Everything You Need To Know About ACCA Exams – Structure, Timetable, Fees, CBE and What To Expect On The Exam Day

If you’re preparing for ACCA exams, this blog is your go-to resource. We’ll talk all about the ACCA exam booking, exam structure, timetable, ACCA exam fees, ACCA book exam procedures, and what to expect on exam day. Whether you’re a seasoned candidate or just starting your ACCA journey, this guide will help you easily navigate the exam process. Get ready to explore ACCA exams, including important dates, ACCA coaching details, fees, booking details, and essential tips for exam success.

What Is the ACCA Exam?

The ACCA exam is a globally recognized qualification for accountants and finance professionals. ACCA exam comprises three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional, covering essential accounting principles, financial management, and strategic leadership. The ACCA exams include computer-based and paper-based formats. Candidates need relevant education or experience and must fulfill Practical Experience Requirements. The ACCA certification is valued internationally and supports careers in various finance roles.

ACCA Exam Structure

So, in the ACCA exams, there are 13 papers you need to tackle, along with an Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM) to earn your ACCA Qualification. The first 4 papers in the ACCA exams are On-Demand Exams, meaning you can take them at a Computer Based Exam Center approved by ACCA whenever you feel ready. In the ACCA exam pattern, from the 5th to the 13th paper, you can sit for exams in 4 sessions throughout the year – March, June, September, or December. This gives you fantastic flexibility and control over when you want to tackle these exams.

In a modular fashion, you can attempt a maximum of four exams per ACCA exam session and up to eight different exams each calendar year. Typically, it takes 2 to 3 years to complete all these ACCA exams, but if you’re eligible for exemptions, you can fast-track your qualification in as little as 6 months!

To know everything about ACCA exams, watch the below video:

Continue reading to learn more about the timetable, ACCA exam fees, method, tips & tricks for the ACCA exam day-

ACCA Exam Schedule

ACCA exams are conducted in four sessions throughout the year, offering candidates flexibility in planning their exam strategy. The ACCA exam sessions are held in March, June, September, and December, allowing candidates to choose the most convenient time to sit for their exams.

Each ACCA exam session covers a range of papers, and candidates can attempt a maximum of four exams per session and up to eight different exams each calendar year. This modular approach allows candidates to progress at their own pace, with the opportunity to complete all ACCA exams within 2 to 3 years or as quickly as 6 months with exemptions.
Candidates should consult the official ACCA website for the most accurate and up-to-date ACCA exam timetable, including specific dates, deadlines for exam entry, and any updates that may impact their study plans. The ACCA exam timetable also outlines important dates for registering for exams, submitting applications for exemptions, and other critical deadlines that can influence a candidate’s exam strategy and preparation.

ACCA Exam Months

ACCA exams are held four times yearly: March, June, September, and December. Each session offers opportunities to sit for various Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional papers. Planning your study schedule around these months ensures you’re prepared and can meet your career goals efficiently. Remember to check specific deadlines and requirements for each exam session.

ACCA Exam Dates

Planning and preparation are key to preparing for your ACCA exams. Therefore, knowing the ACCA exam dates and important deadlines is crucial so you can work in advance.
Please refer to this link for the ACCA exam dates 2024 and schedule – Click here to know more.

These sessions are designed to provide flexibility and meet the needs of students in different locations, with some exams available as remote options depending on the session. ACCA exam dates, ACCA exam start times and specific details can be found on the ACCA Exam Planner and will be stated on exam dockets. Always check for any timetable changes and ACCA exam dates announced at least 6 months before the ACCA exam to ensure you can plan accordingly.

ACCA Exam Fees

When you embark on your ACCA qualifications, it’s crucial to understand the financial side of things. Here’s a breakdown of the ACCA exam fees in Indian rupees :

Initial Registration Fee:

This ticket to the ACCA world costs only £30 (approximately ₹3,000). These ACCA exam prices are designed to be accessible, opening doors to a world of professional opportunities. It’s like getting your passport stamped for a global accounting adventure!

ACCA Exam Fees:

Here’s a breakdown of the costs you might encounter while taking ACCA exams:

Knowledge Level Exams:

There is no standard fee for the knowledge level exam. To get accurate information about the exam fees, reach out to an ALP like Synthesis Learning, who can provide the specific details you need.

Applied Skills exams:

The standard entry fee for any ACCA exam format is £143, but if you need to register late at a center, it could go up to £365.

Strategic Professional exams:

The ACCA professional level exam fee for the Strategic Business Leader (SBL) exam is £252 (27,872), but if you need to register late at a centre, it could go up to £405. ACCA exam fees for Strategic Business Reporting (SBR), fees start at £180 (19,908) and can reach up to £405 for late centre entries. These are your gates to higher stakes and more significant challenges.

