The ACCA subjects make up the backbone of one of the most popular global certifications for budding accountants and financial practitioners. The ACCA, short for Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, offers a student program that imparts a solid understanding of accounting, finance, and management. Students undertake 13 core papers over three levels under the ACCA program to build their theoretical knowledge as well as develop practical skills. This article discusses ACCA subjects at all levels, fees, duration, and difficulty, providing a holistic guide for Indian students as well as international candidates.
What is ACCA?
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a globally recognized professional body offering certification in accounting and finance. ACCA certification is ideal for those aiming to work in top multinational companies or start their accounting practices.
Importance of ACCA
The ACCA qualification is highly valued worldwide for its global recognition and professional credibility. It equips students with the skills needed for diverse roles in finance and accounting. With its flexible structure, ACCA supports both students and working professionals in advancing their careers.
- Global Recognition: ACCA is recognized in over 180 countries, making it ideal for international career opportunities.
- Flexible Learning: Students can complete the exams at their own pace, allowing flexibility for working professionals.
- Diverse Roles: ACCA certification opens doors to roles in auditing, taxation, consulting, and financial management.
- Practical Exposure: The program combines theoretical learning with practical application.
ACCA Subjects on Level 1: Applied Knowledge
The first level, Applied Knowledge, focuses on fundamental accounting principles and introduces students to the world of finance. These subjects build the base for advanced learning in the subsequent levels.
- Business and Technology (BT): Covers organizational structures, business environment, and governance. Helps students understand the role of technology in modern business.
- Management Accounting (MA): Focuses on budgeting, cost analysis, and decision-making techniques. Prepares students for roles in cost management and internal auditing.
- Financial Accounting (FA): Introduces the principles of financial reporting, ledger maintenance, and trial balances. Lays the groundwork for preparing financial statements.
ACCA Subjects on Level 2: Applied Skills
The second level, Applied Skills, expands on the basics, introducing complex topics that test analytical and problem-solving abilities. This level is more rigorous, preparing students for practical challenges in the finance industry.
- Corporate and Business Law (LW): Covers laws affecting businesses, including contracts, employment, and corporate governance.
- Performance Management (PM): Focuses on advanced costing techniques, performance evaluation, and risk management.
- Taxation (TX): Provides insights into tax laws, computations, and compliance in different jurisdictions.
- Financial Reporting (FR): Teaches how to prepare and interpret complex financial statements.
- Audit and Assurance (AA): Focuses on audit planning, risk assessment, and reporting.
- Financial Management (FM): Covers investment decisions, financing options, and risk management strategies.
ACCA Subjects on Level 3: Strategic Professional
The final level, Strategic Professional, focuses on leadership, strategy, and advanced financial management. This level is designed to transform students into global business leaders.
Core Papers (Mandatory)
- Strategic Business Leader (SBL): Combines leadership, ethics, and strategic planning. Tests decision-making abilities through case studies.
- Strategic Business Reporting (SBR): Focuses on interpreting and analyzing complex financial reports. Prepares students for roles requiring advanced reporting skills.
Optional Papers (Choose 2)
- Advanced Financial Management (AFM): Covers risk management, financial strategies, and mergers.
- Advanced Performance Management (APM): Focuses on performance evaluation and strategic decision-making.
- Advanced Taxation (ATX): Provides in-depth knowledge of international tax laws and planning.
- Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA): Covers advanced auditing techniques and practices.
ACCA Fees, Duration & Difficulty
The ACCA qualification offers a clear pathway to becoming a globally recognized accounting professional. It requires a structured investment of time and fees, with varying difficulty levels across its exams. With proper planning and dedication, candidates can achieve this prestigious certification to advance their careers.
Fees
The total cost of pursuing ACCA in India ranges from ₹2,50,000 to ₹3,00,000. This amount includes registration fees, exam fees, annual subscription fees, tuition charges, and study materials. Let’s break down the expenses for each level to help you understand the costs better:
- Registration Fees: Initial registration fee: ₹6,000 to ₹7,000. Includes student enrollment into the ACCA program.
- Annual Subscription Fees: Paid every year to maintain your student status: ₹8,000 to ₹9,000 per year. Most students take 2–3 years to complete ACCA, so plan for ₹16,000–₹27,000.
- Exam Fees: ACCA has 13 papers divided into three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional.
- Applied Knowledge (3 papers): ₹8,000–₹9,000 per paper (₹24,000–₹27,000 total).
- Applied Skills (6 papers): ₹10,000–₹12,000 per paper (₹60,000–₹72,000 total).
- Strategic Professional (4 papers): ₹12,000–₹15,000 per paper (₹48,000–₹60,000 total).
- Tuition Fees: Classes for each level can range from ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000. This cost includes coaching, study materials, and mock tests. Plutus Education is one best institutes in India, which provides expert faculty, Flexible classes, and regular assessment.
- Study Materials: Books and additional resources: ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 for the entire course.
Duration
Most students take around 2 to 3 years to complete the ACCA qualification in India. The time required depends on the number of papers they need to clear and the pace at which they study.
- ACCA has 13 papers, but some students can get exemptions based on their previous education. For example, if you have a degree in commerce, you might get exemptions for the Applied Knowledge Level papers, reducing the total number of exams you need to take.
- Students who study full-time often complete the program faster, usually in about two years. However, students who balance ACCA with work, college, or other commitments may take closer to three years.
- The time also depends on how many exams you attempt in each session. ACCA allows you to take up to four papers per exam session, but most students prefer to take one or two papers at a time to focus better.
Difficulty
The ACCA exams are divided into three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional. Each level has its difficulty and focus, making it important for students to prepare accordingly. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Applied Knowledge Level: This beginner level includes three papers: Business and Technology (BT), Management Accounting (MA), and Financial Accounting (FA). It focuses on basic accounting and finance concepts. Regular study and practice make it easy to complete.
- Applied Skills Level: This level has six papers, including Corporate and Business Law (LW) and Financial Reporting (FR). It requires applying concepts to real-world scenarios. The difficulty is moderate but manageable with consistent effort.
- Strategic Professional Level: The final level includes two compulsory papers (SBL, SBR) and two optional papers. It tests strategic and leadership skills and is the most challenging. Thorough preparation and critical thinking are essential to succeed.
ACCA Subjects FAQs
How many subjects are there in ACCA?
There are 13 subjects in ACCA, divided into three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional.
What is the total cost of ACCA in India?
The total cost of pursuing ACCA in India ranges from ₹2,50,000 to ₹3,00,000.
How long does it take to complete ACCA?
Most students complete ACCA within 2-3 years, depending on their study pace and exemptions.
Which ACCA level is the hardest?
The Strategic Professional level is the hardest, focusing on leadership, strategy, and advanced finance topics.
Can I pursue ACCA after the 12th in India?
Yes, students can start ACCA after completing 12th grade, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
