized guidance!

10. Get 50% Off on ACCA Books – India Pricing

Eduyush offers original BPP and Kaplan books at up to 50% off regular prices.

Get them shipped anywhere in India or access digital copies instantly.

👉 Shop ACCA Books Now


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FAQs

There are several ways to prepare for the ACCA exams, including studying the exam syllabus and practicing past exam questions. You can also attend review courses or hire a tutor to help you prepare. It's also a good idea to create a study schedule and stick to it, and to take breaks and pace yourself during your studies.

If you fail an ACCA exam, you will need to re-register and pay the exam fees again. You may also want to consider reviewing the exam syllabus and studying more before attempting the exam again. It's also a good idea to talk to your tutor or mentor for guidance and to get feedback on where you may have gone wrong.

There is no limit to the number of times you can attempt the ACCA exams, but you will need to pay the exam fees each time you register. It's a good idea to carefully review the exam syllabus and consider seeking additional help if you are struggling to pass the exams after multiple attempts.

ACCA Exams are held four times a year for skill level and strategic level exams. These are held every quarter

March, June, September and December

The CA (Chartered Accountant) qualification is offered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). The ACCA qualification is offered by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

The CA qualification has been in existence for over 150 years, and is a globally recognised qualification. The ACCA qualification has been in existence for over 100 years, and is also a globally recognised qualification.

The CA qualification is available in India only, while the ACCA qualification is available in over 180 countries.

The ACCA subjects are assessed on a 100-point scale. The pass mark is 50 points. A score of 60 or more is required to achieve the grades of distinction, credit, and merit.

Yes. Passing all exams with a high percentage is an excellent accomplishment and demonstrates that you have a high level of understanding of the material. Employers will see this as evidence of your competence and be likely to consider you for a position if you are looking for work in the accounting field.

The hardest ACCA paper is the F5 performance management paper. This is because it requires a detailed knowledge of financial accounting and management accounting in order to pass.

Other papers that are difficult include the F7 financial reporting paper and the P2 advanced auditing and assurance paper. However, all of the ACCA papers are challenging, so it is important to thoroughly prepare for each one before sitting the exam.