What is a Chartered Certified Accountant?

Discover all about chartered certified accountant and how to become one, and their roles and responsibilities as financial experts.
Check Eligibility
CA Loan
Check Eligibility
3 min
28 August 2025

What is the association of Chartered Certified Accountants?

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a global professional accounting body offering the Chartered Certified Accountant qualification. Founded in 1904, ACCA provides qualifications to accountants worldwide, emphasizing ethics, professionalism, and high standards. With over 227,000 members and 544,000 students across 181 countries, ACCA supports its members throughout their careers, providing resources, continuing education, and networking opportunities. The ACCA qualification is recognised globally, ensuring that its members are highly regarded and in demand in various sectors, including public practice, industry, and academia.

What is the Chartered Certified Accountant?

A Chartered Certified Accountant (CCA) is a professional accountant who has completed the ACCA qualification. This certification demonstrates expertise in accounting, auditing, taxation, financial management, and ethics. CCAs are equipped to provide high-level financial advisory services and can work in diverse roles across various industries, including public practice, corporate finance, and consultancy. The qualification is globally recognized, ensuring that CCAs are in demand and can pursue career opportunities worldwide. For more information on related certifications, visit CA.

CA Loan

How do you become a chartered certified accountant?

  1. Enroll in the ACCA Qualification Programme: Register for the ACCA programme, which requires passing 13 exams covering key topics in accounting and finance.
  2. Complete a Professional Ethics Module: As part of the ACCA requirements, candidates must undertake and complete an ethics module to ensure a strong foundation in professional integrity.
  3. Gain Practical Experience: Accumulate three years of relevant practical experience in the accounting field to develop hands-on skills and apply theoretical knowledge effectively.
  4. Achieve ACCA Certification: Successfully complete all exams, the ethics module, and practical experience to obtain the Chartered Certified Accountant qualification.
  5. Engage in Continuous Professional Development (CPD): Maintain the qualification by participating in CPD activities, ensuring you stay updated with evolving industry standards and practices.

Qualifications for becoming a chartered certified accountant

To become a chartered certified accountant, one typically needs to complete the below points:

  • ACCA qualification: Complete exams across three levels: Applied knowledge, applied skills, and strategic professional.
  • Work experience: Accumulate three years of relevant work experience in accounting or finance.
  • Ethics and professional skills module: Complete this module to demonstrate ethical behaviour and professional competence.
  • Educational requirements: Typically, possess A-levels or equivalent qualifications to start ACCA studies.
  • Skills: Develop strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a solid grasp of business and financial principles.
  • Continuous professional development: Engage in ongoing learning and development to maintain chartered status.

Skills required for becoming a chartered certified accountant

Becoming a chartered certified accountant requires a diverse set of skills essential for the role's demands.

  • Analytical skills: Ability to interpret and analyse complex financial data accurately.
  • Attention to detail: Ensuring precision in financial reporting and compliance with regulations.
  • Communication skills: Effectively conveying financial information to clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
  • Technical knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of accounting principles, tax laws, and financial regulations.
  • Problem-solving abilities: Capacity to resolve financial issues and optimise strategies.
  • Adaptability: Readiness to adjust to changes in accounting standards and industry practices.
  • Continuous learning: Commitment to ongoing professional development to stay updated with evolving practices and regulations.
  • Ethical integrity: Upholding ethical standards and demonstrating professional integrity in all accounting practices.

Career path for chartered certified accountants

Chartered certified accountants can pursue diverse and rewarding career paths in various sectors. Common career options include roles in public accounting firms, corporate finance departments, management consulting, and government agencies. CCAs often advance to senior positions such as financial controllers, Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), and partners in accounting firms. The ACCA qualification also opens opportunities for international careers, given its global recognition. Continuous professional development ensures that CCAs remain competitive and can adapt to evolving industry demands.

What do chartered certified accountants do?

