AN OVERVIEW:
ACCA journey is often considered a bit complex and a mix of academic obstacles, however, to some, it might be challenging, and to others, it could be smooth and interesting. The level of complexity or simplicity of the ACCA journey depends on the study pattern, understanding, and determination of a student. The qualification is structured uniquely, unlike the traditional accounting practices and qualifications.
ACCA focuses on developing technical skills, practical expertise, and ethical and professional values, alongside diverse academic knowledge. ACCA Zimbabwe might be challenging but with motivation and consistency, aspirants are rewarded with exciting career opportunities. The blog ahead will help you make your ACCA journey smooth by providing you with a roadmap.
UNDERSTANDING THE ACCA QUALIFICATION:
To smoothen your ACCA journey you will need to have a good understanding of the qualification and its structure. Without studying the structure properly one can not identify which area is more complex to them. Students of ACCA Zimbabwe tend to get stuck in the complications of the qualification, as it ditches the traditional manners and adopts all the modern skills and techniques.
ACCA journey is a mix of academic knowledge, modern technical skills, practical experience, ethical and professional modules, regulatory compliances, etc. The qualification itself consists of 13 exams to examine your expertise in each area of accounting and finance. These 13 modules are divided into three levels, elaborated below.
KEY COMPONENTS OF ACCA QUALIFICATION:
Applied knowledge:
This is the foundational or fundamental level of the ACCA journey, it covers all the basic concepts and areas of accounting, management accounting, etc. This level consists of three exams.
Applied Skills:
This level is a step ahead then the previous level, it dives deep into the topics providing detailed study in areas such as audit, performance management, taxation, etc. This level consists of six exams, covering a wide range of areas of accounting and finance.
Strategic professional level:
This level is the last level of the ACCA journey and is the most advanced and complex stage. In this level, advanced topics are covered such as strategic business leadership, strategic business reporting, etc. This level consists of four exams out of which two are optional (students can choose in accordance with their preferences and future goals).
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
ACCA Zimbabwe has some requirements which need to be fulfilled to become eligible for the qualification and pursue the ACCA qualification. These academic requirements are as follows:
- Individuals with a minimum of five O-level passes (must include mathematics and English) are eligible for ACCA qualification.
- Exemptions are available for individuals having higher educational backgrounds (eg: degree in accounting, business, etc.)
- To avail of exam exemptions, you should have a relative degree (accounting, finance, or business) from a relevant institute. The number of exemptions depends on your degree.
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ENROLLMENT PROCESS:
To start your ACCA journey, you need to be highly attentive during your enrollment process as this is the stepping stone of the journey. Here is a break-down of the whole process:
First, you need to register yourself with ACCA through their website ‘ACCA global’, there you will be asked to provide your personal details and proof of previous academic qualifications.
Website: https://www.accaglobal.com/gb/en.html
Once you have registered yourself, now choose your study route. Understand which route works well with you and aligns with your goals (traditional classroom study, online tuition providers, or self-study). Choosing the right study route can accelerate your ACCA journey.
Lastly, be very mindful while choosing which papers to take first and the number of exams per sitting. Analyze your capabilities and the complexity of each exam, then register yourself for that exam.
STUDYING FOR THE ACCA EXAMS:
ACCA exams can be difficult to crack but with certain factors like efficient time management, consistency, and reliable study resources one can easily ace these exams. Clearing ACCA exams is the basic requirement of a successful ACCA journey. Following are the tips to achieve success in exams of ACCA Zimbabwe:
- Through ACCA-approved course providers you can avail reliable study material (textbooks, mock exams, etc). Study texts and revision kits contribute to preparing students for ACCA exams effectively.
- Many Global Online ACCA-approved tuition providers are providing their services in Zimbabwe, online institutes of ACCA are quite flexible, provide personalized schedules/study plans, and are affordable. One of the best ACCA online tuition providers is Mirchawala’s hub of accountancy.
Website: https://admissions.mirchawala.com/
UNDERSTANDING THE EXAM STRUCTURE:
To navigate the ACCA journey in Zimbabwe it is essential to ace ACCA exams for which students need to understand the structure of these exams. The structure of each exam may slightly vary depending on the area of study.
However, the structure of exams may include Knowledge-based exams which test your academic knowledge regarding the area of study, skill-based exams that include scenarios or case studies to assess your abilities to apply your skills in a practical situation, and strategic professional papers which examine your strategic decision-making, judgment, and critical thinking.
PRACTICAL WORK EXPERIENCE:
Know that to accelerate your ACCA journey only academic knowledge and technical skills are not enough, rather the qualification requires you to complete the practical work experience of 3-4 years in the relevant sector as well. This work experience should be recorded and is mandatory to acquire ACCA membership and status.
CONCLUSION:
To navigate or smoothen your ACCA journey you should first understand the structure of the qualification, exam structure, and requirements of ACCA qualification. Unlike other qualifications this journey isn’t limited to academic knowledge only, rather it equips students with practical experience and technical skills to work in the accounting and finance sector.
Therefore, Students of ACCA Zimbabwe should do their research about the qualification before starting their ACCA journey. They are advised to stay mindful while making decisions regarding study resources, learning options, etc. Other than that consistency is the key to cracking this qualification.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q1: What is ACCA?
Answer: ACCA stands for Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, it is a qualification of accounting and finance acknowledged all around the world. The qualification opens the door to global career opportunities and progressive careers.
Q2: How many exams do I need to pass ACCA Zimbabwe?
Answer: To achieve success in this qualification, you will need to clear thirteen exams, and practical work experience of 3-4 years as well.
