The Journey to becoming a Chartered Certified Accountant (ACCA) is one that many aspire to, but few achieve with ease. With its demanding exams and rigorous curriculum, the ACCA qualification is known to challenge even the most dedicated students.
However, passing all my ACCA exams on the first try was not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. I’m sharing my personal story and the strategies I used, hoping to inspire and guide others on this challenging path.
The ACCA Challenge: Understanding What Lies Ahead
The ACCA qualification is globally recognized, offering a deep understanding of accountancy, finance, and management. The program is structured into three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional. Each level consists of exams that test different aspects of accounting, from financial reporting to performance management.
If you want to study ACCA courses, you must pay different fees at different stages.
An exemption fee applies for each ACCA exam from which you are awarded an exemption:
Applied Knowledge Exams: £86
Applied Skills Exams: £114
Exam Fees
An exam entry fee is required for each exam you register for.
Please note that if you are taking examinations at a special center, you must pay any additional local invigilation and accommodation fees.
The Power of Planning: A Roadmap to Success
One of the most crucial elements of my success was planning. Without a clear plan, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of material. Here’s how I approached my ACCA studies with a detailed and focused plan.
Setting Clear Objectives
Define Your Goals: I set achievable goals before diving into the coursework. I broke down the 13 exams into smaller milestones, which made the process feel less daunting and more manageable.
Understand the syllabus: I spent time understanding the syllabus for each exam. This allowed me to prioritize my study efforts on the most challenging areas.
Crafting a Study Schedule
Daily Routine: Consistency was key. I established a daily study routine that suited my natural rhythms, focusing on the most challenging subjects when I was most alert.
Weekly Check-Ins: I reviewed what I had learned each week, reinforcing my understanding and highlighting areas that needed more attention.
Balancing Work and Study
Effective Time Management: Balancing a full-time job with ACCA studies requires careful time management. I used tools like planners and calendars to keep track of my commitments and ensure I was making steady progress.
Strategic Breaks: I also understood the importance of taking breaks. Regular, short breaks helped me maintain focus and prevent burnout.
Leveraging Quality Study Materials
Success in ACCA exams requires more than hard work; it demands smart work. I didn’t rely on just one resource but used various study materials to deepen my understanding and prepare.
Textbooks and Study Guides
Official ACCA Resources: The official ACCA textbooks were my primary study materials. They are specifically designed to cover the syllabus and provide a strong foundation for each subject.
Additional Guides: I supplemented these with additional study guides and revision kits. These resources often included practice questions and tips that were invaluable for exam preparation.
Utilizing Online Resources
ACCA Website: The ACCA website offers many resources, including past exam papers, examiners’ reports, and technical articles. These materials were crucial in understanding the examiners’ expectations.
Video Tutorials: For complex topics, I turned to online video tutorials. Visual explanations helped clarify difficult concepts and provided alternative perspectives on the material.
Practice Makes Perfect
Past Papers: Practicing past exam papers was one of my most effective strategies. It familiarized me with the exam format and allowed me to identify weak areas early on.
Mock Exams: I also took several mock exams under timed conditions. This practice helped me manage my time during the actual exams and reduced anxiety.
Understanding the ACCA Exam Levels
Applied Knowledge Level All three exams at this level are entirely multiple-choice questions (MCQs), with a passing score set at 50%.
Applied Skills Level The Corporate and Business Law exam is 100% objective questions (OTQs) and requires a 50% score to pass. The other five exams—Financial Management, Financial Reporting, Performance Management, and Taxation—feature a blend of 60% OTQs and 40% subjective questions. Each exam requires a minimum pass mark of 50%.
Strategic Professional Level All four mandatory and optional exams are fully subjective at this level, with a passing mark of 50% for each.
Understanding the ACCA exam pattern structure is crucial for those aiming to become recognized professionals in the global accounting arena. With a focused approach and commitment to diligent study, candidates can confidently tackle all levels of the ACCA exams.
Maintaining Motivation
The mental aspect of preparing for ACCA exams is just as important as the academic preparation. Staying motivated over a prolonged period was challenging, but I developed strategies to keep my spirits high.
