ACCA vs CIMA: the accounting guide

If you're planning your career in accountancy, you may be wondering which accounting qualification you should complete. While both ACCA and CIMA are popular qualifications for aspiring accountants, they are aimed at different types of accounting careers.

Read this ACCA vs CIMA guide to help you decide which professional qualification is best for you, where we'll explore the key differences between ACCA and CIMA, including which route is longer and which is more difficult. We will also compare each level of the accounting professional qualifications, and help you decide whether you should choose ACCA or CIMA.

Explore accountancy qualification paths.

The difference between ACCA and CIMA

Having a professional qualification in ACCA or CIMA is highly respected internationally, across a variety of organisations. Both qualifications will teach you the fundamental principles of accounting, such as compliance and financial reporting. However, these qualification routes are aimed at different career types and job roles.

ACCA vs CIMA: which should I choose?

Your choice will depend on your long-term goals.

CIMA focuses on developing knowledge for strategic and business leadership roles. Job roles that would suit a CIMA qualification include management accountant, business analyst, project manager, and finance controller.

ACCA concentrates on the advanced skills and principles of accounting. Job roles that would suit an ACCA qualification include accountant, financial consultant, tax manager, and internal auditor.

Each professional qualification has an accessible route to study, with foundation and entry-level qualifications available.

If you have no previous accountancy experience or training, see the CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting and ACCA Foundations in Accountancy. These provide a base of knowledge and skills which will allow you to progress towards earning your accountancy qualification.

If you have a relevant degree qualification, both ACCA and CIMA provide exemptions on certain papers, helping you save time and money.

Find out more about ACCA exemptions.

Is ACCA longer than CIMA?

Both accountancy qualifications are challenging, especially at the later levels.

The comparative pass rates for ACCA vs CIMA in 2023 sitting were:*

*Results based on the ACCA June 2023 sittings, and the CIMA May 2023 sittings.

ACCA vs CIMA levels

By comparing the different modules for each professional qualification, you can see which specialist skills and knowledge areas you will develop.

Both ACCA and CIMA have three main levels.

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

During the final level of ACCA you will need to complete two essential and two optional papers. You can choose between:

• Advanced audit and assurance

• Advanced financial management

• Advanced performance management

• Advanced taxation

Is CIMA better than ACCA?

If you're looking to pursue a management or strategic business role, then a CIMA qualification may be better for you. However, both qualifications are highly respected and globally recognised. An ACCA qualification may be more suited to you if you are aiming to gain specialist accounting knowledge and skills.

Can I study ACCA or CIMA via an apprenticeship?

You can complete the ACCA and CIMA qualifications as an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships offer a structured path for qualifying into the career you want while gaining valuable on-the-job experience and earning a salary.

Final thoughts

Making a choice between ACCA and CIMA will depend entirely on your career goals. Both professional qualifications will give you specialist skills and knowledge to perform a range of important job roles.

Once you have an idea of an organisation or sector you would like to work in, look through our ACCA and CIMA course pages. Evaluate which specialist skills and knowledge areas would help you secure your career.

If you have any questions or would like to speak to a friendly advisor, call us on +44 (0) 3300 603 100.

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