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ICAEW ACA Qualification

ICAEW is a global organization with members in over 147 countries. They provide country-specific resources and networking opportunities around the world.

As a respected and influential institution, the ICAEW plays a vital role in setting and maintaining high standards for the accounting profession. It serves as a regulatory body, ensuring its members adhere to stringent ethical and professional guidelines. By upholding these standards, the ICAEW instills confidence in the public and business community, establishing chartered accountants as trusted and competent financial professionals.

Membership in the ICAEW is highly regarded and signifies an individual’s expertise and dedication to the field of accounting. There are local committees, dedicated regional council members and knowledgeable local contact members. ICAEW can support you wherever your career takes you. 

Who can do ACA qualification?

You don’t need a degree in accounting, finance or business to study for the ACA. This diagram shows a breakdown of what ACA students have studied, most are from a non-accountancy background.* Many employers actively seek diversity in their recruitment, so having a non-accountancy degree is welcomed.

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Receive academic and career guidance from our dedicated tutors.
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Solve complex exam questions to achieve high scores.

What is the Training an Exam schedule?

There are four integrated elements to ACA training. With an emphasis on professional development and nurturing skills, the qualification covers far more than technical accountancy. It’s designed to develop leadership potential, and its content is reviewed annually to ensure you’re kept informed about the latest developments in finance, accounting and business.

There are four integrated elements to ACA training. With an emphasis on professional development and nurturing skills, the qualification covers far more than technical accountancy. It’s designed to develop leadership potential, and its content is reviewed annually to ensure you’re kept informed about the latest developments in finance, accounting and business.

1. Ethics and Professional scepticism

Ethics and professional skepticism are an essential part of being a chartered accountant. You’ll follow a structured program to ensure you know how to apply them, focusing on integrity, objectivity and independence.

2. Professional Development

Demonstrate your competence in seven key professional skills (such as communication, teamworking and decision-making) by providing examples from your work experience.

3. Practical Work Experience

You need to record 450 days of relevant ‘on-the-job’ work experience during your period of approved training. If you have completed an internship or placement year with one of our authorised employers, you may be able to count up to 12 months’ experience towards your ACA training.

4. Accountancy, Finance and Business Modules

There are 15 modules, each with its own exam. These modules are staged across three levels: the first introduces you to core concepts; the latter two build on your growing technical knowledge and experience.

ACA Training

The ACA equips you with in-depth knowledge across a range of topics in accountancy, finance and business. The 15 computer-based exams are designed to complement the practical experience you will gain, so you can put your knowledge into practice. The exams are split across three levels:

Certificate Level

Professional Level

Advanced Level

Course details

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Exam Schedule

It is possible to start the ACA on your own as an independent student. However, you’ll still need to secure a training agreement to acquire the necessary practical work experience. Your employer will guide you on the pace and order that you complete the modules, except for the Case Study, which you have to take last. 90% of ACA students complete their training and exams in four years or less.

The exam schedule varies across the levels:

Certificate Level

Certificate Level exams can be taken in any order, but you must pass every exam, or receive credit for prior learning to complete this level.

Professional Level

These exams are available to sit every March, June, September and December.

Advanced Level : Corporate Reporting and Strategic Business Management

This is your final exam which you will attempt in the final year of your training agreement, once you have taken, or received credit for all other exams.

Advanced Level : Case study

This is your final exam which you will attempt in the final year of your training agreement, once you have taken, or received credit for all other exams.

Market Advantage with the ICAEW CFAB Certificate in Finance, Accounting, and Business

  • Stand Out to Employers

    The ICAEW CFAB is a globally recognized qualification, highly valued by employers across various sectors. Holding this certification signals to potential employers that you possess a strong foundation in finance, accounting, and business principles, making you a desirable candidate for a wide range of roles.

  • Versatile Skill Set

    The ICAEW CFAB equips you with essential skills in accounting, management information, business and finance, law, taxation, and assurance. This comprehensive skill set prepares you for diverse roles in finance, accounting, business management, and consulting, providing you with a competitive edge in the job market.

  • Professional Growth

    The ICAEW CFAB serves as a stepping stone towards becoming an ICAEW Chartered Accountant. This opens up further career advancement opportunities, allowing you to climb the professional ladder and achieve your long-term career goals.

Salary Trends

  • Competitive Compensation

    Professionals with an ICAEW CFAB certification often command higher salaries compared to their peers without this qualification. The practical knowledge and skills gained from the CFAB course make you a valuable asset to employers, who are willing to offer competitive compensation packages.

  • Salary Growth Potential

    As you gain experience and progress in your career, the ICAEW CFAB can significantly impact your earning potential. Certified professionals often experience steady salary growth, reflecting their increased expertise and value to their organizations.

  • Industry-Specific Salaries

    The ICAEW CFAB opens doors to high-paying industries such as finance, banking, consulting, and corporate management. These sectors are known for offering attractive salary packages and benefits to qualified professionals, ensuring a lucrative career path.

  • Experience Level:

    Entry-level positions for ICAEW CFAB Certificate holders might start at a moderate salary but provide significant growth opportunities as experience and expertise are gained.

Industry Trends

  • High Demand for Finance Professionals

    The demand for skilled finance and accounting professionals is consistently high across various industries. With an ICAEW CFAB certification, you position yourself to meet this demand, ensuring a steady flow of job opportunities in the market.

  • Emphasis on Regulatory Compliance

    As businesses face increasing regulatory requirements, the need for professionals with a deep understanding of finance, accounting, and legal principles has grown. The ICAEW CFAB provides you with the knowledge needed to navigate complex regulatory landscapes, making you an indispensable asset to any organization.

  • Focus on Sustainability and ESG

    Industries are placing greater emphasis on sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. The ICAEW CFAB equips you with the skills to understand and implement sustainable business practices, aligning your expertise with current industry trends and increasing your marketability.

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