Focus on the End Goal
Reward System
Support Network
Learn from Mistakes
Resilience
Exam Day: Strategy and Execution
When the exam day arrived, I approached it confidently and clearly.
Here’s how I ensured I was ready to perform at my best.
Pre-Exam Preparation
Get Enough Sleep: I slept a full night before the exam. Being well-rested helped me stay sharp and focused during the test.
Healthy Breakfast: A nutritious breakfast provided the energy I needed to stay alert throughout the exam. I avoided heavy or sugary foods to prevent any post-meal drowsiness.
Exam Strategy
Time Management: During the exam, I carefully managed my time. I started with confident questions, which helped build momentum and allowed more time for challenging questions.
Stay Calm: If I encountered a difficult question, I didn’t panic. I skipped it and returned to it later, ensuring I didn’t waste time and could address all questions.
Post-Exam Reflection
Review and Learn: I reflected on how it went after each exam. This reflection helped me identify areas for improvement and apply those lessons to future exams.
Success: Becoming ACCA Certified
The day I received my results was one of the most gratifying moments of my life. Passing all my ACCA exams on the first try was a testament to my hard work, preparation, and determination.
Celebrate Your Achievements
Acknowledge the Journey: I celebrated my success with those who supported me. Recognizing the effort and sacrifices made the achievement even more meaningful.
Looking Ahead
Career Advancement: With the ACCA qualification, I was ready to take the next step in my career. The opportunities that opened up were exciting, and I felt well-prepared to excel in my chosen field.
Lifelong Learning: The ACCA qualification is not the end of the road. The finance and accounting world constantly evolves, and I am committed to continuous learning and professional development to stay ahead.
Lessons for Aspiring ACCA Students
As I share my story, here are some key takeaways for those of you who are on the path to ACCA qualification:
A well-structured study plan is essential for success. Understand the syllabus, set clear goals, and stick to your study schedule.
Use a combination of textbooks, online resources, and practice papers to prepare for each exam thoroughly. The right materials can make a significant difference.
Motivation and resilience are just as important as academic preparation. Stay positive, surround yourself with supportive people, and don’t let setbacks discourage you.
On exam day, manage your time effectively and stay calm. Trust in your preparation and focus on doing your best.
Passing the ACCA exams is a remarkable achievement. Celebrate your success, but continue to pursue opportunities for growth and development in your career.
The ACCA qualification is not the end of the road. The finance and accounting world constantly evolves, and commitment to continuous learning and professional development is needed to stay ahead.
Final Words
Passing all my ACCA exams on the first try wasn’t just about working hard—it was about working smart. It required careful planning, effective use of resources, mental resilience, and strong support.
For those of you pursuing the ACCA qualification, know it’s possible to achieve your goals with the right approach. The Journey may be challenging, but the rewards are worth it.
Advance Your Accounting Career with ACCA – Today!
When you enroll in the ACCA course, you’re not just signing up for a course – you’re securing a career. They offer a 100% placement guarantee upon completing even the first two levels of ACCA. You can claim a full refund if you don’t secure a placement or internship.
The ACCA curriculum offers unconditional and unlimited guarantee to coach you until you pass the ACCA exams. You can retake the entire program and all sessions as many times as needed, at no extra cost, until you succeed.
ACCA course materials include everything you need to succeed: ACCA books, question banks, practice papers, MCQs, flashcards, learning videos, live classes by ACCA-certified faculties, and on-demand sessions by international ACCA trainers.
Enroll in the ACCA course today and secure your future with our guaranteed placement and success-oriented approach!
A significant aspect of financial stewardship, accounting professionals play a crucial role in any organisation. They enable businesses to focus on their development and growth. Notably, over 79,600 additional financial auditors and accountants will be required from 2019 to 2028, as per IRCC. Considering the increasing job opportunities, it is a good idea to explore a career in accounting or advance your career with ACCA certification. Read ahead to learn more about ACCA, its advantages and how pursuing an ACCA course can help get the globally recognised certification.
What is ACCA?
