Your First Step to ACCA: Check If You’re Eligible [Updated 2025]

Imagine being part of a global network of over 241,000 accounting professionals and 542,000 future finance leaders spread across 180+ countries. Sounds exciting, right? That’s the kind of career opportunity the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualification unlocks for you.

But here’s the catch: not everyone qualifies to begin this prestigious journey. If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I meet the ACCA eligibility criteria?” or “How do I know if I qualify for exemptions?”—you’re not alone. Most students and professionals get stuck at this very first step.

This guide isn’t just about ticking eligibility boxes; it’s your first step toward a career that’s not bound by borders. Whether you’re a fresh 12th-pass student, a commerce graduate, or even an MBA professional, this blog will unravel everything you need to know to confidently start your ACCA journey.

So, are you ready to find out if you have what it takes to join the league of global accounting leaders? Let’s dive in.

What Does It Mean to Be a Part of ACCA?

Being part of ACCA means joining a community of over 241,000 members and 542,000 future members worldwide. As an ACCA-qualified professional, you’ll hold a designation respected globally, recognized in over 180 countries.

The ACCA qualification allows you to work in diverse financial sectors, including taxation, auditing, consulting, and financial management, offering a flexible career path that can take you anywhere in the world.

Why Should You Check Your ACCA Eligibility?

Starting your ACCA journey without knowing your eligibility is like packing for a trip without knowing your destination—confusing and risky! Here’s why checking your eligibility upfront is mission-critical:

• Save Time: Why waste time applying only to realize you’re missing a key requirement? ACCA eligibility gives you clarity about where you stand and what steps to take next.
• Plan Finances: ACCA isn’t free—there are registration fees, exemption costs, and exam fees to consider. Knowing your eligibility helps you calculate expenses upfront so there are no nasty surprises later.
• Set Realistic Goals: If you’re eligible for exemptions, congratulations! That means you can skip some exams and save time. If not, knowing early helps you pace yourself for the entire ACCA journey.

Pro Tip: Use ACCA’s official Exemption Calculator to figure out your exemptions based on your degree.

Here’s a comprehensive list of general requirements to check if you’re eligible to start your ACCA journey:

✅ Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to register for ACCA.

✅ Educational Qualification: A minimum of 10+2 (or equivalent) is required, with specific academic standards. For direct entry to ACCA, ensure you meet the minimum percentage in subjects like Mathematics or Accounts and English.

✅ Language Proficiency: A good command of English is necessary since the exams and study materials are in English.

✅ Recognition of Qualifications: Your previous academic or professional qualifications must be recognized by ACCA for exemptions. Check the ACCA Exemption Calculator to verify.

✅ Foundation in Accountancy (FIA) Option: If you don’t meet the direct entry requirements, you can start with FIA to build a strong foundation and later progress to ACCA.

✅ Work Experience: No prior work experience is required to register for ACCA, but completing three years of relevant practical experience is mandatory to become a member.

✅ Professional Background: Professionals with qualifications like CA, MBA (Finance), or similar degrees can benefit from exemptions.

✅ Global Recognition: Your qualifications and marks need to align with ACCA’s global recognition standards.

If you meet these general criteria, congratulations! You’re on the right track to starting ACCA and unlocking a global career in finance and accounting.

Also Read – Is ACCA Considered a Degree? Let’s Fact Check

ACCA Eligibility Requirements Explained In Detail

To begin your ACCA journey, you must meet the eligibility criteria. Here’s how it varies based on educational background:

• For 12th Pass (Commerce and Non-Commerce)

A minimum of 65% in Mathematics or Accounts and English, and at least 50% in other subjects. These students are not eligible for any exemptions and have to take all 13 exams as required by the ACCA board.

• For Graduates (Commerce & Non-Commerce)

Commerce graduates can receive up to 5 exemptions (BT, MA, FA, LW, TX) for subjects covered during their degree. Non-commerce graduates are generally not eligible for exemptions, but they can begin the ACCA course with no prior experience.

• For MBA Graduates

MBA graduates specialising in finance can receive up to 9 exemptions, significantly reducing the time needed to complete the ACCA qualification. This means all the subjects from the first 2 levels—applied knowledge and skills—can be skipped. All you need to give are the last 4 exams of the strategic professional level.

