What is ACCA in the UK? Discover the ACCA-Certified Universities

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a worldwide professional accounting organisation providing qualifications and certifications. Based in the UK, it stands as a prominent global accounting body, boasting over 227,000 members and 544,000 students across 176 countries. ACCA's qualification holds international recognition and garners high respect from employers. It equips individuals with the essential knowledge and skills required for success in the field of accounting. 

If you're aiming to pursue studies at a UK university with ACCA accreditation, here are some compelling reasons to guide your decision: 

High Employability: ACCA graduates are highly sought after worldwide, and a degree from a UK university enhances the value of your qualification. According to the Higher Education Careers Services Unit, 97% of UK students with an accounting or finance degree were employed or pursuing further studies six months after graduation. 

Wide Range of Courses: ACCA-accredited universities in the UK provide a diverse array of courses that align with your interests and career aspirations. Whether you're looking at undergraduate or postgraduate programs, there's a variety of options covering subjects like financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing and more. 

Prestigious Institutions: The UK boasts some of the world's most prestigious universities, offering globally recognised ACCA-accredited programs. Institutions like the University of Warwick and the University of Manchester are renowned in the field of accounting and finance. 

Access to Professional Networks: Many UK universities have strong ties with industry professionals and organisations, offering valuable opportunities for practical experience and networking. These connections can benefit you when seeking employment post-graduation. 

Here is a list of the top ACCA-accredited universities in the UK according to the QS World University Rankings. These institutions offer excellent education, comprehensive support services and exceptional networking opportunities to help you achieve your professional goals in the industry: 

Many UK universities offer ACCA courses, either as standalone programs or as part of broader accounting and finance degrees. These courses aim to give students a solid grasp of accounting and finance principles, along with the practical skills needed for a career in professional accounting. Some universities even provide specialised paths within their ACCA courses, like audit, taxation, or financial reporting. The duration of these courses can vary, taking one to three years for completion, depending on whether a student studies full-time or part-time. 

Here are brief explanations of some ACCA courses offered by UK universities: 

ACCA Professional Accountancy: Offered by many UK universities, this course provides a thorough understanding of accounting and finance principles. It covers various topics such as financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, audit and financial reporting. 

MSc Accounting and Finance with ACCA: Combining an ACCA qualification with a master's degree, this course is for students seeking advanced knowledge in accounting and finance, along with ACCA professional accreditation. Topics include corporate finance, financial analysis and international accounting. 

BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance with ACCA: Tailored for those seeking a traditional accounting and finance degree along with the ACCA qualification, this course covers financial accounting, management accounting, taxation and audit. 

ACCA Professional Accountancy (Top-Up): Intended for students with a relevant undergraduate degree, this course allows them to gain the ACCA qualification in a shorter time frame, covering the same topics as the standard ACCA course. 

The above examples showcase the variety of ACCA courses available. Each may have different entry requirements and content, so researching each course is crucial to finding the one that aligns with your goals. 

Studying at a UK university with ACCA accreditation is globally recognised and can open doors to diverse career opportunities. Whether you're an international student or a UK resident, pursuing ACCA at these universities can set a strong foundation for a successful career. If you want more information on ACCA universities, reach out to IDP's international education experts for guidance on the admission process. 

ACCA stands as a highly respected accounting qualification acknowledged in numerous countries worldwide. An individual with ACCA qualification attains the status of a Chartered Accountant, opening doors to diverse job opportunities such as Auditor, Financial Manager, Accountant, Lawyer and more. Recognising the crucial role accountants play and the widespread demand for their skills, ACCA has expanded its qualifications to reach over 180 countries. 

Currently, there are over 200,000 ACCA members and around 500,000 ACCA students across these 180 countries. The reputation of ACCA makes its certification highly sought after globally, with particular prominence in the United Kingdom. International students opt for ACCA due to its ability to facilitate quick employment opportunities upon completion of their studies. The broad recognition and demand for ACCA contribute to its significance in the professional landscape worldwide. 

ACCA students are required to cover two types of fees: one to the college for attending classes, known as the tuition fee, and another to ACCA for exam participation. The ACCA fee can vary based on the specific paper and the university. In the United Kingdom, universities often offer discounts when students pay for multiple documents in advance. However, it's important to note that there is no discount on the exam fee paid directly to ACCA and this fee remains the same for all students globally. 

The tuition fee for an ACCA paper at a UK university starts at £200 for basic papers and £300 for advanced and professional-level papers. On the other hand, the ACCA exam fee is relatively low, beginning at £80 per paper and is paid when a student opts to take the exam. For those choosing computer-based exams, a slightly higher fee is applicable.  

For international students, getting admission to ACCA at a UK university is straightforward, with minimal requirements. Here are the key criteria for admission: 

Minimum Entry Requirements: 

- A-level and O-level students are eligible if they have passed 2 and 5 subjects, including English and Mathematics.
- American high school diploma holders with a minimum of 50 per cent marks are also eligible. 

Graduate Entry Route: 

- Students with a BSc, B. Com or BA can gain admission to ACCA. 
- Previous accounting knowledge is optional for entry. 

Via FD or CAT:
- Individuals holding an ACCA Foundation Diploma (FD) or CAT certification can enter ACCA. 
- Graduates of FD and CAT are exempt from the initial three ACCA papers, starting their ACCA education with the F4 papers. 

These flexible entry routes cater to a diverse range of educational backgrounds, making ACCA accessible to students with various qualifications. Whether you're a high school graduate, a university degree holder, or have an ACCA Foundation Diploma or CAT certification, there is an ideal program for you to embark on your ACCA journey at a UK university. 

Is ACCA better than CA? 

Both ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and CA (Chartered Accountant) are prestigious qualifications in the field of accounting, but they have different global recognition and focus. ACCA is an international qualification recognised in over 180 countries, emphasising a broader and more global perspective. CA, on the other hand, may be specific to certain countries and is often associated with a more localised approach. The choice between ACCA and CA depends on your career goals, the geographical scope you're aiming for and the specific requirements of employers in your desired location. 

Can I finish ACCA in 2 years? 

Completing ACCA in 2 years is ambitious and would require dedication and efficient planning. The ACCA qualification consists of several exams and the time it takes to complete depends on various factors, including the number of exams you take per session, your prior education and your personal study pace. Many students take around 3 to 4 years to complete the ACCA qualification. However, it's advisable to plan your studies based on your circumstances and commitments. 

How many years is ACCA in the UK? 

The duration to complete ACCA in the UK varies based on factors such as the number of papers taken per session and whether you study full-time or part-time. Students take around 3 to 4 years to finish the ACCA qualification in the UK. The flexibility of the program allows individuals to manage their study pace and tailor it to their needs. It's essential to consider your schedule and commitments when planning the duration of your ACCA studies in the UK.