The ACCA certification is one of the leading accountancy qualifications in the world. Acquiring this certification can help students or aspiring financial professionals gain the necessary knowledge, skills, and values to be successful in the domain of accounting. Also, existing accounting professionals can get on this journey of acquiring the ACCA certification so that they can get into leadership roles to strategically drive organisations into the future.
Aspirants can achieve the ACCA Qualification in a minimum of three years, if they:
Complete a maximum of 13 exams which depend on their previous qualifications
Complete an ethics and professional skills module
Have three years of work experience in a relevant role
If you don’t have the above-mentioned qualifications, then you can pursue Foundations in Accountancy qualifications first and then move on with the ACCA Qualification.
Besides, anyone can pursue ACCA membership irrespective of his/her existing qualifications or work experience. If an aspirant has two A levels and three General Certificates of Secondary Education (GCSEs) in five separate subjects including English and mathematics or equivalent qualifications, then he/she can begin studying at the ACCA Qualification and become an ACCA member upon completion of this master’s level qualification.
Becoming an ACCA member after the competition of the ACCA Qualification not only makes you a part of the network with more than 200,000 members, but also helps you develop the necessary skills to work in any sector across the world.
Notably, ACCA members who are known to hold international accounting standards, enjoy the reputation of forward-thinking finance professionals. That is why, employers trust them the most.
Benefits of ACCA Certificate
While better job opportunities and improved earning potential are some of the major reasons to pursue the ACCA certification, let’s learn about other advantages that aspirants can get.
Preparing you for the corporate world, the course helps you acquire transferable skills like time and task management. Also, critical business information is imparted in order to meet the demands of the dynamic financial sector. From strategic corporate leadership to management accounting, accounting professionals learn different concepts that help them take up varied job roles.
Pursuing an ACCA course can help you shine in the crowd by instilling a strong business and accounting understanding. The ACCA certificate will let you prosper in the highly competitive job market.
The ACCA journey opens up networking possibilities with agencies worldwide. ACCA members get to meet people with similar interests. They also get opportunities to connect with businesses aligned with their competence and needs. Notably, American Express Services Europe, Accenture, and Apex Group are amongst ACCA Approved Employers.
ACCA membership offers instant recognition to get employed by big players in different markets. It allows your resume to create a good first impression in employers’ eyes.
Conclusion
By and large, ACCA certification holds immense significance for ambitious accounting professionals. The qualification not only exposes you to varied job opportunities, but also prepares you for a long and prosperous career. If you have any queries related to a career in accounting, ACCA course or ACCA course fees, then reach out to Imarticus Learning.
Before you can master strategy and leadership, you first need to build the core skills that define a world-class finance professional. The 9 ACCA exams form this foundation; they’re where every ACCA journey begins. Covering areas like business technology, performance management, taxation, and financial reporting, these papers shape your understanding of how organisations operate, make decisions, and maintain financial integrity.
Together, the 9 ACCA exams under the Applied Knowledge and Applied Skills levels act as the building blocks of the qualification. They ensure that before you move to the strategic stage, you’ve already developed the analytical, technical, and ethical mindset that the ACCA qualification is known for.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through each of these ACCA exams: what they cover, how they connect to real-world finance, and how you can prepare effectively to clear them with confidence.
What Is ACCA? How Do ACCA Exams Build the Foundation for a Global Finance Career?
Whenever someone asks me, “What is ACCA?” I tell them to picture a skyscraper. You can’t build something tall and enduring without a solid base, and that’s exactly what the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) gives you in your finance career. Each of the ACCA exams acts like a floor in that structure: carefully planned, skillfully layered, and designed to take you higher, one level at a time.
The ACCA course is one of the most respected global credentials in accounting and finance. It’s recognised in over 180 countries, trusted by top employers, and valued by professionals who want to go beyond bookkeeping to real financial leadership. Through its structured pathway, from Applied Knowledge to Strategic Professional, ACCA trains you to understand how businesses actually work: how money moves, how value is created, and how ethical decisions shape organisations.
Here is a visual overview of the various ACCA exams that you have to master as you sign up for this credential. Each of these is discussed in detail as we move ahead in this blog.
The foundation begins with concepts like business and technology, performance management, and financial reporting. As you move up, you reach the strategic levels, where you’re learning to think like a CFO, design global strategies, and advise on financial decisions that can transform entire companies.
