📝 Blog Description:
Confused between ACCA and CPA? You’re not alone! This in-demand blog breaks down the key differences between the ACCA (UK-based) and CPA (US-based) qualifications — including eligibility, exam structure, global recognition, job scope, salary potential, and which is better for your career goals. Whether you’re a commerce student or a working professional, this guide will help you choose the right path in global accounting.
📘 What Is ACCA?
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a globally recognized accounting qualification based in the UK. It prepares professionals for careers in finance, accounting, auditing, taxation, and management across more than 180+ countries.
ACCA is ideal for students and professionals who want an international career in accounting or finance without being restricted to one country’s regulations. It’s known for its flexibility, global recognition, and practical approach to learning.
Understanding Key Differences ACCA and CPA
Both ACCA and CPA are accounting courses and there are many diffrences between them. lets discuss ACCA vs CPA debate.
🌍 1. Origin & Global Recognition
- ACCA: UK-based, recognized in over 180 countries, especially in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
- CPA: US-based, primarily recognized in the United States and internationally by US-based companies.
✅ Choose ACCA if you’re targeting Europe, Asia, or global roles.
✅ Choose CPA if you’re aiming for the U.S. or multinational firms with U.S. clients.
🎓 2. Eligibility Criteria
- ACCA: 12th pass students (Commerce stream) can apply.
- CPA: Requires a bachelor’s degree with 120–150 credit hours in accounting (typically post-graduate level for Indian students).
✅ ACCA is more accessible for students.
✅ CPA suits graduates or professionals with a commerce background.
📚 3. Exam Structure
- ACCA: 13 exams (with exemptions available), divided into 3 levels: Knowledge, Skills, and Strategic Professional.
- CPA: 4 sections – AUD, BEC, FAR, REG (Uniform CPA Exam).
✅ ACCA is longer but offers exemptions. ✅ CPA is shorter but more intense.
🕒 4. Duration
- ACCA: 2–3 years (depends on study pace and exemptions).
- CPA: 12–18 months (if done consistently).
💸 5. Cost of the Course
- ACCA: Approx ₹2–3 lakhs in India.
- CPA: Approx ₹3.5–4.5 lakhs (including international exam and licensing fees).
💼 6. Career Opportunities
- ACCA: Popular in global firms, especially in audit, taxation, and corporate finance in the UK, UAE, Singapore, etc.
- CPA: Highly valued in the U.S., Big 4 firms, and MNCs with U.S. clients.
💼 7. ACCA vs CPA Salary
In India, both ACCA and CPA qualifications lead to competitive salaries.
ACCA: Entry-level professionals can expect INR 4-8 lakhs per annum, growing significantly with experience, potentially reaching INR 15-30 lakhs for senior roles.
US CPA: In India, starting salaries typically range from INR 7-10 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals or those in Big 4 firms often commanding INR 12-25 lakhs or even higher in leadership positions.
⚖️ Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose ACCA if you want international mobility, flexible learning, and are starting early in your career.
- Choose CPA if you’re focused on U.S.-based roles or working with multinational firms.
❓ FAQs on ACCA vs CPA
✅ 1. Which is better — ACCA or CPA?
It depends on your career goals.
- Choose CPA if you want to work in the U.S. or with U.S.-based companies.
- Choose ACCA if you’re aiming for a global career in Europe, the Middle East, or Asia.
✅ 2. Can I do ACCA or CPA after 12th?
- You can pursue ACCA after 12th (Commerce with Accounts & English).
- CPA requires a bachelor’s degree (and often a master’s or additional credits for Indian students).
✅ 3. Who earns more — ACCA or CPA?
CPAs generally earn more in the U.S. or in multinational firms, but ACCAs also earn competitive salaries in global markets, especially in the UK, UAE, and Asia.
✅ 4. Is ACCA valid in the USA?
ACCA is not recognized for CPA licensure in the U.S., but many U.S.-based companies still hire ACCA professionals for finance roles.
✅ 5. Can I do both ACCA and CPA?
Yes, many professionals pursue both qualifications to maximize global career opportunities. Some ACCA members even use their background to meet CPA requirements later.
✅ 6. Which is easier — ACCA or CPA?
ACCA has more exams but is spread out and offers flexibility. CPA has fewer exams but they are more intense and time-restricted.
✅ 7. What are the job roles after ACCA and CPA?
- ACCA: Auditor, Tax Analyst, Financial Controller, Internal Auditor
- CPA: Public Accountant, Tax Advisor, Financial Analyst, CFO, Forensic Accountant
