ACCA vs CS: Key Differences in Scope, Salary & Career Prospects

The rapid evolution of the global business landscape has transformed the finance and accounting sectors, creating exciting and challenging career opportunities.

Two prominent accounting qualifications, ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and CS (Company Secretary), have emerged as attractive options for aspiring professionals.

For those contemplating a career in accounting and unsure about which path to choose, this article aims to comprehensively compare ACCA and CS, highlighting key differences in course duration, difficulty level, scope, and salary prospects.

About ACCA

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a prestigious, globally recognized accounting qualification accepted in over 180 countries. This UK-based program offers flexibility: Depending on your learning pace and exemptions, you can complete it in 1-2 years.

ACCA provides comprehensive training in core accounting concepts, including taxation, auditing, strategic business reporting & financial reporting

ACCA empowers students with the skills and expertise needed to succeed as a Global Chartered Accountant, opening doors to exciting career opportunities worldwide.

About CS

The Company Secretary (CS) course, offered by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI), is an extensive course that lasts approximately three years and is designed to equip professionals with the expertise to serve as a vital link between a company's board of directors, stakeholders, government agencies, and other key stakeholders.

As a CS professional, you will be pivotal in ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, facilitating communication between the organization and its stakeholders, and providing strategic guidance on financial, accounting, and legal matters. The CS course provides a comprehensive foundation in financial management, accounting principles, legal governance & regulatory compliance

Pursuing the CS course can help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this critical role and advance your career in accounting and governance.

CS is an ideal choice if you are passionate about corporate law & governance, legislation & regulatory compliance, and Company secretarial practices. CS provides specialized knowledge and skills to excel in roles like company secretary, compliance officer, or corporate governance professional.

ACCA vs CS – Factors of Difference

Which is better?

Factors	Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)	Company Secretary (CS)
Organizing Body	Association of Chartered Certified Accountants Body, UK	The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI)
Focus & Job opportunities	Accounting, finance, consulting, and taxation	Company Secretary, Compliance Officer, Corporate Advisor, and Legal Advisor
Recognition	Global recognition, recognized in over 180 countries	CS has more limited recognition, mainly in India
Levels	ACCA course has about 3 levels, namely- Applied Knowledge Applied Skills Professional Level	CS course has about 3 levels, namely- Level 1: CSEET (only for undergraduates) Level 2: Executive Program Level 3: Professional Program
Duration	The ACCA course duration is usually 12 to 24 months, depending on one’s learning pace	CS generally takes 2 to 3 years
Maximum Number of Exemptions Available	One can get 9 exemptions for ACCA on completion of your CA course which means you only need to appear for 4 papers.	Students who have completed their Cost Accounting course can avail of a full exemption from their Foundation Level
Eligibility Criteria	Qualified 10+2 examinations with an aggregate of 65% in Mathematics / Accounts and English, and a minimum of 50% in other subjects.	To register for CSEET you need to pass your 10+2 exams. For the Executive level, the minimum eligibility is CSEET or Graduation
Fees	The ACCA course fees is higher compared to that of CS course	CS exam and membership fees are typically lower than ACCA.
Average Salary	Average salary for ACCA is approximately INR 7 to 18 LPA	Average salary for a CS is around INR 6 to 10 LPA

Both the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and Company Secretary (CS) professions boast a broad scope of applications and opportunities. However, when considering global recognition and remuneration prospects, ACCA holds a distinct advantage. But, if one prefers to manage legal and financial matters, and serve as a key link between a company and its stakeholders, then the Company Secretary course may be the perfect fit.

With globalization on the rise, companies worldwide require skilled professionals like ACCA and CS to oversee their financial operations, navigate international transactions, and optimize cash flows.

FAQs

How is ACCA’s exam pattern different from that of CS?

ACCA exams are approachable to the comfort of the examinees as exams are held every quarter, allowing students to choose the paper(s) of each level and prepare for it exquisitely. CS exams are conducted only twice yearly, and the students must attempt the whole paper as a module.

What are the pass rates of ACCA & CS?

CS students show comparatively lower passing rates than ACCA aspirers. The ACCA passing percentage fluctuates between an average of 30% to 40% and that of the CS course fluctuates between 20% to 30%

Can a CS student do ACCA?
Yes, you can pursue ACCA after CS. However, you will receive an exemption from only one paper.

Can I work abroad with a CS qualification?
CS has limited global recognition; ACCA provides more flexibility. CS is recognized in countries, including Hong Kong, the UK, Malaysia, Singapore, etc.

ACCA vs CS: Which Accounting Qualification is Right for You?