ACCA After 12th: How to Earn 30lac+ pa With ACCA Qualification?

Choosing the right career path after 12th Standard is very important in determining the future prospects. Of the many available choices, the most relevant one is the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualification which is suitable for those with an inclination towards the finance and accounting sectors. This globally recognized certification opens numerous career opportunities worldwide.

Beginning ACCA immediately after 12th Standard carries certain advantages. It helps you get a head start in your career by providing proper orientation to the principles and practices of accounting at the very beginning of the program. This kind of beginning can enhance your career growth, making you climb up the corporate ladder much faster than your counterparts who take other routes.

In this blog some of basic details of the ACCA, which can be done after passing the 12th standard along with the requirement information about the course, its benefits, and the way any one can get admission in this course will be described. We will also cover the career progress and opportunities and also a relative analysis of ACCA and other professional course to help you.

What is ACCA?

ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is a globally recognized professional accounting qualification. It equips individuals with comprehensive knowledge in accounting, finance, and business management. ACCA offers a structured pathway to becoming a certified accountant, covering areas like financial reporting, taxation, and audit.

The qualification is valued in over 180 countries and is known for its rigorous exams and practical experience requirements. ACCA professionals are sought after for diverse roles in finance, from auditing and financial management to consultancy and strategic planning.

For a comprehensive overview of the ACCA course, read – Your Complete Guide to ACCA Course Details

Eligibility Criteria for ACCA After 12th

To start your ACCA journey right after finishing 12th grade, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements ensure you have the foundational knowledge to succeed in the ACCA program.

Educational Requirements:

To meet the eligibility criteria set by ACCA, individuals must be at least 18 years old and have successfully completed their Higher Secondary Education.

Subjects and Grades:

Passes in Five Subjects:

You need to have passed at least five subjects, with at least three of them completed in your final year of school. These subjects must include English and either Mathematics or Accounts.

Marks Requirement:

65% Marks in at Least Two Subjects:

This shows a strong performance in key areas. For the Higher Secondary Certificate, a score over 130 out of 200 meets this requirement.

Over 50% in the Other Subjects:

Ensures a well-rounded academic performance. For the Higher Secondary Certificate, a score over 100 out of 200 meets this requirement.

Duration of ACCA After 12th

The total time it takes to complete the ACCA qualification can vary based on several factors. Here’s an easy breakdown:

Total Duration:

• On average, it takes about 3 to 4 years to complete all the levels of ACCA. This can depend on how fast you study and pass the exams.

Breakdown of ACCA Levels

Applied Knowledge:

• This is the first level and typically takes around 6 to 12 months to complete. It covers the basics of accounting and business.

Applied Skills:

• The second level usually takes about 12 to 18 months. It includes more detailed subjects like performance management, taxation, and financial reporting.

Strategic Professional:

• The final level can take another 12 to 18 months.
• This level focuses on advanced topics and includes essential and optional exams, where you can choose subjects based on your career interests.

Factors Affecting Duration:

Study Mode:

• Whether you study full-time or part-time can impact how quickly you finish the course.

• Full-time students can usually complete the course faster than part-time students who may be balancing work and study.

Exemptions:

• If you have prior qualifications, you might get exemptions for certain exams, which can reduce the overall duration.

Steps to Start ACCA After 12th

Starting your ACCA journey right after 12th grade involves a few important steps.

Registration Process:

• Go to the ACCA official website.
• Fill out the online registration form with your personal details, educational background, and contact information.
• Submit the form along with the required documents and registration fee.

Required Documents:

• Proof of your educational qualifications (like your 12th-grade marksheet).
• Identification documents (such as a passport or national ID card).
• Passport-sized photographs for your profile.

Fees:

There are several fees involved in the ACCA journey:

• Registration Fee: A one-time fee to sign up for the ACCA program. Currently it is £30.
• Annual Subscription Fee: A yearly fee to maintain your student status. Currently it is £134.
• Exam Fees: Fees for each exam you take. The cost varies depending on the exam level.
  • Applied Knowledge Level – Each exam costs approx. £143
  • Strategic Professional Level – Exam fees for this level range from approx. £252
  • Applied Skills Level – The exam costs approx. £84

Study Options:

You can choose how you want to study for the ACCA exams:

• Self-Study: Studying on your own using ACCA-approved textbooks and online resources.
• Learning Partners: Enroll in courses offered by ACCA-approved learning partners who provide classes and additional support.

Benefits of Pursuing ACCA After 12th

Choosing to pursue ACCA right after 12th grade comes with several significant benefits. Here’s a simple breakdown of why ACCA can be a great choice for your future:

Global Recognition:

• ACCA is recognized in over 180 countries. This means your qualification will be valued worldwide, giving you the flexibility to work in various countries and industries.

