ACCA VS CA: Which Course is Right for you?
- Shankargouda S Malipatil
- Aug 22
- 7 min read
When considering the ACCA course versus CA, you may find that choosing between the two seems easy, however, this decision will vary depending on your aspirations and understanding of both qualifications and the differences between them.
The main difference is ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) has broader international career opportunities in finance while the CA qualification is more focused on local opportunities, this is because the CA qualification concentrates on domestic opportunities by providing students with a thorough understanding of local laws and financial regulations.
In this blog, we will explain some of the main differences between CA and ACCA to give you some assistance in making an informed decision.
Interestingly enough, CA and ACCA are only two of many professional pathways to having a career as an accountant or finance professional these days.
Top Accounting Certifications to Attain
ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants): A recognized qualification in finance and accounting which guarantees exciting choices in the professional environment around the world.
CA (Chartered Accountant): A qualification that is specialized to domestic regulations around taxation, auditing and finance. This can enhance the opportunities to establish your career, especially in some commonwealth nations such as India and Australia.
CPA (Certified Public Accountant): A recognized qualification that has its roots in the USA but brings prestige and recognition of the credentials to those establishing a global career in accounting/auditing.
CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst): A qualification based on investments management, portfolio management and financial markets. It is best suited to those intending to enter the career, where this qualification is the primary entry for those in finance and investment banking.
FSAC (Financial Services Audit Certificate): A qualification aimed at those who work within the financial services sector primarily providing course work around audit methodologies and risk management.
CMA (Certified Management Accountant): A qualification focused as a management accountant that involves aspects of planning, financial accounting and decision-making. It would be relevant for accountants working in a corporate environment.
CIA (Certified Internal Auditor): A qualification, focused specifically on internal auditing and risk assessment and is recognized internationally in a variety of auditing career paths.
CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner): A qualification for accountants who wish to enter work in assessing, preventing, detecting and investigating fraud in financial systems.
When it comes to accounting certifications, students at the onset of their journey in the finance industry will find the ACCA course or the CA course to be particularly relevant and beneficial.
Recently, Yahoo Finance published an Accounting Services Global Market Study which found that the global Accounting Services industry expanded from a size of $1,175.88 Billion in 2021 to $1,324.77 Billion in 2022, representing a substantial CAGR of less than 12.7%.
Moreover, the report indicated the global market could grow to $2,019.02 Billion by 2026, representing a CAGR of 11.1%.
This growth is also a huge indication of the number of professional accounting and finance job opportunities available. If you were to complete a qualification such as the ACCA or CA, you would have a globally recognized qualification that makes you more marketable and competitive as you enter a rapidly evolving employer needs of the job market.
Why Are ACCA and CA Courses Beneficial for New Candidates?
Starting an ACCA or CA qualification is a great choice for new candidates because both ACCA and CA courses are designed to educate and develop the student in finance and accounting.
These programs cover the fundamentals and eventually get into more complex concepts, giving students a complete view of the financial world.
The ACCA program is a popular program globally because of it's structured program covering a broad range of topic modules, and taking a structured approach while training students and assessing their competency, creates finance professionals that are well rounded for the real world challenges.
What is ACCA?
An international accounting and finance professional qualification. ACCA was founded in the UK in 1904 and has grown into one of the most prestigious accounting bodies globally with more than 219,000 members worldwide.
The ACCA course delivers a well-balanced learning experience although the course covers accounting principles, it also covers strategy, management and decision making skills. The global recognition of ACCA makes it a strong pathway for students wanting a career in Finance internationally.
What is CA?
Chartered Accountancy (CA) is a professional qualification which considered prestigious, which provides individuals with skills in accounting, auditing, and taxation. CA is one of the highest-regarded qualifications in the finance industry and is known to develop professionals responsible for the transparency and compliance of public monetary matters.
CA graduates typically move into leadership roles in organizations that provide them with opportunities to provide advice on financial matters whilst conducting assurance services, as well as broadly guiding organizations along the regulatory pathway. The demand for qualified Chartered Accountants is robust, with an infinite business and government interconnectedness.
How do you become a CA (chartered accountant) in the UK?
When seeking Chartered Accountancy in the UK, there are generally three pathways based on your previous academic qualifications:
Foundation Route - After completing your 12th class (A-levels or equivalent), you can opt for Foundation Route. This pathway is welcoming to students and allows them to start their professional journey sooner.
Direct Entry Route - Also specifically for graduates; you are eligible for CA training once you completed your degree (preferably in commerce or finance).
ACA Qualification (ICAEW) - The route offered through the ICAEW, the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales which grants ACCA (Associate Chartered Accountant) status is the most recognized pathway, and arguably the best known. The ACA is the gold standard for accountancy qualifications in the UK, and is very well respected by employers.
