ACA

ACA

Didn't find your answer?

I`ve been given an option by my employer to study for ACA. should i wish. I am already qualified ACCA and was wondering if its really worth doing ACA?

I would welcome your thoughts.

Replies (7)

Please login or register to join the discussion.

avatar
By Frustrated Accountant
13th Dec 2011 11:57

It used to be that it was supposed to add £1k a year to your salary. Would all that study be worth that? Only you can decide.

Thanks (0)
By ireallyshouldknowthisbut
13th Dec 2011 12:03

.

Unless you work for a big audit firm and plan to stick around I wouldn't bother.

Not being an ACA in a big audit firm may stiffle your promotion chances if you are aiming for the top however so I wouldnt dismiss it out of hand. Losing a "C" can gain a lot in some peoples eyes, ACCA is seen as "not quite as good" in some circles.

Out in industry or in small practice no-one will give a stuff. A CTA? Now THERE is something that will impress.

Thanks (0)
avatar
By Frustrated Accountant
13th Dec 2011 12:09

A CTA will really impress? In practice firms maybe. Out in the real world few have heard of it. Rest I personally agree with but it's the poster's choice. In big firms it can be a real help. Depends on what they want for a career.

Thanks (0)
avatar
By exceljockey
13th Dec 2011 12:29

Experience counts

I did CIMA and ACA and I found that for 5 - 7 years after qualifying as a CA it made a difference but now people are interested in my experience and not qualifications. It opens doors possibly but in the end you still have to put in the hours and effort and if you are prepared to do that the ACCA will serve you well.

Thanks (0)
avatar
By Katmandu
13th Dec 2011 13:01

If you have 5 years post qualification experience and membership of the ACCA and wanted to join the ICAEW another option might be their 'pathways to membership' scheme.  It was originally due to close this December but it was annouced recently that it will remain open until December 2012.  The following link gives you details http://www.icaew.com/en/join-us/members-of-other-bodies/pathways-to-membership

I too am ACCA qualified and I'm studing for the CTA but I am also considering applying to the ICAEW under this scheme as although I've never found that being ACCA has held me back, this seems like a relatively straightforward way of becoming an ACA which may be of use some time in the future.

Thanks (0)
By dialm4accounts
13th Dec 2011 13:47

I wouldn't

I'm ACA, and I've known other ACAs and FCAs who think that ACCA is "poor relation".  I don't agree at all - I've worked with some fantastic ACCAs and I would say the two are on a level.  Save your time and go for the "pathway to membership" option suggested by Katmandu if you want both!

M

Thanks (0)
avatar
By Settingupalone
13th Dec 2011 16:35

If you work in practice in accounts and tax and willing to do more exams and have an employer willing to pay I would do CTA. I can't think what extra you would gain from ACA and it may be a waste of your exam time.

Whatever you do good luck.

Thanks (0)