High Earning Potential:

• ACCA professionals are in high demand, and they typically earn competitive salaries.

• This qualification can open doors to well-paying jobs in finance, accounting, and management.

Flexibility in Career Choices:

• With an ACCA qualification, you can work in various roles such as auditor, financial analyst, tax consultant, finance manager, and more.

• It’s not limited to one specific job or industry, allowing you to explore different career paths.

Further Education and Specialization:

• ACCA provides a strong foundation for further studies and specializations.

• You can pursue additional qualifications or certifications in finance, management, or related fields to enhance your career prospects.

Enhanced Skills and Knowledge:

• The ACCA program covers a wide range of topics, including accounting, auditing, taxation, financial management, and more.
• This comprehensive training ensures you have the skills and knowledge needed to excel in your career.

Opportunities for Career Growth:

• ACCA qualifications can help you climb the career ladder faster.
• With ACCA, you can aim for senior management positions and executive roles, achieving significant career growth.

Salary Expectations for ACCA Professionals

India

• The salary range for ACCA professionals in India typically starts from ₹6,00,000 per annum for entry-level positions and can go up to ₹35,00,000 per annum for experienced roles in top companies

United Kingdom

• In the UK, ACCA professionals can expect a base salary of around £30,000 per annum, with potential earnings reaching up to £50,000 per annum for senior roles.

United States

• In the US, the starting salary for ACCA professionals generally ranges from $60,000 per annum, with higher-level positions offering up to $90,000 per annum.

Australia

• ACCA professionals in Australia can earn a base salary of approximately AUD 70,000 per annum, with the possibility of advancing to higher salaries of around AUD 100,000 per annum in more senior roles.

United Arab Emirates

• In the UAE, ACCA professionals typically start with a salary of AED 120,000 per annum, with the potential to earn up to AED 200,000 per annum as they progress in their careers.

Here is the graph showing the salary ranges for ACCA professionals across different countries

For insights into salary prospects after ACCA, read – Highest International Salaries for ACCA Professionals

ACCA vs. Other Professional Courses After 12th

When deciding on a professional course after 12th grade, it’s important to compare your options. Here’s how ACCA stacks up against other popular courses like CA, CMA , and CPA

ACCA vs. CA (Chartered Accountancy)

• Global Acceptance: ACCA is globally recognized in over 180 countries, making it ideal for international careers. CA, on the other hand, is highly respected in India but has limited global recognition. For international opportunities, CAs may need additional certifications.
• Flexibility: ACCA offers flexible study options, including full-time, part-time, and online modes, with exams held four times a year. CA follows a more rigid structure, requiring students to follow specific timelines for exams and a mandatory articleship, making it less flexible.
• Career Opportunities: ACCA opens up diverse career paths in auditing, financial management, taxation, and consultancy. It is suitable for roles in banking, corporate finance, and public practice. CA is more focused on auditing, accounting, and taxation within India, and additional qualifications may be required for global roles.
• Study Duration and Difficulty: ACCA typically takes around 3 to 4 years to complete, depending on the pace and any exemptions. It is challenging but manageable with consistent effort. CA, on the other hand, usually takes 4 to 5 years, including the articleship, and is known for its rigorous exams.
• Cost: ACCA is moderately priced, covering registration, annual subscription, and exam fees, with additional costs for coaching and materials. CA is generally more affordable, but costs can increase with coaching and additional study materials.

For a comprehensive comparison between ACCA and CA, read – ACCA vs. CA: Which is the Better Choice?

ACCA vs. CMA (Certified Management Accountant)

• Global Acceptance: ACCA is recognized in over 180 countries, making it a great option for those looking to work internationally. CMA, while globally recognized, often requires additional local certifications depending on the region, making it slightly less globally versatile compared to ACCA.
• Flexibility: ACCA provides flexibility in terms of study modes (full-time, part-time, and online) and offers exams four times a year. CMA is also flexible, but the requirements can vary by region, meaning students may need to fulfill specific conditions based on where they intend to practice.
• Career Opportunities: ACCA offers career opportunities in auditing, financial management, taxation, and consultancy. CMA is more specialized in corporate finance, strategic management, and cost management, making it ideal for management-level positions in finance departments.
• Study Duration and Difficulty: ACCA typically takes 3 to 4 years to complete, depending on exemptions and the pace of study. CMA is usually shorter, taking 2 to 3 years, but it also has challenging exams focused on management accounting.
• Cost: ACCA has moderate fees, including registration, annual subscription, and exam fees, with additional coaching and material costs. CMA can be expensive, especially if pursued internationally, as it includes exam fees, membership fees, and study material costs.

For a detailed comparison between ACCA and CMA, read – ACCA vs. CMA: Which is the Better Choice?

