“ACCA vs ACA: Career Scope, Salary & Global Recognition” Sections Covered ACCA vs ACA – Key Differences What is ACA? What is ACCA? Conclusion Schedule a call What is the difference between ACCA and ACA?When students explore professional accounting qualifications, two names often create confusion: ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and ACA. While both open doors to rewarding careers, they differ in training style, exam structure, and global reach.Latest UpdatesACCA Course Eligibility Requirements And More About ACCA QualificationA Master Guide to the Best ACCA Courses OnlineACCA Exam Subjects List: A Complete Course DetailsThe Best Training Institute in India to Pursue ACCA: Find Out! ACCA vs ACA – Key Differences FeatureACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)ACA (Associate Chartered Accountant – ICAEW)Governing BodyACCA GlobalICAEW (UK-based)Global ReachRecognized in 180+ countriesMainly UK & Commonwealth recognitionCourse Duration2–3 years (flexible)3–4 years (with mandatory training)Exam Structure13 papers across 3 levels15 papers across 3 levelsWork Experience3 years (flexible)450+ days mandatory under approved employerDifficulty LevelModerate to HighHigh (exams + work integrated)Career ScopeGlobal careers in audit, finance, taxation, consulting, MNCsUK-based careers in audit firms, corporate finance, leadershipBest ForStudents wanting international mobilityStudents targeting UK & Big 4 firmsThe ACA is typically UK-focused, backed by ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales), while the ACCA is globally recognized across 180+ countries.ACCAOffers flexibility with exams spread over multiple sittings.Designed for global accounting and finance roles.Popular among students who want international mobility.ACAStructured with mandatory job training in the UK market.Highly valued in Big 4 accounting firms.Very demanding due to integrated work-study requirements. What is ACA? ACA is a professional qualification awarded by ICAEW, primarily recognized in the UK and Commonwealth nations. It is highly respected for producing technically strong chartered accountants with mandatory work experience.Key components of ACA:Practical Job Experience – Students must complete 450 days of training under an approved employer.ACA Exams – Consist of 15 exams across 3 levels, similar to ACCA’s 13 papers.Professional Development – Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.Ethics – Mandatory ethics and skepticism training, like IFRS global standards.Everything about the ACA Qualification ProcessChoosing a Career Path – Usually after graduation, similar to pursuing ACCA after B.Com.Completing Work Experience – Like ACCA with M.Com dual qualification.Registering as a Student – Registration is compulsory, much like ACCA registration.Study and Exam Prep – Very demanding, unlike flexible ACCA prep.Read MoreCareer Options After ACCA Qualification : What You Need to KnowTop Institutes to Pursue ACCA Coaching in IndiaBCom with ACCA Qualification and Global Scope What is ACCA? ACCA is a global accounting body offering flexibility, recognition, and international mobility. With 240,000+ members worldwide, ACCA is among the top professional qualifications. It covers subjects like audit, taxation, finance, and management.Career OpportunitiesBoth ACA and ACCA professionals can work in:Auditing & Assurance (Big 4 firms)Financial Analysis & ConsultingTaxation and International LawsCorporate Finance & M&ASenior Leadership RolesWhile ACA jobs are concentrated in the UK, ACCA professionals enjoy global mobility across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.ACCA vs ACA SalaryIndia: ACCA salaries ₹7–12 LPA entry level → ₹25–30 LPA senior.UK: ACA salaries £28,000–£100,000+ in Big 4 firms.Middle East: ACCA earns $40k–$60k, ACA slightly higher.Globally, ACCA offers wider opportunities, while ACA dominates in the UK.Exam Difficulty & Pass RatesACCA: 40–50% average pass rate.ACA: Higher pass rates (70–80%) due to structured training but more demanding than ACCA’s flexible structure.Global RecognitionACCA: Recognized in 180+ countries.ACA: Highly prestigious in UK/Commonwealth but limited outside. Conclusion If you want global recognition, flexibility, and diverse opportunities, ACCA is your best option. But if you’re targeting the UK or Big 4 firms with structured training, ACA is stronger.Both qualifications open high-paying, respected career paths your choice should depend on where you see yourself in 10 years.Still confused about which finance course is right for you? Join our exclusive webinar where industry expert M Irfat Sir will personally guide you through CMA USA, CPA, ACCA, and EA helping you make the smartest career choice. Have questions? Call or WhatsApp us directly at 8147470505 we’re here to help! Best CMA Books and Study Materials for US Exam 2025Trending BlogsCourseLinksACCAACCA vs MBA Which is betterCareer Option after ACCACMA USCMA US Job Opportunities Best CMA booksCPA USCPA Course after Bcom CPA Salary in IndiaEnrolled AgentEnrolled Agent course Job & salaryEnrolled Agent Sample questions Frequently Asked Questions Is ACCA better than ACA? Not necessarily ACCA is better for global roles, while ACA is more UK-centric but prestigious. Which is harder: ACCA or ACA? ACA is generally harder because it requires practical training along with exams. Can I work abroad with ACA? Yes, but recognition is strongest in the UK. ACCA has wider global recognition. What is the salary difference between ACCA and ACA? ACCA salaries in India range from ₹7–30 LPA, while ACA salaries in the UK range from £28,000–£100,000+. What is the duration to complete ACCA and ACA qualifications? ACCA: 2–3 years (flexible). ACA: 3–4 years with mandatory work experience.
