Study the ACA qualification and become an ICAEW Chartered Accountant
Do you want a leading professional qualification that can take you to the highest levels of accountancy, finance and business?
We find out from HSBC graduate recruit Carl Fenech how his ICAEW training agreement combines on-the-job experience and studying for a prestigious professional qualification
Become an ICAEW Chartered Accountant and enjoy some amazing career opportunities, whatever sector you’re interested in. From global business brands and accountancy firms to charities and not for profit organisations, the ACA qualification can take you there.
Find out more about ICAEW and the ACA at icaew.com/careers or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/icaewcareers
How do I become an ICAEW Chartered Accountant?
To become an ICAEW Chartered Accountant, you need to complete the ACA qualification – a great opportunity to learn while in full-time employment.
To train for the ACA qualification you need to apply for a training agreement with one of ICAEW’s 2,700 authorised training employers. The ACA typically takes three to five years to complete. It’s a challenging programme, but the rewards are substantial, and when you qualify you can use the letters ACA after your name!
What does the ACA qualification involve?
The ACA qualification is one of the most advanced learning and professional development programmes available. It provides the combination of knowledge, skills and experience needed to qualify as an ICAEW Chartered Accountant.
Designed over three levels, you will gain a variety of work experience, achieve academic excellence, as well as develop your business ethics and professional credibility.
With support from ICAEW and expert tuition from our Partners in Learning, you’ll have the best chance to reach the highest levels in accountancy, finance and business.
You’ll also join a vibrant community of students around the world all studying for the ACA. You’ll have access to ICAEW career resources, webinars, a world leading library as well as regional student networks and social media groups.
Salaries and career progression
Starting salaries for ACA students depend on the size and type of organisation you apply for. Average salaries for ICAEW Chartered Accountants 10-15 years’ post qualification are currently around £99,800 (£82,400 salary + £17,400 bonus).*
As a qualified ICAEW Chartered Accountant you will be highly sought after – in fact they currently work for 90% of Interbrand’s 100 Best Global Brands.**
What do I need to study the ACA?
Most employers require at least a 2:1 degree with upwards of 280 UCAS points. Any degree discipline is acceptable and you don’t need to have studied maths at A-level!
If you have studied a relevant degree, such as Accountancy and Finance, you may be able to claim credit for prior learning (exemptions) – find out if this applies to you at icaew.com/cpl
Of course, you’ll also have to demonstrate that you have the drive and motivation to succeed at the top in business.
*ICAEW Career Benchmarking Survey 2011
**Interbrand 'Best Global Brands October 2011
How do I apply?
Register on ICAEW's Training Vacancies and apply direct for an ACA training agreement with an employer of your choice
It's free to register and you can upload your profile and CV. This means that:
- Your profile can be searched easily by our authorised training employers
- You'll get regular job alerts from employers recruiting ACA students
- You can visit our Careers Centre to find out what skills employers want
- ... and more!
Find out how you can start your journey to becoming and ICAEW Chartered Accountant at icaew.com/careers