FAQs: ACA (ICAEW) Exams
How many ACA exams are there?
Fifteen (fourteen post-July 2025 with the new syllabus). Six at Certificate Level, six at Professional Level and three at Advanced Level.
How Long does it take to qualify for ACA exams?
You need to complete 450 practical work experience days. This normally takes around three years.
Is ACA or ACCA more difficult?
Debatable. ACA is valued by firms in practice due to the audit focus of some of the exams. ACA exams are very time-pressured which some people say makes them more difficult than ACCA.
Can I become chartered after completing AAT?
Yes. If you've already studied your AAT Level 4 then you can go on to qualify as an ICAEW Chartered Accountant, with some exemptions given for the ICAEW exams.
Can I study ACA as an independent student?
Yes you can, although you still need to complete the 450 practical work experience days so you will still need to be in a qualifying role to achieve these days.
Can you study ACA without a degree?
Yes you can, but often a strong academic school record is required.
Do I need a degree in accounting to study ACA?
No, you don’t. Any degree is fine but you might find the first few exams more of a learning curve than those who have achieved an accountancy, finance or business management degree.
Do ACA exams make you a chartered accountant?
Yes. AAT, for example, is a level 4 qualification and you do not become chartered. Once you have completed all 15 exams, ethics modules and 450 days of practical work experience, you will be able to apply for membership to ICAEW and be a chartered accountant.
Hoe many exams can I fail with ICAEW?
You can retake ACA Certificate and Professional Level exams up to four times, while Advanced Level exams can be taken an unlimited number of times. However your firm’s exam policy overrides this so check your company’s exam policy!
Is the ACA the equivalent to a degree?
It is the equivalent to a Masters.
What level of apprenticeship is the ACA?
It is a level 7 apprenticeship.
