The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is one of the world's most prestigious accounting bodies, offering a globally recognized qualification for aspiring finance professionals. The ACCA qualification opens up diverse global opportunities across industries for students in Bangalore looking to build a future in finance and accounting.
If you're enrolled in an ACCA course in Bangalore or planning to join one soon, understanding the exam structure is your first step toward success.
This guide will break down the ACCA exam structure specifically for students based in Bangalore, helping you prepare efficiently, set realistic goals, and make the most of your learning journey.
What is the ACCA Qualification?
The ACCA qualification equips students with the financial and management skills necessary to thrive in today's global economy. It is divided into a series of exams, a professional ethics module, and a practical experience requirement.
The program is globally recognised in over 180 countries and is especially valuable for students aiming to work with multinational corporations, Big Four firms, or as finance consultants.
For Bangalore students, the city's dynamic ecosystem offers strong academic support, diverse coaching centres, and abundant job opportunities to complement your ACCA journey.
Overview of the ACCA Exam Structure
The ACCA qualification consists of 13 papers divided into three levels:
- Applied Knowledge
- Applied Skills
- Strategic Professional
To become a fully qualified ACCA member, students must complete an Ethics and Professional Skills module and 36 months of practical work experience in addition to the exams.
Let's take a detailed look at each level of the exam structure.
1. Applied Knowledge Level
This entry-level phase is ideal for beginners or those without an accounting background. It introduces students to the core principles of finance and accounting.
Subjects:
- Business and Technology (BT)
- Management Accounting (MA)
- Financial Accounting (FA)
Key Points:
- These exams are computer-based and available on demand.
- Focuses on understanding business functions, basic accounting concepts, and management techniques.
- Suitable for students from Class 12 and non-commerce backgrounds.
For those pursuing an ACCA course in Bangalore, many local institutes offer beginner-friendly training, mock exams, and personalised mentorship to help students confidently clear this level.
2. Applied Skills Level
This level deepens your understanding and builds technical skills in accounting, taxation, auditing, and financial management.
Subjects:
- Corporate and Business Law (LW)
- Performance Management (PM)
- Taxation (TX)
- Financial Reporting (FR)
- Audit and Assurance (AA)
- Financial Management (FM)
Key Points:
- Most exams are held quarterly (March, June, September, and December).
- Objective and subjective questions test both conceptual understanding and practical application.
- Requires a more strategic approach to exam preparation.
3. Strategic Professional Level
This level is the most advanced and is designed to develop leadership and strategic skills necessary for senior roles.
It is divided into two compulsory exams and two optional exams.
Compulsory Subjects:
- Strategic Business Leader (SBL)
- Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)
- Optional Subjects (Choose any two):
- Advanced Financial Management (AFM)
- Advanced Performance Management (APM)
- Advanced Taxation (ATX)
- Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA)
Key Points:
- These exams focus on applying knowledge to real-life business scenarios.
- A blend of multiple formats: written responses, scenario-based questions, and analysis-based tasks.
- Requires holistic thinking and time management skills.
Local experts offering an ACCA course in Bangalore emphasise case-based learning and provide access to previous examiners' reports, which are crucial for mastering this level.
Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM)
Before attempting the Strategic Professional exams, students must complete the Ethics and Professional Skills Module. It enhances the ethical decision-making and professional behaviour expected from ACCA members.
Key Areas Covered:
- Ethics and professionalism
- Communication
- Commercial awareness
- Leadership and governance
This online module is mandatory and can be completed at any stage after the Applied Knowledge level. Many coaching centres in Bangalore integrate EPSM discussions into students' coursework to reinforce its principles.
Practical Experience Requirement (PER)
To become a qualified ACCA member, students must gain 36 months of relevant work experience and demonstrate achievement of 9 performance objectives.
How Bangalore Supports PER:
- Numerous internship and trainee positions are available in MNCs and audit firms.
- Strong alum networks and career cells help students find relevant roles.
- Opportunities to work part-time or as an apprentice while pursuing the ACCA qualification.
For students enrolled in an ACCA course in Bangalore, training institutes often collaborate with hiring firms to help fulfil the PER requirement alongside studies.
Exam Format and Grading System
Exam Modes:
- Computer-based exams (CBE) are available for all levels.
- Applied Knowledge exams are on-demand; others follow a quarterly exam schedule.
Grading:
- Each paper is scored out of 100.
- A minimum of 50% is required to pass.
Attempt Flexibility:
- There is no strict sequence for taking exams, although following the level-wise order is recommended.
- Students can attempt up to 4 exams per session and eight per calendar year.
How to Register for ACCA Exams in Bangalore
Students can register for ACCA exams online through the official ACCA Global website. The steps include:
- Create an account and upload academic documents.
- Pay registration and annual subscription fees.
- Book exams as per the quarterly schedule.
Exam Centres in Bangalore:
- ACCA has approved learning and exam centres across Bangalore.
- Computer-based testing is available at various Pearson VUE centres in the city.
Many institutes offering an ACCA course in Bangalore assist students with registration, scheduling, and documentation to make the process seamless.
Study Resources and Support in Bangalore
Bangalore boasts a vibrant ecosystem of ACCA-approved learning partners and coaching centres. These institutions provide:
- Updated study materials and Kaplan books
- Live and recorded lectures
- Mock exams and revision kits
- One-on-one doubt-solving sessions
- Peer study groups and networking events
Moreover, students can also access free online resources such as ACCA past papers, examiner reports, and the ACCA Student Hub.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
1. Balancing Studies and Work
Tip: Choose flexible class schedules (evening/weekend batches) offered in Bangalore.
2. Understanding Complex Concepts
Tip: Join discussion forums and attend live problem-solving sessions.
3. Exam Anxiety and Time Pressure
Tip: Practice with mock exams under timed conditions.
4. Keeping Up with Study Plans
Tip: Follow structured weekly goals set by local ACCA mentors.
Tips for Bangalore Students Preparing for ACCA Exams
- Start early and follow a disciplined schedule.
- Use a mix of self-study and coaching classes.
- Regularly revise and practice past year question papers.
- Attend webinars and student meetups for insights.
- Use breaks to rejuvenate and maintain mental well-being.
Conclusion
Understanding the ACCA exam structure is crucial for efficient planning and success. For students in Bangalore, the combination of academic support, industry exposure, and a collaborative learning environment makes the city one of the most favourable destinations to pursue the ACCA qualification.
If you're considering enrolling in a trusted institute to guide you through this journey, Synthesis Learning is a leading provider of ACCA courses in Bangalore. Their expert faculty, flexible learning modes, and dedicated career support make them a top choice for aspiring ACCA professionals in the city.