Once you determine which option reflects your education level, you will be on your way to becoming a Chartered Accountant in the UK, with the requisite technical knowledge and practical training to build and sustain a career in finance and business.
Difference Between ACCA and CA: Minimum Eligibility Requirements
One of the differences between ACCA and CA, is the entry requirements.
ACCA has comparatively relaxed eligibility requirements that would allow a wider range of students to become eligible for ACCA including students who just completed their 12th or A-levels or equivalent qualification. These relaxed eligibility criteria allow more students to get started on their path to an international career in accounting and finance.
CA often requires stricter eligibility criteria, which may include a higher cut-off percentage in school examinations or additional requirements to qualify through an entrance/talent test depending on the country. The different entry eligibility and requirements for Chartered Accountancy can vary from region to region making it all the more competitive to gain entry.
ACCA vs CA: Main Differences in Syllabus, Curriculum, Timeframe, and Career
Syllabus
ACCA is broad in pattern to cover all the finance-related academic content such as financial management, taxation, auditing, reporting - including business ethics, to take a holistic view and prepare professionals for technical skills and a professional strategic role.
CA is much more focused on accounting, auditing, and taxation of a country with a focus on local laws and compliance framework. It's clear that this makes it a precise specialization of financial practices unique to a country.
Curriculum Structure
ACCA is designed as a modular and flexible syllabus to accommodate student's pace and to allow for scheduling exams anytime of the year.
The CA course is typically fixed and intense with scheduled exams and deadlines. Disciplined study habits and consistent effort will be necessary to successfully complete the CA course.
Course Duration
You can complete the ACCA qualification in approximately 3–4 years- this may vary depending on the exemptions awarded and the length of time the student takes to complete all assessments.
The CA qualification is comparatively longer due to the breadth of the program and the articleship requirement. It can take up to 4-5 years to become a fully qualified CA.
Career Profiles
The career profiles of a CA graduate are primarily related to accounting, auditing and taxation. As a CA graduate, you are in demand domestically.
The ACCA professional can pursue careers as management accountants, financial analyst, business consultants, risk management, multinational finance, etc. The opportunities are extensive!
CA vs ACCA Salary in the UK
An ACCA-qualified professional makes around GBP 48500 per year (source: Kanan.co).
A CA qualified individual in the UK earns around GBP 84500 a year in addition to a GBP 17300 bonus (Source: Prospects.com).
Is ACCA or CA Better for Your Career?
The choice of whether to pursue CA or ACCA depends on your aspirations as an accountant.
If you would like your career to be centered around taxation, auditing or regulatory compliance, then you would be appropriate to pursue CA.
If you would like to work as a versatile finance professional with globally portable opportunities, then ACCA is a more suitable choice.
CA vs ACCA: Disadvantages of Choosing CA
Regional Expertise: CA papers are designed around specific national financial laws and regulations; CA is more suited if you want to build a career based primarily in your country.
Prestige: The CA qualification is regarded as the highest level of qualification in the accounting world, which may establish access points to senior and influential national-level roles within firms and organizations.
Differences Between CA and ACCA Career Paths: Advantages of Choosing ACCA
Globally Endorsed: The ACCA qualification is recognized in over 180 countries, making it among the best opportunities for students or finance professionals looking for a global career.
Wider Scope of Career Opportunities: You can pursue varied roles - financial management, risk analysis, business consulting, and advisory. ACCA gives you flexibility across industries and across boarders.
FAQs for ACCA and CA
1. Am I able to transfer from a CA to ACCA?
Yes, of course! There are many exemptions provided by ACCA based on your CA. Instead of completing all 14 papers, you will only require approximately 4 ACCA exams.
2. Is it fair to say ACCA has less value than CA in regards to the UK?
They are both very valuable in the UK. The best option for you will depend on your career aspirations. If you are interested in auditing and tax, CA would be the best option, while ACCA will give you options on the global market.
3. Can I work in other countries with ACCA and/or CA?
ACCA is a globally recognised designation and therefore would allow you to apply for international jobs. CA is specific to a country and can therefore be a little range bound as countries have different regulations and content.
Choosing Between ACCA or CA?
Whether to pursue ACCA or CA career directions is fundamentally dependent on your aspirations and strengths. If you want global exposure and training which straddles professional ethics globally and practical purpose built finance, then ACCA is for you. If your are looking to be a tax specialist, auditor, or compliance big-gun focused specifically around local regulators and financial laws, then CA would be the way to go.
At the end of the day, your decision should be guided by your passion, aspirations and what you want to do at a professional level in the longer term in finance.
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