What is the ACCA qualification and why is it globally respected?

The ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), UK, is a globally recognized professional qualification that certifies expertise in accounting, finance, auditing, and business management. With recognition in more than 180 countries, ACCA equips professionals with the technical, ethical, and strategic skills required to lead finance and accounting functions across industries. It’s respected by Big 4 firms, MNCs, and public sector organizations worldwide. For Indian students, ACCA opens international career pathways in accounting, audit, tax, and consulting without needing to relocate abroad.

What are the levels and papers in ACCA?

The ACCA qualification consists of three levels and a total of 13 papers (after exemptions, the number may reduce):

• Applied Knowledge Level: Business and Technology (BT), Management Accounting (MA), Financial Accounting (FA)
• Applied Skills Level: Corporate and Business Law (LW), Performance Management (PM), Taxation (TX), Financial Reporting (FR), Audit and Assurance (AA), Financial Management (FM)
• Strategic Professional Level: Strategic Business Leader (SBL), Strategic Business Reporting (SBR), and two optional papers — Advanced Financial Management (AFM), Advanced Performance Management (APM), Advanced Taxation (ATX), or Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA).

What is the total cost of pursuing ACCA in India?

The total cost ranges from ₹3.5 to ₹4.5 lakhs, depending on exemptions and exam attempts. This includes registration fees, annual subscription fees, and tuition through Simandhar Education. Additional costs like the Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM) and Practical Experience Requirement (PER) may apply. Simandhar offers guidance on registration, exemptions, and scheduling to minimize overall expenses.

What is the exam format and structure?

Exams are computer-based and offered four times a year (March, June, September, and December). Each paper carries 100 marks and requires a minimum of 50% to pass. Applied Knowledge exams are objective-type (2 hours), while Applied Skills and Strategic Professional exams include both objective and case-based questions. The final level focuses on analytical and decision-making skills required in senior finance roles.

What is the salary potential for ACCA professionals?

In India, fresh ACCAs typically earn ₹5–10 LPA, depending on company and profile. Experienced professionals and Big 4 employees earn ₹12–20 LPA or higher. Globally, ACCAs earn between USD 60,000–100,000 annually. The qualification offers global mobility and recognition in over 180 countries, making it a high-ROI investment.

What are the global pass rates for ACCA exams?

Global pass rates vary per paper but typically range between **40% and 55%**. Strategic Professional papers tend to have slightly lower pass rates due to their analytical rigor. Students trained under structured mentorship and using Becker–Simandhar’s integrated study plan generally achieve above-average success.

What is the Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM)?

The **EPSM** is a mandatory online module designed to develop **professional skills, integrity, and business ethics** in ACCA students. It complements technical knowledge with soft skills like communication, leadership, and digital awareness. Completion of EPSM is required before attempting the Strategic Professional exams.

What is the ICAI–ACCA MoU?

The Memorandum of Understanding (**MoU**) between the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (**ICAI**) and ACCA, UK, enables reciprocal benefits. Indian **CAs receive exemptions in up to 9 ACCA papers**, significantly shortening their path to the global qualification. Likewise, ACCA members can pursue ICAI membership under the mutual recognition framework, strengthening cross-border professional mobility.

When are ACCA exams conducted?

ACCA conducts exams **four times a year** — in **March, June, September, and December**. Some Applied Knowledge-level papers are available on-demand year-round.

When are results released?

Results are usually released within **6 weeks** of the exam date. Students receive detailed feedback via their MyACCA account.

When should I complete the Practical Experience Requirement (PER)?

Students must complete **36 months of relevant work experience** under a qualified supervisor to achieve ACCA membership. This can be done before, during, or after passing exams. Simandhar helps students align internships and jobs with PER requirements.

When does ACCA registration expire?

ACCA registration requires an **annual renewal** by paying a subscription fee. Students failing to renew may lose access to resources or exam booking privileges until reinstated.

How to become an ACCA from India?

Students can register on the official ACCA website and begin from the Applied Knowledge Level. Graduates or qualified CA/CMA/CS professionals can claim **exemptions**. Candidates must pass all required exams, complete **EPSM**, and meet **PER** requirements to earn ACCA membership.

How long does it take to complete ACCA?

Full-time students can complete ACCA in **2.5 to 3 years**, while working professionals may take up to 4 years. With Simandhar’s structured plan and Becker’s interactive materials, many students finish all papers within **2 years**.

How are exams structured and graded?

Each paper is graded on a 0–100 scale, and **50 marks are required to pass**. Exams include objective-type, scenario-based, and case study questions testing both technical knowledge and professional judgment.

How to claim exemptions in ACCA?

Exemptions depend on academic qualifications. For example, commerce graduates may get 3–4 exemptions, while CA Inter students may receive up to 6. **ICAI-qualified CAs can claim 9 exemptions**. Simandhar helps students verify eligibility and apply through ACCA’s exemption portal.

How can students manage ACCA with college or work?

Simandhar Education offers weekend, weekday, and online live batches, helping students balance classes with studies or work. Becker’s self-paced learning platform supports flexible preparation schedules.

How does Simandhar support ACCA students?

Simandhar offers **Becker-integrated learning, live faculty sessions, revision bootcamps, mock tests**, and one-on-one mentorship. The institute also assists with ACCA registration, exemptions, exam booking, and global placement support.

How do ACCAs maintain their membership?

To retain membership, ACCA professionals must complete **40 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD)** annually and pay the yearly subscription fee. CPD ensures members stay updated on financial reporting, auditing, and technology changes.