US CPA vs ACCA: A Complete 2025 Guide for Aspiring Accountants
Fri Jun 27 2025
When planning a global career in accounting and finance, two certifications stand out: the US CPA (Certified Public Accountant) and ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). But which one is right for you?
In this blog by Simandhar Education, India’s leading EdTech platform for global finance certifications, we’ll break down everything you need to know about CPA vs ACCA—from syllabus to salary, from eligibility to job prospects—in one place.
Let’s dive in!
What Is ACCA?
ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is a UK-based global qualification that prepares candidates for careers in finance, accounting, auditing, and consulting. It's recognized in over 180 countries, including Canada, UK, UAE, Australia, and Singapore.
Key Highlights:
- Flexible exam structure
- 13 papers divided across 3 levels
- Strong focus on IFRS, audit, taxation, and financial reporting
What Is US CPA?
CPA USA (Certified Public Accountant) is a license issued by the AICPA (American Institute of CPAs), primarily for professionals practicing in the United States. However, it's globally respected in MNCs and firms dealing with US accounting standards.
New CPA Evolution Model (2024 Onwards):
- 3 Core Exams: AUD, FAR, REG
- Choose 1 Discipline: BAR (Business Analysis), ISC (Information Systems), or TCP (Tax Planning)
- 4 sections total; no exemptions
ACCA vs US CPA 2025
| Parameter | ACCA | US CPA |
|---|---|---|
| Course Structure |
|
|
| Duration | 2 to 3 years (flexible) | 12 to 18 months |
| Eligibility | 10+2 with 65% in Maths/Accounts & English and 50% in others (Or via FIA route) | Graduation + 1 year of post-graduation (120 credits) or Bridge course route License – 150 credit hours |
| Average Salary (India) | ₹5–8 LPA starting | ₹10–12 LPA starting |
| Passing Percentage | 40–50% | 50–65% (varies by section) |
| Job Profiles |
|
|
| Recognition | Recognized in 180+ countries Strong in UK, Middle East, Singapore, Australia | Recognized in USA, India, Canada, and US-based MNCs worldwide |
| Exam Windows | On-demand for Applied Knowledge Quarterly for Skills & Professional: Mar, Jun, Sep, Dec | On-demand in testing windows: every month |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Remote & Center-based) | Online (Prometric centers, remote testing in some locations) |
| Number of Papers | 13 (with exemptions up to 9) | 4 (No exemptions) |
| Exemptions | Yes (based on CA, B. Com, MBA, etc.) | No exemptions allowed |
| Work Experience | 36 months required for membership | 2,000 hours (1–2 years) under a licensed CPA |
Global Recognition
- ACCA: Recognized in 180+ countries, including the UK, UAE, Canada, Singapore, and Australia. Great for those planning a career in Europe, the Middle East, or Asia.
- US CPA: While primarily a US-based license, CPA is accepted by MNCs worldwide, especially those with US clients or operations.
Simandhar Tip: If you aim to work in or with US companies, CPA gives you a clear edge.
Syllabus Overview
ACCA Syllabus
- Applied Knowledge: Business Tech, Management Accounting, Financial Accounting
- Applied Skills: Taxation, Audit, Performance Mgmt, Law, Financial Reporting
- Strategic Professional: SBL, SBR + 2 optional (AFM, AAA, APM, ATX)
CPA Syllabus
- Core: Auditing (AUD), Financial Reporting (FAR), Regulation (REG)
- Discipline: Choose 1 from:
- BAR: Reporting, analytics, decision-making
- ISC: Cybersecurity, system controls
- TCP: US tax laws, compliance, planning
Job Roles & Career Scope
| ACCA Job Roles | CPA Job Roles |
|---|---|
| Financial Analyst | Tax Consultant |
| Auditor | CPA Auditor |
| Finance Manager | Risk Analyst |
| Management Accountant | Controller |
| Treasury Analyst | Financial Advisor |
Salary Comparison
| Region | ACCA | CPA |
|---|---|---|
| India | ₹5–15 LPA | ₹6–20 LPA |
| US | $45K–85K | $65K–130K |
| UAE | AED 120K–250K | AED 150K–300K |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose ACCA if:
- You are in early stages (12th pass or undergrad)
- Want to work in UK, Middle East, or globally with IFRS
- Prefer flexibility and exemptions
Choose US CPA if:
- You aim to work with US-based companies or Big 4
- Have a postgraduate or 150 credit hours
- Want faster completion and higher ROI
Simandhar Tip: Many professionals pursue both CPA and ACCA for expanded global reach.
How Simandhar Education Supports Your Journey
- Official Becker Partner for CPA
- 100% Live + Recorded Classes from India’s top mentor
- 100% Placement Assistance
- Mentorship from Top Faculty
- Exclusive LMS Access
- AI for 24*7 support
- Dedicated Telegram group for doubt solving
Book a Free Career Counselling Session Today at +91 7780273388 or visit www.simandhareducation.com
Top 10 Most Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Which is better: ACCA or CPA?
CPA for US-focused roles; ACCA for broader global careers.
- Can I do CPA after ACCA?
Yes, many professionals pursue CPA post ACCA to add US credentials.
- Which is harder: CPA or ACCA?
CPA has fewer exams but is more intense. ACCA offers flexibility and exemptions.
- Is ACCA valid in the USA?
Not for licensing, but useful for corporate/MNC jobs.
- Can I work in India with a CPA license?
Yes. CPA is highly valued in US-based MNCs in India.
- What’s the salary difference in India between CPA and ACCA?
CPA professionals often earn 20–30% more.
- Do Big 4 companies hire both CPA and ACCA?
Yes. All Big 4s hire both qualifications based on job location and client base.
- What is the cost of doing ACCA and CPA?
ACCA: ₹3–3.5L | CPA: ₹4.5–5L (including coaching)
- What is the new structure of CPA in 2025?
Core + Discipline model with 4 total papers.
- Where can I get the best CPA/ACCA coaching in India?
Simandhar Education is India’s most trusted training provider