Updated: Sep 27
While CA, ACCA, yet CPA boast solid reputations, they suit varied ambitions. If India feels like home professionally, go with CA. For work spanning borders, ACCA shines. Should America beckon, CPA fits nicely. Your choice hinges on where you want to be, alongside what you hope to achieve
ACCA vs CA vs CPA – Which is Better for Your Career?
Choosing from accounting credentials like CA, US CPA, or ACCA feels overwhelming. So, we’ll stick to the big three – ACCA, CPA, then CA – to make things clearer. Both are important worldwide, opening doors to good jobs. So, people studying them frequently ask themselves which one is better – figuring out what’s good or bad about each choice becomes key before they commit.
ACCA, CA, or CPA – each qualification carries weight in demanding fields. Professional organizations showcase how these credentials matter when it comes to accounting moreover finance. Each credential unlocks different job advantages - think worldwide acceptance, typical earnings, exam results, student counts, alongside member figures. If you’re eyeing ACCA certification, signing up for a well-regarded acca coaching centres in bangalore, or working with proven training facilities there, delivers focused support boosting your odds of passing ACCA vs CA vs CPA – Which is Better for Your Career?
7 Important Facts About ACCA
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is one of the most well-respected qualifications in the world of business and finance on a global level. Over the decades, the ACCA qualification has become extremely well-known throughout various countries and is constantly rising in popularity, particularly amongst students coming from either commerce or business related discipline.
It is no secret that achieving the ACCA qualification is no small amount of hard work. Studying for the qualification requires consistent commitment, self-belief and focus. You need to be prepared for sustained business effort at each level, in order to clear the exams and to create a successful career.
To help you appreciate more of why this qualification is so extraordinary, here are nine facts about ACCA that every aspiring professional should become acquainted with, before venturing into the professional accountancy world.
Because ACCA is internationally recognized in more than 180 countries, it is colloquially called the Global Chartered Accountancy qualification. ACCA is the most recognized chartered accountancy certification globally and therefore also one of the highest esteemed certifications in accounting and finance.
Another unique feature of ACCA is that it has no age restriction. Previously the Mature Student Entry Route (MSER) required candidates to be at least 21 years old. However, since the most recent removal of the MSER regulation in January 2011, students of any age can now register and begin their ACCA journey!
That said, the actual ACCA exams are notoriously difficult, and this is especially true of the difficulty levels generally increase as students progress through the various levels which must be completed before doing the ACCA final exams (Strategic Professional Level). Therefore, while I highly recommend taking a reputable ACCA coaching program that will increase your confidence and improve the likelihood of you passing on your first attempt, this does not guarantee that you will pass.
As a genuinely global accounting qualification, ACCA gives individuals the right to work across borders, hence this offers you more career opportunities worldwide.
13 papers divided into 3 levels—Application Understanding, Practical Skills, & Strategy Professional—make up the ACCA qualification.
Four times a year, in March, June, September, and December, the tests are administered. The candidate must receive at least 50% on each paper in order to pass.
Two A levels and three GCSEs (or equivalent) in five areas, including math and English, are required for qualifying. To begin ACCA studies, the candidate must also be at least eighteen years old and be able to exhibit proficient English language skills.
Top 9 Facts About CA
Before we jump into the comparisons of ACCA vs CA vs CPA, it is essential to get a full understanding of the most important facts about Chartered Accountancy (CA) program.
In India, a Chartered Accountant is one of the most sought-after and respected career options in finance and accounting. The job of CA entails playing a crucial role in contributing to the establishment and maintenance of the financial health of a company or an organization. Chartered Accountants contribute to the financial health of an organization by budgeting, taxation, auditing, and strategic business planning. The combination of experience, training, and education that a CA must go through makes them a top-notch performing professionals in all industries.
Here are 9 key facts every aspiring candidate should know about the profession of CA:
The governing organization in charge of overseeing and managing the CA qualification is the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).
The three phases of the CA journey are Foundation, Intermediate (IPCC), and Final.
In addition to these tests, applicants must finish a mandated articleship with a company or organization of their choosing, which gives them real-world, hands-on work experience.
Furthermore, having a CA credential improves employment chances by opening doors to obtaining advanced degrees like an MBA, CFA, or other degrees.
Because they can take breaks to evaluate the latest modifications and then return to work, a certified public accountant can easily maintain continuity in their job.
There are no age or reservation limits with regard to ICAI. Access to the chartered accountant process and subsequent opportunities are equal for all.