Exemption Fees: If you qualify for exemptions, you’ll need to pay:

Applied Knowledge Exams: £84 for Indian applicants

Applied Skills Exams: £111 for Indian applicants

These ACCA exemption fees are approximately equal to the actual exam fees for those papers. As a Platinum-approved learning partner of ACCA, we offer significant discounts on these fees (up to 80%). Don’t hesitate to contact us at 9320007893 to claim these exemption fee discounts and lighten the load on your wallet!

Annual Subscription Fees:

To keep your membership active and access continuous resources, you must pay an annual subscription fee of £134 (about ₹13,400). Consider it your membership fee to the elite club of global accountants, ensuring you stay connected and relevant in the accounting sphere.

Ethics and Professional Skills Module:

This essential training, which costs £79, is required before you take the Strategic Professional exams. It’s designed to hone your ethical and professional skills, equipping you for the exams and your future career.

Coaching Fees:

You’ll pay these in the local currency to your approved learning provider. These fees ensure you receive the best guidance and support throughout your ACCA journey, helping you navigate the complexities of the curriculum and exam preparations.

Factors Affecting ACCA Course Fees 

Several factors can influence the ACCA course fees. Here are some key factors:

Provider and Location:

The ACCA course fees can vary depending on whether you choose an online course, attend a local class, or self-paced recorded sessions. Different training providers may also have different pricing structures.

Study Materials:

Including study materials such as textbooks, practice exams, and online resources can affect the overall cost of the course.

Examination Fees:

ACCA has separate fees for exam entries. The ACCA exam fees in India can vary depending on the exam level and the registration timing. To manage costs effectively, it’s important to be aware of the ACCA exam fees in India and check the specific fee structure for each exam level and plan your registration accordingly.

Method Of Exams

Your exam can be taken using either the on-demand CBE or session CBE method. There are some important differences between the exam methods, such as their availability, exam structure, and how to book the exam. Your location will also determine whether you can take these exams at an exam center or as a remotely invigilated exam.

On-Demand CBE

On-demand CBEs offer a flexible approach to exam scheduling. They cover all Applied Knowledge exams and some Corporate and Business Law (LW) variant exams. To book an on-demand CBE, you can contact a test center directly or use ACCA’s convenient remote on-demand CBE booking service. This flexibility allows you to sit the exam at a time that suits you, either at a test centre or remotely.

One key advantage of on-demand CBEs is the immediate availability of your results. After completing the exam, your results are displayed immediately and uploaded to your ACCA account within 72 hours. This swift feedback can be valuable for planning your next steps in your exam preparation journey.

Session CBE

On the other hand, session CBEs follow a more structured approach. For all other exams not covered by on-demand CBEs, you must book your exam through the myACCA section of the website. Once you have booked your exam, you can view, cancel, or amend your booking details.
It’s important to note that any changes or cancellations to your exam booking must be made before the standard entry deadline. This ensures that your exam fee is credited to your account, providing flexibility in unforeseen circumstances

How To Book An ACCA Exam 

Booking your ACCA exam is easy and can be done online. Just follow these simple steps to get everything sorted:

Log in to Your MyACCA Account
Go to your ACCA account to manage your exam bookings.

Go to the “Exam Entry” Section
Find the part where you can register for exams.

Choose Your Exam Session and Location
Pick when and where you want to take the exams. ACCA offers exams throughout the year, either on-demand or in specific sessions.

Select the Exams You Want to Take
Think about any exemptions you might have and plan your exams based on what you’re good at or need to improve.

Review and Confirm Your Entries
Before you finalise everything, check all the details to make sure you’ve chosen the right exams, sessions, and locations.

Pay the Exam Fees
Pay for the exams online using a credit or debit card. 

Get Your Exam Docket
Download your exam docket from your MyACCA account about two weeks before your exam. You’ll need this on the exam day.

Now that you know how to book your ACCA exam, let’s talk about how you can save on costs.

How To Reduce ACCA Costs?

To save on exemption fees, start by signing up with an Approved Learning Provider (ALP). For registration with ACCA, ALP’s can provide you with exclusive discount codes. These codes are specifically provided to reduce the cost of exemption fees. By using the discount codes during your exemption application process, you can benefit from significant savings, potentially reducing the fee by up to 80%. This process allows you to manage costs more effectively while meeting your educational or professional requirements.

ACCA Exam Booking Deadline

To ensure a smooth and cost-effective ACCA exam experience, it’s crucial to be mindful of booking deadlines. Here’s a brief overview of the ACCA exam booking process and some tips to help you navigate it efficiently:

ACCA Exam Booking Deadlines:

Standard Entry: Book several weeks before the exam date to avoid extra fees.

