ACCA vs CIMA: Which Professional Qualification to Choose?
Both ACCA and CIMA are world-class accounting qualifications, but they serve different career paths.
At a Glance
| Factor | ACCA | CIMA |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Financial accounting, audit, tax | Management accounting, strategy |
| Professional exams | 13 papers | 12 papers (+ 4 Cert BA if needed) |
| Best for | Audit, tax, public practice | Corporate finance, CFO track |
| Global recognition | 180+ countries | 150+ countries |
| Exam format | Written + CBE | Objective tests + case studies |
| Designation | ACCA / FCCA | CGMA |
ACCA in Detail
Entry: Any 2 A-Levels + 3 O-Levels (or FIA Diploma)
ACCA is recognized in 180+ countries — the standard for professional accountants internationally.
If you want to work in audit, tax advisory, or public practice — ACCA is the natural choice.
13 papers across 3 progressive levels. Each builds directly on the previous one.
CIMA in Detail
CIMA leads to the CGMA (Chartered Global Management Accountant) designation.
Starting from scratch (no accounting degree):
BA1, BA2, BA3, BA4 — all computer-based objective tests. Can be completed in as little as 12 months.
Professional Qualification — 12 exams across 3 levels:
3 objective tests + 1 case study exam. Covers enterprise management, performance operations, and financial operations.
3 objective tests + 1 case study exam. Advanced management accounting, financial reporting, and strategic enterprise.
3 objective tests + 1 case study exam. Strategic management, risk management, and financial strategy.
Practical Experience Requirements
36 months of relevant practical experience (PER), supervised and logged via ACCA's online portal.
Minimum 3 years of relevant finance/management experience, verified by a supervisor. Runs alongside exams.
2026 CIMA Syllabus Update
From January 2026 (objective tests) and May 2026 (case studies), the CGMA Professional Qualification has an updated syllabus. Same number of exams — new topics include sustainability reporting (IFRS S1/S2), generative AI in finance, and finance business partnering.
How We Support Both
While our primary focus is ACCA, we support CIMA students through our partnership model:
Single point of contact for study plan coordination WhatsApp support group with active ACCA & CIMA students Resource recommendations (Kaplan, BPP, and self-study) Deadline tracking and exam registration assistance Get career-specific advice