To simplify, imagine building a skyscraper in a fast-growing city. You need architects, engineers, planners, and strong materials. In the same way, the ACCA exams equip you with technical knowledge, analytical tools, and ethical grounding, the essential materials to build a career that stands tall in any economy.
But what makes ACCA special is how universal it is. Whether you study in Mumbai or Manchester, the standards are the same. It prepares you not just to do accounting, but to understand business; a language that every global organisation speaks.
Watch this video to get a thorough understanding of what the ACCA qualification means for a global finance career:
Structure of ACCA Exams
The structure of ACCA exams is designed to take you from mastering the fundamentals of accounting to becoming a strategic finance leader. Instead of overwhelming students with theory, ACCA builds knowledge in progressive layers, starting with core business concepts and gradually moving into complex analysis, reporting, and decision-making.
The qualification is divided into three key levels:
Applied Knowledge
Applied Skills
Strategic Professional
Each serves a specific purpose in shaping your professional capability. The early levels focus on understanding how businesses function and how financial systems work, while the later ones prepare you to interpret, advise, and lead with financial insight.
Level
No. of Papers
Exam Mode
Focus Area
Applied Knowledge
3
Computer-Based
Core business & financial literacy
Applied Skills
6
Computer-Based / Paper-Based
Practical accounting and financial management
Strategic Professional
4
Computer-Based
Advanced strategy, leadership, and reporting
The first 9 ACCA exams cover everything from business technology to taxation and audit. These aren’t just subjects; they’re simulations of real-world decision-making.
Breakdown of the Applied Knowledge Level
The Applied Knowledge Level is where every ACCA journey begins, covering the fundamentals of business, management accounting, and financial reporting. These initial ACCA exams build the conceptual base for everything that follows.
While there are some challenging ACCA subjects, consistent practice, smart time management, and guided mentoring make mastering this level completely achievable.
Paper F1 (BT): Business and Technology
This paper introduces you to the modern business ecosystem. You learn not just accounting systems, but how technology, governance, and ethics shape a company’s financial behaviour.
For example, understanding how automation changes auditing standards isn’t theoretical; it’s a real scenario many ACCA candidates face in their first roles.
Skills built:
Understanding business structures
Recognising ethical dilemmas
Using digital tools for finance
Paper F2 (MA): Management Accounting
This one turns you into the “numbers whisperer.” You’ll build models to help managers plan budgets, analyse costs, and optimise performance.
To visualise it: if a company produces 10,000 units and wants to find its break-even point, you’ll be the one designing that cost model.
What you’ll master:
Budgeting and variance analysis
Decision-making with cost behaviour
Short-term vs long-term financial planning
Paper F3 (FA): Financial Accounting
You’ll dive into the language of business and accounting standards. This ACCA exam trains you to prepare and interpret financial statements that investors and auditors rely on.
Core Concepts
Practical Use Case
Double-entry bookkeeping
Maintaining general ledgers
IFRS and IAS compliance
Corporate reporting
Trial balance and adjustments
Financial accuracy
Takeaway → If you’ve ever looked at a balance sheet and wondered, “How does this all connect?”, F3 is where you learn that logic.
Breakdown of the Applied Skills Level
Once you’ve laid your foundation, the next six ACCA exams (F4–F9) focus on decision-making, ethics, taxation, and reporting.
Paper F4: Corporate and Business Law (LW)
Law is the invisible skeleton of every business. In this paper, you’ll understand contracts, company structures, and liabilities. Knowing when a company director is legally accountable or how to interpret regulatory updates is key for global accountants.
💡 Fun fact: Over 70% of corporate disputes involve contract ambiguity; ACCA equips you to prevent those before they happen. Source: IFAC Legal Insights Report
Paper F5: Performance Management (PM)
Imagine running a business unit. How do you know if your team is performing efficiently? F5 trains you to measure that using quantitative and qualitative performance indicators.
You’ll build metrics, interpret variances, and link performance outcomes to business strategy.
