ACCA Practice Test

ACCA Exam at a Glance

What changed for ACCA in 2026

• Oct 28, 2026: Delivery changed to Computer-based at exam centres; remote exams where there is no centre (previously Computer-based at exam centres; remote exams where there is no exam centre).^[4]
• Oct 28, 2026: Eligibility changed to Exams, ethics and three years' professional experience (previously Exams + ethics module + 3 years' professional experience for membership).^[7]
• Oct 28, 2026: Next exam date changed to Four sessions a year: March, June, September, December (previously March, June, September, December).^[5]
• Oct 28, 2026: Time limit (Applied Skills) changed to 3 hours (PM, TX, FR, AA, FM); 2 hours (Corporate and Business Law) (previously 3 hours, 100 marks (PM, TX, FR, AA, FM); LW 2 hours).^[1]
• Oct 28, 2026: Number of questions (Strategic Business Leader (SBL)) changed to Integrated case study, 3 tasks; 100 marks incl. 20 professional skills marks (previously Case study, 3 compulsory tasks; 80 technical + 20 professional skills marks).^[2]
• Oct 28, 2026: Retake policy changed to Max 4 exams per session, 8 different exams per calendar year (previously No limit on exams attempted; max 4 per 6 months recommended).^[4]

ACCA Salary

It's no secret that the ACCA qualification opens doors to lucrative job opportunities across various industries. An ACCA-qualified professional doesn't just possess a strong foundation in accounting principles; they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to excel in areas such as financial management, taxation, and auditing. This versatility translates into a higher earning potential for those who hold this prestigious qualification.

Accurate data on ACCA salaries is hard to come by due to the wide range of roles and industries that an ACCA professional can work in. However, it is generally observed that an entry-level ACCA graduate can expect to earn around $45,000 - $55,000 per year, depending on factors such as location and employer size. As one gains experience and climbs up the career ladder, their salary can easily reach six figures or more.

In addition to a competitive salary package, many employers offer added benefits such as performance bonuses, health insurance plans, retirement savings schemes, and even stock options to attract top talent from the pool of ACCA professionals. These perks not only contribute significantly towards overall compensation but also serve as motivational tools for individuals looking for long-term growth and stability within their careers.

The bottom line is that pursuing an ACCA qualification can lead you down a path of financial success. With numerous career opportunities available globally and impressive earning potential throughout your journey, investing time and effort into obtaining this esteemed accreditation will undoubtedly pay off in dividends over time. While it's crucial to remember that salaries may vary greatly based on factors such as location, industry, and level of experience, it is undeniable that an ACCA qualification puts you in a favorable position to negotiate higher salaries and secure prestigious job positions.

According to Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, “Section A comprises 15 objective test questions of 2 marks each. Section B comprises three questions, each containing five objective test questions of 2 marks each. Section C of the exam comprises two 20-mark constructed response questions.”^[1]

ACCA content outline and where to practise each area

The content areas below are copied from the official ACCA content outline published by Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. The right-hand column shows which of our practice sets covers it.

Worked examples: how to reason through ACCA questions

These are practice questions written for this site, not questions from the real exam. Each explanation shows why the right answer is right and why the others are wrong.

Example 1

Question: Which type of business organization provides limited liability to all owners while allowing pass-through taxation?

1. General partnership
2. C-corporation
3. Limited liability company (LLC)
4. Sole proprietorship

Answer: C. Limited liability company (LLC)

Explanation:

The limited liability company is correct because it gives every owner limited liability and lets profits pass through to the owners' personal tax returns, so the entity itself is not taxed separately.

A general partnership is wrong because partners are personally liable for the business debts. A C-corporation is wrong because shareholders have limited liability, but profits are taxed at company level and again when paid out as dividends. A sole proprietorship is wrong because the owner and the business are legally the same person, so there is no liability shield.

Rule to remember: match the two features separately. First ask who bears the liability, then ask where the tax falls. Only one structure here satisfies both.

Example 2

Question: A company evaluates a lease-versus-buy decision. Which discount rate should be used to discount the after-tax lease payments?

