ACCA Accounting Course

Accounting professionals are coveted worldwide for their contribution to fostering economic growth and stability globally. Experienced accountants contribute to the growth of businesses and countries by ensuring they create value through transparency and accountability. 

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, abbreviated as ‘ACCA’, is the world’s oldest and largest accounting association in the United Kingdom. The accreditation granted by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants is one of the most sought-after globally. Here are more insights into the ACCA accountancy course for you to make the right career choice. 

Are you eligible to pursue the ACCA course?

To enrol in the ACCA accounting course, you must be 18 years old and have completed your secondary education (10+2) with a minimum average score of 65% in Mathematics and English and an aggregate of 50% in other subjects. The eligibility criteria for the ACCA course are simple, but don’t let that make you believe it is an easy nut to crack. It requires thorough preparation since it is one of the most in-demand qualifications worldwide. 

Core subjects of ACCA

There are three levels of exams for the ACCA qualification:

1. Applied knowledge level

Applied Knowledge in the ACCA accounting course ensures that you understand the necessity of accounting in the business landscape and acquire the practical skills necessary to ace your role as an accountant in any business landscape. This level mainly focuses on foundational financial and business principles. 

Here are the subjects that you will be taught at this level:

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

2. Applied skills level

This level in the ACCA accounting course is all about understanding the importance of accounting in the business landscape. Completing this level will help you be on par with any other bachelor’s degree student. These subjects need you to do deeper analysis and have sound interpretation skills. Here are the subjects you will be taught at the applied skills level: 

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

3. Strategic professional level

This is the last stage of the ACCA accounting course; clearing this stage typically requires 12-18 months. This level teaches you the skills and ethics you need at a senior level as an ACCA accountancy professional. There are several opportunities available once you finish this stage. Here’s a list of the subjects taught at this level:

• Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)
• Strategic Business Leader (SBL), and two out of the four optional papers—
  • Advanced Performance Management (APM), 
  • Advanced Financial Management (AFM),
  • Advanced Taxation (ATX), and 
  • Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA). 

Job roles after ACCA

Financial Analyst 

A Financial Analyst is responsible for assessing the performance of businesses, projects, budgets, and financial transactions to determine their viability as investments. They also analyse market trends, economic data, and financial statements to provide recommendations on investment decisions, risk management strategies, and financial planning. 

They play a pivotal role in helping organisations and investors make informed decisions by interpreting complex financial information and presenting their opinions in reports.

Management Accountant

A Management Accountant is in charge of strategic decision-making. They analyse financial data to inform and guide business operations and provide insights into cost efficiency, profitability, and overall financial health. 

This helps organisations allocate resources effectively and achieve their goals. Management accountants also assist in budgeting, forecasting, and performance evaluation processes. They work closely with management teams to develop strategies that enhance operational efficiency and profitability. 

Forensic Accountant 

A Forensic Accountant specialises in conducting thorough investigations into financial irregularities and suspected fraud. They also help prevent financial crimes by evaluating internal controls and recommending improvement strategies to mitigate risks. This ensures transparency and trust in business practices.

Conclusion

The ACCA accounting course is highly competitive and coveted globally. You can complete the course within 3-4 years with discipline and guidance. Enrol today and get support from a reputable institute to make your journey to becoming an ACCA professional smoother. 

Frequently asked questions

• How long does it take to become an ACCA accountant?

To become an ACCA member, you must pass 13 exams, complete at least three years of relevant, supervised training to meet the eligibility requirements and finish an online ethics module. Most aspirants complete these requirements within 3 to 4 years.

• Is ACCA harder than CA?

The CA course is more challenging than ACCA, considering factors such as duration, number of papers, course complexity, and the breadth of topics covered. However, pursuing ACCA after CA can be a wise professional move as it will prepare you for the challenges ACCA offers.

• Is ACCA valid in India?

Yes, the ACCA accounting course is available in several countries, including India