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ACCA vs CPA
When it comes to building a successful career in accounting, two certifications often stand out as industry benchmarks: ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and CPA (Certified Public Accountant). Both ACCA and CPA offer prestigious credentials that can open doors to exciting opportunities in the world of finance and accounting. However, understanding the key differences between these certifications is crucial in determining which path aligns best with your career goals and aspirations. In this article, we will delve into the ACCA vs CPA debate, exploring the unique features, requirements, and advantages of each certification, helping you make an informed decision on the path that will propel your accounting career forward.

What is ACCA?

The ACCA or Association of Chartered Certified Accountants may be the body that recognizes the eligibility of the CA. ACCA is an international organization based in Glasgow UK working for the public to ensure that chartered accountants operate in accordance with the principles and ensure that the established regulations are followed properly. ACCA certificates in chartered accountancy so the ACCA test is well known in the international community.

What is a CPA?

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) holds an internationally recognized Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam for its competence. AICPA is that a large body of guards worldwide and anyone wishing to count in the US or who have to work with US-based clients needs to take the AICPA-administered exam. Fifty-five provinces within the US have been licensed to conduct CPA certified examinations. Each region has its own licensing and testing requirements as none of them are regulated by any central organization.

ACCA vs CPA – Difference

Section ACCA   CPA
Organizing Body Exams are organized by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), UK. The tests are organized by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), USA.
Pattern The course is divided into 3 levels Applied Knowledge Applied Skills Strategic Professional (Essentials and Options) The course has only a single level, which is divided into 4 assessments Financial Accounting & Reporting Business Environment & Concepts Audit & Attestation Regulation
Duration of Course Although the course should be completed within 10 years from passing the initial examination, most students complete the course in 3 to 4 years. Candidates can complete all four exams within a period of 18 months.
Syllabus Some of the main topics that are covered during the entire course are Ethical & Professional Standards Financial Management Taxation Financial Reporting Accounting & Auditing Some of the main topics that are covered during the entire course are Ethical & Professional Standards Financial Management Taxation Financial Reporting Accounting & Auditing
Exam Fees The overall cost of the course is between £1,200 to £2,000, which includes a registration fee of £89, an annual subscription of £112, and exam fees that vary depending on the time of registration. The overall cost of the course is around $1,500, which includes application fees (that varies across states), registration fees, exam fees, and license fees.
Jobs Some  common profiles include Accountant Tax Manager Financial Consultant Internal Auditor Finance Manager Some  common profiles include Forensic Accountant Financial Analyst Public Accountant Internal Auditor
Difficulty It is very difficult as in some of the subjects only 30% of students are able to cancel the exams. In December 2021, the pass rates for the Strategic Professional (Options) exams were between 32% to 51%, while the Practical Knowledge tests were up from 65% to 84%. Tests are moderately difficult as 50% of students are able to clear exams. By 2021, pass rates for all tests remain from 47% to 59%.
Exam date 2022 Exams are conducted on: June Exams – 6th to 10th 2022 Exams are conducted on: April 23, May 16, June 8, June 30.

Exam Requirements of ACCA and CPA

ACCA

CPA

You need to be a high school student to pass an exam. If you have a high degree, you can ask for it to be released from the papers you have already studied at the basic level. A five-year education is required to qualify for the exam. The candidate’s nomination process requires a 4-year bachelor’s degree and preferably a master’s degree of 120 to 150 hours on credit in a business education background.
ACCA provides reading materials such as textbooks and sample papers for students to follow. The organization participates in the preparation process and provides a list of ACCA-approved Student Partners to ensure you come out with a colorful exam. The CPA does not provide a syllabus set to be followed by a candidate. There are no textbooks or set up a program for the student to follow. Students need to rely entirely on business review courses to guide him or her through the tests.
You need to provide 13 papers divided as follows. 9 Basic Level Papers and 4 Professional Level Papers. Question papers are divided into three question patterns, purpose type, long type, and case studies. The exams are divided into 4parts Financial Accounting & Reporting (FAR CPA Exam), Audit & Attestation (AUD CPA Exam), Regulation (REG CPA Exam) and Business Environment & Concepts (BEC CPA Exam). Many choice questions are asked in the trial with job-based motivation to assess the victim’s mind and IQ. In addition written communication is given importance in test papers.

Conclusion –ACCA vs CPA

For all types of business, Rules and Regulations are required alongside Finance and Accounts, Taxes, Auditing. So caring for the highest level Chartered Accountants on demand remembers each role played by Business House. Laws and regulations vary from country to country. Here again the Accounting standards, personnel policies, regulatory framework differs from country to country. ACCA integrates all the new modules needed around the world so candidates passing ACCA are able to do each little task. The pulse business is constantly changing and with the use of technology, things work faster, faster and more flexibly. Finance is the backbone so business blood and any kind of strategic change can only be seen financially. So to make sure the business is running smoothly ACCA and CPA courses come in handy to better see businesses.

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    2 thoughts on “ACCA vs CPA”

    1. Itís nearly impossible to find well-informed people for this subject, however, you seem like you know what youíre talking about! Thanks

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