ACCA in Pakistan (2026)
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a globally recognized professional accounting qualification. It equips students with knowledge in accounting, auditing, taxation, corporate laws, financial management, and business leadership. ACCA-qualified professionals are in demand worldwide, including in Pakistan, due to its international recognition and career opportunities.
In 2026, ACCA remains one of the most popular accounting qualifications among Pakistani students who want to build a career in finance, auditing, or international accounting firms.
Eligibility Criteria for ACCA
To register for ACCA in Pakistan, students must meet one of the following criteria:
- Intermediate (FSc/FA/I.Com/ICS) or A-Levels – with at least two passes in A-levels and three passes in O-levels (in five separate subjects including English and Math).
- Graduates (BA/B.Com/BSc/BBA) – can directly enter with exemptions depending on subjects.
- CA, ICMA, or other professional qualifications – may get additional exemptions.
ACCA Registration Process (2026)
The registration process for ACCA is fully online. Students can apply through the official ACCA website.
Steps for Registration:
- Visit the official ACCA website.
- Create an online account and fill in the application form.
- Upload scanned documents:
- CNIC / Passport
- Academic Certificates (Matric, Intermediate, Graduation if applicable)
- Passport-size photograph
- Pay the initial registration fee online.
- Receive confirmation from ACCA along with your student registration number.
Exemptions in ACCA
Depending on previous qualifications, students may receive exemptions:
- Intermediate / A-Level Students → No exemptions.
- B.Com / BBA Students → May get exemptions in Business & Accounting related subjects.
- CA Inter / ICMA / MBA Students → Higher exemptions available depending on subjects studied.
- Students can check exemptions through the ACCA Exemption Calculator on the official website.
ACCA Duration
- The duration of ACCA depends on the student’s background and exemptions.
- On average, it takes 3 to 4 years to complete all exams.
- Students who study full-time may complete it earlier.
- Practical experience (36 months) is also required to become an ACCA member.
ACCA Fee Structure
| Fee Type | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Initial Registration Fee | £45 (PKR 16,500) |
| Annual Subscription Fee | £134 (PKR 49,000) |
| Exam Fee (per paper – Applied Knowledge) | £84 (PKR 30,500) |
| Exam Fee (per paper – Applied Skills) | £134 (PKR 49,000) |
| Strategic Professional Exams | £187 (PKR 68,000) |
(Note: Fees vary with exchange rate – above conversion as per 2026 rates.)
Scope of ACCA in Pakistan
ACCA has vast career opportunities in Pakistan and abroad. After completing ACCA, students can work in:
- Audit Firms (PwC, KPMG, Deloitte, EY, Grant Thornton)
- Multinational Companies
- Banks and Financial Institutions
- Tax and Advisory Firms
- Business and Corporate Sectors
Job Roles include:
- Auditor
- Financial Analyst
- Tax Consultant
- Finance Manager
- Internal Auditor
- CFO (with experience)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How many papers are there in ACCA (2026)?
Ans: ACCA has 13 papers divided into three levels:
- Applied Knowledge (3 papers)
- Applied Skills (6 papers)
- Strategic Professional (4 papers)
Q: Can I do ACCA after Intermediate?
Ans: Yes, students can register for ACCA after completing Intermediate (FA, FSc, I.Com, ICS) or A-Levels.
Q: How long does ACCA take to complete?
Ans: On average, it takes 3 to 4 years to complete ACCA along with practical experience.
Q: Is ACCA better than CA in Pakistan?
Ans: ACCA is internationally recognized, flexible, and offers global opportunities, while CA (ICAP) is highly recognized within Pakistan. Both have strong career scopes depending on career goals.