1. The firm's WACC
2. The pre-tax cost of debt
3. The after-tax cost of borrowing
4. The equity beta-adjusted rate

Answer: C. The after-tax cost of borrowing

Explanation:

The after-tax cost of borrowing is correct because lease payments are a fixed contractual obligation that works like debt. They carry similar risk, so they should be discounted at a rate that reflects borrowing, and the cash flows are after tax, so the rate should be too.

The firm's WACC is wrong because it blends in the cost of equity, which reflects the risk of the firm's operations and not a debt-like payment stream. The pre-tax cost of debt is wrong because it ignores the tax relief on interest, which makes it inconsistent with after-tax cash flows. An equity beta-adjusted rate is wrong because it measures equity risk, which does not apply to a fixed lease obligation.

Rule to remember: discount cash flows at a rate that matches their risk and their tax treatment.

Example 3

Question: Under IFRS 11, a joint venture is accounted for using:

1. Proportionate consolidation
2. The equity method
3. Full consolidation
4. The cost method

Answer: B. The equity method

Explanation:

The equity method is correct because under IFRS 11 a joint venture is one where the parties have rights to the net assets of the arrangement. The investor records a single investment line and adjusts it for its share of profit or loss.

Proportionate consolidation is wrong because it adds a share of each asset and liability line by line, and IFRS 11 does not permit that for joint ventures. Full consolidation is wrong because it is for subsidiaries, where the parent has control. The cost method is wrong because it would not reflect the investor's share of the results of an entity it jointly controls.

Rule to remember: control leads to full consolidation, joint control over net assets leads to the equity method, and joint operations are accounted for differently.

How to use these practice tests

Start with the official syllabus and study guide for the exam you are sitting. They set out what can be examined and the question format, so you know what to aim at.

Next, take one of our sets for that subject cold, without notes. Do not worry about the score. Write down each topic you missed, then read the explanation for every question, including the ones you got right by guessing.

Go back to the official study material only for the topics on your list. After that, retake a set and compare. Our questions are written by us and are not real exam questions, so use them to find gaps in understanding and not to predict what will appear.

For Applied Skills and Strategic Professional, objective questions are only part of the exam. Practise the longer written tasks from the official material under timed conditions, because the 50% pass mark applies to the whole paper. For case-style tasks, plan your answer before writing so the marks for professional skills are not left to chance.

In the final days, work through mixed sets, check the exam centre or remote exam requirements, and rest before the session.

ACCA Registration

ACCA registration is a crucial first step for anyone aspiring to become a professional accountant. The process entails submitting an online application, providing necessary documentation, and paying the required fees. However, it's important to note that registering for ACCA goes beyond just ticking boxes and filling out forms. It opens up doors to a world of opportunities, possibilities, and challenges that will shape one's career in accounting.

One fresh perspective on ACCA registration is the global recognition it offers. ACCA being an internationally recognized qualification ensures that professionals are not limited to working within their home country but can expand their horizons globally. This recognition opens up a wide range of job prospects in different industries and sectors across the world, making it an appealing choice for individuals seeking international exposure.

Another intriguing aspect of ACCA registration is the emphasis on ethical conduct. Aspiring accountants undergo rigorous training on professional ethics throughout their ACCA journey. This not only helps them develop strong moral principles but also prepares them for navigating complex ethical dilemmas they may encounter in their future careers. By prioritizing ethics, ACCA equips its members with invaluable skills that are highly sought after by employers who value integrity in financial reporting.

To sum up, registering for ACCA is much more than just a formality—it is the gateway to global opportunities and challenges while instilling ethical values into aspiring accountants’ DNA. The decision to pursue this qualification not only enhances one's technical skills but also shapes character traits that are essential for success in today's competitive business environment. ACCA's focus on ethics ensures that its members are not only competent professionals but also individuals of integrity, who can be trusted to make ethical decisions in their roles as accountants.

