ACCA vs. CFA: Revealing the Key Difference Between Them
Are you looking to begin your career in accounting or finance? But confused, which option to choose? There are numerous courses and qualifications available in the financial profession, like CPA, ACCA, and CFA, which are some of the most popular names.
Aspirants generally get confused about where to begin and how to begin. ACCA and CFA are two prestigious credentials that are widely sought after in the accounting and finance professions. These credentials not only improve a person’s knowledge and abilities but also lead to a plethora of options in the international labor market.
In this article, we are going to compare the ACCA and CFA with a comprehensive view, covering all the primary factors, including complete course frameworks, career options, exam patterns, and course duration.
Before we talk about ACCA vs. CFA factors, let’s begin by defining ACCA and CFA and understanding the fundamentals before we go into the intricacies.
ACCA: Basic Overview
ACCA is a globally renowned accounting credential. It provides students with a thorough understanding of areas like audit, taxation, management accounting, and financial accounting. The ACCA syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the accounting profession by covering a wide range of accounting practices and rules.
The purpose of ACCA is to provide students with a strong foundation in accounting concepts and procedures. It addresses several subjects, including taxation, audit and assurance, performance management, financial reporting, and financial management. To stay abreast of the evolving demands and developments within the accounting industry, the ACCA syllabus is updated regularly.
CFA: Basic Overview
Within the investing and finance industry, the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) qualification is highly esteemed. Investment analysis, portfolio management, ethics, and professional standards are the main areas of focus for CFAs. It places a strong emphasis on financial analysis and gives applicants the tools they need to succeed as investment professionals.
The three stages of the CFA program expand on the information and abilities acquired at the preceding level. Level II goes further into asset appraisal and portfolio management, whereas Level I concentrates on the principles of investment instruments. Wealth planning and portfolio management are the main topics of Level III.
Now, we have discussed enough of the basics of both the ACCA and CFA courses. Now we will check through the differences between both courses one by one. Before we move, if you are looking to pursue an ACCA or CFA course online, consider enrolling in Mirchawala’s Hub of Accountancy .It is a renowned institute that educates and empowers aspirants worldwide.
The Key Difference between ACCA and CFA
Duration and Adaptability: ACCA vs. CFA
Since ACCA is flexible, candidates can adjust their studies to fit around their work obligations. Three to four years are typically needed to finish an ACCA.
In contrast, the CFA program is extremely demanding and can be finished in three to four years. To move on to the next level, candidates must pass each one. Level I and Levels II and III of the CFA examination are given twice a year and once a year, respectively. The exams are administered sequentially.
Worldwide Acceptance and Recognition: ACCA vs. CFA
With its global reach, ACCA is accepted by colleges, businesses, and regulatory agencies all across the world. In nations that use the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), it is especially prized.
Nonetheless, the CFA designation is well-known and acknowledged by major financial organizations in the investment sector. The CFA program is renowned for its demanding coursework and emphasis on portfolio management and investment analysis. Those who want to work in investment banking, asset management, or stock research will particularly benefit from it. A CFA designation can improve one’s professional prospects in the finance business and is well acknowledged.
Career Opportunities: ACCA vs. CFA
A variety of career options are available with ACCA, including positions as a financial analyst, management accountant, auditor, tax counselor, and auditor. You can work in a variety of industries with ACCA, including corporate finance, banking, insurance, and public practice.
The CFA designation is highly prized in the financial sector. It provides access to positions as an investment banker, risk manager, research analyst, portfolio manager, and financial analyst. Those who hold a CFA charter frequently find employment in investment banks, hedge funds, asset management organizations, and private equity firms. The CFA program is renowned for its demanding coursework and emphasis on portfolio management and investment analysis.
Exam Format and Level of Difficulty: ACCA vs. CFA
Throughout the year, computer-based ACCA exams are offered. Multiple-choice questions make up the majority of the exam questions, while some papers also have written sections. The large quantity of material that candidates must cover, which necessitates careful planning and time management, is one of the hurdles.
Every year in June, multiple-choice questions and item sets are administered in CFA exams. While Levels II and III evaluate candidates’ application of concepts in practical situations, Level I tests candidates’ knowledge and comprehension. The CFA tests are notoriously challenging and necessitate a great deal of study.
In summary
The CFA credential is extremely specialized and is best suited for finance professionals who want to become experts in equity research and financial analysis. To improve their chances of becoming professionals in accounting or auditing, professionals or students would be better served by earning the broad-based ACCA accounting certification.
The purpose of the ACCA vs. CFA guide is to provide you with insight so you can make your decision without any confusion. Now, the final decision is yours. Make your career choice as per your priorities, time availability, and career goals. We hope you found this post helpful. Please share your feedback.
Happy learning!!