The ACA qualification is comprised of two stages:
1) The Professional Stage
2) The Advanced Stage
Both stages incorporate training and examinations.
Professional Stage
The Professional Stage is the first level of the ACA examination structure. There are 12 examined subjects. The first six examinations are called "knowledge modules". They introduce students to the core concepts underpinning accountancy and are examined using computer-based assessment. The remaining six examinations are "application modules". They demonstrate how you can build on your knowledge in practice, and are paper-based examinations.
Knowledge modules (1st year of training contract)
- Business and Finance
- Management Information
- Accounting
- Law
- Assurance
- Principles of Taxation
Application modules (2nd year of training contract)
- Business Strategy
- Financial Management
- Financial Accounting
- Financial Reporting
- Audit and Assurance
- Taxation
Note:
You are eligible to apply for credit and get exemption for all “knowledge modules” and two of the “application modules” (i.e. Business Strategy and Financial Management), if you provide evidence that the learning outcomes have been met as part of your academic or professional studies.
Advanced Stage
The Advanced Stage takes an integrated approach on business topics and professional skills. This approach will ensure that your studies will be relevant in the workplace, with increased emphasis on the provision of business advice.
The Advanced Stage is comprised of three examinations:
Advanced Stage (3rd year of training contract)
- Technical Integration : Business Reporting
- Technical Integration : Business Change
- Advanced Case Study
Note:
The two Technical Integration examinations, may be taken before the Advanced Case Study. Moreover, students must be in the last year of their training contract before taking the Advanced Case Study.
More information on the examinations of The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales can be found on
www.icaew.co.uk .
