CA vs ACCA

CA Stands for

Chartered Accountancy (CA) is an exceptional qualification of accountancy. ICAP (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan) Administers CA in Pakistan. Their headquarters are in Karachi whereas the regional offices are in Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, Quetta, and Hyderabad.

CA provides a future full of bright prospects and rewarding career opportunities in the accounts department, audit firms, banks, setups relating to tax and income, and commercial, local, and international organizations.

ACCA Stands for

ACCA (Association of Chartered Accountants) is a globally renowned professional accounting body. It offers an ACCA qualification that is designed to provide individuals with the right skills and knowledge and the opportunity to succeed in a variety of accounting and finance roles.

ACCA has headquarters in the UK and is present in over 170 countries. The qualification is respected and acknowledged worldwide, making it a popular choice for those pursuing a career in accounting, finance, and related fields.

Eligibility Criteria

CA Eligibility Criteria in Pakistan

Graduates with 16 years of education from a local or foreign university which is recognized by HEC in Pakistan.

14 years of education graduates with 45% aggregate marks or equivalent grades, additionally, who have passed Pre-requisite Competencies (PRC) under Directive 1.20 or obtained exemption from PRC under Directive 1.21.

Individuals who have completed the eligibility requirements for registration by first completing or have gotten an exemption from the Qualifying Assessment Test (QAT) and have completed with a PRC under Directive 1.20 or obtaining an exemption from PRC under Directive 1.21.

Individuals having passed examinations of such professional accountancy bodies, as approved by the Council appointed for this purpose and specified in Directive 1.21.

ACCA Eligibility Criteria

If you have two A Levels and three GCSEs in five separate subjects, including English and math (or equivalent qualifications), you are, eligible to start studies at the ACCA Qualification, it is ranked at the level of Master, and upon completion you'll become an ACCA member. 

To achieve the ACCA Qualification, students have to:

• complete a maximum of 13 exams, depending on prior experience and qualifications
• Complete an Ethics and Professional Skills module
• and provide proof of three years of practical work experience in a relevant role.

If you don't have these qualifications, you can look into the Foundations in Accountancy qualifications and then progress to the ACCA Qualification if you wish. These awards are broadly equivalent to GCSE level and a degree or HND program.

How to register for CA and ACCA

CA registration 2023

• Meet the required eligibility criteria.
• Then appear in the Qualifying Assessment Test (QAS) as an entry test to the CA Program.
• Complete the CA Program, which is divided into four parts.
• Finish practical training as a part of the CA program.
• Clear the CA exams conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP).

ACCA registration 2023

As per your previous qualifications, you may register online as a new student. Click here to access the form.

• Register at www.accaglobal.com/acca-registration-intro/personal-details.html
• Fill out the form for personal information
• Add your proof of identification
• Official documents as evidence of fulfilling requirements
• Pay via Debit card or PayPal

Cost of CA and ACCA 

ACCA Fee structure

• The cost of ACCA can be divided into several parts
• One-time registration fee: £79–£89
• Annual subscription fee: £122
• Exam-based fees: £98-£123
• Admission fee: £270

CA Fee Structure

Syllabus & Study Resources for CA

Chartered Accountancy in Pakistan focuses on four primary areas divided into different categories. The four main parts are as follows:

• Assessment of Fundamental Competencies AFC (4 papers)
  • Business Communication
  • Quantitative Method
  • Information Technology

• Certification in Accounting and Finance CAF (9 papers)
  • Introduction to Accounting
  • Introduction to Economics and Finance
  • Business Law
  • Business Management and Behavioral Studies
  • Financial Accounting and Reporting
  • Principles of Taxation
  • Cost and Management Accounting
  • Audit and Assurance

• Multi-subject Assessment MSA (2 papers)
  • Financial Reporting,
  • Audit Professional Competence

• Certified Finance and Accounting Professional CFAP (6 papers)
  • Corporate Law
  • Advanced Accounting and Financial Reporting
  • Business Management
  • Business Finance Decisions

3 options are available for studying

• Studying offline via a college university or institution
• Study online – video lectures
• Tutor (Hire a teacher

CA Entry Levels

CA Qualification

After registration as a full-time student, the following levels are to be completed to qualify as a Chartered Accountant,

Syllabus & Study Resources for ACCA

The ACCA syllabus consists of 13 papers divided into four levels, the first three levels are fundamental, and the fourth level is professional. The ACCA in total consists of nine papers at the professional level, including five compulsory and four optional papers. Candidates are required to pass all the papers to complete the ACCA qualification successfully. To succeed in the ACCA, the candidates should ensure they have a complete understanding of the basics and practice taking past exam papers. Past ACCA exam papers are a valuable resource for grasping the exam structure and format, as well as identifying areas of strength and weakness. With dedication, practice, and a sound understanding of the syllabus, candidates can easily approach the ACCA total papers and become Certified Professional Accountants.

The ACCA levels are;

• Applied Knowledge
• Applied Skills
• Strategic Professional

The ACCA Fundamental level (Applied knowledge and Applied skills) includes

• 9 examinations (F1 – F9)
• 4 exams from professional level (P1 - P7)

Tips on how to study for the exam

• Collect good study material from YouTube
• Make sure your study schedule is in place
• Regular tests and practice sessions are essential
• Make running notes and recaps
• Network with ACCA affiliates to get some helpful tips
• Join study groups to be on top of your game

ACCA Exam schedule

September 2023 - ACCA exams (4-8 September)

December 2023* - ACCA exams (4-8 December)

December 2023 - Foundations and niche exams** (4-8 December)

March 2024 - ACCA exams (4-8 March)

Which one is tougher? CA or  ACCA

It is not surprising that CA is most commonly considered to be harder than ACCA when put into consideration the number of years, the number of papers, the course levels, and the versatility of both courses. However, this is a completely subjective topic, and the results can differ from case to case or aptitude to aptitude.

The flexibility in terms of tests and papers is one of the causes as to why ACCA is slightly easier to handle than CA. Subjects are grouped in CA. So, you will have to rewrite all the subjects in that group again if you fail a subject in that group. On the other hand, in ACCA, you will only have to retake the specific subject you failed.

Which one is better? CA or ACCA

Both courses have their unique aspects, making them one of the most well-known finance and professional accounting courses. However, both courses can be put on distinct levels when it comes to job opportunities in Pakistan vs. abroad.

• Professional Body

ACCA has a global presence and UK-based headquarters while CA is Pakistan-based

• Curriculum

ACCA qualification covers a broader range of topics. CA qualification stays focused on the Pakistani accounting and taxation standards, regulations, and laws.

• Exams and Structure

ACCA exams are divided into fundamental and professional levels. It is held multiple times a year. The CA exams have four parts and need to be taken in a sequential order. The exams are only held twice a year.

• Work Experience

ACCA only requires a minimum of three years of relevant work. CA requires practical training which is usually provided by authorized firms which takes around three and a half years.

• Flexibility

ACCA offers greater flexibility around its exam timing and order. CA is more structured in its exams and training.

• Career Path

ACCA makes individuals capable of a wide range of roles in accounting, finance, and management, both locally and internationally. CA qualification is a more tailored version that is specific to regulations and practices in Pakistan.

• Cost and Duration

ACCA can be completed in a shorter time in comparison to CA. It takes about 2 years. The duration of CA is longer, approximately 5 years

• Scope in Pakistan

CA has a greater number of high-paying jobs in Pakistan since it is tailored according to the market needs and policies in Pakistan.