One can earn a bachelor's degree and complete the CA Foundation at the same time. However, in order to receive this certification, a bachelor's degree in commerce is necessary.
The average salary for a chartered accountant in India ranges from ₹7 LPA to ₹10 LPA, contingent on industry, experience, and talent.
Since the CA qualification is mainly accepted in India, it is a regionally unique but nationally recognized credential.
After reviewing some important CPA facts, we will get into the specific distinctions between ACCA, CA, and CPA.
9 Great Facts About CPA
The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is known as one of the highest achievements in accounting. Earning the CPA represents advanced capabilities in accounting, auditing and finance. It has a top reputation around the world.
Taking the CPA program stands for validation of your professional experiences, and gives you a multitude of job possibilities in the domestic and international markets.
The US CPA license is awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) - one of the most prominent accounting organizations in the world.
A CPA license allows you to sign tax returns, audit reports, and even practice (as owner or partner) in a public accounting firm.
Since CPAs are globally recognized as some of the best qualified accounting professionals, if you hold a CPA license, you can work in many different industries, including finance, consulting, auditing, taxation, and even corporate management.
Each of the four portions that make up the CPA exam is intended to assess a particular area of expertise:
The focus of Audit & Attestation (AUD) is on professional obligations, ethics, and auditing practices.
Governance of corporations, economic notions, and business fundamentals are all covered in Business Environment & Concepts (BEC).
The Financial Accountancy and Reporting (FAR) exam assesses competency in accounting standards and financial reporting systems.
Regulation (REG): Consists of business law, professional rules, and taxation.
The US CPA test is a difficult but attainable credential, with an average of 50% of applicants passing it.
Depending on the candidate's dedication and level of preparation, the CPA program normally takes seven to twelve months to finish.
Since studying mathematics in the 12th grade is not required, individuals from a variety of academic backgrounds can pursue this credential, which is a big plus.
One of the most flexible accounting certificates in the world, a certified public accountant (CPA) can work in a wide range of capacities, including tax preparation, financial analysis, auditing and review, consulting, financial planning, and more.
Fresher certified public accountants in India typically make about ₹6 LPA, however depending on the position and company, salaries in major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and New Delhi can reach up to ₹13.8 LPA.
The main differences between ACCA, CA, and CPA will now be discussed, assisting you in selecting the certification that best suits your professional objectives.
Is ACCA Superior to CA?
The best option between ACCA and CA depends on a number of important considerations.
Both degrees can greatly advance your career by providing access to senior positions and well-paying careers in accounting and finance. On the other hand, ACCA experts typically make more money than their CA colleagues.
Recognition is another significant distinction. The CA degree has little international recognition and is mostly regarded in India. On the other hand, ACCA is highly recognized internationally in more than 180 nations and provides professionals with a vast array of job options worldwide.
Pursuing ACCA is the best option if you want to establish a career overseas because it is well-known in many nations. However, because of its great reputation and high demand in India, a certified public accountant (CA) is a great choice if you want to start your career there.
Ultimately, whether you want to work abroad or remain in India will determine the best course of action.
Before you choose, the next part will help you get a better understanding of the main distinctions between ACCA, CA, and CPA in case you're still not sure which path is ideal for you.
Difference Between CA and ACCA
Specifics | CA (Chartered Accountant) | ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) |
Recognition | Primarily recognized in India and to some extent in the UAE. | Recognized in over 180 countries worldwide. |
Duration | Takes about 3–5 years, plus 1 additional year of internship. | Can be completed in around 3 years, plus 2–3 years of training. |
Exam Structure | Divided into 3 levels: Foundation, Intermediate (IPCC), and Final. | Divided into 3 levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional. |
Job Roles | Accounting Manager, Cost Accountant, Taxation Expert, Auditor, CFO, etc. | Forensic Accountant, Auditor, Tax Specialist, CFO, etc. |
Exemptions | No exemptions are granted. | Offers exemptions for other qualifications. For example, a CA Inter pass must attempt 9 of 15 exams, while a qualified CA needs to appear for only 5 of 14 papers. |
Salary | Average salary: ₹7–8 LPA. | Average salary: ₹8–9 LPA. |
To further understand how these credentials vary, the next step in comparing ACCA, CA, and CPA is to look at the main characteristics of each.