ACCA Requirements

ACCA, or the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, is a globally recognized accounting qualification that opens up a wide range of career opportunities in finance and accounting. To become an ACCA member, individuals must meet certain requirements and pass a series of exams.

One of the main prerequisites to pursue ACCA certification is having at least two A-Level passes (or equivalent qualifications) including mathematics and English. This ensures a strong foundation in key subjects relevant to accounting. Additionally, candidates are required to complete the ACCA's Ethics and Professional Skills module, which focuses on developing ethical behavior and professional competence.

Furthermore, ACCA requires candidates to pass a total of 13 exams divided into four levels: Knowledge, Skills, Essentials, and Options. The Knowledge level sets the groundwork by covering areas such as financial accounting, management accounting, and taxation. The Skills level builds on this knowledge with more specialized topics like performance management and financial reporting. Finally, the Essentials level focuses on core areas including corporate law and strategic business reporting. Candidates can then choose from various optional papers based on their interests or career goals.

In conclusion, achieving ACCA certification demands dedication and commitment to meeting specific requirements throughout the journey. From educational qualifications to passing multiple exams at different levels, these steps ensure that individuals possess the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of accounting. While challenging, becoming an ACCA member offers numerous advantages for those aspiring to build successful careers in finance--making it well worth the effort for ambitious professionals aiming for excellence in their field. The ACCA certification not only enhances one's credibility and marketability in the finance industry but also opens up a wide range of career opportunities.

Those studying financial planning credentials often supplement their preparation with the Certified Financial Manager (CFM) Practice Test 2026, which reinforces core financial analysis and risk management principles.

Related Finance & Accounting Practice Tests

If you are preparing for a career in finance & accounting, you may also find these related practice tests helpful:

Prepare for the AAT Level 2 - Foundation Certificate in Accounting — the AAT Level 2 Foundation Certificate in Accounting covering bookkeeping, costing, and business environment.

Prepare for the AAT Level 3 - Advanced Diploma in Accounting — the AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting including financial statements and tax processes.

Prepare for the AAT Level 4 - Professional Diploma in Accounting — the AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting covering management accounting and financial reporting.

Prepare for the AICPA - American Institute of Certified Public Accountants — the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants certification, the premier CPA qualification in the US.

Prepare for the ACCA Applied Knowledge Papers (BT/MA/FA) — the ACCA Applied Knowledge papers covering Business and Technology, Management Accounting, and Financial Accounting.

Sources & last verified

1. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants — number of questions, time limit, passing score (official source). “Section A comprises 15 objective test questions of 2 marks each. Section B comprises three questions, each containing five objective test questions of 2 marks…” Verified Oct 30, 2026 · source checked Oct 30, 2026.
2. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants — number of questions (official source). “Each exam will contain three tasks with a varying number of marks. These tasks may require the candidate to take on different roles, depending on…” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 23, 2026.
3. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants — exam fee, renewal (official source). “December 2026 standard entry (Closes 2 November 2026 at 23:59 GMT) £160 December 2026 late entry (Closes 9 November 2026 at 23:59 GMT) £409” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 23, 2026.
4. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants — retake policy, delivery (official source). “You can enter a maximum of four exams per exam session and a maximum of eight different exams each calendar year.” Verified Oct 30, 2026 · source checked Oct 30, 2026.
5. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants — validity, testing window, score release, next exam date (official source). “Seven years to complete Strategic Professional once you pass your first Strategic Professional exam” Verified Oct 30, 2026 · source checked Oct 30, 2026.
6. pearsonvue.com — delivery (official source). “Is OnVUE the right choice for you? Before you book, all test takers must ensure they can meet the minimum requirements listed below.” Verified Oct 30, 2026 · source checked Oct 30, 2026.
7. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants — eligibility (official source). “This journey will take you through a combination of exams, ethics and three years' professional experience. Which means you’ll enter the workplace ready to make…” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 23, 2026.
8. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants — other (official source). “applied knowledge” Verified Nov 1, 2026.

How we verify: editorial & fact-checking policy. Report an error: contact us.