Starting with an education journey at ACCA right after completing 12th commerce grade opens a wide career path in accounting and finance. It is accepted globally, so employers are also attracted to employing ACCA-qualified students. After clearing all the exams of the ACCA course, the student is considered to have in-depth knowledge of the topics from the field of accounting and finance.
ACCA Eligibility After 12th
ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is an organization that takes in students of any educational qualification background, starting even after completion of their 12th grade. If you fulfill all the other eligibility criteria mentioned earlier, that is, upon completing your 12th grade, you can also take up the ACCA course. Becoming an ACCA student, passing the ACCA exams, and meeting the requirements for practical experience would enable you to be a fully qualified ACCA professional and allow access to thousands of jobs worldwide in accounting and finance. Eligibility criteria after completion of the 12th standard for pursuing ACCA are as follows:
- Educational Qualifications: ACCA doesn’t have specific degree requirements, making it accessible to students who have completed their 10+2 or its equivalent from a recognized board or institution. Candidates must have scored 65% marks in 2 subjects out of five, including Accounts and Mathematics, and a minimum of 50% in the remaining 3. Higher secondary certificate holders must score over 130 marks from 200 to be eligible for the ACCA 2023 course.
- Age Requirement: There is no minimum age requirement to start ACCA studies after 12th grade. However, candidates must meet the legal minimum working age requirements in their respective countries to fulfil the practical experience requirement for ACCA membership.
- English Language Proficiency: Since ACCA exams and study materials are in English, candidates must have a good command of the English language. If English is not your first language, you may need to demonstrate proficiency through recognized English language tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Mathematical Skills: ACCA involves dealing with complex financial concepts and calculations. Therefore, candidates should have a strong foundation in mathematics to excel in the exams. Subjects like Mathematics, Accountancy, Business Studies, and economics studied at the 12th-grade level can provide a good base for understanding ACCA concepts.
- Registration Process: Once you’ve confirmed that you meet the eligibility criteria, you can register as an ACCA student through the official ACCA website. During registration, you must provide personal details and educational qualifications and choose your preferred study options.
- Exemptions: You may be eligible for exemptions from specific ACCA exams depending on your prior educational qualifications. For instance, if you’ve completed relevant qualifications like a diploma or degree in accounting or a related field, you may be exempt from some exams. These exemptions can fast-track your progress through the ACCA qualification. Check your exemption eligibility with our ACCA exemption calculator now.

Find Out How to Start ACCA Course After 12th Commerce?
First, the ACCA course right after 12th grade has a set of steps to be followed systematically. If one follows these steps diligently, one can rest assured that one’s career in the field of accounting and finance will be smooth and well-planned. The course structure is divided into two stated parts: fundamentals level and professional level. Here’s a guide on how to begin this journey:
Verify Eligibility Criteria
There are no minimum stated qualifications or prerequisites, which makes 12th-pass students eligible for passing ACCA exams. Ensure you meet eligibility criteria regarding age and English language skills. Strong mathematical aptitude is essential, particularly for tackling financial concepts. Students from the commerce stream with subjects like Accountancy, Business Studies, and economics have an advantage.
Understand Exam Tiers
The ACCA qualification consists of 14 exams divided into two levels: Applied Knowledge (AK) and Applied Skills. The Applied Knowledge level includes three exams: BT (Business & Technology), MA (Management Accounting), and FA (Financial Accounting). Clear all AK exams before attempting the six Applied Skills papers. These involve case study approaches and the application of technical knowledge.
Register As Early As Possible
Register for ACCA exams after completing your 12th formalities. Early registration allows you to start preparation and attempt AK-level exams while concepts are fresh, typically in the 18-19 age bracket. Attempting ACCA exams during undergraduate college years can also reduce future burdens. Maximize exemptions by registering early based on previous academic qualifications.
Choose Between Self-Study & Coaching
ACCA offers flexibility in preparation through self-study or classroom coaching. Utilize updated study materials available online via the myACCA student portal. While self-paced study suits those confident in their academic abilities, classroom coaching is recommended for clearing tough skill-based applied papers. Attend free counselling sessions at accredited coaching institutes to choose the best study approach.
Evaluate Coaching Center Competently
If opting for classroom training, assess multiple institutes before admission. Check trainers’ credentials, exam pass percentages, access to mock tests, doubt-clearing mechanisms, and student reviews. Shortlist 3-4 options and understand fee structures and flexible payment options during comparisons.
Develop A Realistic Timetable
Create a practical ACCA study timetable covering reading hours, assignments, self-analysis tests, and module revisions. Allocate consistently 2-3 hours daily for study rather than randomly cramming long hours. Stagger preparation with breaks to avoid burnout and mix learning styles based on strengths.
Attempt Mock Exams Seriously
Practice past exam papers under timed conditions to assess preparedness levels and build test-taking speed. For self-learners, purchase online mocks via ACCA’s Approved Content Provider network. Analyze mock exam results to identify weak areas and avoid repeating mistakes in the actual exams.
Clear Fundamental Concepts First
Lay a solid foundation by thoroughly understanding basic definitions, theories, calculations, principles, and concepts across all subject domains. Move on to advanced sections and case studies only after mastering fundamentals. Focus on contextual understanding rather than rote memorization, as ACCA exams test the practical application of concepts.
How to Start the ACCA Course After 12th Commerce FAQs
Is ACCA suitable for commerce students after 12th?
Yes, ACCA gives students a global opportunity to pursue a career in over 180 countries, and employers acknowledge this course in accounting, finance, etc.
What are the benefits of pursuing ACCA after 12th commerce?
ACCA is a course related to accounting and finance, and by pursuing this course, students get well-versed in concepts related to it, giving them a worldwide career opportunity.
How long does it take to complete the ACCA qualification?
It takes around 3-4 years on average to clear all exams of the ACCA course.
Can I work while pursuing the ACCA course?
As ACCA is self-paced, students can opt to clear exams while working as well. There are only a few exams to be cleared.
Is ACCA recognized internationally?
180+ countries recognizes the ACCA course worldwide.