Kickstart Your ACCA Journey After 12th with This Step-by-Step Guide

PFC Education
Dec 14, 2025
3 min read

Starting your professional journey right after 12th grade can feel overwhelming, especially when considering a globally recognized qualification like ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). If you are passionate about finance, accounting, and business, ACCA offers a clear path to build a rewarding career. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to begin your ACCA journey smoothly, with practical advice tailored for students just finishing their 12th standard.

!Eye-level view of a student studying ACCA materials at a desk

Understand What ACCA Is and Why It Matters

Before diving into the process, it’s important to know what ACCA stands for and what it offers. ACCA is a global professional accounting qualification recognized in over 180 countries. It equips you with skills in accounting, auditing, taxation, and financial management. Employers value ACCA professionals for their expertise and ethical standards.

Starting ACCA after 12th means you can fast-track your career in finance without waiting for a college degree. Many students choose this route to gain practical knowledge and international recognition early on.

Check Your Eligibility and Registration Process

One of the first steps is to confirm your eligibility. After completing 12th standard (any stream), you are eligible to register for the ACCA Foundation level or directly for the ACCA Qualification if you meet certain criteria.

If you have completed 12th with good marks in English and Mathematics, you can register directly for the ACCA Qualification.
If you need extra preparation, ACCA offers a Foundation in Accountancy (FIA) route, which is a stepping stone to the main ACCA exams.

To register, visit the official ACCA website or contact a recognized ACCA tuition provider like PFC Education Udaipur. You will need to submit your academic documents and pay the registration fee.

Plan Your Study Schedule and Choose the Right Learning Mode

ACCA exams are divided into three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional. After 12th, you will start with the Applied Knowledge level, which covers basics of accounting and business.

Decide how you want to study:

Classroom coaching: Joining a coaching center like PFC Education Udaipur can provide structured learning, doubt clearing, and peer support.
Online classes: Flexible and convenient, especially if you prefer self-paced learning.
Self-study: Requires discipline and access to study materials but can be cost-effective.

Create a study timetable that balances your school or college commitments with ACCA preparation. Consistency is key to clearing exams on the first attempt.

Understand the Exam Structure and Key Subjects

Knowing the exam pattern helps you prepare effectively. The Applied Knowledge level includes three papers:

Business and Technology (BT)
Management Accounting (MA)
Financial Accounting (FA)

Each paper tests different skills, from understanding business environments to preparing financial statements. After clearing these, you move to Applied Skills and then Strategic Professional levels.

Use ACCA-approved study materials and past exam papers to practice. Time management during exams is crucial, so simulate exam conditions while practicing.

!Close-up of ACCA exam papers and calculator on a study table

Gain Practical Experience Alongside Studies

ACCA requires you to complete a Practical Experience Requirement (PER) of 36 months. This experience can be gained while studying or after completing exams. Look for internships or entry-level jobs in accounting firms, finance departments, or audit companies.

PFC Education Udaipur often helps students connect with industry opportunities. Practical experience not only fulfills ACCA requirements but also enhances your understanding of real-world finance.

Stay Motivated and Use Support Resources

The ACCA journey is challenging but rewarding. Stay motivated by setting small goals, celebrating exam successes, and joining study groups. Use resources like ACCA’s official website, online forums, and coaching support.

Remember, many students worldwide start ACCA after 12th and go on to build successful careers in finance, auditing, and consulting.

Next Steps After Completing ACCA

Once you complete all exams and practical experience, you become a qualified ACCA member. This opens doors to roles such as Chartered Accountant, Financial Analyst, Auditor, or Tax Consultant.

You can also pursue further studies like an MBA or specialized certifications to enhance your career prospects.

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