Chartered certified accountants perform a wide range of financial and accounting tasks. They prepare and audit financial statements, manage budgets, and offer strategic financial advice to organisations. CCAs also handle taxation matters, ensure regulatory compliance, and conduct risk assessments. Their expertise allows them to contribute to financial planning and decision-making processes, helping businesses optimise performance and achieve their financial goals. CCAs work in various sectors, including public practice, corporate finance, consultancy, and government, providing critical financial services.

Conclusion

Becoming a chartered certified accountant through ACCA offers a globally recognised qualification that opens up numerous career opportunities. Whether working in public practice, corporate finance, or consultancy, CCAs are equipped with the skills and knowledge to excel in their roles. The continuous professional development required ensures that CCAs remain current with industry changes and maintain their competitive edge. For those seeking financial support during their studies or career advancement, consider exploring a professional loan or CA loan by Bajaj Finance to manage expenses and enhance professional growth.

Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-qualified limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

GET THE APP

Disclaimer

1. Bajaj Finance Limited (“BFL”) is a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) and Prepaid Payment Instrument Issuer offering financial services viz., loans, deposits, Bajaj Pay Wallet, Bajaj Pay UPI, bill payments and third-party wealth management products. The details mentioned in the respective product/ service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency with respect to the information referring to BFL products and services on this page.

2. All other information, such as, the images, facts, statistics etc. (“information”) that are in addition to the details mentioned in the BFL’s product/ service document and which are being displayed on this page only depicts the summary of the information sourced from the public domain. The said information is neither owned by BFL nor it is to the exclusive knowledge of BFL. There may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the said information. Hence, users are advised to independently exercise diligence by verifying complete information, including by consulting experts, if any. Users shall be the sole owner of the decision taken, if any, about suitability of the same.

Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of becoming a Chartered Certified Accountant?

Becoming a Chartered Certified Accountant (CCA) offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Global Recognition: The ACCA qualification is recognized worldwide, enhancing career opportunities across different countries and industries.
  • High Earning Potential: CCAs typically enjoy higher salaries and better job prospects compared to non-certified accountants.
  • Career Flexibility: The qualification opens doors to diverse roles in public practice, corporate finance, management consulting, and government agencies.
  • Professional Development: Continuous learning and development ensure CCAs stay updated with industry standards and practices.
  • Prestige and Credibility: Holding an ACCA qualification demonstrates a high level of expertise and commitment to ethical standards, enhancing professional credibility.
How long does it take to become a Chartered Certified Accountant?

The time required to become a Chartered Certified Accountant varies depending on individual circumstances, but it typically takes around 3 to 4 years. This period includes completing 13 ACCA exams, which cover various aspects of accounting and finance, along with gaining three years of relevant practical experience. Additionally, candidates must complete the Professional Ethics module. The duration can be shorter or longer based on prior qualifications, exemptions, and the pace at which the exams and experience requirements are met.

What is the difference between a Chartered Accountant and a Chartered Certified Accountant?

The main difference between a Chartered Accountant (CA) and a Chartered Certified Accountant (CCA) lies in the certifying bodies and the geographic recognition of their qualifications:

  • Chartered Accountant (CA): This qualification is awarded by national professional bodies such as ICAEW (UK), ICAS (Scotland), and ICAI (India). CAs are highly recognized within their respective countries and follow specific national standards.
  • Chartered Certified Accountant (CCA): This qualification is awarded by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), a global body. CCAs are recognized internationally and follow global accounting standards, providing greater flexibility for international careers.
Can Chartered Certified Accountants work internationally?
Yes, Chartered Certified Accountants can work internationally. The ACCA qualification is globally recognized, allowing CCAs to pursue career opportunities in various countries. This international recognition makes CCAs highly sought after by multinational corporations, global accounting firms, and international organizations. The qualification's focus on global standards and practices ensures that CCAs are well-equipped to work in different regulatory environments and adapt to various market conditions.

Show More Show Less

Related videos