The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a globally recognised qualification that equips individuals with the expertise needed for a successful career in finance and accounting. However, one of the most common questions students ask is: How long does ACCA take to complete? This blog provides a comprehensive breakdown of the ACCA course duration, exam timeline, and an effective study plan to help you navigate the journey efficiently.
ACCA Course Duration: An Overview
The ACCA course duration varies depending on factors such as prior qualifications, study pace, and exam scheduling. Typically, it takes:
| Qualification Level | Estimated Duration |
| ACCA with No Prior Qualification | 3 to 4 years |
| ACCA with Relevant Degree (Exemptions) | 2 to 3 years |
| ACCA as a Working Professional (Part-time) | 4 to 5 years |
If you are starting from scratch- expect to spend three to four years completing the ACCA qualification. However, if you hold a relevant degree such as a B.Com, you may be eligible for exemptions, reducing your ACCA course length significantly.
Read more: ACCA Course – Everything You Must Know
ACCA Exam Timeline
The ACCA qualification comprises three levels:
- Applied Knowledge (3 papers)
- Applied Skills (6 papers)
- Strategic Professional (4 papers: 2 mandatory + 2 optional)
ACCA Exam Timeline Breakdown
| Level | Number of Papers | Exam Frequency | Typical Completion Time |
| Applied Knowledge | 3 | On-demand | 6 months – 1 year |
| Applied Skills | 6 | Quarterly | 1 – 1.5 years |
| Strategic Professional | 4 (2 core + 2 optional) | Quarterly | 1 – 2 years |
How long does ACCA take depends on how many exams you attempt per sitting. ACCA allows students to take up to four exams per session and a maximum of eight exams per year. However, most students prefer a steady pace…taking 1-2 exams per session.
Learn effective strategies: How to Study for ACCA Course
ACCA Study Plan for Efficient Completion
Creating an effective ACCA study plan is essential to completing the qualification within your desired timeframe. Below is a structured study approach:
Recommended ACCA Study Plan
| Phase | Duration | Key Focus Areas |
| Understanding Syllabus | 1-2 weeks | Review ACCA syllabus and study materials |
| Concept Building | 4-6 weeks | Read textbooks, watch lectures, and take notes |
| Practice Questions | 3-4 weeks | Solve past papers and mock tests |
| Revision & Exam Strategy | 2-3 weeks | Revise key concepts and attempt timed mock exams |
An ideal ACCA study plan includes 15-20 hours per week of dedicated study time. Candidates who study full-time can complete the qualification faster, whereas working professionals may take longer.
Explore the official ACCA qualification structure: ACCA Global – Qualification Details
What Affects ACCA Qualification Duration?
The ACCA qualification duration depends on several factors:
- Exemptions: If you have a commerce or finance degree, you may skip some papers.
- Study Mode: Full-time students complete the course faster than working professionals.
- Exam Pass Rate: Failing an exam can extend the ACCA course length significantly.
- Number of Exams Per Sitting: Candidates taking multiple exams per session complete ACCA sooner.
To enhance success, many students opt for structured learning through ACCA courses that provide mentorship and study support.
Check out the ACCA course at Imarticus Learning: ACCA UK Program
Success Stories: Why ACCA is Worth It
ACCA certification opens doors to global career opportunities. Many successful ACCA professionals have landed high-paying jobs in audit firms, investment banking, and financial consultancy.
Read a real success story: Imarticus Learning ACCA Success Story
FAQs
1. How long does the ACCA-course take to complete?
The ACCA course duration typically ranges from 2 to 4 years, depending on prior qualifications study mode (full-time / part-time) & the number of exams attempted per session.
2. Can I complete ACCA in 2 years?
Yes, it is possible to complete ACCA in 2 years if you take multiple exams per sitting, qualify for exemptions, and follow a structured ACCA study plan. However, most students take around 3 to 4 years.
3. What is the ACCA exam timeline, and how often are exams conducted?
ACCA exams are held four times a year (March, June, September& December). The Applied Knowledge exams
…are available on-demand, while Applied Skills & Strategic-Professional exams follow-a fixed schedule.
4.Does ACCA provide exemptions based on previous qualifications?
Yes, students with a relevant degree in commerce, finance, or accounting may receive exemptions for some papers, reducing the ACCA course length. The number of exemptions depends on your educational background.
5.What factors affect the ACCA qualification duration?
The ACCA qualification duration is influenced by exemptions, study mode (full-time vs. part-time), exam attempts per session &individual study pace. Failing exams can also extend the overall timeline.
6.What is the best study plan for ACCA?
A structured ACCA study plan includes understanding the syllabus, attending classes, practicing past papers &taking mock exams. Ideally, students should dedicate 15-20 hours per week to studying.
Conclusion
So, how long does ACCA take? The answer depends on your background, study pace, and exam strategy. The typical ACCA course duration ranges between 2 to 4 years, with flexibility based on personal commitments.
A well-structured ACCA study plan and a clear understanding of the ACCA exam timeline will help you complete the qualification efficiently. Whether you are a student or a working professional, ACCA offers an excellent pathway to a rewarding career in finance and accounting.
Want to start your ACCA journey? Explore ACCA at Imarticus Learning