ACCA Course Fees and Duration: A Complete Guide to Cost Breakdown and Planning
The ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualification is globally recognized and highly sought after by finance professionals. However, understanding the ACCA course fees and the time required to complete the qualification is crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the costs, duration, and strategies to help you make informed decisions.
Understanding ACCA Course Fees
1. Breakdown of Fees for Each Level
The ACCA qualification is divided into three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional. There are essentially four categories of fees :
- One Time Registration Fees
- Annual Subscription Fees
- Exam fees
- One-time Ethics Module Fees
2. Registration and Subscription Fees
To register with ACCA, students must pay a one-time registration fee of approximately INR 3,500 (GBP 30). In addition, there is an annual subscription fee of around INR 14,000 (GBP 137) to maintain your student status.
3. Examination and Tuition Fees
Exam fees vary depending on whether you opt for early, standard, or late registration. Below is the updated breakdown:
- Knowledge Level exams: INR 10,000 (GBP 85) per paper for centre-based exams and INR 12,000 (GBP 105) per paper for remote exams.
- Applied Skills Exams: Corporate Law paper exam fees are the same as Knowledge Level exams. The fee for the remaining five papers is INR 17,000 (GBP 143) per exam for standard entry.
- Strategic Professional Exams:
- Strategic Business Leader (SBL): INR 30,000 (GBP 252)
- Other Strategic Professional Exams: INR 21,000 (GBP 180) per exam
4. Exemption Fees
- Applied Knowledge Exams: INR 9,500 (GBP 84) per exemption.
- Applied Skills Exams: INR 12,300 (GBP 111) per exemption.
However, ACCA ALP like ISDC Direct Partners “A Team Commerce Academy” provides a substantial discount of close to 90% of the ACCA fees to students enrolled through us.
5. Study Material Costs
Official ACCA-approved study materials can cost INR 3,000 to INR 5,000 per paper, if bought separately, depending on the provider. ACCA also provides access to the study hub without any extra cost, giving access to quality online study material and mock tests.
Tuition fees depend on the mode of study: self-study, online classes, or in-person coaching. Typically, tuition costs (including study material) range from INR 1,50,000 to INR 2,50,000, depending on the institute and whether you are enrolling on live or recorded (self-paced) ACCA classes.
Total Cost of Doing ACCA in India
1. Overview of the Total Cost
The ACCA course fees in India vary based on several factors but generally fall within the range of INR 3,50,000 to INR 4,50,000 for the entire course.
2. Potential Additional Costs
Additional expenses may include:
- Exemption Fees: If you qualify for exemptions based on prior education, each paper exemption costs around INR 9,800 to INR 12,300 (GBP 84 to GBP 111) and around INR 1,100 to 1,500 (GBP 10 to GBP 15) per paper after a discount from A Team Commerce Academy. However, students save on exams and tuition fees for the subjects exempted.
- Study Materials: Official ACCA-approved study materials can cost INR 3,000 to INR 5,000 per paper. However, provided within the coaching fees of A Team Commerce Academy.
Travel and Accommodation: For those attending physical classes or exams outside their city. However, a remote exam facility is available where students can give the exams from home.
ACCA Duration in India
1. Standard Course Duration
On average, students complete the ACCA qualification in 2 to 3 years. This duration depends on the number of papers attempted per exam session and the student’s study schedule.
2. Factors Influencing Course Duration
Several factors influence the completion time for ACCA:
- Study Mode: Full-time students may complete it faster than working professionals.
- Exemptions: Fewer papers may mean shorter duration.
Exam Performance: Clearing exams on the first attempt can significantly reduce the time.
3. Flexibility in Completing the Course
One of the key advantages of ACCA is its flexibility. Students can attempt one paper at a time, unlike other professional courses with a grouping system. Allowing you to balance studies with work or other commitments.
How to Plan for ACCA Fees and Duration
1. Effective Financial Planning for ACCA
Planning finances effectively can ease the financial burden of ACCA. Here’s how:
- Budgeting: Calculate total costs, including tuition, exams, and study materials.
- Savings: Start saving early to avoid financial strain.
Payment Plans: A Team Commerce Academy offers instalment options for tuition fees.
2. Tips to Minimize Costs
- Opt for early exam registration to save on fees.
- Explore online tuition and self-paced courses, which are often more affordable than in-person classes.
- Leverage free resources like ACCA’s approved study materials and online forums.
Return on Investment (ROI) of ACCA
1. Career Growth and Salary Potential
ACCA professionals are highly valued globally. In India, ACCA-qualified individuals can expect starting salaries ranging from INR 6,00,000 to INR 8,00,000 annually. With experience, this can grow to INR 15,00,000 or more.
2. Global Opportunities for ACCA Professionals
The ACCA qualification opens doors to opportunities in over 180 countries. It is especially recognized in regions like the UK, Middle East, and Southeast Asia, making it an excellent choice for those seeking international careers.
Scholarships and Discounts Available for ACCA
1. Scholarships for ACCA Students in India
Several scholarships are available to help students manage the ACCA course fees. For instance, ACCA India occasionally offers merit-based scholarships to deserving students.
2. How to Avail Discounts and Financial Aid
- Check if the college where you are pursuing graduation is tied up with ACCA.
- ACCA Approved Learning Partners like ISDC direct partner A Team Commerce Academy provide discounts to Bcom graduates, CA Finalists, CAs and CMA India discounted fees for claiming exemptions.
- Employers may sponsor the ACCA qualification for employees.
Conclusion
The ACCA course fees and duration are significant considerations for anyone planning to pursue this prestigious qualification. However, with proper financial planning, awareness of potential additional costs, and leveraging available scholarships, the journey to becoming an ACCA professional can be both affordable and rewarding. The investment pays off with promising career prospects, global opportunities, and financial growth.