CA vs ACCA - Which is a Better Option for Budding Finance Professionals?



Quick Summary
When considering a career in finance, both Chartered Accountancy (CA) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) are popular choices. CA, governed by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, is highly respected in India and focuses on auditing, taxation, and accounting within public and private sectors. ACCA, established in the UK, offers global recognition and a slightly less demanding examination structure, with exemptions available for CA qualified individuals.

Unlike the old times, the career options for accounting, auditing, taxation are not limited to just a few courses. The horizon has broadened and opened a lot of avenues today. For example CPA,CFA , ACCA .

What is CA?

Chartered Accountancy (CA) has been one of the most sought after courses and a popular choice of profession in India.One of the reasons why people respect Chartered Accountants is not because of the designation or pay, it is mainly because it is not easy to become one. The course is governed by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, a body set up by the Act of Parliament.

CA vs ACCA: Which Finance Qualification is Best

What is ACCA?

ACCA stands for the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants established in 1904 in the UK which is certified by Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. ACCA is a globally accepted degree.

Let us see the differences between CA and ACCA

Point of Difference

CA

ACCA

  1. Governing Body

Governed by Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

Governed by Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

  1. Scope of Work

The main scope is auditing, taxation accounting but not restricted to only public and private entities also includes the Government sectors.

The main scope is directed towards taxation and accounting restricted to private and public sector.

  1. Duration of course

The tenure depends on the capability of the candidate with compulsory 3 year internship (Article ship)

3 Years of study and 2-3 years of training period.

  1. Recognition

Recognised only in India. ICAI has also signed MOUs with countries like UAE, UK, Australia to name a few.

Globally recognised

  1. Cost

Not Expensive

Expensive

  1. Eligibility

To be eligible to register for a CA course candidates should have qualified a minimum of 10+2 examinations.

To be eligible to register under ACCA candidates should have qualified 10+2 examinations with an aggregate of 65% in mathematics or accountancy with a minimum of 50% in other subjects.

  1. Experience

No work experience required to enroll.

The Minimum requirement of enrolling the course is three years of work experience with graduation of 4 years.

  1. Attestation of Financials

Only CA can Attest the Financials

An ACCA cannot Attest the Financials in India.

  1. Levels of Examination

Examination comprises of three levels :

  • Foundation

  • Intermediate

  • Final

Examination comprises of two levels :

  • Fundamentals

  • Professional

  1. Number of papers in the examination.

20 papers

13 papers

Advantage of CA over ACCA

  • An ACCA cannot practice in India unlike a CA. ACCA is limited only for employment.
  • AN ACCA cannot attest the Financials.
  • In India the recognition of ACCA is limited.

Advantage of ACCA over CA

  • ACCA is globally recognised.
  • The course is less tougher than CA.

Is there any exemption for a CA candidate in ACCA?

  • A qualified CA is exempted from 9 papers out of 13 papers from ACCA.
  • An Inter qualified CA candidate is exempted from 6 papers out of 13 papers.

Conclusion

Both CA and ACCA are very in-depth and dynamic courses that include almost everything required by finance professionals. The scope of these professionals are in demand both in India and overseas.

Also Read:

FAQ :

CA is governed by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, while ACCA is governed by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

CA's scope includes auditing, taxation, and accounting for public, private, and government entities. ACCA's scope is primarily directed towards taxation and accounting within private and public sectors.

ACCA is globally recognised, whereas CA is primarily recognised in India, although the ICAI has MOUs with countries like the UAE, UK, and Australia.

No, only a CA can attest financial statements in India; an ACCA cannot.

Yes, a qualified CA is exempted from 9 out of 13 ACCA papers, and an Inter qualified CA candidate is exempted from 6 out of 13 papers.

Both require a minimum of 10+2 qualifications. ACCA also requires an aggregate of 65% in mathematics or accountancy and a minimum of 50% in other subjects.


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I simplify complex income tax, TDS, banking, and investment updates into practical insights for taxpayers, salaried professionals, pensioners, and senior citizens. I regularly write on ITR filing, tax compliance, savings schemes, and the latest financial rule changes in India.

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