Next Generation ACA Certificate
The Certificate Level of the ACA qualification will introduce you to the fundamentals of accountancy, tax, finance, and business.
Purchase your subscription online, and our dedicated team will reach out by email to help you choose the exact syllabus you need. It's the simplest way to get exactly what you need to succeed.
Structure
This level consists of six exams that introduce the essentials of finance, accountancy, and business. The six exams also make up a standalone qualification: the ICAEW CFAB (ICAEW Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business).
Entry requirements
If you’ve studied AAT, or studied a relevant degree at university (accountancy, economics, business), you can progress straight onto studying ACA. Some companies allow you to start ACA training depending on your previous experience.
If you're a graduate, you may be able to apply for up to eight subject credits. If you’re an AAT student who has completed levels 3 and 4, you may be able to apply for five subject credits.
You can check your recommended entry point using the ICAEW’s CPL guidance launch.
You should check whether you're eligible on the ACA (ICAEW) website launch and apply for any exemptions before you start studying.
Syllabus
Course overview
Timetables and study methods
Study methods available for this level
Live Online
The benefits of a traditional classroom but with the flexibility of an online environment. Live interactive classes at a scheduled time delivered by expert lecturers following the same exam focused material and structure as traditional classroom courses.
picture_as_pdf Live Online timetable 2025
picture_as_pdf Live Online timetable 2026
OnDemand
OnDemand gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want, with unique online resources designed to give you structure, keep you motivated, and cement your understanding of the subject.
Exams and sittings
Timings and working towards a sitting
At this level there are six exams which you can take them in any order. You can take them in any order. They are computer based exams so you can take them whenever you are ready. The exam pass mark is 55%.
You may be eligible for credit for some exams, if you’ve studied a relevant qualification or degree. Find out more about credits for prior learning.
How long does it take to pass?
Most students complete this level within 12 months, however this can vary depending on the study method you choose.
Study materials and delivery costs
You will receive printed or online study materials.
Included:
Kaplan workbook
A Kaplan-produced workbook covering key areas of the syllabus, integrates with online content and provides question practice.
ICAEW workbooks, question banks and permitted texts (Live Online only)
For those purchasing a Live Online course, you'll also receive ICAEW’s workbook and question bank, which are needed for every subject. The ICAEW’s workbook contains all technical content that could be examined. These are available in an eBook format only.
Not included for OnDemand subscriptions:
ICAEW workbooks, question banks and permitted texts
In addition to the OnDemand subscription price, you will need to purchase ICAEW’s workbook and question bank, which are needed for every subject. The ICAEW’s workbook contains all technical content that could be examined. These are available in an eBook format only. You may also need other materials, known as permitted texts.
Find out more about permitted texts.
Delivery Costs
How much it costs to deliver your study materials and how long it takes depends on where in the world you live.
Delivery fees are as follows:
Malaysia - RM60
Rest of Asia/America - $47
All other countries - 40EUR
Please note that due to varying interpretations of the post-Brexit EU/UK trading agreement, some EU countries are imposing import duty on the value of the goods received from the UK. It is payable by the end consumer via the delivery company and your delivery may be withheld until paid. This may vary from country to country and be up to a value of 20% of the value of the study material.
Our standard delivery times are:
Malaysia - 3 to 5 working days*
EU – 5 to 7 working days*
Rest of the World – 7 to 10 working days*
*Subject to availability.
Delivery charges are applicable for this course, and will be shown during the online checkout process, before you complete your payment details.
Tutor support
We'll support you every step of the way throughout your learning experience with us. You can contact a tutor and get the help you need quickly and easily.
Provided by our Academic Support team (our dedicated team of expert tutors):
- LiveChat (instant feedback)
- Email (we'll get back to you within 4 hrs)
- TutorBot powered by Generative AI (instant feedback 24/7)
Testing and mocks
We have a wealth of materials to help you revise for and pass your exams. All study options come with the following:
Future facing GenAI learning tools
Meet TutorBot, your personal AI study companion. Leveraging the power of Generative AI, TutorBot offers 24/7 personalised learning and support. It analyses your unique learning patterns over time - identifying strengths and weaknesses to create a tailored learning plan just for you. With TutorBot, the content and pace are always adjusted to your needs, helping you learn more effectively.
Focus Days
Focus Days empower you to take control of your learning, ensuring you build a strong foundation and receive the support you need to succeed. These are strategically placed within your course to optimise your learning experience. They're designed to help you solidify your understanding, address any challenges, and further develop your knowledge.
Online learning modules
MyKaplan interactive modules that guide you through each syllabus area.
Knowledge checks
Multiple choice questions set on MyKaplan after an online learning module day during the Knowledge phase.
Progress Test
Multiple choice questions set on MyKaplan after a number of online learning module days during the Knowledge phase.
Practice mock
Our mocks are built to feel just like the real exam. Your first practice mock is broken into smaller, more manageable sections, and we provide automated feedback and debrief materials after each one. This allows you to immediately address any knowledge gaps, helping you build both understanding and confidence. You'll then go on to complete two full-length mocks, giving you the opportunity to practice time management and get fully prepared for the big day.
MyKaplan: online learning environment
play_circle_filled Watch our video explaining MyKaplan (1:26)
MyKaplan is an online learning portal with practical resources to help you prepare for your exams.