Difference Between CPA and CA
Specifics | CA (Chartered Accountant) | CPA (Certified Public Accountant) |
Recognition | A national qualification, highly valued in India and recognized in some Middle Eastern countries. | An international credential recognized across the globe. |
Duration | Usually takes 4–5 years to complete. | Can be completed in about 7–12 months. |
Licensing | Requires a minimum of 3 years of articleship to obtain a CA license. | Requires at least 1 year of relevant experience in finance or accounting for licensure. |
Job Role | Focuses on finance management, auditing, taxation, and compliance. | Acts more as a strategic business advisor with expertise in international standards. |
Salary | Average salary: ₹8–9 LPA. | Average salary: ₹6–7 LPA in India. |
Exam Pattern | Divided into 3 levels: Foundation, Intermediate (IPCC), and Final. | Comprises 4 exams: AUD, BEC, FAR, and REG. |
To finish the 3-way comparison, the final step in comprehending ACCA vs. CA vs. CPA is to examine the distinctions between ACCA and CPA.
Difference Between ACCA and CPA
Specifics | ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) | CPA (Certified Public Accountant) |
Recognition | Accepted in over 180 countries worldwide. | Primarily recognized in the United States, with global relevance in regions where US firms operate. |
Duration | Can take 6–24 months, depending on exemptions and pace of study. | Typically completed in 12–18 months. |
Exemptions | Up to 9 exam exemptions are available depending on prior qualifications. | No exemptions are granted. |
Job Roles | Roles such as Financial Accountant, Finance Manager, Corporate Treasurer, Financial Controller, etc. | Roles include Public Accountant, Tax Examiner, Business Systems Analyst, Forensic Accountant, etc. |
Salary | Average salary ranges from ₹5 LPA to ₹16 LPA, depending on experience and location. | Average salary in India is around ₹6–7 LPA. |
Number of Exams | A total of 15 papers divided across three levels. | Consists of 4 exams: AUD, BEC, FAR, and REG. |
India's ACCA, CA, and CPA salaries
In terms of pay, ACCA and CA professionals often receive comparable compensation. Both certifications normally earn a yearly package of ₹6–8 LPA as freshmen.
The beginning compensation for CPAs is competitive as well, with freshers often earning between ₹6 and ₹7 LPA. As they gain experience, certified public accountants can anticipate a very fulfilling career path that will lead them to senior positions with competitive compensation.
All three certifications—ACCA, CA, and CPA—have good earning potential in the long run, with incomes increasing dramatically as workers acquire experience and exposure to the sector.
One important factor that warrants particular consideration in a thorough comparison of ACCA, CA, and CPA is the ACCA exclusions. These exemptions speed up and improve the efficiency of the pathway by allowing applicants with prior qualifications—such as a CA Inter or a finished degree in accounting or finance—to avoid some ACCA exams.
In conclusion
The ACCA, CA, and CPA are the top three professional certifications to think about for anyone hoping to pursue a career in accounting or finance. The main distinctions between them were discussed in this article, together with information on their recognition, exam format, exemptions, length, employment functions, and potential earnings.
Even though each of these credentials presents fantastic employment chances, a candidate's commitment and readiness are ultimately what determine success. Enrolling at a reputable school like iProledge Academy might have a big impact because the exams are quite competitive.
Students at NSA have access to pre-recorded lectures, live interactive seminars, specialized study resources, and special package discounts, which make preparation efficient and reasonably priced. Candidates can also take advantage of free demo classes to see the caliber of instruction before committing to CPA, ACCA, or CA programs.
Take the first step toward establishing a prosperous and fulfilling career, whether in India or elsewhere, by enrolling in these courses right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Are CPAs Harder Than ACCAs?
When choosing between ACCA and US CPA, there are a number of things to take into account. Although there are only four sections on the CPA exam and thirteen on the ACCA, both certifications are difficult in different ways.
According to CPA experts, the pass percentage is approximately 75%, while the ACCA demands a minimum score of 50% to pass. This may appear to make ACCA simpler at first. Whereas CPA tests mostly include of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), ACCA exams necessitate written responses that require analytical and descriptive abilities. It also means that it is possible challenging to even receive a 50% on the ACCA.
Every program's level of difficulty ultimately depends on the candidate's preparation preferences, skills, and exam format knowledge.
2.Is ACCA the same as CA?
In India, the ACCA degree is regarded as having the same professional standing as the CA (ICAI) certification. The course focus and content are where the main differences can be found. CA is especially designed to meet Indian laws and company standards, even though it is typically more difficult to accomplish.
incredibly crucial to remember that ACCA is globally recognized in more than 180 countries, while CA is not as well known outside. A CA qualification is necessary if you want to work with Indian firms, launch your own business, or grow into a partner in a CA practice. However, for anyone looking for work prospects abroad, ACCA is the best option.
