Although CA, CPA, and ACCA are all related to accounting and finance and have high recognition worldwide, there are significant differences in global recognition, course length, practical experience, educational requirements, specialization, and cost.
CPA is highly recognized in the U.S. and globally, focusing on U.S. standards, while ACCA has broad international recognition and is designed for global relevance. CA is respected in specific countries, with variable international recognition. CA generally takes longer to complete due to mandatory practical training, whereas CPA can be completed more quickly if educational requirements are met. ACCA offers flexible completion times, typically around 3-4 years.
CA requires mandatory practical training, CPA’s work experience requirements vary by state, and ACCA’s practical experience can be completed at various stages. Educational requirements also differ: CA can be pursued after high school in some countries (on a provisional basis), CPA requires a bachelor’s degree plus additional credits, and ACCA allows entry without a degree but offers exemptions for relevant qualifications.
Specialization varies, with CA focusing on country-specific laws, CPA on U.S. GAAP and regulations, and ACCA providing an international perspective. Cost-wise, CA is generally less expensive, especially in countries like India, CPA can be costly due to various fees and coursework, and ACCA has moderate costs, including exam and subscription fees.
A detailed difference between CA, CPA, and ACCA can be found below:
| Difference | CA | CPA | ACCA |
| 1. Origin | India | US | UK |
| 2. Recognition | Mostly in India and some parts of the UAE | Recognized in most of the countries. CPA is a widely and highly recognized qualification. | ACCA is recognized globally and highly rated in most of the countries. |
| 3. Regulating bodies | ICAI (Institute of Chartered Accounts of India) | AICPA (American Institute of CPAs) | ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) |
| 4. Course Structure | Three stages:
1. Foundation 2. Intermediate 3. Final |
There are four stages:
1. Auditing and attestation 2. Business Environment and Concepts 3. Financial Accounting and Reporting 4. Regulation |
There are three levels in ACCA:
1. Applied knowledge 2. Applied skills 3. Strategic professional These levels include 13 exams in total. |
| 5. Eligibility | Can be pursued after 10 (on a provisional basis) | Usually requires a degree (150 hours of education) and some coursework. Eligibility may differ from state to state. | It can be pursued with or without a college degree. However, some exemptions are available as per the educational qualification. |
| 6. Exam | Multiple exams on each level. The difficulty level is high. | Computer-based exams are conducted in the above-mentioned areas. The difficulty level is moderate to high. | The first level is assessed by a computer-based exam. Higher levels are assessed with written exams. A professional ethics module is also required.
The difficulty level is moderate to high. |
| 7. Focus areas | Accounting, taxation, and auditing. | Auditing, Financial reporting and regulation, and Taxation. | Auditing, Taxation, Financial management, performance management, Corporate and business law. |
There are various factors which should be considered while choosing a course. These factors may include geographical location, goal, preferences related to industry, etc.
CA: Pursue if you plan to work in specific countries with strong CA recognition, focus on local tax and accounting laws, and prefer a structured program with mandatory practical training.
CPA: If the US is your preferred work location or you want to work with U.S.-based companies, you should consider pursuing CPA, have a relevant academic background, and prefer a focus on U.S. GAAP and regulations.
ACCA: Pursue if you seek a globally recognized qualification, aim for an international career, and prefer flexibility in educational and practical experience requirements.
