Table of Contents
Introduction
Imagine you want to work in finance and be well connected through the prestigious ACCA qualification. But you want this rapidly. Is it possible to do ACCA in 2 years? It’s a question that gets college students and ambitious professionals fired up. It’s a hard road to travel for sure, but it’s not a pipe dream. But with some determination, a good plan, and a few savvy moves – you can do it. In this guide you will find the typical timeframe, what influences your pace, a realistic 2 year plan, obstacles you will encounter, and ways to overcome them. It’s akin to a road map from a person who has walked where you are walking and says keep going. So, are you ready to make your ACCA dream a reality in only two years? Stay tuned.
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Standard Duration of ACCA
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The ACCA, or Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, is your golden ticket to a worldwide finance career. The average length of time it takes to complete is 3 to 4 years. But why? This includes 13 exams split into the three levels of Applied Knowledge (3 exams), Applied Skills (6 exams), and Strategic Professional (4 exams, out of which 2 are optional). And, a minimum of 3 years hands on experience.
The exams are held quarterly in March, June, September and December. Most students sit 2 to 3 exams each term, and work or live life during studying. Others, such as full-time students may extend it to include that work experience. Some, such as those working professionals, chisel it away little by little. The ACCA are flexible and you can work at your own pace but to try and cram it in to 2 years? Think of it as running a marathon at sprint speed. It can be done, with laser focus and a tight plan.
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How fast you finish ACCA depends on a few key things. Think of them as the gears in your study machine—each one affects your speed.
Prior Qualifications and Exemptions
Got a degree in accounting or finance? You might skip the 3 Applied Knowledge exams. That cuts your total to 10 exams, saving months. Imagine shaving off a whole level just because of your college work. Check with ACCA to see if you qualify.
Study Mode
Are you studying full-time, or fitting it in around work? Full-time students can devote hours to preparation as if cramming for a major exam. Part-timers who juggle work might feel stretched. It can be accelerated through online courses or self-study, if you remain on track.
Exam Scheduling
With four exam sessions a year, you can take 3 or 4 exams at once to zoom ahead. But that’s like juggling flaming torches—it takes serious focus. Miss a session, and your timeline stretches like a rubber band.
Work Experience
The 3-year work experience rule runs alongside exams. If you’re already in a finance job, you can check this box while studying. No job yet? You’ll need to hustle to find one, or you’ll be stuck waiting to certify.
Personal Commitment
Your motivation is the gas. Be disciplined and you are half way there. Let yourself get distracted by Netflix binges or life curveballs and that finish line drifts farther away. It’s like training for a marathon consistency is what wins.
Preparation Resources
Your lifeline is having good study materials. Kaplan/BPP, ACCA-approved providers are sort of like your coaches. Cut the resources and you’re attempting to bake a cake without a recipe. Hard, but not that hard.
But every single one counts. Determine where you fit in to find out if 2 years is a reasonable estimate for you.
Sample 2-Year Completion Plan
Cramming ACCA into 2 years is like planning a cross-country road trip with tight stops. Here’s a sample plan for someone starting from scratch (13 exams) while working on practical experience. If you have exemptions, tweak it to fit.
Year 1
March Session (Quarter 1)
- Exams: Applied Knowledge (AB, MA, FA)
- Study: 3 months, 20 hours a week. Grab ACCA-approved books and hammer practice questions. It’s like prepping for a big game—drills matter.
- Work: Land a job like an accounting assistant. Start logging tasks for experience.
June Session (Quarter 2)
- Exams: Applied Skills (LW, PM)
- Study: 3 months, 25 hours a week. Practice past papers like they’re your new best friend. Mock exams build confidence.
- Work: Keep the job, track tasks for experience. It’s like collecting points in a game.
September Session (Quarter 3)
- Exams: Applied Skills (TX, FR)
- Study: 3 months, 25 hours a week. Join a study group—it’s like having workout buddies to keep you going.
- Work: Stay in the job, focus on real-world skills like bookkeeping.
December Session (Quarter 4)
- Exams: Applied Skills (FM, AA)
- Study: 3 months, 20 hours a week. Review weak spots from past exams. It’s like patching holes in a boat.
- Work: Hit 1 year of practical experience. You’re a third of the way there.
Year 2
March Session (Quarter 1)
- Exams: Strategic Professional (SBL, SBR)
- Study: 3 months, 30 hours a week. Dive into case studies for SBL—they’re like solving puzzles.
- Work: Keep logging experience. You’re building a strong foundation.
