ACA Strategic Credits
ACA strategic credits allow students on the course to receive credit for prior learning against certain ACA exams. This means that when you graduate and secure a training agreement you will only have to complete any outstanding modules, the compulsory practical work experience element of the ACA and demonstrate your ethical and professional development, to qualify as an ICAEW Chartered Accountant.
ICAEW has partnered up with more than 190 universities across the world which allow graduates up to eight credits for Certificate and Professional Level modules. ICAEW has also developed strategic partnerships with a number of universities that allow graduates to gain up to 12 credits towards the ACA by studying one of their degrees.
You can find a full list of eligible degrees and what credits they offer through ICAEW’s credit for prior learning directory.
Employer Affiliated Programme
A number of ICAEW authorised training employers have partnered with universities to offer employer affiliated degree programmes. This typically means that you will study your degree and have a placement year with an ICAEW authorised training employer. Employer affiliated degree programmes enable you to gain credits for ACA exams while studying your degree and 12 months towards your work experience required to become chartered.
The collaboration between universities, employers and ICAEW gives you the opportunity to get a head start in becoming an ICAEW Chartered Accountant.
See a list of universities that have partnered with employers on our Strategic Partnerships page.
Integrated Learning Programme
Integrated Learning Programmes offer students a variety of professional opportunities and benefits during both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. These programmes endeavour to bridge the gap between academic earning and real-world work experience.
This can look different for each university. These can include placement opportunities, where students can begin their work experience with an ICAEW Authorised Training Employer, embedding ICAEW qualifications such as ICAEW CFAB or tuition towards ACA exams.
To find a list of these courses, see our Strategic Partnerships page.
Placement Programme
Placement programmes are an opportunity for you to work for a year during your university course (otherwise known as a sandwich year). We work closely with a number of institutions to help students gain valuable work experience, with ICAEW Authorised Training Employers, which can count towards their ACA training.
These placements are structured to ensure that the candidates meet specific practical experience requirements, which are mandatory for ACA qualification. This experience is crucial for developing the professional skills required for the ACA qualification, such as audit, taxation, and financial management.
To find a full list of universities offering these courses see our Strategic Partnerships page.
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