ACCA Exams - Why Do We Need Classes for ACCA exams?

ACCA is a globally recognized qualification with industry-relevant content. It’s an excellent way to start a career in accounting and finance. Many students pursue it alongside their graduation to improve their career prospects. The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a professional accounting body founded in 1904 that grants the title of "Chartered Certified Accountant."
Because of its flexible examination scheme and modular structure, ACCA is very appealing. But one common question students ask is: Do I really need classes to pass ACCA?

By Finplan Edu ●Apr 18 2022

ACCA Overview

ACCA is a global accounting qualification that provides deep knowledge of finance, auditing, taxation, and business management. It’s ideal for those looking to build careers in accounting, consulting, or senior financial roles.

Eligibility Criteria:

You need:

  • Two A-Levels and three GCSEs (or equivalent) in five subjects including English and Maths.

Don’t meet this? ACCA in India offers foundation-level qualifications like the Diploma in Financial and Management Accounting to help you start from scratch—perfect for non-commerce backgrounds or students without formal qualifications.

ACCA Qualification Path

To become ACCA-qualified, you must complete:

  • Up to 13 exams

  • The Ethics and Professional Skills module

  • Three years of practical experience in a relevant finance or accounting role

The qualification can be completed in 3 years, though ACCA allows up to 10 years to finish.

ACCA Exam Structure

ACCA exams are divided into three levels:

Applied Knowledge

  • BT: Business and Technology

  • MA: Management Accounting

  • FA: Financial Accounting

Applied Skills

  • LW: Corporate and Business Law

  • PM: Performance Management

  • TX: Taxation

  • FR: Financial Reporting

  • AA: Audit and Assurance

  • FM: Financial Management

Strategic Professional

  • SBL: Strategic Business Leader

  • SBR: Strategic Business Reporting

  • Two of the following: AFM, APM, ATX

Each exam builds your technical and strategic skills for a real-world finance career.

ACCA Difficulty & Failing

ACCA exams are challenging but passable with the right preparation. You need just 50% to pass each paper.

Some papers, like Audit and Assurance (AA) or Performance Management (PM), are known for their difficulty. But failing isn’t the end—students often pass on second attempts by adjusting their preparation and using better resources.

The key to success is:

  • Consistent study

  • Understanding the exam format

  • Practicing with past questions

ACCA Course Duration & Entry

You can complete ACCA in as little as 2.5 to 3 years if you study full-time, or longer if you’re working while studying.

And yes—you don’t need a college degree to start ACCA. If you don’t meet entry requirements, you can begin with foundation-level qualifications and build your way up.

ACCA Learning Formats

ACCA is designed to be flexible:

  • Online learning lets you study anytime, anywhere

  • Face-to-face classes are ideal if you prefer structured schedules and peer interaction

  • Blended learning combines both formats for added flexibility

These options allow you to tailor your ACCA journey to your personal schedule—whether you're a student or a full-time professional.

Need for ACCA Coaching

While self-study is possible, coaching is highly recommended for:

  • Covering the full syllabus

  • Gaining insights from experienced faculty

  • Practicing exam-style questions

  • Staying on track with structured study plans and mock exams

ACCA Coaching in India can dramatically improve your confidence and chances of passing, especially in tough subjects.

Why Finplan Edu?

Now that you understand the ACCA journey, choosing the right support system is your next big decision.

Finplan Edu is one of India’s top ACCA Platinum Approved Learning Partners, offering:

✅ Practical, industry-oriented teaching—not just theory
✅ Online, classroom, and blended learning options
✅ Experienced faculty and personal mentorship
✅ Doubt-solving sessions, mock exams, and performance tracking
✅ A proven record of helping students succeed in both exams and careers

Whether you're just starting or resitting a paper, Finplan Edu provides the structure and support you need to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I pursue ACCA right after school?
Yes. If you meet the minimum academic requirements (two A-Levels and three GCSEs or equivalent), you can start directly. If not, ACCA offers foundation-level courses to help you get started.

2. How many exams do I need to pass for ACCA?
You’ll need to pass up to 13 exams, depending on your previous qualifications. Some students may receive exemptions for certain papers.

3. Is ACCA recognized internationally?
Yes. ACCA is a globally recognized qualification accepted in over 180 countries, making it ideal for international career opportunities in finance, accounting, and auditing.

4. How long does it typically take to complete ACCA?
You can complete the qualification in as little as 2.5 to 3 years if you study full-time. However, ACCA gives you up to 10 years to finish.

5. Can I study ACCA while working?
Absolutely. ACCA is designed for flexibility. With online and blended learning options, many students balance ACCA studies with full-time or part-time jobs.

6. What if I fail an ACCA paper?
Failing isn’t the end. You can retake any paper, and many students pass on the second attempt with better preparation and support. It’s common, and ACCA provides resources to help you improve.

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