ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is a highly rewarded qualification of accounting that opens the gate to international career opportunities because of its global recognition. Zimbabwean students of ACCA have an opportunity to pursue their careers in accounting, finance, and business-related sectors internationally and locally. For detailed answers to your queries and complete information about ACCA in Zimbabwe read the complete blog.

WHAT IS ACCA?

ACCA is a professional accounting body recognized all around the world, this qualification opens the gate to various career opportunities in accounting, finance, and business sectors. The qualification of ACCA offers various roles in auditing, taxation, financial analysis, management accounting, etc. ACCA offers very progressive and flexible career paths to professionals, and the demand for qualified and skillful accounting professionals is increasing constantly.

ACCA qualification is easily accessible with numerous study options and modes for students in Zimbabwe, students can choose from part-time and full-time study modes, and the option of part-time learning is more feasible for students balancing work and study together. ACCA exam consists of 13 exams which are divided into three parts (Applied skills, Applied knowledge, and Strategic professional). ACCA exams are conducted quarterly, in four sittings every year in March, June, September, and December. 

WHY PURSUE ACCA IN ZIMBABWE? 

The main reason why an individual should consider pursuing ACCA in Zimbabwe is its global recognition. This brings forward a wide range of opportunities for the aspirants, the qualification of ACCA is recognized over 180+ countries. Another benefit of ACCA is its comprehensive curriculum that covers numerous topics such as financial reporting, taxation, audit, management accounting, business law, etc. The diverse syllabus of ACCA enables students to step into the complex business world. Apart from that the employment rate for ACCA-qualified accountants is quite high, employers seek such professionals as the qualification offers a wide knowledge base and effective skills to its students. 

OVERVIEW OF THE SCOPE OF ACCA IN ZIMBABWE: 

With the growing focus on corporate governance, financial integrity, and economic change the demand for ACCA-qualified professionals is increasing across sectors like banking, government, multinational organizations, and private entities. ACCA professionals in Zimbabwe are desired for the roles of managing financial regulations, management of accounting practices, and consulting in strategic financial decision-making. Hence, the need for skillful accountants is observed and forecasted in the job market of Zimbabwe.

REQUIREMENTS FOR PURSUING ACCA IN ZIMBABWE:

Some considerations for entry in ACCA qualifications are as follows:

Without prior Accounting qualifications:

Students who do not have any prior accounting-related qualification but at least have 5 O-level exams cleared (including Mathematics and English) may apply for ACCA qualification from the Applied knowledge level. 

The students who are done with their A-levels or equivalent qualifications are eligible to start ACCA from the Applied skills level. 

With prior Accounting qualifications:

In case an individual has a degree or qualification in accounting or finance (for example: a Bachelor’s in Accounting), may apply for exemptions from certain exams ACCA. However, the number of exemptions entirely depends on the specifics of the previous qualification and if they are under the accounting standards.

Other Considerations:

  • Good understanding and command of Mathematics and English is required to be eligible for the ACCA qualification.
  • Students who do not meet the criteria and have no foundational knowledge about accounting may have to first enroll themselves in FIA which is a foundational level program of ACCA. 

STRUCTURE OF ACCA SYLLABUS:

The qualification of ACCA is divided into three levels, namely: Applied skills level, Applied knowledge level, and Strategic professional level. Each level of the ACCA syllabus is more complex and gives an in-depth knowledge of the previous level.

Applied knowledge level:

This is a foundational level of the ACCA syllabus that includes courses like Business Technology (BT), Financial Accounting (FA), and Management Accounting (MA).

Applied skills level:

This level of ACCA syllabus includes courses such as Corporate and Business law, Performance Management, Taxation, Financial Reporting, Financial Management, Audit and Assurance, etc. 

Strategic Professional:

This is the third level that includes courses in Strategic Business Leadership (SBL) and Strategic Business Reporting (SBR). Other than that there are two papers that are optional, students have to choose from certain subjects.

DURATION AND STUDY OPTIONS OF ACCA QUALIFICATION:

ACCA qualification usually takes 3 to 4 years to complete however, it may vary slightly depending on every individual and their pace of learning. Students pursuing ACCA in Zimbabwe may opt for two study options (part-time and full-time learning). The full-time study option is usually taken by students who are willing to dedicate all their time to study. Whereas, part-time study options are feasible for students who are managing work commitments and education together. 

WHERE TO STUDY ACCA IN ZIMBABWE: 

There are various institutes offering courses in ACCA in Zimbabwe however, some of the best institutes of ACCA are below:

Mirchawala’s hub of Accountancy:

Mirchawala’s hub of Accountancy is one of the best online institutes, offering ACCA courses in 80+ countries of the world. They offer professional tutors, reliable study materials, flexible timings, and recorded lectures to the students. 

Zimbabwe College of Accountancy (ZCA):

This institute offers both full-time as well as part-time study modes for ACCA aspirants.

University of Zimbabwe (UZ):

The institute offers other degrees in Accounting and Finance along with ACCA training and learning options. 

KEY BENEFITS OF PURSUING ACCA QUALIFICATION IN ZIMBABWE:

  • Career flexibility
  • Global Recognition
  •  Continuous professional development
  • Networking 
  • Easy accessibility

CONCLUSION:

ACCA qualification is a highly regarded, rewarded, and recognized accounting certification that opens the door to numerous career opportunities internationally and locally. The qualifications do not bind an individual to a single role but rather offer a diverse range of roles and industries to work in. The right amount of support, resources, and institutes are accessible for the students of ACCA in Zimbabwe enabling them to start their journey in this prestigious qualification. Hence, if you are looking forward to diving into the world of accounting and finance ACCA is the right choice for you.