ACCA is valuable in the US primarily for working in multinational corporations (MNCs), international firms, or in roles specializing in IFRS, rather than traditional US GAAP accounting. While the CPA is the standard for local US roles, ACCA offers a competitive edge for global career mobility, with an average salary around $75,000.
ACCAs are recognized globally and are highly valued by employers. In terms of salary, ACCAs typically earn slightly less than CPAs. According to the ACCA, the average salary for ACCA members in the United States is around $75,000 per year. However, this can vary greatly depending on experience, location, and industry.
As of Jan 7, 2026, the average annual pay for an Acca in the United States is $67,346 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $32.38 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,295/week or $5,612/month.
CPA is a course that is highly recognized in the USA, while ACCA is a globally regarded chartered accountancy course allowing you to practice CA in over 180 countries across the globe. These courses enhance the scope of career for students in accountancy abroad and allow them flexibility and diverse opportunities.
The qualification is recognised worldwide and is the equivalent of the Indian Chartered Accountant (CA). The UK, USA, Canada and Australia are some of the most popular destinations sought by Indian ACCA aspirants wanting to experience an international career.
With the right guidance and additional certifications, ACCA can lead to rewarding career prospects and competitive salaries in the USA. If you're ready to take the next step, consider partnering with Finplan Edu to kickstart your ACCA journey and unlock your potential in the world of global finance.
All Big 4 accountancy firms – Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG – are active recruiters of ACCA-affiliated accountants. Choice often depends on your interest area: audit, consulting, tax, or advisory.
ACCA Qualification recognition
The national qualification, the US CPA, is required to practice public accounting in the US.
While ACCA has a wider global reach as compared to CA, the salary one can achieve as an ACCA has more growth. CA, on the other hand, has a great demand in India.
The average ACCA salary in Switzerland is: Entry Level: CHF 67,400 (5,392,000 INR). Mid Senior Level: CHF 117,000 (9,360,000 INR). Senior Level: CHF 155,000 (12,400,000 INR).
10 Richest Chartered Accountants in India
Associate, Accounting Advisory
Base salary $100k-$125k , plus performance-based bonus.
Is ACCA Worth It 2025? Yes. ACCA offers global recognition, high salaries in India, flexible exams, and diverse career opportunities. Though it has some limitations like cost and no audit rights in India, its scope and demand remain strong for finance professionals in 2025.
ACCA Salary in the USA
Freshers: Entry-level positions typically start at around $60,000 to $80,000 (approx. ₹49 to ₹66 lakhs) per annum. Mid-Level: Salaries for mid-level roles can range from $90,000 to $120,000 (approx. ₹74 to ₹99 lakhs).
Individuals who describe themselves as Chartered Certified Accountants must be members of ACCA and if they carry out public practice engagements, must comply with additional regulations such as holding a practising certificate, carrying liability insurance and submitting to inspections.
Pick ACCA if you want international mobility, flexible studying options, and a wider financial and business curriculum. Pick CPA if your goal is to work in the United States and you want to specialize in U.S. GAAP, auditing, and taxation.
CPA vs CFA
More specifically, the CFA focuses on financial matters related to investments, risk management, and strategy. The CPA plays an important role in ensuring compliance, financial transparency, and strategic decision-making and also has a much broader scope of knowledge.
ACCA pay in India varies based on years of experience and the most sought, from INR 6.4 LPA to INR 16.7 LPA. In India, the pay for a CPA professional can vary between INR 5.9 LPA (less than one year of experience) to INR 24 LPA (ten to nineteen years of expertise).
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) plans to discontinue remote examinations from March 2026, reported the Financial Times. The move will mean most candidates must return to in-person exam centres, as the organisation responds to increasing instances of exam misconduct.
- Is ACCA more difficult than CFA? No, the CFA qualification tends to be considered slightly more difficult than ACCA - but this is to some extent a subjective matter, differing from person to person. Many people don't make it through the three levels of CFA because of the time required to finish the course.
ACCA professionals are employed in some of the busiest sectors such as: Big Four Accounting Firms (PwC, EY, KPMG, Deloitte): The companies are regularly interested in hiring ACCA qualified audits, assurance, and advisory services.
Does JPMorgan hire ACCA? JP Morgan hires ACCA candidates, and many ACCA members work in their finance, risk, and reporting teams. Positions in controllership, financial analysis, regulatory reporting, and risk operations often welcome applicants with accounting qualifications.
With the ACCA qualification, you can unlock career opportunities in top global markets. The UK, UAE, Singapore, Canada, and Australia are leading destinations in 2025 where your skills will be highly valued.
Is ACCA harder than CA? Generally, CA is considered tougher because of its very low pass rates and lengthy articleship requirement in India. ACCA has a more flexible exam structure, on-demand exam options for early levels, and modular progression.