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A while back I made a post about whether or not I should go for ACA or ACCA but the answers bought up a further question.
When do I start studying/registering myself to earn a qualification (ACA or ACCA)? During my undergraduate studies? During my masters? I’m just a first year student in uni so I’m not entirely sure of the timeline.
Please help!
(also more advice on ACA vs ACCA is always welcome!)If you’re going to self-study I would recommend ACCA – you will find far more support and free resources – e.g. here on OpenTuition’s website. Everything about ACA is more expensive – subscriptions, exam fees, courses, etc – but at the end of the day, the qualifications are equivalent – I should know – I am ACA and FCCA.
If you’re doing a “relevant degree” – i.e. anything with a business/accountancy element, you should look here to see what exemptions you should expect https://www.accaglobal.com/uk/en/help/exemptions-calculator.html
There’s no point self-studying for ACCA until you know what you’re self-studying for (!)
Once you’re made up your mind and started on ACCA you will find that you get more response posting to the relevant ACCA forums – here https://opentuition.com/forum/acca-forums (where there is a “new to ACCA” forum) or here to ask a tutor https://opentuition.com/forum/ask-acca-tutor-forums
It is generally possible to begin studying for the ACA (Associate Chartered Accountant) or ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualification at any point in your academic or professional career. However, it is common for individuals to begin studying for these qualifications while they are still in university, either as an undergraduate or graduate student.
Starting to study for the ACA or ACCA qualification during your undergraduate studies can be a good way to gain a strong foundation in accounting and finance, as well as to build up your professional experience and skills. This can be especially beneficial if you are planning to pursue a career in accounting or finance after graduation.
On the other hand, starting to study for these qualifications during your masters studies can also be a good option, as it can help you to build on the knowledge and skills you have already gained through your undergraduate studies and prepare you for a career in accounting or finance.
Ultimately, the best time to begin studying for the ACA or ACCA qualification will depend on your individual goals, career plans, and circumstances. It is always a good idea to carefully consider your options and seek advice from industry professionals or academic advisors before making a decision.
As for the ACA vs ACCA question, both qualifications are highly respected in the accounting and finance industry and can open up a wide range of career opportunities. The ACA qualification is offered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and is primarily focused on preparing individuals for a career in public practice (e.g. as an auditor or tax advisor. The ACCA qualification, on the other hand, is offered by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and is more broadly focused, covering a range of topics including financial accounting, management accounting, and financial management. Both qualifications require a combination of exams and work experience, and both have their own specific requirements for entry and progression. Ultimately, which one is the best choice for you will depend on your individual goals and career plans.
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