The ACCA qualification is your gateway to a global career in accounting, finance, and business. But one question often arises for aspiring accountants: how many years does it take to complete ACCA? In this updated guide, we’ll break down the full journey from registration to membership. You’ll learn how long each stage typically takes, what can speed things up, and how to plan your study path efficiently.
To understand ACCA qualification duration, we need to look at its qualification structure:
The average time it takes to complete the ACCA qualification is 2 to 4 years, depending on your background, exemptions, and study approach.
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Several key factors affect your ACCA exam timeline:
If you have a relevant degree (e.g., B.Com, BBA, MBA, or CA), you may receive exemptions for up to 9 exams. Commerce graduates often start at the Applied Skills level, shaving off 1–1.5 years from their ACCA journey.
👉 Use the ACCA Exemptions Calculator to check your eligibility.
The flexibility of ACCA exams (offered quarterly in March, June, September, and December) means candidates can plan sessions based on their schedule.
Attempting 2–3 exams per sitting helps fast-track progress. However, overloading can lead to poor results and resits. A smart balance ensures faster and sustainable success.
The 36-month PER is crucial to becoming an ACCA member. It can be completed during or after exams. Ideally, start PER while studying to reduce total time.
This ethics module takes 20–30 hours and is best completed before Strategic Professional papers. It boosts your chances of passing SBL by up to 25%.
Balancing ACCA with work, family, or other studies can stretch the duration. A consistent routine, even at 10 hours per week, can keep you on track.
Total Duration: 3–4 years
Total Duration: 2–3 years
For full-time students taking 3–4 exams per session:
Total Duration: As little as 1.5–2 years (uncommon but possible)
There’s a time limit for passing the Strategic Professional exams. From the date you pass your first paper at this level, you have 7 years to complete all four. If you don’t, your earlier passes expire. This rule ensures your knowledge remains up-to-date.
Repeated Failures: Average ACCA pass rates hover around 50–55%. Review weak areas and seek feedback.
Inconsistent Study: Skipping sessions or long gaps between exams increases duration.
Lack of Planning: Not aligning PER with exam timelines delays membership.
We offer structured ACCA courses designed for flexibility and speed. Whether you’re starting fresh or have exemptions, our expert-led content, revision strategy, and mock exams keep you ahead.
Plus, you can grab our Free ACCA Study Materials to get study plans, exam tips, and more.
So, how many years to complete ACCA? For most, it’s between 2 and 4 years. With smart planning, early PER, and consistent effort, even the shortest path—around 1.5 years—is achievable. Don’t let the timeline overwhelm you. Start your ACCA journey today with expert support and a clear roadmap.
Yes, but it requires discipline. Many self-studiers succeed in 3–4 years by following a structured ACCA Self Study plan.
Yes. With four exam windows per year, you could take up to 8 papers annually if well-prepared.
Yes. PER is a core requirement and must be logged over a continuous 36-month period.
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