It is time for intermediate students to think ahead: five reasons to choose ACCA

1) Recognised worldwide – international travel – global network

ACCA has 200,000 members and 486,000 students in 181 countries around the world, and once you sign up to study, you instantly become part of this ever-growing network. That means you will be part of a network of over 600,000 people around the world.

So if you do wish to travel you will be able to do so with ease. Accountancy is one of those professions where positions all around the world are freely available; so many people take the opportunity to visit and work in new countries.

2) Highly regarded by 8,500 employers globally

ACCA’s qualifications are developed with employers that teach international accounting standards. This means that employers all over the world have confidence that ACCA members and students understand the rules and laws of corporate finance in their country.

It’s a seal of approval and it’s essential to have a qualification as an accountant to sign off on reports. Furthermore, having a professional qualification is essential for employers to benchmark each candidate: it shows passion and drive but also gives a good account of technical ability and experience.

3) Career progression

Ideally anyone who wishes to have a career in finance and achieve senior management positions should have a formal qualification in accounting and finance say employers who recruit candidates for their finance function.

The ACCA Qualification is highly regarded by employers. While it’s not impossible to be in a senior management position without one, there is more and more emphasis being placed on qualifications and quite simply more choice available to qualified accountants, than non-qualified. The qualification is assurance for the employer of your technical knowledge, so coupled with your experience they can determine your suitability for a role.

In developed countries with mature financial and corporate systems, possessing a professional accountancy qualification is standard to be able to compete, say recruitment managers of big four accountancy firms.

4) Flexible study - anywhere, anytime, in your own time

Studying ACCA is flexible. You can organise how and when you study to suit any situation. If you want to complete it as quickly as possible, you can attend an Approved Learning Provider as a full-time student.

5) Practical experience

It’s not all about exams and studying. To become an ACCA member you need to have completed three years of practical experience. While this may sound intimidating, this is key to ensuring that you’re the complete package before becoming an ACCA member and enjoying all the career benefits this brings. A workplace mentor will guide you through the requirements and support your progress.