What makes this ACCA exam important:
Real-world case analysis
Use of key performance ratios
Scenario-based decision frameworks
Paper F6: Taxation (TX)
If finance is a body, taxation is its circulatory system. This paper takes you through how tax systems operate: personal, corporate, and international.
You’ll learn:
Income tax computations
VAT and corporate tax planning
Ethical considerations in tax management
For example, when advising an SME on depreciation or allowable expenses, the principles from F6 decide the financial strategy.
Paper F7: Financial Reporting (FR)
The FR paper is where you become fluent in IFRS. You’ll learn to consolidate statements, interpret financial disclosures, and apply international accounting standards.
ACCA Subject Highlights:
Frameworks for financial reporting
Consolidated accounts and disclosures
Interpretation of statements for decision-making
Paper F8: Audit and Assurance (AA)
In today’s data-driven world, auditors are the gatekeepers of trust. This paper teaches you how to evaluate evidence, understand audit risks, and build internal control systems.
Exam focus:
Audit procedures and sampling
Internal control evaluation
Auditor’s ethical responsibilities
Paper F9: Financial Management (FM)
This ACCA exam is the bridge between theory and boardroom decisions. You’ll learn how to make financing, investment, and dividend decisions under uncertainty.
Key Concepts
Application in Business
Cost of capital
Deciding between debt vs equity
Investment appraisal
Evaluating new projects
Risk management
Hedging and sensitivity analysis
Real-World Application: From Classroom to Career
Here’s a practical example: Imagine you’re analysing whether your company should acquire a new warehouse.
F2 helps you model the cost.
F4 ensures your contract is legally sound.
F7 lets you account for the asset correctly.
F9 tells you if the investment is worth it financially.
That’s how the ACCA exam papers connect theory with strategy; one reason global employers trust this qualification.
Breakdown of the Professional Level of ACCA Exams
If the first nine ACCA papers build your technical foundation, the Strategic Professional Level is where your skills meet leadership. This level has four ACCA exams: two compulsory and two optional. Every ACCA candidate must complete these to earn the full certification.
Unlike the foundational levels that focus on what and how, this stage asks why. Why does a business pursue a certain strategy? Why does one reporting decision change investor perception? That’s the maturity ACCA expects at this level.
If you could sit in a CEO’s chair for four hours, that’s what this paper feels like. It evaluates your ability to lead, make decisions under pressure, and communicate with clarity.
Instead of theoretical questions, you’ll be given a 20-page business case study with multiple exhibits like financial reports, news clippings, emails, and board notes. You must respond as if you’re a senior manager presenting to stakeholders.
You’ll be tested on:
Integrating strategy, leadership, and risk
Corporate governance and ethics
Business communication and stakeholder management
Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)
SBR is the evolution of the earlier Financial Reporting paper. But now, you don’t just prepare reports: you interpret, analyse, and justify reporting choices.
For example, you might need to explain how a company’s fair value adjustments impact investor decisions. That’s why employers value SBR; it shows your ability to defend financial logic at a leadership level.
Skill Tested
Example Scenario
Ethical application of IFRS
Reporting mergers or asset impairment
Professional judgment
Advising the board on disclosure impacts
Analytical communication
Writing investor reports or audit summaries
💡 Expert Tip for Learners:
When you plan your ACCA papers list, never attempt SBL and SBR together if you’re working full-time. Their integrated nature demands separate mental bandwidth. Instead, pair one core paper with one optional (like SBR + AFM).
Breakdown of the Optional ACCA Papers
Every business needs different kinds of financial minds: strategists, auditors, tax planners, or performance consultants. The optional ACCA exams let you specialise accordingly.
AFM: Advanced Financial Management
Think of this as the paper for aspiring CFOs. You’ll learn capital structure planning, foreign exchange risk management, and advanced investment appraisal. Real-world application? Evaluating whether your firm should issue bonds, seek equity funding, or hedge against currency exposure.
APM: Advanced Performance Management
This is for those who enjoy connecting numbers with strategy. You’ll study performance evaluation frameworks like Balanced Scorecards, strategic KPIs, and behavioural performance management.
🎓 In global corporates, APM-qualified professionals often move into Business Analyst or Management Consultant roles, bridging finance and strategy.
