When aspiring finance professionals consider pursuing the ACCA qualification, one of the first questions they ask is: “How long will it take to complete the ACCA course?” The answer varies depending on your academic background, eligibility for exemptions, and the time you can dedicate to studying. Let’s break it down and explore the ACCA course structure.
What is the ACCA Qualification?
The ACCA Course (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is a globally recognized professional accounting qualification based in the UK. It is accepted in over 180 countries and equips students with skills in areas such as:
- Financial Accounting
- Management Accounting
- Auditing and Assurance
- Taxation
- Business Law
- Strategic Leadership
Earning the ACCA opens doors to international career opportunities in finance, accounting, auditing, and management. Its global recognition and career flexibility make it a highly sought-after qualification.
Structure of the ACCA Course
The ACCA course consists of 13 exams divided into three levels:
- Applied Knowledge – 3 papers
- Applied Skills – 6 papers
- Strategic Professional – 4 papers (2 compulsory + 2 optional)
In addition to exams, students must also complete:
- 3 years of Practical Work Experience
- Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM)
Only after completing the exams, practical experience, and ethics module can you become a full ACCA member.
How Long Does It Take to Complete ACCA?
In the ACCA course details, the duration of this journey is flexible and depends on several factors:
- Starting Point – Students joining right after high school (Class 12) typically take around 3.5 years. Those with a BCom, CA Intermediate, or MBA may receive exemptions that shorten the timeline.
- Study Pace – ACCA allows up to 4 exams per year. Some students complete the course in as little as 1 year, while others take around 3 years.
- Work Experience – The 3-year practical experience requirement can be completed during or after exams, affecting the total duration.
On average, most students complete ACCA within 1 to 3 years.
Why Choose a Top ACCA Coaching Institute in India?
Your speed and success in clearing exams largely depend on quality guidance. A reputed ACCA coaching institute provides:
- Updated and structured study materials
- Experienced faculty and mentorship
- Doubt-clearing sessions and mock exams
- Guidance on exam strategy and practical experience
With the right support, you can clear more exams in fewer attempts and shorten your journey.
Tips to Complete ACCA Faster
- Start Early – Begin preparation right after Class 12 or during your college studies.
- Plan Exam Sittings Smartly – Attempt 2–3 papers per sitting.
- Practice with Mock Exams – Simulate real exam conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
- Focus on Weak Areas – Spend less time on topics you already know.
Conclusion
The ACCA Course typically takes 1 to 3 years to complete, depending on your preparation, exemptions, and experience completion. With proper planning, expert guidance, and disciplined study, you can accelerate your journey and achieve a globally recognized qualification that opens doors to finance careers worldwide.
