Candidates looking to make a career in the global accounting and finance industry start preparations early. This gives them ample time to select professional courses, which help them embark on a successful journey in the accounting and finance arena.
One such professional course is the ACCA. The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants is a global body offering the ACCA qualification recognised in more than 170 countries. On completing ACCA, candidates can explore abundant career opportunities across industries in areas like management consulting, taxation, and financial analysis.
Interestingly, many ACCA aspirants start making preparations for ACCA after 12th itself. This is because, with early registration, candidates can finish the exams faster. Starting early helps in understanding the ACCA format better. Candidates also get time if they need to retake any ACCA exam paper. ACCA acts as a global visa for candidates aiming to work in international destinations within just 3 years of clearing Class 12 examinations.
This is a comprehensive guide for candidates pursuing the ACCA course after 12th commerce or any other stream. Read on for more details.
Starting ACCA Course After 12th
Starting ACCA after 12th commerce or any other stream randomly will not be effective. Candidates must follow a well-thought-out course when pursuing ACCA after Class 12.
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Check eligibility criteria
Before you embark on the ACCA journey, ensure you fulfil the eligibility criteria. You can check the ACCA Qualification entry requirements by selecting your country on the official website.
Though there are no minimum degree prerequisites, students who have cleared 12th standard exams and have English language skills can register for ACCA directly. Mathematical aptitude is undoubtedly an advantage.
Students pursuing ACCA course after 12th commerce have an advantage in understanding financial concepts and subjects like Business Studies, Accountancy and Economics.
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Know the ACCA duration after 12th
It is tricky to state the exact duration of the ACCA course after the 12th class since it depends on how long a candidate takes to clear all the papers. On clearing all the ACCA exams in one go, a candidate can complete the ACCA course after 12th within 2.5 -3 years. With another 3 years of professional experience, a candidate becomes an ACCA member.
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Understand the ACCA exam pattern
Candidates must clear 13 papers to get the ACCA qualification. These papers are divided into three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional.
There are 3 papers at the Applied Knowledge level, 6 papers at the Applied Skills level and 4 papers (2 mandatory and 2 optional) at the Strategic Professional level.
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Work on the fundamental concepts first
When you enrol for ACCA after 12th, the vast and comprehensive syllabus will likely overwhelm you. To make things more manageable, build a solid foundation by strengthening your knowledge of basic theories, definitions, concepts, principles and calculations in the different subjects and papers.
Go to the advanced sections and case studies only when you have solid basics. Contextual understanding works in ACCA skill testing.
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Create a realistic timetable
Achieving the ACCA qualification requires proper planning. Creating and following a realistic timetable is the stepping stone for it. The time in the timetable is inclusive of assignments, study hours, module revisions and self-analysis examinations.
ACCA professionals recommend studying for at least 2-3 hours daily so you do not need to cram for hours before the exam. Avoid burnout by taking breaks in between. Choose the learning style that suits you best for effective studies.
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Plan how you want to study the ACCA course after 12th
This is a crucial decision you must make before planning to pursue ACCA. ACCA Global recommends that candidates study with an Approved Learning Partner. Students who have studied with such partners have excelled in the ACCA exams.
There are different study options: Online, face-to-face, and blended learning. Many candidates opt for coaching classes to prepare for the ACCA exams. These learning platforms offer online and offline courses to students according to their needs and prepare them thoroughly for all the ACCA exams.
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Take regular mock tests
Whether you enrol for a preparatory ACCA class or study independently, never ignore the mock tests. Try solving as many ACCA past exam papers as possible within a limited time frame.
Attempting the mock tests prepares you for the actual examination. Along with sharp skill development, the mock tests also teach time management, which is crucial in the ACCA exams. Along with testing your preparedness level, the mock tests reveal your weak areas and areas needing improvement. You can learn from your mistakes with the mock tests.
Following these steps will help candidates embark on their ACCA journey efficiently. ACCA professionals also agree that achieving the ACCA qualification is possible with proper planning, an effective study plan, time management, effort and hard work. Start as early as possible and reap the benefits that the qualification offers!
Conclusion
Beginning preparations for the ACCA course after 12th is an excellent idea, giving candidates abundant time to achieve the ACCA qualification and membership. Aspiring candidates should take their time and thoroughly research the particulars of the ACCA program before venturing on the path. Prep programs for ACCA and other professional finance courses are the most practical options to begin your preparations.
The WallStreet School offers Classroom Bootcamp ACCA Prep and Online ACCA Prep Program. Candidates can choose the program that caters to their needs best. The WallStreet School is accredited as an Approved Gold Learning Partner of ACCA. With exhaustive prep materials and practical training sessions by rank holders, you prepare for a lucrative international career in accounting and finance.
Pave your journey to success. Enrol in the ACCA prep program today!
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FAQs
- Is B.Com mandatory for ACCA?
No, having a B.Com degree is not mandatory for ACCA. However, in India, candidates prefer completing a B.Com and pursuing ACCA or doing both courses simultaneously.
- Which is difficult – ACCA or CS?
Between CS and ACCA, CS is tougher. ACCA includes global challenges and accounting related to the finance and accounting industry. On the other hand, CS has a combination of accounting, financial and legal concepts.
- What is the question pattern of ACCA exams?
Question patterns of ACCA exams vary for different levels. Along with multiple-choice questions (MCQs), there are objective-type questions (OTQs) and subjective-type questions.
