Last updated on October 8th, 2024 at 12:53 pm
Choosing between ACCA and CA is very simple. One needs to know what their primary goal is and the distinction between the two educational credentials.
ACCA offers a broad range of job prospects, especially in the international arena. It requires professionals to have a dynamic personality, which is crucial for fulfilling diverse roles across several industries. ACCA is more suitable for individuals seeking global job prospects and exposure. On the other hand, CA provides a secure foundation for distinguished roles within the country. However, a CA-certified professional can also gain international exposure by acquiring additional qualifications.
Today, ACCA vs CA has become a very popular topic. Read on to know which certification is best for people seeking job opportunities in this field.
What is ACCA?
ACCA, an accounting degree with global recognition, is known for its comprehensive and skilled approach towards excelling in the art of accounting and finance. ACCA career prospects are considered wider than those of CA, primarily due to its international acceptance.
A professional who wants to build his own brand and credibility in accounting in the global forum must pursue an ACCA course. ACCA originated in the United Kingdom in 1904 and has been a valuable course for accounting professionals ever since. It instils quantitative expertise and strategic decision-making in individuals and they not only become expert accountants but also good business operatives.
What is CA?
CA is a popular and respected qualification in the field of finance that provides individuals with expert knowledge and accounting, auditing, and taxation. Chartered accountancy is one of the most sought-after jobs in the financial sector, and it is always in high demand.
CA qualification has professionals attain experience and clarity in financial and legal matters. CA graduates generally work in various executive roles and offer financial advice to ensure good governance and compliance. Moreover, CA graduates also play a great role in managing good relations between companies and governments.
However, the CA vs ACCA salary has always been a great point of concern, but both are highly paid jobs. It depends upon the professional skills and abilities of an individual and how much he or she can make.
Difference Between ACCA and CA
Both ACCA and CA are renowned qualifications that are always in demand. Both are very alike in terms of nature and pattern of study, but it has certain major distinctions as well.
The following is the difference between ACCA and CA degree:
| Basis | ACCA | CA |
| Minimum eligibility criteria | It requires 2 A levels plus 3 GCSEs in five subjects, including English and mathematics. Individuals who have higher qualifications may be exempted from such requirements. A good English proficiency is necessary | CA courses have stringent eligibility criteria with a high cut-off percentage. One can get admission to a CA course only when they have a certain score on our entrance test in some cities. CA qualifications vary from one country to another. |
| Syllabus | ACCA syllabus is more focused on finance-related subjects and covers a wide range of areas in finance, such as taxation, financial management, business, operation, operations, professional ethics etc. | CA courses focus more on accounting and auditing subjects along with legal areas. The syllabus is designed keeping in mind the accounting requirements and the knowledge of laws that are required to maintain good relations between companies and governments. |
| Curriculum structure | The curriculum structure of the ACCA course is very flexible. The Individual can choose when they want to appear for the examination as they do not have any strict date for that. | Whereas, CA courses are generally more intense and strict about exam dates. Individuals do not have the liberty to choose dates as they are fixed by the authorities. CA courses follow a traditional and fixed timeline. |
| Course duration | The ACCA course does not have any specific duration. It depends upon the pace at which an individual studies and appears for examinations. Hence, the time duration of ACCA courses varies from one person to another. On average, the ACCA course is completed within 3 to 4 years. | CA programmes are a bit longer than ACCA courses. It takes almost 4 to 5 years for individuals to complete the course and earn a CA degree. |
| Job profile | ACCA professionals have a wider job profile that includes various financial as well as accounting roles such as financial analysis, management, accounting, strategic business consultancy etc. | The job profile for CA graduates is narrow as compared to ACCA professionals. CA job roles include traditional accounting activities, auditing, legal compliance, and taxation. |
| Recognition | ACCA qualification is recognised in more than 180 nations which makes it a great choice for individuals seeking global exposure in this discipline. | CA qualifications, however, are not recognised worldwide as they mostly have a local focus such as a nation or a particular city. It is beneficial for individuals who want to work in one city or country only. |
Conclusion
One needs to carefully consider their goals and aspirations before choosing between ACCA and CA courses. ACCA is more focused on overall personality and professional skills that make individuals suitable to work in the international job market. Whereas, CA is more focused on indigenous financial areas and laws, making them specialised professionals within the territory of a country or specific region.
So if you’re looking to build a career globally and want to work in the international arena, then choosing the ACCA course by Imarticus Learning is best for you. It will offer the right amount of accounting and financial knowledge along with strategic decision-making abilities. This course will help you build your own brand so that you can excel in your career.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ACCA and CA?
ACCA is globally recognised, while CA is more focused on India.
Which qualification is more flexible between ACCA vs CA?
ACCA is much more flexible in terms of exam structure and study materials.
What is the main benefit of pursuing ACCA?
ACCA opens doors to global careers.