Late Entry: Available after the standard deadline with additional charges.

Tips:

Plan Ahead: Check deadlines on the ACCA website and book early.

Check Fees: Be aware of fees for late entries, rescheduling, or cancellations.

Book Online: Use the ACCA website or an approved provider for booking.

Staying aware of these deadlines helps ensure a smooth exam experience and avoids unnecessary costs.

Choosing the Right Method

The choice between on-demand and session CBEs ultimately depends on your preferences and study schedule. If you prefer flexibility and immediate results, on-demand CBEs may be the way. However, if you thrive in a more structured environment and like to plan your exam schedule, session CBEs might be a better fit.

ACCA Exam Centres in India

Choosing the right ACCA exam centres is crucial for a smooth exam experience. Understanding the centre’s location, facilities, and scheduling options can significantly impact your preparation and performance. For detailed information about available ACCA exam centres in India and to find the one that best suits your needs, visit the official ACCA website to know the ACCA exam centres. They provide comprehensive details to help you make an informed decision.

Tips For The ACCA Exam Day

Here are some essential tips to ace your ACCA exam day:

An Examination Attendance Docket will be made available to you from the myACCA section of the website. This includes a timetable of all the exams you are registered for, details of the desk assigned to you for each paper, and the address of your exam center. The supervisor will collect the docket during your exam to record the attendance. If you have any other exam during the session, the docket shall be returned to you.

The Examination Attendance Docket also details important exam regulations and guidelines. You should read these carefully to familiarise yourself with the ACCA exam procedure and what equipment you can take during the exams.

Please bring some official photographic ID, such as a valid passport, driving license, or national identity card. Your exam docket and this document will be checked during the exam to confirm your identity.

Arrive at the ACCA exam centre about 30 minutes before the start of the exam. This will give you time to relax and prepare yourself.
On exam day, stay calm and focused. Trust in your preparation and approach the exam with confidence.

How Synthesis Learning Helps You Ace ACCA Exams Better

Why should Synthesis Learning be your go-to for smashing those ACCA exams? Learn why we’re the dream team for your ACCA journey:

ACCA’s Highest Quality Rating: Platinum Approved Partner for top-notch education.

Rigorous, Stellar Education: Platinum Status reflects our rigorous standards and exceptional training through expert tutors.

Learn Your Way, Anywhere: Flexible learning modes (Classroom, Live Online, Self-paced) fit your schedule and style. Click on the Link

Join the High Achievers: Surround yourself with ambitious students & global rankers. Click on the Link

Success Stories: Get inspired by real ACCA & career launch stories. Plan your path to the top. Watch on YouTube

Tried, Tested & Trusted by the Best – Our 4-Step proven methodology – Counselling, Coaching, Mentoring & Placement, always does the trick
So, are you ready to team up with a learning partner who’s as committed to your ACCA success as you are? Synthesize what you’re learning with us, and let’s hit those books and aim for the stars! Check out how we make ACCA achievers on our Synthesis Learning ACCA page.

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Conclusion:

Understanding the ACCA exam structure, timetable, fees, and CBE format is crucial for success. With Synthesis Learning, India’s leading ACCA preparation provider, you’ll receive expert guidance to navigate these aspects seamlessly. Our tailored support ensures you’re well-prepared for exam day. Trust Synthesis Learning to help you achieve your ACCA goals with confidence.

FAQ’s

How do I prepare for the ACCA exams?

Preparation involves studying the ACCA syllabus, using official study materials, taking practice exams, and possibly enrolling in preparatory courses or workshops.

How often are ACCA exams held?

ACCA exams are held four times a year, in March, June, September, and December.

Can I pay my ACCA exam fees online?

Yes, you can pay your ACCA exam fees online through the ACCA’s official website. Payment methods typically include credit/debit cards and sometimes bank transfers.

How many ACCA exams are there?

The ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualification consists of 13 exams, divided into three levels:

• Applied Knowledge (3 exams)
• Applied Skills (6 exams)
• Strategic Professional (4 exams, including 2 compulsory and 2 options)

What are the ACCA exam levels?

Following are the ACCA Exam levels

• Applied Knowledge:
• Business Technology
• Management Accounting
• Financial Accounting

Applied Skills:

• Corporate and Business Law
• Performance Management
• Taxation
• Financial Management
• Audit and Assurance
• Financial Reporting

Strategic Professional:

• Essentials (compulsory):
• Strategic Business Leadership
• Strategic Business Reporting

Options (choose 2 out of 4):

• Advanced Taxation
• Advanced Audit and Assurance
• Advanced Financial Management
• Advanced Performance Management