Completing ACCA, or the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, is a great achievement for any student looking to be an accountant; however, many students still ask if they can finish ACCA in two years. While it’s true that the standard time is three to four years, it is indeed possible to take the course in just two years with a strategic approach, disciplined study, and effective planning.
How to Complete ACCA in Two Years?
There are four sittings per year in which the ACCA sits. During each session, the candidate is allowed up to four exams. This option means that candidates can have up to 16 exams in one year. The program offered by the ACCA has 13 exams divided into three levels:
- Knowledge
- Skills
- Professional
Now you might wonder how it is possible to complete the ACCA qualification within only six months. This is provided in the exemptions, which can be claimed by viewing previous achievements as partly overlapping with the ACCA curriculum and hence exempted as a matter of flexibility.
ACCA Eligibility and Exemptions
For registration into the ACCA qualification, students have to pass their 10+2 exams with at least a 65% score in Maths / Accounts and English and 50% in other subjects. But if the candidate has passed class 10 or scores below the above-mentioned criteria, they can also join the ACCA course using the FIA route.
| Qualifications | Exams Required | Exemptions Available |
|---|---|---|
| Completion of class 12th | 13 papers* | None |
| Commerce graduate | 9 papers | BT, MA, FA, LW |
| CA IPCC (Both Groups) | 8 papers** | BT, MA, FA, TX, AA |
| CA | 4 papers** | BT-FM (9 subjects) |
Note:
*Applicants must have passed 5 subjects and mathematics/Accounts with at least 65% in at least two of the subjects and more than 50% in other subjects.
**CA Final applicants will get further exemptions if they receive 40 or above marks in appropriate subjects.
ACCA Time Frame Regulations
- ACCA leaves open a ten-year window to complete all the exams for the qualification.
- Usually, most students require about 3 to 4 years to pass the 13 papers required to achieve the ACCA qualification.
- All this will depend on factors like the level of exemptions, the number of exams sat per sitting, and how well able one is to balance study with work or other responsibilities.
This extended window offers flexibility, but for those looking to finish ACCA in two years, it requires a more aggressive approach to exam sitting and preparations.
Tips on How You Can Complete ACCA in Two Years
To achieve the ambitious goal of completing ACCA within two years, consider these strategies:
1. Plan Your Exam Schedule Carefully
- Take Four Exam Sessions a Year: Take Four Exam Sittings in a Year ACCA offers sittings in March, June, September, and December. You can accelerate the process by sitting for at least two exams each session.
- Relish Early Completion of Tough Papers: Do not delay until the terminal portion of your study period to take the difficult papers- complete the difficult papers early.
2. Utilize Exemptions Effectively
- Claim All Relevant Exemptions: This is an admission, exemption based on prior learning will save much time and effort.
- Verify module overlap: If one has a previous study in accounting or finance, ensure it overlaps in content with the modules of ACCA to ensure you can claim all the exemptions
3. Stay Consistent and Disciplined
- Create a Study Plan: Set aside certain hours every day or week strictly for the study of ACCA.
- Time Management: Mix work, if working, and other activities with ACCA studies. A good time management plan will enable you to study more material in less time.
4. Utilize Study Resources Wisely
- ACCA Approved Learning Partners: These partners provide the most relevant study materials and mock exams that align with ACCA’s standards.
- Join ACCA Forums: Engaging with other students can help you share study tips, solve queries faster, and stay motivated.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice!
- Attempt Mock Exams: Practicing with past papers and mock exams under timed conditions helps in improving speed and accuracy.
- Identify Weak Areas: Consistently focus on topics where you have scored lower in mock tests to ensure thorough preparation.
Benefits of Pursuing ACCA
ACCA is not just a globally recognized qualification but also offers numerous benefits that make the effort worthwhile.
Global Recognition
- ACCA is recognized by more than 180 countries so would be a good qualification if one needs to work and develop globally.
- Employers all over the world accord value to ACCA qualifications in professionals for integrated knowledge of accounting and finance principles.
Career Advancement
- ACCA holders have better prospects and earning capabilities, which ensure that most of them obtain senior jobs in finance and management.
- With ACCA, one can work in many different sectors—public practice, industry, or financial services.
Continuous Learning and Development
- ACCA encourages lifelong learning and expects its members to engage in Continuing Professional Development so that they may update their skills at all times.
- It also helps individuals specialize in areas like taxation, audit, financial management, and law so that professionals can carve out a specific path of service for themselves.
Conclusion
It’s naturally tough but possible for sharp-witted students to qualify within two years. If you’ve planned appropriately, made the most of available exemptions, and are studying effectively with the right material, you can speed up your pathway to becoming a member of ACCA. The difference between failure and success does not lie in intelligence or even whether you are good at exams or are diligent, but rather in dedication and discipline towards planned strategizing so that you make the most of each and every exam sitting you have without compromising the quality of your knowledge.
Finish ACCA in Two Years FAQs
Can I work full-time and still finish ACCA in two years?
Yes, it is possible, but it requires excellent time management and dedication. Prioritize your exams and maintain a strict study schedule to balance work and ACCA preparation.
What is the minimum duration to complete the ACCA qualification?
The minimum duration to complete ACCA is two years, provided you take maximum exemptions, clear the exams in the first attempt, and sit for multiple exams each session.
Are there any specific strategies to pass ACCA exams on the first attempt?
Yes, consistent study, regular practice with past exam papers, and thorough understanding of the syllabus for each paper are essential strategies to pass the exams on the first attempt.
Is it cheaper to finish ACCA faster?
Yes, completing ACCA in a shorter time can be more cost-effective as it reduces the need for prolonged study materials, exam fees, and potentially lower income if you delay entering the job market.
How many exemptions can I get with a finance or accounting degree?
The number of exemptions varies based on your specific qualifications. Generally, a finance or accounting degree can offer up to 9 exemptions out of the 13 required papers for the ACCA qualification.
