ACCA Course Details and Fee Structure in India: 2025 Guide

In today’s competitive job market, acquiring globally recognized qualifications can significantly enhance your career prospects, especially in accounting and finance. One such credential is the ACCA qualification – the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. For Indian students and professionals aiming to build an international accounting career, understanding the ACCA course details and the ACCA course fees is essential.

This comprehensive 2025 guide offers clarity on the structure, duration, and estimated fee components of the ACCA course in India. Whether you’re a commerce graduate, working professional, or student planning your career path, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

What is ACCA?

ACCA stands for the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, a leading global body for professional accountants. It is headquartered in the UK and recognized in over 180 countries, making it one of the most sought-after qualifications for those aspiring to work in global finance and accounting roles.

The ACCA qualification is known for its flexibility, international recognition, and a comprehensive syllabus that prepares candidates for a wide variety of roles in finance, audit, tax, consulting, and business management.

ACCA Course Details: An Overview

To earn the ACCA qualification, candidates must complete a structured series of exams, professional ethics training, and practical experience. Here’s a breakdown of the ACCA course details in 2025:

1. Eligibility Criteria

To begin your ACCA journey in India, you typically need:

• Completion of Class 12 with a minimum percentage in English and Mathematics or Accounts.
  
• For graduates in commerce, some papers may be exempted depending on previous academic credentials.
  

Students who don’t meet the eligibility criteria can start through the Foundation in Accountancy (FIA) route and transition to the ACCA qualification later.

2. ACCA Exam Structure

The ACCA syllabus consists of 13 papers, divided into three key levels:

a) Applied Knowledge Level

This level covers the fundamentals of accounting and business:

• Business and Technology (BT)
  
• Management Accounting (MA)
  
• Financial Accounting (FA)
  

b) Applied Skills Level

More advanced subjects are introduced, such as:

• Corporate and Business Law (LW)
  
• Performance Management (PM)
  
• Taxation (TX)
  
• Financial Reporting (FR)
  
• Audit and Assurance (AA)
  
• Financial Management (FM)
  

c) Strategic Professional Level

This level focuses on strategic decision-making:

• Strategic Business Leader (SBL)
  
• Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)
  

Optional Papers (Choose Two):

• Advanced Financial Management (AFM)
  
• Advanced Performance Management (APM)
  
• Advanced Taxation (ATX)
  
• Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA)
  

In addition to passing these exams, candidates must also complete:

• The Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM)
  
• 36 months of relevant work experience
  

This combination of exams, ethics, and practical experience ensures candidates are well-prepared for the demands of a professional accounting career.

ACCA Course Duration

The ACCA course duration depends on the candidate’s prior qualifications and the number of papers exempted. On average:

• Full-time students may complete it in 2.5 to 3 years
  
• Part-time candidates, especially working professionals, might take up to 4 years
  

With exams conducted quarterly (March, June, September, and December), students have the flexibility to plan their learning pace according to their schedule.

ACCA Course Fees: Components and Structure

When planning for ACCA, it’s essential to understand the ACCA course fees structure. The total cost varies based on factors like exemptions, exam booking time (early or late), and the number of attempts. Below are the key components included in the typical ACCA fee structure in India:

1. Initial Registration Fee

This is a one-time fee paid to ACCA when you register as a student. It grants access to study materials and the student portal.

2. Annual Subscription Fee

This fee is paid annually to maintain your status as an active ACCA student.

3. Exam Fees

Each paper has a corresponding fee. The cost differs for each level—Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional. Booking exams during the early registration period often costs less than standard or late registration.

4. Exemption Fees

If you’re eligible for exemptions based on prior academic qualifications, ACCA charges a fee per exempted subject.

5. Ethics and Professional Skills Module Fee

This is a one-time fee required to complete the Ethics module, which is mandatory for all ACCA students before they can become members.

Please note: The ACCA course fees mentioned here are indicative categories only and do not include actual figures. For the latest fee structure in Indian rupees, refer to the official ACCA website or consult directly with ACCA-authorized representatives.

Additional Expenses to Consider

While planning your ACCA budget, consider the following potential additional costs:

• Study materials (books, revision kits, mock tests)
  
• Access to online learning platforms
  
• Private coaching or tuition (if preferred)
  
• Internet, software, and hardware for remote exams
  
• Re-examination fees in case of failed attempts
  

It’s advisable to allocate a contingency budget to account for such variable expenses in your ACCA journey.

Modes of Study

ACCA is highly flexible in terms of learning formats:

• Self-study: Ideal for disciplined, self-motivated students.
  
• Online learning platforms: Offer live classes, recorded sessions, and mock exams.
  
• Blended learning: Combines classroom and online formats.
  

Students can choose their preferred mode based on their learning style, location, and work schedule.

Career Opportunities After ACCA

Once qualified, ACCA members are recognized globally and can work in multiple roles, such as:

• Financial Analyst
  
• Auditor
  
• Tax Consultant
  
• Financial Controller
  
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
  
• Business Consultant
  

The versatility of the ACCA qualification enables professionals to work in diverse sectors including banking, insurance, manufacturing, consulting, and technology.

Benefits of Pursuing ACCA in India

• Global Recognition: Your qualification is valid across over 180 countries.
  
• Flexible Exam Schedule: Exams are held four times a year.
  
• Work While Studying: Many students pursue ACCA alongside internships or full-time jobs.
  
• Affordable Compared to Other Global Qualifications: While still an investment, ACCA tends to be more affordable than many other international qualifications.

Conclusion

Pursuing ACCA is a smart move for anyone aiming to build a global accounting and finance career. Understanding the ACCA course details and planning for the ACCA course fees is critical for setting realistic expectations and financial planning.

As of 2025, the ACCA qualification continues to be a trusted path for students and professionals seeking comprehensive, flexible, and internationally respected accounting education. With careful planning, dedication, and consistent effort, you can achieve this prestigious designation and open doors to exciting career opportunities worldwide.