Two accounting abbreviations often get compared. The ACCA full form is Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. The CPA full form is Certified Public Accountant.
Who awards them
- ACCA: awarded by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, a global body.
- CPA: licensed by state boards in the United States, with exams set by the AICPA .
Key differences
- Geography: ACCA is international; CPA is tied to US licensing.
- Focus: ACCA covers international standards; CPA emphasises US accounting, audit and tax.
- Structure: ACCA uses staged papers; CPA uses a set of exam sections with state-specific requirements .
- Career targets: ACCA suits global roles; CPA suits US-linked audit and accounting roles.
Which to choose
- Want international accounting roles: ACCA.
- Want US-focused audit or accounting: CPA.
- Want both: possible over time, subject to rules and exemptions .
Entry and licensing
CPA requirements vary by state, including education credits and experience .
Cost and time
Both demand effort and money. Compare current fees and timelines.
Use the correct full form
Always write each abbreviation correctly on your resume.
TWSS guidance
TWSS counsellors can help you compare options
Comparing ACCA and CPA? Book a free counselling session.