ACCA vs. CPA (Certified Public Accountant)

• Global Acceptance: Both ACCA and CPA are globally recognized. However, while ACCA is accepted in over 180 countries, CPA is primarily respected in the US and other select countries. CPAs often need additional local certifications to practice in other regions.
• Flexibility: ACCA offers a high degree of flexibility with study options, allowing students to choose between full-time, part-time, and online formats, and offers exams four times a year. CPA is also flexible but often comes with more stringent regional requirements depending on where one plans to practice.
• Career Opportunities: ACCA provides diverse career opportunities in auditing, financial management, taxation, and consultancy, making it suitable for a variety of financial roles. CPA specializes in public accounting, auditing, and tax services, with a focus on working in the US and similar markets.
• Study Duration and Difficulty: ACCA usually takes 3 to 4 years to complete, depending on exemptions. CPA typically takes 2 to 3 years and is considered challenging due to its broad and demanding exams.
• Cost: ACCA has moderate costs, including registration, annual subscription, and exam fees, along with additional costs for coaching and materials. CPA can be quite expensive, particularly when pursued internationally, as it includes exam fees, membership fees, and material costs.

For a detailed comparison between ACCA and CPA, read – ACCA vs. CPA: Which is the Better Choice?

Comparative Analysis Table of ACCA vs. Other Professional Courses After 12th

Criteria	ACCA	CA	CMA	CPA
Global Acceptance	Recognized in over 180 countries. Ideal for international careers.	Highly respected in India; less global recognition.	Recognized globally but may need local certifications.	Recognized globally; requires additional local certifications in some countries.
Flexibility	Flexible study options: full-time, part-time, online. Exams held four times a year.	Rigid structure with specific timelines for exams and articleship.	Flexible but varies by region; specific requirements apply.	Flexible but may have stringent regional requirements.
Career Opportunities	Diverse paths: auditing, financial management, taxation, consultancy. Suitable for banking, corporate finance, public practice.	Focuses on auditing, accounting, taxation within India. Requires additional qualifications for global roles.	Ideal for corporate finance, strategic management, cost management.	Specializes in public accounting, auditing, and tax services. Highly respected in the US and similar countries.
Study Duration and Difficulty	Approximately 3 to 4 years, depending on pace and exemptions. Challenging but manageable with consistent effort.	Typically 4 to 5 years, including articleship. Known for rigorous exams.	Usually 2 to 3 years. Challenging exams with focus on management accounting.	Typically 2 to 3 years. Exams are broad and demanding.
Cost	Moderate; includes registration, annual subscription, and exam fees. Additional costs for coaching and study materials.	Generally affordable; costs increase with coaching and materials.	Can be expensive, especially if pursued internationally; includes exam and membership fees.	Can be costly, especially internationally; includes exam fees, membership fees, and materials.

Career Opportunities After ACCA

Completing the ACCA qualification opens up a wide range of career opportunities.

Many ACCA professionals move into senior management positions such as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Finance Director, or even Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

The skills and knowledge gained through ACCA enable you to take on leadership roles and drive strategic decisions within an organization.

Job Roles Offered

A simple guide to the various roles and sectors where ACCA professionals are in demand:

Auditor:

• As an auditor, you’ll examine financial records and ensure they are accurate and comply with laws and regulations.

• Auditors play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of financial systems.

Financial Analyst:

• Financial analysts evaluate financial data to help businesses make informed decisions.

• They analyze trends, forecast future financial performance, and provide recommendations to improve financial health.

Tax Consultant:

• Tax consultants help individuals and businesses manage their tax obligations.

• They provide advice on tax planning, ensure compliance with tax laws, and assist with tax returns.

Finance Manager:

• Finance managers oversee the financial operations of a company.

• They are responsible for budgeting, financial planning, managing financial risks, and ensuring the company’s financial stability.

Risk Manager:

• Risk managers identify, assess, and manage risks that could impact a company’s financial health.

• They develop strategies to mitigate risks and ensure the organization is prepared for potential challenges.

Management Accountant:

• Management accountants provide financial insights to help companies make strategic decisions.

• They focus on budgeting, performance evaluation, cost management, and asset management.

Consultant:

• Consultants offer expert advice to businesses on various aspects of finance and accounting.

• They may work on projects related to financial restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, and business process improvements.

Corporate Treasurer:

• Corporate treasurers manage a company’s finances, including cash flow, investments, and financial risk.

• They ensure that the company has sufficient funds to meet its obligations and invest wisely.

Sectors and Industries:

Banking and Finance:

• ACCA professionals are highly valued in banks and financial institutions for their expertise in financial analysis, risk management, and compliance.

Corporate Sector:

• Large corporations across various industries hire ACCA professionals for roles in financial management, internal audit, and strategic planning.

Public Practice:

• Many ACCA members work in accounting firms, providing auditing, tax, and consultancy services to clients.