June Session (Quarter 2)
- Exams: Strategic Professional Options (Pick 2: AFM, APM, ATX, AAA)
- Study: 3 months, 30 hours a week. Focus on your chosen options like a chef perfecting a signature dish.
- Work: Aim for 2 years of experience. You’re almost there.
September Session (Quarter 3)
- Catch-up: Retake any failed exams or wrap up work experience.
- Study: 10–15 hours a week for revisions or resits. Think of it as a quick tune-up.
- Work: Finalize experience tasks. Double-check your log.
December Session (Quarter 4)
- Final Steps: Submit work experience records. Finish the Ethics and Professional Skills module (a must-do).
- Study: Light work, maybe 5–10 hours for the ethics module or resits.
- Work: Ensure 3 years of experience is verified. You’re at the finish line.
Key Notes
- This assumes you pass every exam first try.
- Budget 300–400 hours per exam, like training for a big match.
- Take a week off between sessions to recharge—think of it as a pit stop.
- If you have exemptions, skip relevant exams (e.g., Applied Knowledge).
- Start work experience early to hit the 3-year mark by the end.
This plan is intense but doable. It’s like climbing a steep hill—tough, but the view at the top is worth it.
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Challenges of Fast-Tracking ACCA
Fast-tracking ACCA in 2 years is like running a marathon in half the time. It’s possible, but you’ll hit some bumps. Here’s what to watch for:
Time Pressure
Studying for 3–4 exams every 3 months is like juggling while riding a bike. Work, study, and life compete for your time. Without breaks, you might crash from exhaustion.
Exam Difficulty
ACCA exams aren’t a walk in the park. The Strategic Professional level, like SBL or SBR, demands deep thinking and real-world application. Fail one? You wait 3 months to try again, which feels like hitting a red light.
Work-Study Balance
Most students work while studying. A busy job can eat into study time, like a phone with too many apps running. Finding a finance role for experience might also be tricky.
Financial Costs
ACCA isn’t cheap. Registration, exam fees, and study materials stack up fast. Taking multiple exams per session means bigger bills upfront. It’s like paying for a gym membership you’re determined to use.
Motivation and Discipline
2 years of focus is like going on a diet. Distractions in life, friends, family or stress can get you off your path. So it is important to keep the fire burning.
Limited Social Life
Your social life suffers a little with so much studying. A skipped birthday or missing a hangout can be isolating as though one is the only awake kid at a slumber party.
These challenges are true, but they aren’t necessarily dealbreakers . Knowing where they are helps you prepare and get through.
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Want to nail ACCA in 2 years? Think of these tips as your trusty toolbox for building success:
Create a Study Schedule
Map out your study hours like a battle plan. Break topics into weekly chunks. Stick to it like glue. Apps like Google Calendar or Notion keep you on track.
Choose Quality Study Materials
Grab ACCA-approved resources from Kaplan or BPP. They’re like a good GPS—reliable and clear. Practice kits and mock exams are your practice runs. Skip shady, free downloads.
Maximize Exemptions
Got a degree? See if it skips you past early exams. It’s like starting a race a few laps ahead. Contact ACCA to confirm what you qualify for.
Take Multiple Exams per Session
Tackle 3–4 exams each session to keep the pace. Start with easier ones, like Applied Knowledge, to build momentum. It’s like clearing smaller hurdles first.
Start Work Experience Early
Land a job in accounting or finance ASAP. Even an entry-level role counts. Log tasks regularly, like collecting coins in a video game, to hit the 3-year mark.
Practice Time Management
Consider the Pomodoro technique: study for 25-minute chunks and take mini breaks. Make sure to focus on the high value exam topics first. It is similar to packing fundamentals before extras on a trip.
Join Study Groups
Partner with fellow ACCA students. Share tips, quiz each other and stay pumped. It’s like having cheerleaders at the gym. Local groups or online forums are great.
Stay Healthy
Eat good food, exercise, sleep 7-8 hours. Walk during study breaks. A well body ensures the brain has a full tank, so to speak.
Prepare for Resits
If you get “stumped” on an exam, don’t worry about it. Learn what did not work, adjust, and make another attempt. It’s like missing a shot in basketball, keep shooting.
Complete the Ethics Module Early
One is the Ethics and Professional Skills module. Get it done in year one. It’s digital and adaptable, like a side quest you can clear quickly.
Seek Mentorship
Get yourself an ACCA specialist for guidance. They’re like a coach with the play book. Many also provide tutoring online or counsel on difficult subjects.
Stay Motivated
Set small targets, such as to attempt one paper. Afterwards go get a coffee, go see a movie, do something fun. Imagine the awards: an international career in ACCA.
