When it comes to accounting and finance, ACCA is one of the most recognizable and globally respected qualifications a professional could earn. Its growing demand worldwide leads to the establishment of ACCA as a prerequisite for someone to be recruited in a senior level accounting position. So, is it still worth it?
Absolutely. By completing the ACCA course, you can get more than just an addition for your CV, as knowledge on accounting and finance and continuing professional development are huge advantages for a professional. The course is designed to fit in the increasing market requirements of a continuously changing profession.
The profession is evolving and today as well as in the future, environmental, cultural, corporate responsibility and IT development issues are “hot fields” that a professional accountant needs to know, manage and report. ACCA emphasizes on these trends by providing knowledge and techniques on how to manage and report on these issues.
Many people are afraid to start the ACCA course as they do not know if they will be able to complete it. Regarding the requirements to complete the course and attain the qualification, well, anyone who is dedicated and willing to spend time studying can complete the course, but basic knowledge of accounting is considered a must.
The key for a student to pass the exams and complete the course apart from studying, is continuous practicing and good time management. For every paper, a student must practice exam questions by mock exams, past papers and multiple-choice questions in order to fully comprehend the syllabus and be able to develop or enhance his critical thinking. Time in the exams is a constraint, so time management is particularly important on the way to success. ACCA is continuously changing and now with the pandemic of COVID-19, more than ever, critical thinking, ethics and corporate responsibility have become an essential part for every student who wants to become a professional and are reflected in every exam paper of the ACCA course.
Generally, the study options for ACCA are flexible. One can choose from full time or part time courses, distance and online learning and can also choose how often may give exams and where to work for experience.
Presently, due to the pandemic, the online courses have become the most popular way students can prepare themselves for the exams. The fact is that the online courses, which under the circumstances are the safest way of teaching, are very helpful as they can also be recorded and watched over again. Moreover, in my experience, through online courses, a direct communication channel between the tutor and the student is built. Thus, making it easier for a student to reach to the tutor for questions that will be timely answered.
Summarizing, everyone with accounting knowledge, can pursue the ACCA qualification, as practically the only thing that is needed is time for studying and exams, embedding the ethical principles and practice. ACCA is a qualification that elevates one’s professional profile and is respected globally evidencing strong financial know how, high ethical integrity and business acumen. ACCA membership is a strong asset and will help to open doors in the career.