Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) vs Associate of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)

Hey there, so good to have you back again. Are you an accounting enthusiast and wanting to speed up your career and go to the next level in finance and accounting? Making the right choice isn’t just about moving around, it’s about jumping to a goal you really want. Two giants stand out in this regard: the ACA (Associate Chartered Accountant) and the ACCA (Associate of Chartered Certified Accountants). The choice between these two qualifications often leaves one in a state of confusion, it is like having to select between two very different career paths. These two pathways end at different destinations, but which one will take you where your heard desires? Let us quickly find out.

In this blog, we will simplify the complexity to present you with a direct comparison of these certifications. Together, let us understand all the factors right from the eligibility criteria to career prospects. We hope that, by the end of this blog, you are in a better position to find out which path lights up your professional journey!

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A tale of two accounting bodies:

• The ACA and ACCA qualifications are awarded respectively by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). Both headquartered in London, these organizations are prominent accounting bodies with a rich legacy.
• The ACCA qualification is internationally recognized, making it an excellent choice if you envision a career that involves traveling or working in various countries. With ACCA, you can find opportunities in large corporations, small businesses, and even non-profit organizations worldwide.
• On the other hand, if you aspire to secure prestigious finance roles in the UK, such as helping companies manage their finances or working in top firms, then the ACA qualification is more suitable.

So, the choice hinges on where you want your finance journey to take you!

ACA vs ACCA: What’s the difference?

Organization and Recognition

ACCA: This is a global body for professional accountants, recognized in over 180 countries. It’s like having an international passport in the accounting world.

ACA: Managed by the ICAEW, it’s highly prestigious in the UK and recognized internationally toom but with a stronger focus on the UK market and regulatory framework.

Qualification Route

ACCA: It’s quite flexible. You don’t need a specific degree to start, even high school graduates can enroll. There are 13 exams, but you can take them at your own pace.

ACA: This route is a bit more structured and demanding. Usually, you need to secure a training contract with an approved employer before starting. There are 15 exams, and they are integrated with work experience.

Work Experience

ACCA: You need three years of practical experience, but there is more flexibility in where you can gain this experience. It could be in various roles and industries.

ACA: You need to complete a three-year training contract with an authorized employer. This means you get hands-on experience while you study, but it is more rigid in terms of where you work.

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Study Approach

ACCA: You have the freedom to choose how and when you study. It is ideal if you are balancing work or other commitments.

ACA: The training contract means you’re working and studying simultaneously, often with structured support from your employer. It’s intense but integrates learning with practice.

Global Opportunities

ACCA: With its broad international recognition, ACCA is perfect if you see yourself working anywhere in the world.

ACA: While it’s globally recognized, it is particularly valued in the UK. If you are planning to work in the UK, the ACA qualification can give you a slight edge.

Tabular Comparison between ACA & ACCA –

In summary, if you’re looking for flexibility and international mobility, ACCA is a fantastic choice. If you prefer a structured path with strong support and aim to work in the UK, ACA could be the better fit. Both are highly respected and open doors to successful careers in accounting. So, when choosing between ACCA and ACA think about your personal goals, academic background and where you see your career going. Both qualifications will accelerate your career but for different paths and industries.

Why EduPristine? Who are we and what do we do?

• Founded in 2008, EduPristine is a leading training provider in accounting and finance.
• EduPristine has trained and mentored 70,000+ students and has delivered 7 million hours.
• EduPristine is an authorized Gold-Approved Learning Partner of the ACCA course and offers Kaplan study materials.
• At EduPristine, we are fully committed to helping aspirants like you in their upskilling journey by offering end-to-end services right from career counselling to providing soft skills training and career services support.

To know more about the ACCA course details, you can either schedule a free consultation call with our expert ACCA course counsellors or visit our center at any time of the week from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. We also encourage you to read inspiring testimonials from our current and past students. We Look forward to your visit! All the best, and happy learning.