You can choose between two prominent paths for a successful career in accounting and finance, which are CA vs ACCA. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks. Though many students enroll in both courses, the most common query when choosing a qualification is CA or ACCA, which is better? What distinguishes ACCA from CA?
In order to decide which side in this conflict between CA and ACCA is better, let’s first define CA and ACCA.
What is ACCA? ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is a globally recognized qualification designed for those who want to increase their accounting and financial skills on an international level. For those looking for a variety of opportunities and the ability to work globally, it’s ideal.
What is CA? CA (Chartered Accountant) is a highly esteemed qualification in India, known for its rigorous training and examination process overseen by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). In the Indian finance industry, earning a CA designation is considered the highest honor for professional achievement. It opens up a wide range of prestigious positions in accounting, finance, and auditing.
What’s the difference between CA and ACCA?
If you want to become a chartered accountant, both courses can help you get there. They allow you to practice Chartered Accountancy both in India and abroad. Both certifications are highly valued in the accounting sector.
Professionals holding these degrees are highly sought after in the business sector. They have interesting work possibilities and competitive pay packages. To further grasp the CA and ACCA difference, let’s look at CA vs ACCA in detail.
| Aspect | ACCA | CA (ICAI) |
| Recognition | Globally recognized | Recognized within India |
| Scope | International career opportunities | Mainly concentrated on the Indian market. |
| Curriculum | Broad, including worldwide norms | Deep understanding of Indian laws, taxes, and regulations |
| Examination | Multiple exams with a flexible schedule | Strict assessment process with a specified timeline. |
| Duration | Variable, often 2-4 years | Typically 3-5 years |
| Fees | Varies based on area and institution | Typically lower than ACCA. |
| Career Paths | Global opportunities are diverse | Focused on roles within India |
| Specializations | Offers many specializations | Specializations in Indian laws, taxation, and regulations |
| Professional Body | Association of Chartered Certified Accountants | Institute of Chartered Accountants of India |
Comparing ACCA vs. CA Salary After Qualification
Despite having a larger global reach than a CA, an ACCA can earn a salary with greater growth potential. In India, however, there is a high demand for CAs. Here’s an overview of the CA vs ACCA Salary in India.
ACCA salary in India:
| ACCA Jobs | Average Salary |
| Accountant | INR 3-4 LPA |
| Chartered Accountant | INR 9-10 LPA |
| Auditor | INR 3-5 LPA |
| Financial Accountant | INR 3-7 LPA |
| Finance Officer | INR 3-5 LPA |
| Financial Analyst | INR 4-5 LPA |
| Account Executive | INR 3.5-6 LPA |
| Account Manager | INR 5.5-8 LPA |
| Chief Financial Officer | INR 3.5-4 LPA |
| Business Analyst | INR 3.5-8.5 LPA |
CA Salary in India:
| Jobs profile | CA Salary per annum (Avg) |
| Finance officer | 35 lakh |
| Account executive | 25 lakh |
| Accountant | 25 lakh |
| Finance controller | 24 lakh |
| Finance manager | 13 lakhs |
| Chartered accountant | 12 lakh |
| Financial analyst | 12 lakh |
| Assistant account manager | 10.5 lakh |
| Senior account executive | 6 lakh |
| Senior Accountant* | 5.3 lakh |
| Business analyst | 4 lakh |
| Account Assistant | 4.2 lakh |
CA vs ACCA: Hard or Easy?
At first look, CA appears more challenging due to the number of papers and the time needed to prepare. However, that doesn’t mean ACCA is easy. In fact, ACCA has a higher passing rate compared to CA.
One major difference is that ACCA is recognized in 180 countries, offering broader career prospects and global job opportunities. Many consider the CA course harder because of its lengthy duration, more papers, and complex levels.
ACCA offers more flexibility with exams and subjects. In CA, if you fail in a subject, you must retake all subjects in that group. But with ACCA, you only need to retake the specific subject you didn’t pass, and you can do it at your own pace.
CA or ACCA, which is a better Course?
In the fields of finance and accounting, ACCA and CA are both highly respected; however, they provide distinct career opportunities, particularly in India and internationally. With its deep understanding of India’s accounting system, CA is specifically designed for the Indian market.
On the other hand, ACCA is a highly recommended option for individuals seeking employment opportunities abroad due to its widespread recognition.
Which Has More Benefits: CA vs ACCA?
With ACCA, you can complete the course in three to four years by gaining real-world work experience while preparing for exams. It is only after completing both groups of the Integrated Professional Competence Course (IPCC) that you can begin gaining practical experience for CA.
Regarding salaries, the average starting salary for CA is around ₹8 lakhs per annum, while for ACCA, it’s approximately ₹5.6 lakhs per annum.
Additionally, ACCA can be completed in a shorter time frame than CA. While ACCA is a globally recognized qualification, CA specializes in the Indian tax and accounting system, holding a unique position in India.
Final Words
When comparing CA vs ACCA, it’s essential to consider your career goals and interests. The ACCA and CA are both respected qualifications with different objectives and advantages. ACCA is aimed at those who are interested in finance from a global perspective, whereas CA is ideal for individuals interested in accounting and auditing in India.
For long-term professional success, keep in mind that the course you select between ACCA and CA should support your interests, aspirations, and career goals. For more information, you can explore resources like Lecture Kharido to gain deeper insights into both qualifications.
FAQs
Q.1 Is ACCA better than CA?
Ans. It is determined by one’s professional aspirations. ACCA provides global recognition and flexibility, but CA is prominent in India, with an emphasis on native norms and practices.
Q.2 Can ACCA earn more than CA?
Ans. Role and experience factors influence earning potential. While ACCA professionals can make more money in some areas, CAs typically start out in India’s traditional firms with higher starting salaries.
Q.3 Is ACCA worth it in India?
Ans. Yes, ACCA is valuable for global opportunities and diverse career paths. It complements traditional qualifications, especially for roles in multinational companies and finance sectors.
Q.4 Is ACCA eligible for CA?
Ans. ACCA members can apply for CA examinations under certain conditions, which usually involve additional coursework or exams. For more information on eligibility conditions, contact the relevant CA body.