• For CAs (Chartered Accountants)

Chartered Accountants who have cleared both groups of CA final can receive 9 exemptions, leaving only the last 4 exams to be completed within ACCA’s Strategic Professional level.

The 9 exemptions are also valid for those who haven’t cleared CA but have achieved sufficient marks in their exams, corresponding to ACCA. For CA inter graduates, they can avail of up to 5 exemptions (BT, MA, FA, TX, AA) depending on the subjects they have opted for and the marks gained.

Also Read – ACCA Course Duration: For Graduates, CA’s, MBA’s & more

Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying ACCA Eligibility

Confused about how to check your ACCA eligibility? Don’t worry—we’ve broken it down into a simple, step-by-step process:

1. Visit the ACCA Official Website – Head to the ACCA Global Eligibility Page.
2. Create an Account – Sign up using your email ID. It’s quick and free!
3. Upload Your Documents – Scan and upload educational certificates like your 12th-grade marksheet, graduation degree, or professional qualifications (CA, MBA, etc.).
4. Use the Exemption Calculator
   • Input your academic details.
   • The calculator will show how many exemptions you qualify for.
   • Check it out here.
5. Get Your Confirmation – Within a few days, ACCA will verify your documents and confirm your eligibility. Keep an eye on your email for updates.

Commerce vs. Non-Commerce Graduates: What’s the Difference in ACCA Eligibility?

Here’s a quick comparison table for clarity:

Also Read – ACCA Exemptions For B.Com/ BBA/ CA Foundation/CA Inter/ CA Final/ MBA & How to Get Them

3 Common Misconceptions About ACCA Eligibility

Many aspiring ACCA candidates hold onto myths that can unnecessarily discourage them. Let’s clear the air:

Myth 1: “Only Commerce Students Can Pursue ACCA”

Nope! Students from any stream—science, arts, or commerce—can pursue ACCA. The only condition is meeting the eligibility criteria.

Reality Check: Even a science student can ace ACCA. In fact, many engineers switch to finance careers after starting ACCA.

Myth 2: “You Need Prior Accounting Knowledge to Start ACCA”

Not at all! ACCA starts with the basics, so you don’t need to be a numbers whiz right away.

Reality Check: If you’ve got a genuine interest in finance and are willing to learn, ACCA has got you covered. Think of it as climbing a staircase—you start at the ground level and work your way up.

Myth 3: “You Must Have a Professional Degree to Qualify for ACCA”

Wrong again! ACCA welcomes students fresh out of 12th grade. Whether you’re a graduate or a working professional, there’s a pathway for you.

Reality Check: Even 12th-pass students (with the right percentage) can kickstart their ACCA journey.

Also Read – 10 Trending ACCA Job Profiles In India

What If You’re Not Eligible for ACCA?

Don’t worry—it’s not the end of the road. Here are some alternatives:

1. Foundation in Accountancy (FIA)

• A preparatory course for those not meeting the ACCA eligibility criteria.
• Covers essential accounting skills and sets you on the path to pursue ACCA later.
• Ideal for students who want to build a strong base before jumping into ACCA.

2. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

• CPA is a US-based qualification focused on accounting and auditing.
• While it’s different from ACCA in scope and eligibility, it’s an excellent choice for those aiming for US-based finance roles.

How is ACCA Different from CA?

In the Indian financial sector, Chartered Accountancy (CA) is a highly respected qualification. Thousands of applicants aspire to become a CA each year to receive the aforementioned designation. But there is one limitation, it focuses primarily on accounting and auditing within the country. If you wish to work in or with global industries, being a CA won’t be as helpful as ACCA. ACCA has a more global reach.

• Scope: ACCA is internationally recognized, whereas CA is mostly concentrated in India. Unlike CA, ACCA gives you signing authority in more than 180 countries which includes Dubai, UK, Canada, Singapore, and Malaysia.
• Content: ACCA covers broader international accounting standards (IFRS), whereas CA mainly follows Indian standards.
• Exams and Structure: ACCA allows you to attempt multiple exams per year and offers greater flexibility in terms of exam scheduling. CA exams are held twice a year in a more structured manner.
• Opportunities: ACCA opens up opportunities to work in global corporations, including the Big 4 accounting firms. While CA also helps you get into the Big 4, its focus on the Indian market may limit the opportunities an ACCA may have access to.

