FAQs
- What are the routes into accountancy training?
- What do I need to qualify?
- Do I have to be good at maths to work in finance?
- Are there any subjects I need to take at GCSE and A Level?
- Do I need a degree?
- Would I get any exam exemptions for other qualifications?
- Where can I study?
- How much will it cost and who pays?
- How do I get my practical experience?
- How long will it take to qualify?
- When do I need to register with ACCA?
- How much will I get paid?
1. What are the routes into accountancy training?
To register for the ACCA Qualification you will need a minimum of three GCSEs and two A Levels (or equivalent) in five different subjects including English and Maths. If you do not meet these requirements you can register onto the accounting technician (CAT) qualification. You then have the option to progress onto the ACCA qualification to become a fully qualified accountant.
2. What do I need to do to qualify?
Both CAT and the ACCA Qualification are a combination of exams and practical accountancy experience. For CAT you will need to sit nine exams and complete one year’s work experience. For the ACCA Qualification you will need to sit 14 exams, undertake three years’ work experience and complete an ethics module.
3. Do I have to be good at maths to work in finance?
You need to be numerate but not a maths genius – accountants use computers to do a lot of their calculations.
4. Are there any subjects I need to take at GCSE and A level?
You must have an English and Maths GCSE or equivalent. Most employers are more concerned by your personal profile and academic record rather than the subjects you study. However some employers do have a preference for Maths A level.
5. Do I need a degree?
You don’t need a degree although many employers offer specific training for graduates. If you want a degree but don’t want to go to university you can gain a BSc (Hons) in Applied Accounting through the ACCA Qualification.
6. Would I get any exam exemptions for other qualifications?
Some qualifications, like a relevant degree, entitle you to exemptions from ACCA exams. This means you will start your studies at the appropriate level and avoid studying subjects that you already know.
7. Where can I study?
There are colleges and universities globally, as well as distance learning providers, that offer tuition for ACCA qualifications. Find your local tuition provider 
8. How much will it cost and who pays?
You have to pay an annual subscription and exam fees directly to ACCA. Tuition fees are an additional cost and vary depending on the learning provider and method of study. In some cases, employers may contribute towards the costs.
9. How do I get my practical experience?
You are responsible for finding a relevant accountancy job. ACCA allows you to choose who, where and what sector to work for. Employers advertise vacancies on the ACCA website and in our publications. Aside from this, usual job hunting methods can be used.
10. How long will it take to qualify?
This depends on how often you take exams and whether you are studying while you work. CAT can take as little as one year. To complete the ACCA Qualification and achieve membership generally takes around three to four years.
11. When do I need to register with ACCA?
To sit exams in June you must register by 31 December of the previous year. To sit December exams you must register by 15 August. If you want to sit Computer Based Exams at different times of the year you must ensure you register with ACCA first.
12. How much will I get paid?
Salaries depend on the type of company you work for, the job location, your progress through the qualification and the amount of experience you have. Average salaries once qualified range from £25,000 to £100,000 plus. Find out more about salary details