ATX: Advanced Taxation
Designed for tax specialists, this ACCA exam deep-dives into cross-border tax issues, inheritance tax, and group taxation. You’ll develop advisory skills to guide clients or employers on complex tax implications.
AAA: Advanced Audit and Assurance
If you’re drawn to risk, ethics, and forensic detail, this one’s for you. AAA tests how you handle complex audits, group audits, and assurance engagements beyond financial audits, such as ESG or sustainability assurance.
Global Career Paths After Each Optional ACCA Exam
The optional ACCA exams at the Strategic Professional level let you shape your career based on your interests: whether it’s financial management, auditing & taxation, or performance strategy. Each paper opens distinct global career paths, helping you specialise in the areas most valued by multinational firms and Big 4 employers.
ACCA Paper
Top Global Career Roles
AFM
Corporate Finance, Treasury, Investment Banking
APM
Performance Analyst, Strategy Consultant
ATX
Tax Consultant, International Tax Planner
AAA
Audit Partner, Risk Advisory, Compliance Lead
Watch this video to explore free resources to help boost your ACCA preparations:
ACCA Exam Exemptions Explained: Who Can Skip Which Papers
One of the biggest advantages of the ACCA exams is that they recognise your prior qualifications. Depending on your background, you may be exempted from some or all of the nine Applied Knowledge and Applied Skills papers.
If you’re a Chartered Accountant (CA), Company Secretary (CS), or B.Com graduate, you could skip multiple foundational papers like Business and Technology (BT) or Financial Accounting (FA). Even certain postgraduate degrees in commerce or finance can grant exemptions, meaning you can fast-track your ACCA journey.
You can check your eligibility through the official ACCA Exemption Calculator, which matches your existing qualifications with applicable exemptions.
This system saves time, reduces costs, and lets experienced learners focus directly on higher-level ACCA exams that strengthen their global finance credentials.
Explore through this visual which ACCA exams you can get exempted from if you hold certain certifications:
All ACCA exams are conducted four times a year in March, June, September, and December, and can be attempted through both computer-based testing and session-based exams, depending on location.
ACCA Exam Type
Format
Passing Marks
Duration
Applied Knowledge
Objective + Case
50%
2 hours
Applied Skills
Scenario + Short Questions
50%
3 hours
Strategic Professional
Case-Based
50%
3–4 hours
Key Takeaway → You can attempt a maximum of 8 papers a year, with up to 4 in one session.(Source)
Watch this video to explore the ACCA Exam Structure in depth:
Life After ACCA Exams
Today, the finance world is evolving faster than ever: automation, ESG reporting, fintech, and cross-border compliance are reshaping what it means to “work in finance.” And that’s where ACCA professionals stand out. With their deep grounding in international standards and practical decision-making, they aren’t just keeping pace, they’re driving the change.
Whether you see yourself decoding complex mergers, leading a risk advisory team at a Big 4 firm, or shaping financial strategy for a tech startup, your ACCA qualification gives you the flexibility and credibility to do it anywhere, from Mumbai to London to Dubai. According to the ACCA Global Talent Trends 2025, salaries reflect that global premium, with ACCA members often commanding higher packages for their analytical and cross-functional expertise.
But let’s go beyond the usual narrative of “career opportunities.” Here’s what the real landscape looks like today:
Top Career Roles After Completing ACCA Exams
Clearing your ACCA exams opens doors to some of the most rewarding roles in global finance. From auditing and taxation to financial strategy and consulting, here’s a look at the top career paths you can pursue after becoming ACCA-qualified.
Career Path
Core ACCA Papers Linked
Typical Job Titles
Financial Reporting & Analysis
F3, F7, SBR
Financial Analyst, Reporting Manager
Audit & Assurance
F8, AAA
Auditor, Internal Control Specialist
Tax & Compliance
F6, ATX
Tax Consultant, Compliance Officer
Investment & Risk
F9, AFM
Treasury Analyst, Risk Consultant
Strategy & Performance
F5, APM, SBL
Business Analyst, Strategy Lead
These roles often become stepping stones to Finance Controller, CFO, or Partner-level positions within 8–10 years.
