How to enrol in the ACCA programme in Dubai?
Whether you're a recent graduate or looking to enhance your professional qualifications, the ACCA qualification opens doors to a world of opportunities in finance and accounting. With more than 250,000 members and 526,000 potential members spread over 181 countries, ACCA is still expanding internationally.
According to Statista, the estimated number of companies is approximately 358.7 million worldwide in 2024, reflecting a significant increase from previous years. This growing number of companies creates a corresponding demand for accountants and finance experts.
An ACCA programme is the route to meet the demand of these companies and provide expert guidance on accounting and finance. As the global economy continues to evolve, the role of qualified finance professionals becomes increasingly crucial for supporting the operations and growth of these companies.
This blog is a step-by-step guide for students who want to enrol in the ACCA accounting course. But before that let’s rewind on what is ACCA and how it is beneficial for students.
About ACCA programme
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is the global body for professional accountants. It is one of the biggest and fastest-growing professional accounting bodies in the world today. Around the world, 181 nations recognise ACCA qualifications and prefer accountants with ACCA certifications.
Some of the topics covered by the ACCA programme include financial reporting, corporate law, financial management, taxation, audit, governance and business analysis. The purpose of the ACCA Qualification is to equip finance professionals with the professional values, knowledge, and abilities necessary to succeed in a variety of fields, including the public and private sectors, accounting firms and business.
Want to pursue ACCA course?
Eligibility requirements for ACCA programme enrolment
To become an ACCA member, you are required to complete 13 papers and to complete relevant practical experience before, during or after your ACCA qualification.
Students should meet these specific educational and age criteria:
| Eligibility criteria | Details |
| Age | Minimum 18 years old |
| Education | At least three GCSEs and two A Levels in five subjects, including English and Mathematics |
| Work Experience | 36 months of relevant work experience required for qualification |
Students who do not meet these criteria may still apply through alternative routes such as the Foundation in Accountancy (FIA). Additionally, students can gain work experience in various sectors, including public practice, industry, and commerce. It's also important to note that this experience can be accumulated over different roles and does not have to be completed in a single stretch.
Steps for enrolment in the ACCA programme
Registering with ACCA is like unlocking numerous opportunities in finance and accounting. It's a globally recognised credential that improve your chances of landing a great job anywhere in the globe. Furthermore, this course offers a wealth of knowledge and skills that will make you an invaluable asset in the field.
Enrolling on the ACCA programme involves simple steps. All you need is proper documents and identity proof. Follow these steps to enrol for the ACCA degree:
- Check eligibility: Check that you meet the age criteria and educational requirements. You should at least be 18 years old and complete class 12th to enrol for the course.
- Gather necessary documents: Keep your identity proof, educational qualifications, and a passport-size photograph ready.
- Choose your entry-level: You can either start the foundation level with 13 papers or go for graduate or another level with some paper exceptions.
Qualifications Number of exams to give Exemptions Completion of Class 12th 13 papers NIL Commerce Graduate 9 papers BT, MA, FA, LW MCom Postgraduate 9 papers BT, MA, FA, LW CA IPCC (Both Groups) 8 papers BT, MA, FA, TX, AA CA 4 papers BT-FM (9 subjects) - Create an ACCA account: Visit the ACCA Global website to register for the course and exam.
- Fill out the registration form: Provide personal details, educational background and work experience.
- Upload supporting documents: Ensure all documents are properly provided.
- Pay the registration fee: Complete payment online via credit or debit card. Contact ACCA programme Leader for Discount Code in ACCA registration and exemption fee.
- Wait for approval: ACCA will review your application; approval may take a few weeks.
- Access your ACCA account: Once approved, log in to access study materials and exam resources.
- Plan your studies: Decide on exam sessions and prepare your study schedule.
These are some of the common steps to enrol for the ACCA programme. By following these steps, you will be well on your way to becoming an ACCA member, gaining access to a wealth of knowledge and global career opportunities in finance and accounting.
Documents required for enrolment in ACCA accounting course
Students who are registering for the ACCA accounting course should submit the following documents during the enrolment process:
| Required document | |
| Proof of Identity | Passport or national ID card or birth certificate |
| Educational qualifications | Awards certificates and transcripts |
| Passport-size photo | Recent photograph for identification |
Enrol for the ACCA programme with GBS Dubai
GBS Dubai offers support for students wishing to pursue the ACCA programme. They provide guidance through each step of the enrolment process, ensuring candidates have access to the necessary resources and information. GBS Dubai is a gold-approved learning partner of ACCA which ensures that only quality education is delivered to students enrolled in the course.
Why choose GBS Dubai?
- Expert guidance: Experienced faculty to assist with course selection and exam preparation.
- Flexible learning options: Various study modes to accommodate different schedules. The institution offers flexible learning options that allow students to balance their studies with part-time employment.
- Networking opportunities: Connect with industry professionals through GBS Dubai’s extensive network. The workshops and seminars conducted by GBS Dubai help students bond with industry professionals and experts.
- Work while studying: GBS Dubai recognises that many students may wish to gain practical experience while completing their ACCA qualification. You can work while pursuing the course. This not only helps students financially but also enables them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
- Employment support: The employment support services at GBS Dubai are designed to assist students in securing job placements that align with their qualifications and career aspirations.
- Diverse community: GBS Dubai offers a diverse community of students from various backgrounds and cultures, enriching the learning environment. This diversity not only enhances peer learning but also encourages networking among students.
This support from educational institutions is crucial for students as they sail through the job market, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet employer expectations and succeed in their chosen careers.
Want to purse ACCA accounting course in Dubai?
FAQs about the ACCA accounting course in Dubai
Yes, the demand for ACCA in Dubai is growing with the increasing number of multinational corporations, government bodies and private organisations. Dubai's economy is expanding, particularly in industries like manufacturing, transportation, tourism, petroleum, and construction. The need for qualified accounting and finance specialists has increased due to this expansion.
Generally, CA is considered the toughest qualifying exam for accountants. This is due to the number of papers, the time required to prepare for the exams, exam format and more. There are various authorised higher education institutions including GBS Dubai that provide help, mentoring and expert assistance to students to qualify for the exams.
The registration and other fees vary from stage to stage. Although this ranges somewhere between 8,000 to 19,000 AED. Moreover, the £89 initial registration fee is for new students and £137 is the Annual subscriptions 2025. Contact ACCA programme Leader for Discount Code in ACCA registration and exemption fee.
To qualify as an ACCA member, you must pass all 13 papers along with 36 months of experience in a relevant role. It is also important to note that you get paper exemption up to 9 papers depending on your last qualification.
There are three ways to get admission in ACCA. First is through foundation programme. You can register for ACCA after graduation or master's with some exception papers. If you hold a recognised bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a similar discipline, you will be eligible for direct admission into the ACCA programme. If you don’t have graduation, you must take the ACCA Foundation Level exam.
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