|
Feature |
ACCA |
ACA |
CIMA |
|
Industry focus |
Accounting & Finance |
Accounting, Audit & Business |
Management Accounting & Business Strategy |
|
Global recognition |
High |
High (UK-focused) |
High |
|
Typical duration |
3–4 years |
3 years |
2–4 years |
|
Entry requirements |
GCSEs & A-Levels (or equivalent) |
Typically requires a degree |
No formal qualifications needed at entry |
|
Career opportunities |
Accountant, Auditor, Tax Specialist, CFO |
Chartered Accountant, Finance Director |
Management Accountant, Financial Analyst |
|
Salary potential |
£30,000–£55,000+ (post-qualification) |
£35,000–£60,000+ (post-qualification) |
£28,000–£55,000+ (varies by role) |
ACCA vs ACA vs CIMA
When choosing an accounting and finance qualification, ACCA, ACA, and CIMA are highly recognised options offering distinct pathways. Understanding their differences is essential for career advancement as each requires specialised knowledge and skills, enhances professional credibility, and opens doors to various sectors.
This guide clarifies the distinctions between these qualifications, focusing on their respective focuses, entry requirements, and career outcomes, to help individuals make an informed decision aligned with their professional aspirations, whether in international accounting, UK-based audit, or strategic management.
Jump to
What are ACCA, ACA and CIMA?
ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)
The ACCA qualification is globally recognised and designed for individuals pursuing a career in accounting, auditing, tax, or financial management. It’s known for its flexibility and international appeal.
Key facts
Global recognition: 200,000+ members worldwide.
Focus areas: Financial reporting, taxation, audit, financial management.
Entry requirements: Minimum of three GCSEs and two A-Levels (or equivalent).
Typical duration: 3–4 years.
Ideal for: Aspiring accountants and finance professionals aiming to work internationally.
ACA (Associate Chartered Accountant)
Offered by ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales), the ACA qualification is highly regarded in the UK. It is tailored towards those aiming for senior roles in audit, accountancy, and business leadership.
Key facts:
Prestige: One of the UK's oldest and most respected accounting qualifications.
Focus areas: Audit, accounting, ethics, tax, law, business strategy.
Entry requirements: Typically requires a degree or equivalent.
Typical duration: 3 years (usually through a training agreement with an employer).
Ideal for: UK-based professionals targeting leadership positions in practice or industry.
CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants)
The CIMA CGMA qualification is the leading professional qualification for management accountants. It’s designed for individuals who want to develop strategic financial management skills and play a key role in business decision-making.
Key facts:
Global recognition: Over 115,000 members and students worldwide.
Focus areas: Management accounting, business strategy, financial strategy, risk management.
Entry requirements: No specific degree required; open to school leavers, graduates, and professionals.
Typical duration: 2–4 years (depending on entry route and study pace)
Ideal for: Aspiring management accountants and finance professionals focused on business strategy and internal financial management.
ACCA vs ACA vs CIMA: Key differences
Which qualification is best for you?
The right qualification depends on your career ambitions:
Choose ACCA if you want a globally recognised accounting qualification with career flexibility across industries and countries.
Choose ACA if you’re UK-based and aiming for senior roles in audit, accountancy, or corporate leadership.
Choose CIMA if your goal is to become a strategic management accountant and influence business decisions from within an organisation.
Each qualification offers excellent career prospects, but they lead to different professional destinations. Think carefully about your long-term goals, interests, and strengths.
Career and salary prospects
ACCA and ACA graduates typically pursue roles such as:
Financial Accountant
Auditor
Tax Specialist
Finance Manager
CFO
CIMA-qualified professionals often work as:
Management Accountant
Financial Analyst
Business Partner
Finance Manager
Commercial Finance Analyst
Average salaries:
ACCA: £30,000–£55,000+ (post-qualification)
ACA: £35,000–£60,000+ (post-qualification)
CIMA: £28,000–£55,000+ depending on experience and role
Ready to advance your career?
Whether you’re aiming to become a chartered accountant or a strategic finance leader, the right professional qualification is a powerful step towards your goals. At BPP, we offer industry-leading training for ACCA, ACA, and CIMA qualifications, designed to help you succeed.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The ACCA is internationally recognised and flexible, while the ACA is UK-focused with a structured training agreement, ideal for those seeking senior leadership roles.