For aspiring accountants in India, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is an esteemed and worldwide qualification. However, before embarking upon this transformational journey, it is vital to understand the ACCA course eligibility.
This blog will explain the primary ACCA eligibility criteria that you need to consider to see if you are an ideal candidate to begin your ACCA journey.
What Are the Basic Eligibility Criteria for ACCA?
To kick off the path to becoming an internationally acknowledged accountant, it is significant to understand the ACCA course eligibility requirements, whether it be right after school or later on through graduation.
Educational Qualifications Required to Start ACCA
For all candidates wishing to progress with ACCA eligibility in India, the qualification is to be registered for the ACCA qualification with the minimum requirement of passing Class 12 (or equivalent).
In terms of the ACCA eligibility after 12th, there are minimum performance requirements; to be specific, they require 65% or above in Mathematics or Accounts and English and a score of 50% or above in all other subjects. These performance requirements must be met to enter the ACCA qualification directly, and there will not be any preliminary courses required.
Graduates are qualified, and provided they have satisfied the education requirements and are successful in their degree, they may be issued exemptions. Commerce or Finance degree graduates are examples of those who are likely to receive exemptions from multiple foundational ACCA exams, resulting in completing the course sooner.
Age and Subject Requirements You Must Know
In addition to educational requirements, ACCA requires students to be 18 years of age to register for the ACCA course. Candidates should also be proficient in English because all papers, materials, and communication are in English.
The main subjects, Mathematics or Accounts, and English, are considered in determining eligibility for students because ACCA expects students to be strong and skilful in numbers and able to communicate with it. If a student cannot demonstrate they meet the direct entry requirements, ACCA provides a Foundation in Accountancy (FIA), which allows students to learn the foundational skills prior to the ACCA examination.
This mechanism provides a flexible academic entry process that allows individuals to have broader access while ensuring the high standards of education are maintained across the globe.
Different Entry Routes to Join ACCA
Upon looking at ACCA Eligibility in India, you will find that there are two routes for entry with regard to your education:
- Direct Entry Route: For those students who have obtained minimum marks after Class 12 or have a similar relevant degree, you can enter ACCA by direct entry. Graduates, especially those from commerce or finance backgrounds, are usually exempt from initial papers and therefore can progress quicker through the ACCA levels.
- Foundation Route: Candidates who do not meet the direct entry marks or who are not coming from commerce backgrounds are able to begin with the course called Foundation in Accountancy (FIA). This allows a candidate who “understands the basics of Accounting” to learn the fundamentals of accounting before taking the intense domestic-level exams from ACCA.
These two routes provide opportunity for a variety of educational backgrounds to access the ACCA course; it engages a range of students, from fresh school pass-outs to experienced professionals.
How to Check and Confirm Your ACCA Eligibility
A good way to ascertain your ACCA Course Eligibility before joining is by using the official ACCA exemption calculator on the ACCA website. This freely accessible tool helps you find out any exemptions that you may get depending on your previous qualifications, and this in turn helps you work out an efficient study plan to maximise your study time.
In order to register, you will need to provide documents such as
- class 10th and 12th mark sheets,
- graduation proof if you have one,
- some form of government ID (either a passport or Aadhaar),
- and the number of photos needed.
If you have these documents, you will have a smooth registration process.
In addition to this, to become an ACCA member, you will need to obtain a minimum of three years of relevant practical experience, and you can do this either during or after you have completed your exams.
Conclusion
When combined with the successful completion of the exams, this will entitle you to call yourself an ACCA member and pursue professional careers globally in accounting, audit and finance.
To be fully aware of the ACCA Eligibility Criteria in India is vital before becoming confident to join this elite global qualification. Whether you qualify directly after 12th or through graduation, all of the above knowledge helps you towards developing a seamless ACCA journey. Get started on the path to becoming an ACCA with the right eligibility and clear career objectives!