‍

Are you interested in pursuing the ACCA qualification but worried about the potential financial burden? Don't worry; you're not alone! Concerns about managing tuition fees, study materials, and other expenses are natural. The good news is that there are options to help you achieve your ambitions without worrying about financial constraints.

In this article, we'll explore the various finance options for ACCA students. Let’s empower you with the information you need to make the right choice!

‍

Cost of ACCA 

Financial struggles cause a great deal of stress and anxiety. But having a full picture of the total costs will help you plan better and focus on your studies.

Here are some of the associated costs to consider when studying the ACCA:

Tuition Costs

ACCA courses come with a considerable price tag that varies depending on the level of study and the institution you choose. Therefore, conducting extensive research and comparing tuition fees is crucial to identify the most cost-effective option.

For example, at VIVA Financial Tuition, our course fees start from as low as £99, making it an excellent option for students on a tight budget. Despite the affordability, VIVA delivers premium online course materials (attested to by the fact we have won industry awards and boast a 4.9 out of 5 student rating on Trustpilot), online support, and experienced tutors offering comprehensive coverage of the ACCA subject syllabi.

‍Self Study Materials‍

Self-study ACCA students will need study materials such as textbooks, revision kits, and online courses. These materials can be costly, so budgeting and prioritising the necessary materials is crucial.

Kaplan and BPP are two prominent providers to consider when it comes to textbooks. Both offer reliable texts covering all topics and syllabi that ACCA outlines. And they regularly update their materials to reflect any changes in the ACCA syllabus. 

Exam Fees

The cost of the ACCA exams varies depending on the level of study and location.

‍For more information, see our total cost overview of ACCA exams article.

Understanding the payment schedule, deadlines, and any available discounts, such as early exam entry, is essential to manage the costs effectively.

Registration and Membership Fees

Registration fees are a one-time payment you make at the start of the program, whereas membership fees are an annual payment due upon qualification completion. It's essential to factor in both registration and membership fees when budgeting for your ACCA studies to avoid any financial surprises.

‍

Financial Support for ACCA Students

‍

1. Employer Sponsorship

Many employers offer sponsorship to employees who wish to pursue ACCA qualifications. The employer will cover some or all of the tuition fees, exam fees, and other related expenses.

To be eligible, students typically need to meet specific criteria. They should be employed by the sponsoring company for a minimum period, demonstrate a commitment to professional development, and achieve a certain level of academic performance.

Here are some tips to help you find and secure employer sponsorship:

1. Research: Research companies such as large corporations or accounting firms are known for supporting their employees' professional development. Look for job vacancies or career pages that mention employer sponsorship or tuition assistance programs.
   
   
2. Show initiative: Show your employer that you are serious about pursuing the ACCA qualification and that it will benefit both you and the company. Discuss how your newfound knowledge and skills will help you contribute more effectively to your role and the company's goals.

3. Seek Support: Talk to your line manager or HR department about your plans to pursue the ACCA qualification and ask for their support in securing employer sponsorship. They can provide information on any existing tuition assistance programs or suggest other ways to get assistance from the company.

2. Scholarships and Bursaries

To be eligible for scholarships and bursaries, individuals must meet certain criteria, such as academic excellence, financial need, or belonging to an underrepresented group. It's important to research and apply for these scholarships and bursaries well in advance of the start of the program to increase your chances of being awarded the financial support you need.

One of the most prominent scholarship providers for ACCA students is The Simpson Scholarship. It recognises and rewards outstanding ACCA students who have demonstrated exceptional exam performance. Each year, The Simpson Scholarship awards scholarships to five ACCA students with high merit and distinction levels in their exam results. The scholarship fund pays:

• Exam Fees
• Annual Student Subscription Fees
• Annual Affiliate Subscription Fees
• Membership Admission Fee
  
  

Additional information on eligibility requirements and application procedures can be found on ACCA’s ‘Am I eligible?’ and ‘How do I apply?’ pages. [1]

3. Student, Professional and Career Development Loans

Student loans are government-backed loans that financially assist students pursuing higher education. These loans cover tuition fees and living costs and are available to eligible full-time or part-time students. Unlike other types of loans, student loans are typically offered at a lower interest rate, and repayments are only required once the student starts earning above a certain threshold.

On the contrary, Professional and Career Development Loans (PCDLs) are provided by banks and financial institutions to those who want to pursue professional development and career-advancing courses, such as the ACCA qualification. These loans can cover various expenses like tuition fees, living costs, and other related costs, but with a higher interest rate than student loans.

A favorable option for financing ACCA studies is The Advanced Learner Loan, a maintenance loan provided by the government for eligible learners. Advanced learner loans are paid directly to the educational institution, and the recipient does not undergo credit checks or means testing. Anyone who meets the eligibility requirements can apply for a loan, regardless of their current employment status. [2]

‍

Other Funding Sources for ACCA Students

Aside from scholarships and loans, here are other potential sources of funding that ACCA students can explore to help finance their studies:

• Crowdfunding - Crowdfunding has become an increasingly popular way for students, including ACCA students, to raise funds for their studies. It involves creating a campaign on an online platform such as GoFundMe or Kickstarter and reaching out to a wide network of people to solicit donations.

To create a successful crowdfunding campaign, ACCA students should have a clear and compelling story that resonates with potential donors. This could involve highlighting their academic achievements, outlining their career aspirations, or explaining any unique challenges they face in financing their studies.

• Family and Friends - When discussing the possibility of receiving financial assistance from family and friends, it is crucial to approach the topic with sensitivity and respect. It's important to remember that not everyone may have the means to provide financial assistance.
  
  Students should also carefully consider whether they are comfortable with the possible emotional and relational implications of accepting financial help from loved ones.

• Charities and Trusts - To secure financial aid from charities and trusts, ACCA students should be ready to present a convincing argument outlining their financial situation and how the funding will help them achieve their ACCA study goals.
  
  In addition to submitting supporting materials like academic records or recommendation letters, applicants may need to complete an application form or write an essay to articulate their case. [3]

‍

Takeaway‍

Don't let financial constraints hold you back from achieving your goals. There are various funding sources to support your ACCA studies, including scholarships, bursaries, loans, employer sponsorship, crowdfunding, family and friends, and charities and trusts.

But how do you choose the right option for you? It's essential to research and weigh the pros and cons of each funding option against your personal financial situation. By doing so, you can ensure that your ACCA studies are financially sustainable and provide the foundation for a successful career in accounting and finance.

At VIVA, we understand the challenges ACCA students face, and we're here to help. Our team of experts is available to provide you with guidance and support. So, if you have any further inquiries about the ACCA qualification or financing your studies, don't hesitate to contact us. 

‍

Article Resources:

1 - https://www.accaglobal.com/gb

2 - https://www.ucas.com

3 - https://www.miamioh.edu