These tips make the dream for ACCA in 2 years a real achievable plan. Stay positive, and you can do it.
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Conclusion
Completing ACCA in a period of 2 years going up the mountain, hard but definitely possible. There’s a good way to do work, and if you do it correctly, work hard, and pick some good shortcuts, you will reach the finish line ahead of most. Use exemptions, attempt to take as many exams as possible, and gain work experience early. Of course the path is not without bumps, there are grueling exams, packed schedules and sacrifices, but every inch of it, will take you, one way or another, to a career in international finance. Maintain routine, health, and eyes on the prize. The ACC Badge is out there waiting and it’s worth the hustle. Begin now, remain focused and two years down the line you can be ACCA qualified.
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Is it realistic to complete ACCA in 2 years for someone with no accounting background?
Completing ACCA in 2 years is tough without an accounting background, but it’s not out of reach. The ACCA includes 13 exams across three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional. Without prior knowledge, you’ll need to master basics like financial accounting and management accounting from scratch. This means spending extra time on the first three exams (AB, MA, FA), which cover foundational concepts. Expect to dedicate 300–400 hours per exam, or about 20–30 hours a week over 2 years. A full-time job adds pressure, but starting work experience early in a finance role helps. Think of it like learning a new sport—you’ll need more practice at first, but you’ll pick up speed. Use ACCA-approved study materials from providers like Kaplan to build a strong base. Join study groups to clarify tricky topics. With a tight schedule and relentless focus, even beginners can hit the 2-year mark. Start early, stay consistent, and don’t let the steep learning curve scare you off.
How do exemptions help in completing ACCA in 2 years?
Exemptions are like a head start in a race for completing ACCA in 2 years. If you have a degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, you might skip up to 9 exams, usually the 3 Applied Knowledge exams (AB, MA, FA) and some Applied Skills exams. This could drop your total to as few as 4 exams, making the 2-year goal much easier. For example, a bachelor’s in accounting might exempt you from AB, MA, FA, and LW, cutting your study load by nearly half. Check with ACCA by submitting your qualifications to confirm what you’re eligible for. Exemptions save time and money, letting you focus on tougher Strategic Professional exams like SBL or SBR. But don’t assume exemptions mean less effort—those higher-level exams are no joke. Plan your study schedule around remaining exams and start work experience early to meet the 3-year requirement. It’s like skipping the warm-up laps but still running the full race.
What’s the hardest part of completing ACCA in 2 years?
The biggest hurdle in completing ACCA in 2 years is the intense time crunch. You’re squeezing 13 exams, 3 years of work experience, and an Ethics module into 24 months. That’s like trying to cook a three-course meal in half an hour. Studying for 3–4 exams every 3 months demands 20–30 hours a week, on top of a job or other responsibilities. The Strategic Professional exams, like SBL and SBR, are especially tough, requiring deep analysis and real-world application. Balancing this with a finance job to meet work experience requirements feels like juggling flaming torches. Burnout is a real risk if you don’t take breaks. Staying motivated through failures—like bombing an exam and waiting 3 months to retake it—is another challenge. Money can also be tight, with exam fees and study materials adding up fast. The key is a rock-solid schedule, good health habits, and a support system like study buddies or a mentor to keep you going.
Can you work full-time and still complete ACCA in 2 years?
Yes, but it’s like running a marathon while carrying a backpack. Completing ACCA in 2 years while working full-time requires superhuman discipline. A 40-hour workweek leaves limited hours for studying, so you’ll need to carve out 20–25 hours weekly for exam prep. That might mean early mornings, late nights, or giving up weekends. The good news? A finance or accounting job counts toward the 3-year work experience requirement, so you’re ticking two boxes at once. Pick a job that aligns with ACCA, like bookkeeping or auditing, to make study concepts click. Use lunch breaks or commutes for quick reviews, like flashcards or podcasts. ACCA-approved online courses from BPP or Kaplan offer flexibility for busy schedules. The downside is less time for friends or hobbies, which can feel isolating. Stay healthy—eat well, sleep enough, and take short walks to recharge. With a tight plan and fierce commitment, it’s doable.
How much does it cost to complete ACCA in 2 years?
