Progression Pathway Within The ACCA Qualification

Progression Pathway Within The ACCA Qualification

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) syllabus is a broad framework that outlines the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to become a qualified ACCA professional. Designed to prepare candidates for the challenges of the accounting and finance profession, the ACCA UAE syllabus covers a wide range of topics essential for success in today’s business environment.

Knowledge level (Applied Knowledge):

The ACCA syllabus begins with the Knowledge level, also known as the Applied Knowledge exams. This level consists of three core papers:

  • Accountant in business (AB)
  • Management accounting (MA)

Financial accounting (FA):

These papers provide candidates with a foundational understanding of business, accounting principles, and management accounting techniques. They cover topics such as business structure and organization, financial statements preparation, budgeting, and cost accounting.

Skills level (Applied Skills):

The Skills level, or Applied Skills exams, builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in the Knowledge level. It consists of six core papers:

  • Corporate and Business Law (LW)
  • Performance Management (PM)
  • Taxation (TX)
  • Financial Reporting (FR)
  • Audit and Assurance (AA)

Financial management (FM):

These papers delve deeper into specific areas of accounting and finance, covering topics such as corporate governance, performance measurement, taxation principles, financial reporting standards, auditing procedures, and financial management techniques.

Essentials level:

The Essentials level is the final stage of the ACCA syllabus and comprises three core papers:

  • Strategic Business Leader (SBL)
  • Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)

Advanced financial management (AFM) or advanced performance management (APM):

These papers integrate and apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the previous levels to real-world business scenarios. Strategic Business Leader focuses on strategic decision-making and leadership skills, while Strategic Business Reporting emphasizes advanced financial reporting standards and practices. Candidates can choose between Advanced Financial Management or Advanced Performance Management based on their career aspirations and interests.

Options level:

In addition to the core papers, candidates must complete two of four optional papers:

  • Advanced Taxation (ATX)
  • Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA)
  • Advanced Financial Management (AFM)
  • Advanced Performance Management (APM)

The Options level allows candidates to specialize in areas of accounting and finance that align with their career goals and interests. It provides an opportunity to deepen knowledge in specific areas and enhance expertise in a particular field.