ACCA Salary Trends in India and Abroad
One of the most common questions students ask after completing their ACCA exams is, “What kind of salary can I expect?” The truth is, your earning potential as an ACCA-qualified professional is shaped by a mix of factors like where you work, the industry you enter, and the experience you build.
In India, ACCA members often start with roles such as Financial Analyst, Statutory Auditor, or Tax Associate, earning competitive salaries comparable to Indian CAs.
Abroad, ACCA-qualified professionals are recognised across 180+ countries, including the UK, UAE, Singapore, and Canada. This international recognition translates into higher compensation bands and accelerated career mobility, particularly in finance hubs where global reporting and IFRS expertise are valued.
Below is a quick look at the average ACCA salary range after clearing ACCA exams:
Country
Average Salary Range
Top Employers
India
₹6 LPA – ₹25 LPA
KPMG, Deloitte, EY, PwC
UK
£35,000 – £70,000
Barclays, BDO, HSBC
UAE
AED 120,000 – AED 280,000
EY, Mashreq, Emirates NBD
Singapore
SGD 45,000 – SGD 100,000
DBS, OCBC, Accenture
Canada
CAD 60,000 – CAD 120,000
RBC, TD, KPMG
Did you know? In 2025, almost 51% of people who took the ACCA Exams were mid-level management professionals. (Source)
Global Mobility and Demand for ACCA Professionals
The biggest value of the ACCA qualification isn’t just its depth, it’s its passport. Unlike local certifications (such as CA or CPA, limited by geography), ACCA exams give you recognition with high-paying global finance jobs.
Countries where ACCA professionals are in high demand:
United Kingdom
India
Singapore
UAE
Canada
Malaysia
South Africa
Each of these markets values ACCA for one key reason: it aligns with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), which are used by over 140 nations.
💬 “The digital landscape presents significant opportunities for accountancy and finance professionals to achieve meaningful work experiences – ones that are driven by purpose and which afford the potential to stretch oneself in new and fulfilling ways.”
Mark Millar, Head of Education Partnerships, ACCA Global (Source)
Why Choose Imarticus Learning for Your ACCA Journey
As you work through the phases of the ACCA course, you’ll quickly realise two things: one, that the exams demand more than rote learning; and two, that the environment you prepare in makes a huge difference.
Imarticus Learning helps you prepare not just for the papers, but for the role, and the fact that we partner with KPMG in India and integrate globally-recognised content adds real strength.
Imarticus ACCA Program Highlights:
Live mentorship by industry experts
AI-powered performance tracking
Kaplan-published content and mocks
Job assurance with top-tier firms
Option for full or hybrid learning
100% Pass Guarantee and 100% Job Guarantee
FAQs About ACCA Exams
The following section answers some of the most searched and frequently asked questions about ACCA exams: from exam structure and eligibility to exemptions, costs, and career scope. Whether you’re just beginning your ACCA journey or planning your next level, these FAQs cover everything you need to understand how the ACCA qualification works
What are the 13 exams in ACCA?
The ACCA Exams consist of 13 papers divided into three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional.
Applied Knowledge: Business and Technology (BT), Management Accounting (MA), Financial Accounting (FA)
Applied Skills: Corporate and Business Law (LW), Performance Management (PM), Taxation (TX), Financial Reporting (FR), Audit and Assurance (AA), Financial Management (FM)
Strategic Professional: Strategic Business Leader (SBL), Strategic Business Reporting (SBR), and two optional papers from Advanced Financial Management (AFM), Advanced Performance Management (APM), Advanced Taxation (ATX), and Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA).
Each paper is designed to progressively develop your technical and strategic expertise in accounting and finance. With Imarticus Learning, you get structured guidance, mentor-led sessions, and access to Kaplan study materials that help you master each of these 13 exams efficiently.
How many exams are there for ACCA?
There are 13 ACCA Exams in total, spread across foundational and advanced levels. However, depending on your prior qualifications (like a B.Com, CA, or CS), you may be eligible for exemptions for some ACCA papers. This flexibility allows professionals and students to fast-track their certification journey. To navigate these exemptions and design a smart study plan.
