ACCA vs CA: Which Qualification is Better for Your Future Career?

When it comes to professional accounting qualifications, two stand out: ACCA and CA. But which one should you choose? This guide breaks down the difference between ACCA and CA in terms of career scope, difficulty, ROI, global recognition, and job opportunities. Whether you’re a student planning your future or a working professional looking to upskill, this accounting certification comparison will help you make the right decision.

ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is a UK-based international accounting certification recognized in over 180 countries. It focuses on global finance, IFRS standards, and practical skills.

Learn more about the full form, meaning, and ACCA’s future potential.

CA (Chartered Accountant) is a professional qualification offered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). It’s more India-centric and emphasizes in-depth knowledge of Indian tax laws and auditing standards.

Watch this quick video explanation of ACCA vs CA for better clarity:

Career Scope After ACCA

• Graduates of ACCA have access to a global career in finance. Roles include:
  • Financial Analyst
  • Management Accountant
  • Risk & Compliance Manager
  • Forensic Accountant
  • Internal Auditor
  • Treasury Manager
  • Finance Business Partner
  • Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) Lead

   

Top employers hiring ACCA professionals include the Big Four (PwC, Deloitte, EY, KPMG), global investment banks, fintechs, Fortune 500 firms, and consulting groups. The finance career path after ACCA is highly diverse and international in nature.

Explore the top ACCA job opportunities and hiring companies in India for 2025 here – ACCA Jobs in India 2025.

What sets ACCA apart is its future-readiness. With modules in sustainability, ethics, and digital finance, it’s considered one of the best global finance qualifications for a fast-changing business environment. It’s ideal for professionals targeting CFO or Head of Finance roles in multinational companies.

Its flexible structure allows candidates to work while studying, making it easier to gain real-world experience and boost earning potential early.

Career Scope After CA
Chartered Accountants hold elite status in India. Career roles include:

• Tax Consultant
• Statutory Auditor
• CFO
• Financial Controller
• Compliance Officer

CAs are key decision-makers in Indian corporates, PSUs, and accounting firms. However, global mobility is limited. For international roles, additional qualifications like CPA, ACCA, or MBA are often required.

While CA is unmatched for a finance career within India, it lacks the international flexibility of ACCA.

Choose ACCA if:

• You want an internationally recognized qualification
• You’re looking to build a global career
• You need a more flexible exam structure

Choose CA if:

• You plan to work in India and focus on Indian laws
• You’re ready for a more rigorous academic journey
• You aim for statutory audit roles and Indian regulatory jobs

In India:

• CA Freshers: INR 6 to 10 LPA
• ACCA Freshers: INR 4 to 8 LPA

Globally:

• ACCA with 3+ years experience: USD 50,000 to 100,000
• CA with Indian certification: Additional credentials needed for global parity

CA is one of the most challenging professional exams in India, with final-level pass rates around 10 – 15%. ACCA has a more modular structure, higher pass rates (40 – 50%), and supports work-study balance, making it ideal for professionals upgrading their skills.

• ACCA: Shorter duration + international scope = faster ROI. Especially strong if you’re targeting roles abroad.
• CA: Lower fees but longer time commitment. ROI is excellent for careers based in India, though slower to realize.

CA is still the dominant accounting qualification in India. But ACCA is gaining ground, particularly among MNCs and companies working with IFRS. If you’re aiming for domestic roles, CA is ideal. If you want global exposure, ACCA has the edge in this accounting certification comparison.

ACCA is recognized in over 180 countries. It is widely accepted in the UK, UAE, Singapore, Canada, Australia, and Europe. CA is primarily India-focused, unless supplemented by international credentials.

With globalization and cross-border finance on the rise, ACCA is increasingly seen as the best global finance qualification. Its adaptability, focus on international standards, and future-proof curriculum make it a strategic career move.

• Duration: 2–3 years
• 13 exams (exemptions available)
• Includes three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional
• The Ethics and Professional Skills module is required

Check this complete guide to the ACCA papers, subject-wise tips, and levels.

• Duration: 5+ years
• Three levels: Foundation, Intermediate, Final
• Includes mandatory 3-year Articleship
• In-depth and intensive syllabus

In India:

• Roles in IFRS compliance, financial reporting, and audit
• MNCs, Big Four, and global shared service centers actively recruit ACCAs

Abroad:

• Recognized in 180+ countries
• Roles like Finance Business Partner, Risk Analyst, Group Accountant
• High demand in IFRS-aligned markets

• Students: Choose ACCA if you want a global career or are unsure of staying in India

Here’s how to start ACCA after graduation, with duration, fees, and steps.

• Working Professionals: ACCA is perfect for those aiming to upskill and explore international finance roles
• Finance Graduates: ACCA provides flexibility and international credibility

1. What are the eligibility criteria for CA vs ACCA?

• ACCA: 10+2 with English and Math. Direct entry for graduates is possible.
• CA: 10+2 + CA Foundation, or graduation with specific marks.

2. What are the job opportunities after ACCA?
ACCA-qualified professionals find jobs in audit firms, MNCs, and banks. In India, roles include IFRS consultants and finance managers. Globally, ACCA opens doors in corporate finance, leadership, and strategy.

3. How much effort is required for CA vs ACCA exams?
CA is more intensive and longer. ACCA is modular, more manageable for working professionals.

Explore Fintelligents ACCA preparation programs. Learn from expert faculty, get global-quality study material, and career guidance to break into top roles in India and abroad.

[Start Your ACCA Journey Today with Fintelligents – https://fintelligents.com/acca-classes]

• Complete Guide to the 13 ACCA Papers
• What is ACCA? Full Form and Career Scope in 2025
• Top ACCA Jobs in India for 2025
• How to Start ACCA After Graduation