The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a prestigious global accounting qualification recognized in over 180 countries. It offers a world-class curriculum that equips students with comprehensive financial, management, and auditing knowledge, making it a top choice for aspiring finance professionals in India.

If you're considering a career in accounting or finance with international prospects, this guide will walk you through the ACCA course details and provide an overview of ACCA fees in India to help you plan your professional journey effectively.

What is ACCA?

ACCA is a UK-based accounting body that grants the Chartered Certified Accountant designation. It offers a flexible and globally relevant qualification, designed to meet the needs of employers and professionals alike.

ACCA-qualified professionals are in high demand worldwide, including in India, due to their solid understanding of international financial standards, ethical practices, and practical business knowledge.

ACCA Course Details: Exam Structure

The ACCA qualification consists of 13 papers, grouped into three levels. The course is designed to build expertise gradually — from foundational concepts to strategic-level decision-making.

1. Applied Knowledge Level

This level lays the groundwork for financial and managerial understanding. It consists of:

• Business and Technology (BT)
   

• Management Accounting (MA)
   

• Financial Accounting (FA)
   

These subjects help students understand the business environment, financial systems, and management principles.

2. Applied Skills Level

Here, students build upon their foundational knowledge to cover core accounting and auditing disciplines:

• Corporate and Business Law (LW)
   

• Performance Management (PM)
   

• Taxation (TX)
   

• Financial Reporting (FR)
   

• Audit and Assurance (AA)
   

• Financial Management (FM)
   

This level helps students develop professional and analytical skills for real-world finance roles.

3. Strategic Professional Level

This final stage prepares students for leadership roles in finance and strategy:

Essentials (Compulsory):

• Strategic Business Leader (SBL)
   

• Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)
   

Options (Choose Two):

• Advanced Financial Management (AFM)
   

• Advanced Performance Management (APM)
   

• Advanced Taxation (ATX)
   

• Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA)
   

These subjects aim to develop strategic thinking, decision-making, and leadership abilities.

Practical Experience Requirement (PER)

To become a full ACCA member, students must complete 36 months of relevant work experience and fulfill nine performance objectives. This ensures that candidates not only excel academically but also gain the practical skills employers value.

Eligibility Criteria for ACCA in India

The ACCA qualification is accessible to a wide range of learners. Eligibility varies slightly based on the educational background:

• After Class 12 (Commerce stream preferred): Students must meet minimum academic requirements.
   

• After Graduation (B.Com, BBA, etc.): Graduates can often claim exemptions for some papers.
   

• CA Aspirants or Semi-qualified Professionals: May receive exemptions based on completed papers.

Duration of the ACCA Course

The ACCA course can typically be completed within:

• 3 to 4 years for students starting after Class 12
   

• 2 to 3 years for graduates or those with exemptions
   

Since ACCA offers four exam sessions per year (March, June, September, December), students have the flexibility to plan their studies according to their pace and availability.

ACCA Fees in India: A General Overview

While exact fee amounts can change due to currency fluctuations or policy updates, here’s an outline of the typical ACCA fees in India:

1. Initial Registration Fee

A one-time registration fee paid at the beginning of your ACCA journey.

2. Annual Subscription Fee

An annual fee that maintains your active student status. This is required each year until you become a qualified member.

3. Exam Fees

Fees are applicable per exam and vary based on the level (Knowledge, Skills, or Professional) and timing of registration (early, standard, or late).

• Applied Knowledge Level: Lower fees per subject
   

• Applied Skills Level: Moderate fees
   

• Strategic Professional Level: Higher fees per paper
   

4. Exemption Fees

If you qualify for exemptions due to prior academic or professional qualifications, you’ll be required to pay an exemption fee for each exempted paper.

5. Re-registration or Reinstatement Fees

If your registration becomes inactive, you may need to pay a fee to resume your studies.

Additional Costs to Consider

While not part of the ACCA Global structure, many students invest in:

• Study materials such as textbooks, revision kits, and question banks
   

• Online resources like mock exams, recorded classes, and practice tests
   

• ACCA classes that provide structured training and personalized mentorship
   

Though optional, these resources significantly enhance exam preparation and pass rates.

Why Choose ACCA in India?

Here are a few compelling reasons why ACCA is gaining popularity among Indian students:

1. Global Opportunities

ACCA is recognized in over 180 countries, opening doors to international roles in audit, finance, and consulting.

2. Flexible Learning

Students can study full-time, part-time, or alongside their job. Online and offline learning options make it highly adaptable.

3. Multiple Entry Points

Whether you're a high school graduate, a university student, or a working professional, ACCA offers flexibility through exemptions.

4. Strong Career Prospects

ACCA-qualified professionals are often hired by multinational corporations, financial institutions, and global consulting firms.

5. IFRS Alignment

The ACCA syllabus is closely aligned with International Financial Reporting Standards, which are increasingly being adopted by Indian businesses.

How to Start Your ACCA Journey

1. Check your eligibility and determine if you qualify for exemptions.
    

2. Register on the official ACCA website.
    

3. Plan your exam schedule based on upcoming exam windows.
    

4. Choose whether to self-study or enroll in ACCA classes.
    

5. Track your practical experience requirement (PER) as you progress.
    

Final Thoughts

Pursuing ACCA in India offers an excellent opportunity to build a globally recognized accounting career. Understanding the ACCA course details and being aware of the ACCA fees in India will help you make informed decisions, budget wisely, and plan your path to professional success.

Whether you're just starting your accounting journey or looking to elevate your career, ACCA offers a clear, structured, and internationally respected path forward.