The choice between US CPA and ACCA depends on geographic career goals: US CPA is better for working in the U.S. or with US GAAP, offering higher salaries and a faster (12-18 month) qualification. ACCA is superior for international mobility, recognized in 180+ countries with an IFRS focus.
Neither is “easy”; both are challenging. ACCA has 13 papers but offers more flexibility in exam scheduling and significant exemptions. The US CPA has only 4 exams but is highly intensive, with a strict 18-month completion rule and a deeper focus on US GAAP and tax law.
- 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.
In short, both the ACCA and CPA certifications offer excellent career opportunities in the accounting and finance field. Depending on your career goals and interests, you can choose between these two prestigious qualifications to advance your professional growth.
ACCA Qualification recognition
The national qualification, the US CPA, is required to practice public accounting in the US.
Conclusion. The ACCA qualification is a powerful credential for finance professionals seeking global career opportunities. While its relevance in the USA might not rival the CPA, it offers significant value in roles requiring international expertise, particularly in MNCs and global finance hubs.
Throughout the United States ACCA's professionals work in diverse financial positions across multiple sectors which include auditing as well as strategic planning and compliance functions and financial analytics roles.
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.
A member of CPA Canada who has completed the examination and experience requirements of the CPA qualifying programme or those of the legacy bodies* may be eligible for admission into membership of ACCA.
CPA Salaries for Freshers in India
An entry-level or fresher CPA earns around 6 lakhs per annum in India, i.e., about 50,000 rs per month. In metro cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, etc., the average salary can go as high as 13.8 Lakhs per annum, and can also vary from company to company.
Many find pursuing both an ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and CPA (Certified Public Accountant) certification enables them to offer a wider range of accounting and advisory services.
The hardest accounting certification is often considered to be:
CFA charterholders often earn higher packages in investment-related positions, while ACCA professionals enjoy steady growth in accounting and corporate finance roles, especially within Big 4 firms. CFA professionals in India earn higher salaries due to their roles in investment and financial markets.
The CPA Exam is so difficult because it tests everything students have learned for college. It also requires students to be proficient in all four areas (auditing and attestation, financial accounting, management and leadership, and taxation) in a short amount of time.
FCCA stands for Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, a senior-level designation above ACCA.
It is difficult to determine which of these careers offers a higher salary, as the salary of a CA or CPA can differ based on several factors. However, generally, CAs tend to earn more than CPAs in India.
The CPA exam is more intensive and technical, with a focus on US GAAP, audit, and taxation, whereas ACCA is broader, covering IFRS and global management concepts. The CPA is considered more rigorous in content but shorter in duration, while ACCA offers more flexibility and a gradual progression approach.
Ans: An accounting degree is easier than ACCA because of the growth of difficulty throughout the three years of study. Besides, this accounting degree is not completely exam-based, including marking assignments and presentations.
The demand for ACCA professionals continues to surge as companies recognize the value of team members who understand global accounting standards and international finance practices.
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.
Is ACCA recognized legally outside India, and where does it allow signing? A globally recognized qualification, ACCA is known and practiced in over 180 countries. The certification allows members to work internationally and gain authority in countries like the UAE, New Zealand, Malaysia, and Australia.
10 Job Roles After ACCA Qualification