The cost of completing ACCA in 2 years depends on several factors, but it’s not cheap. Expect to spend around £2,000–£4,000, depending on your path. Registration with ACCA costs about £89 (one-time fee). Each exam fee ranges from £100 to £200, with 13 exams totaling roughly £1,300–£2,000 if you pass all on the first try. Taking 3–4 exams per session to hit the 2-year mark means bigger upfront costs per quarter. Study materials, like books or online courses from Kaplan or BPP, run £300–£800 per level. The Ethics and Professional Skills module adds about £60. If you fail exams and retake them, fees stack up. Don’t forget hidden costs like travel to exam centers or internet for online study. Budget carefully, and consider employer sponsorship if your job supports ACCA. It’s like investing in a car—pricey upfront, but it gets you far in your career.
What kind of job counts for ACCA’s 3-year work experience requirement?
To complete ACCA in 2 years, the 3-year work experience requirement must run alongside your exams. Any job in accounting, finance, or auditing counts, as long as it’s relevant to ACCA’s competencies. Think roles like accounting assistant, payroll clerk, or junior auditor. Even entry-level jobs, like bookkeeping for a small business, qualify if you’re applying financial skills. You need to log 36 months of work, supervised by an ACCA member or qualified accountant, and meet specific performance objectives, like preparing financial statements or analyzing budgets. Part-time work counts, but it takes longer to hit 36 months. Start early—ideally when you begin studying—so you’re done by the time you pass your last exam. It’s like building a house while living in it: the job supports your learning and checks off a big ACCA box. Keep a detailed log of tasks, and get your supervisor to sign off.
How do you avoid burnout while trying to complete ACCA in 2 years?
Burnout is a real threat when pushing to complete ACCA in 2 years. Studying 20–30 hours a week, plus working and handling life, is like running a double shift every day. To stay sane, build breaks into your schedule. Take one full day off each week to recharge—watch a movie, go for a walk, or just nap. Use the Pomodoro technique: study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break to stretch or grab a snack. Sleep 7–8 hours nightly; a tired brain forgets everything. Eat healthy foods like fruits, veggies, and protein to keep energy up. Exercise, even a quick jog, clears your head. Connect with friends or family, even for a short coffee chat, to avoid feeling like a hermit. Study groups can lift your spirits—swap tips and vent about tough exams. If stress hits hard, talk to a mentor or take a short pause. It’s like pacing yourself in a race—you’ll finish stronger.
What study resources are best for completing ACCA in 2 years?
Good study resources are your secret weapon for completing ACCA in 2 years. Stick to ACCA-approved providers like Kaplan, BPP, or ACCA’s own materials. Their textbooks and online courses are tailored to the syllabus, like a map for a treasure hunt. Practice kits with past papers and mock exams are gold—spend at least 30% of study time on them. They’re like dress rehearsals for the real thing. Online platforms offer video tutorials and quizzes, perfect for busy schedules. Free resources, like YouTube videos or random blogs, can help but often miss key details. Avoid outdated materials; ACCA updates its syllabus regularly. Join online forums or study groups to discuss tricky topics, like tax calculations or strategic business reporting. Budget £300–£800 for quality materials per level. It’s like buying good running shoes for a marathon—they cost more but make the journey smoother.
What happens if you fail an exam while aiming to complete ACCA in 2 years?
Failing an exam while trying to complete ACCA in 2 years isn’t the end of the world, but it’s a speed bump. You’ll need to wait 3 months for the next session to retake it, which can disrupt your tight schedule. For example, failing one of the Applied Skills exams in June means trying again in September, pushing other exams back. Don’t panic—analyze what went wrong. Did you rush prep? Skip practice questions? Review your weak spots with past papers or a tutor. Adjust your study plan to focus on those areas, maybe adding an extra 5 hours a week. Use ACCA’s examiner reports to understand common mistakes. Stay positive; most students fail at least one exam. It’s like missing a shot in soccer—you learn, aim better, and try again. Keep moving forward, and factor in a catch-up session (like September of Year 2) for resits to stay on track.
Why should someone aim to complete ACCA in 2 years instead of taking longer?
Completing ACCA in 2 years is like hitting the fast-forward button on your career. Finishing early means you’re a qualified accountant sooner, ready for high-paying roles in finance, auditing, or consulting. It’s a global credential, opening doors to jobs in over 180 countries. Fast-tracking shows employers you’re driven and disciplined, like a sprinter who beats the pack. You’ll save time and potentially money by condensing study costs into 2 years instead of 4. The intense pace builds strong habits—time management, focus, resilience—that serve you for life. Sure, it’s a grind, with less time for fun, but the payoff is huge: a prestigious qualification, better job prospects, and a head start on peers. It’s like planting a tree now to enjoy the shade sooner. If you’ve got the drive, the 2-year path is worth every ounce of effort.
