For many Chartered Accountants (CAs), getting qualified doesn’t mean the learning stops. In fact, for those looking to move ahead, especially on a global scale, there’s one follow-up qualification that’s catching a lot of attention: ACCA.
Pursuing ACCA after CA is becoming more common, and for good reason. It gives professionals a solid advantage, especially if they’re thinking beyond traditional finance roles in India.
Many CAs reach a stage in their career where they start looking for something more, something that opens doors globally and gives them a broader understanding of finance. ACCA fits well here.
It helps build confidence when working with international clients. It also improves credibility when applying for roles in multinational companies or planning to move abroad. ACCA complements what CA has already taught, adding a global lens to existing knowledge.
Now let’s look at why so many CAs are adding ACCA to their profiles, and what it can actually do for your career.
1. Global Recognition and Career Mobility
The Chartered Accountancy qualification in India is highly respected. But its scope is largely domestic. That’s where ACCA comes in.
ACCA is recognised in over 180 countries. So, if someone wants to work outside India, in the UK, the Middle East, Europe, or Southeast Asia, ACCA after CA opens those doors. It adds credibility abroad and signals that the person understands global standards like IFRS, not just Indian GAAP.
It’s a move from national expertise to international acceptance. And that’s a game-changer for anyone thinking long term.
2. Faster Completion with CA Exemptions
One of the biggest advantages is the number of exemptions CA-qualified candidates get when they register for ACCA. Here’s a quick look:
| ACCA Paper Group | Exemptions for Indian CAs |
| Knowledge Level | All 3 papers exempt |
| Skills Level | All 6 papers exempt |
| Professional Level | 0–1 paper exempt (varies) |
That means most Indian CAs only need to appear for a few papers, sometimes just 4, making it possible to finish ACCA in 6 to 12 months.
This shorter timeline, with fewer exams, makes ACCA after CA a practical and time-saving choice.
3. Builds Global Knowledge Without Starting Over
No one wants to start from scratch again. And with ACCA, they don’t have to.
What’s learned in CA builds a strong foundation, tax, audit, accounts. ACCA builds on that, adding international finance principles, business strategy, and a broader understanding of how companies operate across borders.
This isn’t about repeating what you already know. It’s about learning what you might need next.
For those who want to shift into roles like FP&A, international taxation, or multinational audit, ACCA after CA provides the right kind of knowledge without going back to square one.
4. Flexibility That Works with a Job
Most CAs start working soon after qualifying. That’s a good thing, but it can also make further studies harder to manage.
Here’s where ACCA’s flexibility helps. Exams are held quarterly. You can choose when to study, when to appear, and how many papers to attempt at a time.
There’s no pressure to clear all papers in one go. It fits into the schedule of a working professional. That’s why many people do ACCA after CA while holding full-time roles.
It’s structured, but it doesn’t disrupt your career.
5. Better Roles and Better Pay: Especially Abroad
Adding ACCA to a CA profile doesn’t just tick an extra box. It leads to real changes in opportunities.
Many Indian CAs with ACCA move into senior finance roles in MNCs or shift abroad. Some even move into consulting, financial advisory, or Big 4 global teams. In countries like the UAE, the UK, and Singapore, ACCA is widely recognised and valued.
The combination of local CA rigour and ACCA’s global view sends a strong signal; this candidate knows their stuff and can apply it anywhere.
And yes, that often reflects in better salary brackets as well.
Is ACCA After CA Worth It?
No extra qualification comes without effort. Even if you get exemptions, you’ll still need to invest time, money, and a fair amount of focus. That said, if someone is serious about building a long-term career in finance, especially one that’s global or fast-paced, then going for ACCA after CA makes sense.
You get the chance to sharpen your skills in areas CA may not go deep into, like international accounting standards or global financial reporting. It also shows employers that you’re forward-thinking and ready to take on broader roles.
Yes, it takes work. But it’s a move that can set you apart and help you grow faster, especially in firms that work across borders.
A Smart Next Step: With the Right Guidance
Choosing to pursue ACCA after CA gives you the chance to broaden your future. And when done with the right guidance, it can be smoother than expected.
That’s where The WallStreet School comes in. Their practical training and mentorship have helped thousands of finance professionals take the next step in their careers, whether it’s switching to global roles, cracking tough interviews, or simply building confidence.
If you’re thinking of doing ACCA after CA, they can guide you, prep you, and save you time. At the end of the day, the goal is growth. And with CA and ACCA both under your belt, there’s a lot of room to grow.
FAQs
- Is ACCA hard after CA?
No. In fact, it’s easier for CAs, since many topics overlap and exemptions reduce the number of papers to just a few. With the right planning and familiarity with core concepts, most CAs find it manageable. - How long does it take to complete ACCA after CA?
Most candidates finish it in 6 to 12 months if they plan well and attempt one or two papers per quarter. The timeline depends on your pace, preparation style, and available time. - Can I do ACCA while working?
Yes. The course is flexible. You can choose your exam dates and pace, which is why many working professionals pursue it alongside their jobs. It’s designed to suit those juggling work and study.
- Is ACCA recognised in India?
Yes, though it’s not a replacement for CA. It’s valued in MNCs and Big 4 firms, especially for roles involving international reporting and finance. Recruiters see it as a strong add-on to CA.
