New Syllabus

Starting in September 2025, the ACA syllabus will shift from 15 to 14 exams across three levels: Certificate, Professional, and Advanced. This streamlined structure introduces exciting updates, including a stronger focus on Sustainability, Technology and Ethics, as well as a greater emphasis on critical thinking, leadership and communication skills.

Certificate Level (ICAEW CFAB)

Key Changes: Sustainability & Ethics, Accounting, Tax, and Business Performance

Duration: 1.5–2 hours per exam

Exam Type: Mostly multiple-choice, some written questions

Flexible Dates: Exams available from September 2025 at test centres or via remote invigilation

Professional Level

Core Exams: Assurance & Risk, Corporate Reporting, Digital Strategy, Corporate Financial Strategy, Tax Compliance

Duration: 2.5–3 hours

Sitting Dates: Four per year (March, June, September, December), starting March 2026

Exam Type: Written questions, Open Book exams with permitted texts

Advanced Level

Key Exams: Technical and Strategic Case Studies

Duration: 4 hours per exam

Sitting Dates: Two per year (July and November), starting July 2027

Exam Type: Written questions in a multi-disciplinary business scenario

Key Changes: What To Expect

Introduction of 3 Core Themes: Sustainability, Technology, and Ethics integrated across all levels

New Case Studies: Focused on practical skills like leadership and decision-making, assessed in Professional and Advanced levels

More Flexibility: Exams can be taken in any order, except for the Strategic Case Study, which must be last

Next steps

ACA Academy is at the forefront of these changes and will be on hand to provide expert group and 1-on-1 tuition services as the new syllabus comes into effect

Get our free guide for students and tutors, outlining everything you need to know about the changes and how to prepare effectively

ACA Academy's Guide to the New Syllabus - contact us to request your copy of the guide today!