What are the 9 ACCA exams?
The 9 ACCA exams at the fundamentals level form the backbone of your accounting and business acumen. They include BT, MA, FA, LW, PM, TX, FR, AA, and FM. These exams test your grasp of concepts like management accounting, taxation, financial reporting, and business law. Scoring well at this stage requires consistency and clarity, both of which Imarticus Learning helps you build through live sessions, mock tests, and performance analytics.
What is an ACCA exam?
An ACCA exam is a globally recognised assessment conducted by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (UK). Each exam evaluates your theoretical understanding, analytical reasoning, and practical problem-solving abilities in accounting, audit, taxation, and finance. The exams are conducted quarterly, offering flexibility for working professionals. With Imarticus Learning’s online classes, you can prepare strategically for each exam cycle through a blend of live teaching, self-paced learning, and Kaplan’s adaptive resources.
Is ACCA costlier than CA?
The total cost of pursuing the ACCA qualification can range between ₹3–4 lakhs, depending on exemptions and exam attempt frequency. While this is generally higher than the initial CA registration costs, ACCA provides global recognition, access to international roles, and flexible scheduling. Imarticus Learning offers cost-effective ACCA training with EMI options and placement support, making international accounting education more accessible without compromising on quality.
What is the 7-year rule in ACCA?
The 7-year rule in ACCA Exams applies to the Strategic Professional Level, meaning you must pass all four professional papers within seven years of your first pass at that level. This ensures that your knowledge remains current and relevant to the evolving global accounting standards.
Can ACCA earn 1 crore?
Yes, ACCA-qualified professionals can earn ₹1 crore or more annually, especially in senior finance, investment banking, and international audit roles. Salaries depend on experience, location, and domain specialisation. Firms like Big 4s (KPMG, Deloitte, PwC, EY) and multinational banks often seek ACCAs for leadership roles.
Can I finish ACCA in 2 years?
Yes, it’s possible to complete the ACCA Exams in two years if you plan effectively and qualify for a few exemptions. Most students, however, complete it in 2.5 to 3 years. A disciplined study plan and access to the right study material are key. Imarticus Learning’s structured training enables accelerated completion through expert mentorship, performance tracking, and focused revision cycles tailored for quick progression.
Is ACCA closing in 2026?
No, ACCA is not closing in 2026. The ACCA qualification continues to grow in global demand, with employers worldwide recognising its value. The association regularly updates its syllabus to reflect emerging trends in finance, technology, and sustainability. Imarticus Learning keeps its ACCA course aligned with these updates, ensuring students prepare for the most current exam structure and industry expectations.
Will ACCA be replaced by AI?
While AI and automation are transforming the accounting landscape, the ACCA qualification is evolving to include technology, data analytics, and sustainability reporting in its syllabus. This ensures ACCA professionals remain indispensable for strategic decision-making.
How many attempts for ACCA in a year?
Students can attempt ACCA Exams four times a year: March, June, September, and December. You can appear for up to four papers in one session and eight papers in a year, giving enough flexibility to manage your workload and goals. With Imarticus Learning’s expert support, students receive personalised guidance on when to appear for which paper to balance efficiency and exam readiness.
Is ACCA losing its value?
Absolutely not. The ACCA qualification continues to be one of the most globally respected accounting credentials, recognised in over 180 countries. As global financial systems become more complex, ACCA’s emphasis on ethics, technology, and strategic analysis makes it even more valuable today.
Summing Up the ACCA Exams
The ACCA qualification isn’t just a set of exams; it’s a global benchmark that shapes accountants into strategic decision-makers. Each of the 9 ACCA exams builds essential skills in reporting, taxation, performance management, and leadership, creating professionals who can adapt to global standards and digital finance.
In today’s world of automation and analytics, ACCA-qualified professionals are valued for their ability to combine financial insight with ethical and technological awareness. It’s not just about passing exams; it’s about mastering a mindset built for the future of finance.
If you’re ready to take this step, the ACCA course offered by Imarticus Learning in collaboration with KPMG in India, with expert mentorship from industry leaders, is built to help you clear every paper confidently and launch a career that spans borders.