Government and Public Sector:

• Governments and public sector organizations employ ACCA professionals for financial management, budgeting, and audit roles.

Non-Profit Organizations:

• Non-profits need skilled financial managers to handle their funds, ensure compliance with regulations, and make the most of their resources.

Challenges of Pursuing ACCA After 12th

While pursuing ACCA after 12th grade can be very rewarding, it comes with its own set of challenges. Here’s an easy-to-understand breakdown of what to expect:

Rigorous Study and Examination Process

Demanding Curriculum:

• The ACCA syllabus is comprehensive and covers a wide range of topics in accounting, finance, and business management.
• This requires dedicated study and a deep understanding of the subjects.

Challenging Exams:

• ACCA exams are known for their difficulty. They test not only your knowledge but also your ability to apply concepts in practical scenarios.
• Consistent effort and thorough preparation are key to passing these exams.

Time Management

Balancing Studies and Other Commitments:

• Many students find it challenging to balance their ACCA studies with other activities such as work, family, and social life.

• Effective time management is essential to ensure you can dedicate sufficient time to studying while also fulfilling other responsibilities.

Regular Study Schedule:

• To succeed in ACCA, you need to follow a regular study schedule. This can be tough, especially if you’re not used to disciplined study habits.

Financial Considerations

Costs Involved:

• Pursuing ACCA involves various costs, including registration fees, annual subscription fees, and exam fees.
• Additionally, if you choose to attend classes or buy study materials, these costs can add up.

Budgeting for the Long Term:

• Since the ACCA qualification can take several years to complete, you need to plan your finances accordingly.
• This includes budgeting for exam retakes if necessary and managing other educational expenses.

Tips for Success in ACCA

Succeeding in the ACCA qualification requires dedication, effective strategies, and a positive mindset.

Some of the easy-to-understand tips to help you on your journey:

Effective Study Strategies:

Create a Study Plan:

• Organize your study time by creating a schedule.
• Break down the syllabus into manageable sections and allocate specific times for each topic.
• Stick to your plan to ensure you cover all the material.

Use ACCA Resources:

• Make the most of ACCA-approved study materials, textbooks, and online resources.

• These are designed to help you understand the topics thoroughly and prepare effectively for exams.

Practice Past Papers:

• Practicing past exam papers is crucial. It helps you get familiar with the exam format, identify the types of questions that are commonly asked, and improve your time management skills during the exam.

Time Management:

Set Priorities:

• Identify the most important tasks and focus on them first. Prioritize studying for exams over less critical activities.

Avoid Procrastination:

• Start studying well in advance of your exams. Avoid leaving things to the last minute, as this can lead to stress and insufficient preparation.

Take Regular Breaks:

• Avoid burnout by taking regular breaks during your study sessions. Short breaks can help you stay focused and retain information better.

Support System:

Seek Guidance from Mentors:

• Connect with teachers, tutors, or professionals who can offer guidance and support. They can provide valuable insights, clarify doubts, and help you stay motivated.
• Additionally, consider QuintEdge, which offers a comprehensive guidance and mentorship program tailored to ACCA students.
• Their expert mentors can assist with exam preparation, provide career advice, and help you navigate your ACCA journey effectively.

Join ACCA Student Communities:

• Being part of a study group or online community can be very beneficial.

• You can share study tips, discuss difficult topics, and support each other through the challenges of the ACCA journey.

Network with Professionals:

• Attend ACCA events and networking opportunities to meet other students and professionals.

• Networking can provide you with advice, resources, and potential job opportunities.

Future Outlook of ACCA After 12th

Choosing ACCA right after 12th grade offers a promising future in the accounting and finance sectors. With its global recognition, ACCA opens doors to diverse career opportunities across different industries worldwide.

Career Growth:

• ACCA professionals are highly sought after for roles in auditing, financial management, taxation, and consultancy.
• The qualification’s international credibility provides a competitive edge, allowing you to work in various countries and sectors.

Industry Demand:

• As businesses increasingly operate on a global scale, the demand for ACCA-certified professionals continues to rise.
• This trend suggests strong job security and potential for career advancement.

Continual Learning:

• The ACCA qualification emphasizes ongoing professional development, ensuring that its members stay updated with the latest industry trends and standards.
• This commitment to continuous learning will help maintain its relevance and value in the future.

Conclusion

Choosing ACCA after high school can transform your career path. This qualification opens doors worldwide, offers competitive pay, and lets you specialize in various areas. It gives you crucial accounting and finance skills enabling you to work as an auditor, financial analyst, or tax advisor across different fields.

Beginning ACCA early jumpstarts your professional life helping you climb to top roles quicker. Though it’s not easy, the benefits to your career growth make it worth the effort. If numbers and money excite you why not start your journey to success with ACCA right now?

Frequently Asked Questions