Online features
- Experience personalised learning like never before. TutorBot uses the power of Generative AI to offer round-the-clock support, giving you immediate help and a custom learning experience anytime
- View your online materials in one place and access your content in a few clicks
- Contact a tutor directly using live chat or email
- Complete tests and get instant feedback (Objective Tests)
- Optimise your online learning with Focus Days; these strategic, self-paced study sessions in our MyKaplan platform give you the clear guidance and dedicated time to solidify your knowledge and take control of your learning
- See instantly when your assessments have been marked (Case Study)
- Access on mobile, tablet, computer or through the dedicated mobile app
Access duration
Live Online
You will be able to access your content for six months from the last lesson date, with one three month free extension on request.
OnDemand
As long as the subscription is active, content will be made available.
Course overview
Timetables and study methods
Study methods available for this level
Live Online
The benefits of a traditional classroom but with the flexibility of an online environment. Live interactive classes at a scheduled time delivered by expert lecturers following the same exam focused material and structure as traditional classroom courses.
picture_as_pdf Live Online timetable 2025
picture_as_pdf Live Online timetable 2026
OnDemand
OnDemand gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want, with unique online resources designed to give you structure, keep you motivated, and cement your understanding of the subject.
Recorded Online (September sitting - BPB and BPI only)
All the information you would get in a classroom or Live Online, but whenever is convenient for you. You’ll get recordings of June’s Live Online classes as well as the Integrated Workbook, marked mock exam and academic support.
Exams and sittings
Timings and working towards a sitting
At this level there are six exams and each one is 2.5 hours long, apart from Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) which is three hours. You can take them in any order. The pass mark is 55%, and there are four exam sittings in a year - March, June, September, December.
You may be eligible for credit for some exams, if you’ve studied a relevant qualification or degree. Find out more about credits for prior learning launch.
How long does it take to pass?
Most students complete this level within 12 months, however this can vary depending on the study method you choose. To complete the entire qualification you will also need to have a minimum of 450 practical work experience days, so don’t forget to fit them in around your study.
Study materials and delivery costs
You will receive printed or online study materials.
Included:
Kaplan workbook
A Kaplan-produced workbook covering key areas of the syllabus, integrates with online content and provides question practice. You can choose to have a printed or online version..
ICAEW workbooks, question banks and permitted texts (Live Online only)
For those purchasing a Live Online course, you'll also receive ICAEW’s workbook and question bank, which are needed for every subject. The ICAEW’s workbook contains all technical content that could be examined. These are available in an eBook format only.
Not included for OnDemand subscriptions:
ICAEW workbooks, question banks and permitted texts
In addition to the OnDemand subscription price, you will need to purchase ICAEW’s workbook and question bank, which are needed for every subject. The ICAEW’s workbook contains all technical content that could be examined. These are available in an eBook format only. You may also need other materials, known as permitted texts.
Find out more about permitted texts.
Delivery Costs
How much it costs to deliver your study materials and how long it takes depends on where in the world you live.
Delivery fees are as follows:
Malaysia - RM60
Rest of Asia/America - $47
All other countries - 40EUR
Please note that due to varying interpretations of the post-Brexit EU/UK trading agreement, some EU countries are imposing import duty on the value of the goods received from the UK. It is payable by the end consumer via the delivery company and your delivery may be withheld until paid. This may vary from country to country and be up to a value of 20% of the value of the study material.
Our standard delivery times are:
Malaysia - 3 to 5 working days*
EU – 5 to 7 working days*
Rest of the World – 7 to 10 working days*
*Subject to availability.
Delivery charges are applicable for this course, and will be shown during the online checkout process, before you complete your payment details.
Tutor support
We’ll support you every step of the way throughout your learning experience with us. You can contact a tutor and get the help you need quickly and easily.
Provided by our Academic Support team (our dedicated team of expert tutors):
- LiveChat (instant feedback)
- Email (we'll get back to you within 4 hrs)
- Online community (we’ll get back to you within 4 hrs)
Testing and mocks
We have a wealth of materials to help you revise for and pass your exams. All study options come with the following:
Online learning modules
MyKaplan interactive modules that guide you through each syllabus area.
Knowledge checks
10 multiple choice questions set on MyKaplan after an online learning module day during the Knowledge phase.
Consolidation Test
20 multiple choice questions set on MyKaplan after a number of online learning modules days during the Knowledge phase.
Progress Tests
Progress tests are exam-style tests to check your progress and get you ready for sitting your mock exams. They are marked by the Kaplan marking team and a recorded debrief of the tests will be provided after you’ve sat them so you can tailor any follow-up work and concentrate on areas that need more attention.
Tricky topic tutorials
10-15 minute tutor debrief on challenging areas of the syllabus.
Mock exams
Mock exams mimic the real exams. They are taken during the Exam Preparation phase of the course and can be found on MyKaplan. They are marked by the Kaplan marking team, who will provide tailored feedback so you can focus on areas you found difficult or could improve.
MyKaplan: online learning environment
play_circle_filled Watch our video explaining MyKaplan (1:26)
MyKaplan is an online learning portal with practical resources to help you prepare for your exams.
Online features
- View your online materials in one place and access your content in a few clicks
- Contact a tutor directly using live chat or email
- Complete tests and get instant feedback
- Take part in forum discussions with students and tutors and find answers to common questions
- See instantly when your assessments have been marked
- Access on mobile, tablet, computer or through the dedicated mobile app
Access duration
Live Online
You will be able to access your content for six months after the exam sitting, with one three month free extension on request.
OnDemand
As long as the subscription is active, content will be made available.
Recorded Online (September sitting - BPB and BPI only)
You will be able to access your content for three months after the exam sitting, with one three month free extension on request.
