Navigating the ACCA Enrollment Process in 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide

Embarking on the journey to become a Chartered Certified Accountant through the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in 2025 is a strategic decision for aspiring finance professionals. This globally recognized qualification opens doors to a plethora of opportunities in accounting, auditing, and finance sectors worldwide. To assist you in this endeavor, here's a detailed, step-by-step guide to enrolling in the ACCA qualification.

 Understand the ACCA Qualification Structure

Before initiating the enrollment process, it's crucial to comprehend the ACCA course details. The ACCA qualification comprises:

• 13 Exams: Divided into three levels:

  • Applied Knowledge: Business and Technology (BT), Management Accounting (MA), Financial Accounting (FA)

  • Applied Skills: Performance Management (PM), Taxation (TX), Financial Reporting (FR), Audit and Assurance (AA), Financial Management (FM)

  • Strategic Professional: Strategic Business Reporting (SBR), Strategic Business Leader (SBL), and two optional papers from Advanced Financial Management (AFM), Advanced Performance Management (APM), Advanced Taxation (ATX), and Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA)

• Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM): A mandatory online module focusing on professional ethics and skills.

• 36 Months of Practical Experience Requirement (PER): Gained through relevant work experience in the field of finance or accounting.

1. Check Eligibility

For Indian students, the typical eligibility criteria are:

• Completion of Class 12 with:

  • Minimum 65% in English and Mathematics/Accounts

  • Minimum 50% in other subjects

If you don't meet these criteria, you can start with the Foundations in Accountancy (FIA) route, which allows you to build foundational knowledge before progressing to the ACCA qualification.

2. Gather Required Documents

Ensure you have the following documents ready for the registration process:

• Scanned copies of Class 10 and 12 mark sheets

• Government-issued ID proof (Aadhar, Passport, etc.)

• Recent passport-sized photograph

• Degree certificates and transcripts (if applying for exemptions)

All documents should be in English or officially translated.

4. Register on the ACCA Website

To register:

1. Visit the official ACCA website

2. Click on "Apply Now"

3. Fill in your personal and academic details

4. Upload the required documents

5. Choose your preferred study and exam centers

6. Pay the registration fee

Upon successful registration, you'll receive an ACCA student number, granting access to study materials and exam scheduling.

5. Apply for Exemptions (If Applicable)

If you have prior qualifications such as B.Com, M.Com, CA Inter, or MBA in Finance, you may be eligible for exemptions. Typically, up to 9 exam papers can be waived. To apply:

• Declare your academic qualifications during registration

• Upload transcripts and syllabus details

• ACCA will assess and grant exemptions based on your previous studies

Each exemption incurs a fee of ₹13,650 per paper.

6. Choose Your Study Method

In India, students have several study options:

• Self-study: Most cost-effective but requires discipline

• E-learning platforms: Offers flexibility and structured learning

• Classroom coaching: Provides direct interaction with instructors

Select the method that best fits your learning style and schedule.

7. Plan Your Exam Schedule

ACCA exams are held quarterly:

• March, June, September, and December

Each session allows you to take up to 4 exams, totaling 8 exams per year. Plan your exam attempts based on your preparation and availability.

8. Practice and Take Mock Tests

Regular practice is crucial for success. Utilize:

• Past exam papers

• Revision kits

• Mock tests

These resources help familiarize you with the exam format and improve time management skills.

9. Complete the Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM)

The EPSM is a mandatory online module that focuses on developing professional ethics and skills. It typically takes 15–20 hours to complete and should be done after passing the Applied Skills exams.

10. Fulfill the Practical Experience Requirement (PER)

To qualify for ACCA membership, you must complete 36 months of relevant work experience and achieve 9 performance objectives. This experience can be gained during or after your studies and must be documented and signed off by a practical experience supervisor.

11. Become an ACCA Member

Upon completing all exams, the EPSM, and the PER, you can apply for ACCA membership. Once approved, you will be recognized as a Chartered Certified Accountant, opening doors to global career opportunities in accounting and finance.