ACCA Course Structure - Professional Level

The ACCA qualification consists of two levels, Fundamental and Professional. Each level is sub-divided into two modules. There are 16 papers in the entire syllabus, and students are expected to pass 14 papers in order to gain the ACCA qualification. Exams take place in June and December each year.

Essentials Module (P1-P3)

Once students move on to the Professional Level they are expected to apply their knowledge, skills and professional judgement to their studies. Students must analyse, evaluate and make recommendations during this phase of the ACCA. Papers can be taken in any order within this module.

P1 - Professional Accountant

Students will learn how to apply relevant knowledge, skills, and exercise professional judgement in carrying out the role of the accountant relating to governance, internal control, compliance, and the management of risk within an organisation - in the context of an overall ethical framework.

P2 - Corporate Reporting

Students will learn how to exercise professional judgement in the application and evaluation of financial reporting principles and practices in a range of business contexts and situations.

P3 - Business Analysis

Students will apply relevant knowledge, skills, and exercise professional judgement in assessing strategic position, determining strategic choice, and implementing strategic action through business process and structural change, coordinating knowledge systems and information technology, and by managing quality processes, projects, and people.

Options Module (P4-P7)

Similar to the Essentials Module, students are expected to apply their knowledge, skills and professional judgement to their studies. Students must choose 2 papers from the 4 available within this Module.

P4 - Advanced Financial Management

Students will be taught how to exercise professional judgement as expected of a senior financial executive or advisor, in taking or recommending decisions relating to the financial management of an organisation.

P5 - Advanced Performance Management

Students will learn how to select and apply strategic management accounting techniques in different business contexts and to contribute to the evaluation of the performance of an organisation and its strategic development.

P6 - Advanced Taxation

Students will be shown how to provide relevant information and advice to individuals and businesses on the impact of the major taxes on financial decisions and situations.

P7 - Advanced Audit & Assurance

Students will be required to show their skills in terms of analysing, evaluating, concluding and reporting on the assurance engagement and other audit and assurance issues in the context of best practice and current developments.

Back to the ACCA Course Modules & Structure page