Also Read – How Much Work Experience Do You Need to Complete Your ACCA Degree?

Top 4 Reasons Why ACCA is Your Best Career Move

1. Global Recognition: As mentioned above, ACCA is recognized worldwide. It allows you to work in diverse markets. For an ACCA, the world opens up with profitable opportunities at their fingertips.
2. Flexibility: ACCA is learner-centred. The program—including the exam schedule, ethics module, and work experience—is flexible to accommodate your personal commitments. You can study ACCA alongside a job or while pursuing another degree, and the exam schedule allows you to pace your progress.
   The exemptions provided give students with relevant degrees additional benefits of skipping some exams. Similarly, working students may successfully update the ACCA work experience sheet with their current or previous work if relevant.
3. Comprehensive Learning: ACCA provides a strong foundation in both accounting principles and management, making it ideal for those looking to work in top managerial roles or as business advisors.
4. Multiple Career Paths: From audit and tax to financial management and consulting, ACCA provides multiple avenues to shape your career.

ACCA Qualification Structure

To become an ACCA member, you need to clear the following steps:

1. Pass All 3 Exam Levels (Excluding Exemptions):
   • Applied Knowledge: 3 on-demand exams.
   • Applied Skills: 6 computer-based exams.
   • Strategic Professional: 4 exams (2 compulsory, 2 optional).
2. Ethics and Professional Skills Module: A mandatory 20-hour module that focuses on decision-making skills and ethical considerations.
3. 3 Years of Practical Experience: Gain 36 months of relevant work experience in accounting, finance, or auditing roles.

Also Read – Accounting Jobs Available in the UK After an ACCA Qualification

Once You’re Ready to Start ACCA, Come to Proschool

If you’ve decided to take the plunge, why not choose the best guide for your journey? Here’s why Proschool stands out:

Here’s Why ACCA Students Love Proschool’s ACCA Prep Course

• Save on Costs: Get ACCA registration fees refunded.
• Exemption Assistance: Proschool helps you get the exemptions you’re eligible for, saving time and effort.
• Convenient Locations: Classroom training available in 15+ cities across India.
• Exam Pass Commitment: Unlimited classroom and doubt-solving sessions if you fail.
• Comprehensive Practice: Solve 600+ questions for every subject to prepare thoroughly.
• Dedicated Revision Classes: Designed to help students ace their exams.
• Job Assurance: Entry-level roles come with at least 3 job shortlists within 6 months of course completion.

Conclusion

ACCA is an ideal qualification if you are aiming for a global career in finance or accounting. With flexible exam scheduling, international recognition, and a comprehensive curriculum, ACCA equips you with the skills to thrive in today’s competitive financial world. Before you apply, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria to make your journey smooth and focused.

FAQs

• Can I start ACCA without a finance background?

Absolutely! ACCA is designed for learners from all fields. Whether you’re an engineer, a science student, or from the arts, you can start ACCA. The program starts with the basics to bring everyone up to speed.

• What if my university is not recognized by ACCA for exemptions?

Don’t worry—you can still pursue ACCA! However, you won’t qualify for exemptions and may need to take all 13 exams. It’s a longer journey but equally rewarding. You can check ACCA’s official exemption policy for more clarity.

• Is ACCA a good choice for working professionals?

Yes! ACCA’s flexible exam schedule and modular structure make it an ideal option for professionals juggling work and studies.

• Is it necessary to have taken maths in 12th?

Yes, if you’re applying after 12th grade, you need a minimum of 65% in either Mathematics or Accounts, along with English, to be eligible for ACCA.

• Can science students pursue ACCA?

Yes, students from any background, including science, can pursue ACCA. However, they will need to meet the eligibility criteria.

• How long does it take to become ACCA qualified?

On average, it takes 3 to 5 years to become ACCA qualified, depending on your exemptions, the number of exams taken per session, and work commitments.

• Can I work as a CA if I am ACCA qualified?

While ACCA is globally recognized, it is not a substitute for Chartered Accountancy (CA) in India. If you want to work specifically as a CA in India, you would need to pursue the CA qualification. However, ACCA can open up many other career opportunities in finance and auditing globally.