If you’re planning a global career in accounting and finance, you’ve likely heard of ACCA. But what is ACCA really? Is it worth your time and investment? And how can students in India and the Gulf (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Dubai, and Qatar) get started the right way?
This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about ACCA — from course structure to eligibility, fees, and career scope. It’s written for beginners who are serious about taking their first step into international finance.
Every year, more and more students across these regions turn to professional coaching institutes like Stride Edutech to confidently navigate their ACCA journey. With structured support and experienced guidance, clearing ACCA becomes not just possible — but highly achievable.
Let’s dive in and explore the ACCA course in detail.
If you’re planning a global career in accounting and finance, you’ve likely heard of ACCA. But what is ACCA really? Is it worth your time and investment? And how can students in India and the Gulf (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Dubai, and Qatar) get started the right way?
This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about ACCA — from course structure to eligibility, fees, and career scope. It’s written for beginners who are serious about taking their first step into international finance.
Every year, more and more students across these regions turn to professional coaching institutes like Stride Edutech to confidently navigate their ACCA journey. With structured support and experienced guidance, clearing ACCA becomes not just possible — but highly achievable.
Let’s dive in and explore the ACCA course in detail.
What is ACCA?
ACCA stands for Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. It is a UK-based global accounting qualification designed for individuals who want to build strong careers in accounting, audit, taxation, and finance.
With over 240,000 members and 540,000 students in more than 180 countries, ACCA is recognized and respected worldwide.
It’s especially popular among students and professionals from:
- India (Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore)
- UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi)
- Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar
When people ask “what is ACCA?”, the simplest answer is:
“ACCA is a globally accepted accounting course that equips you with international-level skills in finance and audit.”
Why Should You Choose ACCA?
Here are some key reasons students across India and the Gulf choose ACCA:
- Global Recognition – Opens doors in over 180 countries
- Higher Salary Potential – Especially in the Gulf and UK job markets
- Flexible Study Options – Can be pursued full-time, part-time, or online
- Accessible for Non-CAs or Non-Commerce Backgrounds
- No Articleship Required – Compared to traditional CA paths
Many coaching institutes offer self-paced learning, but those with structured mentorship—like what Stride Edutech provides—help improve pass rates and confidence, especially for first-time test takers.
ACCA Course Details
To truly understand what is ACCA, you must explore the course structure. The ACCA course has 13 exams, divided into three levels:
- Applied Knowledge (3 Papers)
- Business and Technology (BT)
- Management Accounting (MA)
- Financial Accounting (FA)
- Applied Skills (6 Papers)
- Corporate and Business Law (LW)
- Performance Management (PM)
- Taxation (TX)
- Financial Reporting (FR)
- Audit and Assurance (AA)
- Financial Management (FM)
- Strategic Professional (4 Papers)
- Strategic Business Leader (SBL)
- Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)
- Optional Papers (choose 2):
- Advanced Performance Management
- Advanced Financial Management
- Advanced Taxation
- Advanced Audit and Assurance
Students can appear for 4 papers in each session (exams are held in March, June, September, and December).
Many students in Chennai and the Gulf receive guidance from Stride Edutech, whose faculty members help students plan paper combinations and prepare with mock tests for each session.
ACCA Eligibility in India & Gulf
| Education Level | Eligibility for ACCA |
| 12th Grade (Commerce, 65%+ in Math & English) | Eligible |
| B.Com/BBA/BAF/Other UG Students | Eligible (with exemptions) |
| CA/CMA Inter Students | Eligible (fewer papers) |
| Working Professionals | Eligible |
| A-Level/IB/UK Curriculum (in Gulf) | Eligible |
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible or how many exemptions you can get, Stride Edutech’s admissions team offers free eligibility checks and course counseling to help you plan better.
ACCA Fees: India vs Gulf
Fees may vary depending on your location, exemptions, and whether you take professional coaching.
ACCA Fees in India (approx.):
| Fee Type | Cost (INR) |
| Registration Fee | ₹8,000 |
| Annual Subscription | ₹10,000 |
| Exam Fee (per paper) | ₹10,000–₹15,000 |
| Coaching Fee | ₹1.5L–₹2.5L |
| Total | ₹2.5L – ₹3.5L |
ACCA Fees in Gulf (approx.):
| Fee Type | Cost (AED) |
| Registration Fee | AED 450 |
| Annual Subscription | AED 500–600 |
| Exam Fee (per paper) | AED 500–750 |
| Coaching Fee | AED 6,000–9,000 |
| Total | AED 13,000–18,000 |
Career Scope After ACCA
The reason so many students choose ACCA? The global career opportunities are incredible.
Where Can You Work?
- Big 4 firms (Deloitte, EY, PwC, KPMG)
- Global MNCs and IT companies
- Banks and NBFCs
- Startups and FinTech companies
- Audit and tax consulting firms
Popular Job Roles:
- Auditor
- Financial Analyst
- Management Accountant
- Tax Consultant
- Financial Controller
Average Salaries:
| Region | Average Salary After ACCA |
| India | ₹6–12 lakhs/year |
| Dubai/UAE | AED 8,000–15,000/month |
| Qatar/Oman | QAR 8,000–14,000/month |
Stride Edutech’s placement assistance has helped several students from Chennai and the Gulf regions secure roles in top-tier companies, both local and international.
Why Stride Edutech?
Whether you’re from India, UAE, Oman, Qatar, or anywhere in the Gulf, Stride Edutech has built a reputation as a trusted guide for ACCA aspirants.
Here’s what you get:
- Online and Offline Classes
- Faculty with Global Exposure
- Customized Study Plans
- Mock Exams & Doubt Clearing
- Career & Placement Support
Stride’s students have cleared ACCA faster and landed better jobs — thanks to a student-first approach and strong academic mentorship.
Final Thoughts
Now you know the answer to “What is ACCA?” — it’s not just a course, but a pathway to a global finance career.
If you’re a student or working professional in India or the Gulf, and you’re serious about building a future in accounting, ACCA could be your best move.
Need help getting started with ACCA?
Book a free consultation with Stride Edutech today and begin your journey toward becoming a globally certified accountant.
FAQs About What Is ACCA
Q1. What is ACCA in simple terms?
ACCA is a global professional qualification for accountants, helping you build a career in finance, audit, and management.
Q2. Is ACCA better than CA?
Both are excellent. CA is more India-specific and longer. ACCA is shorter, flexible, and globally recognized.
Q3. Can I do ACCA after 12th?
Yes, students who pass 12th with 65%+ in English and Math can start right away.
Q4. How long does ACCA take to complete?
On average, students complete ACCA in 2.5 to 3 years.
Q5. Do I need coaching?
While self-study is possible, professional coaching from institutes like Stride Edutech improves pass rates and makes preparation more structured.