Is ACCA Hard? Malaysian Students Share Their Experience
Is ACCA Hard? Malaysian Students Share Their Experience
Blog Article
Is ACCA Hard? Malaysian Students Share Their Experience
When it comes to professional accounting qualifications, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) stands out as one of the most respected and widely recognized in the world. But for many students in Malaysia, the question often arises: “Is ACCA hard?”
The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. The difficulty of ACCA depends on several factors, including your background, study habits, and support system. In this article, we explore the real experiences of Malaysian students pursuing ACCA courses, the challenges they’ve faced, and how they overcame them.
Understanding the ACCA Structure
Before diving into personal experiences, it’s important to understand the structure of the ACCA program. ACCA comprises:
13 exams divided into three levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional
An Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM)
36 months of relevant work experience
Each level becomes more challenging, testing both technical knowledge and real-world application.
The Challenges Malaysian Students Face
1. Adjusting to Professional-Level Exams
“I found the early papers manageable, but the Strategic Professional level really pushed me,” says Amir, a student from Kuala Lumpur. “Subjects like Strategic Business Leader (SBL) require more than memorization — they test how well you apply knowledge in complex situations.”
Many students agree that while the initial papers are straightforward for those with a strong foundation in accounting, the higher-level exams test critical thinking, problem-solving, and business acumen.
2. Time Management While Studying and Working
Balancing work and study is another common challenge. “I work full-time and study in the evenings. It's tough, especially near exam time,” shares Aishah from Penang. “But proper planning helped me stay on track.”
Those who succeed usually follow a structured study plan and take advantage of resources provided by quality ACCA coaching in Malaysia.
What Makes ACCA Worth It Despite the Difficulty?
Despite the challenges, most students believe the journey is worth the effort. The rewards include:
Global career opportunities
High earning potential
Industry recognition and credibility
“I struggled with some papers, but the knowledge and skills I’ve gained are directly useful at my job,” says Haris, who now works at a Big 4 firm.
The Role of Coaching and Support
The choice of a learning provider plays a major role in easing the difficulty of the course. Institutions like Hamzah Academy are popular among Malaysian ACCA students for offering:
Expert tutors with industry experience
Updated study materials
Regular mock exams and personalized feedback
“Joining Hamzah Academy gave me the structure and motivation I needed. I wouldn’t have passed on my own,” shares Priya, who cleared SBR on her first attempt.
Tips from Malaysian Students to Succeed in ACCA
Start early and stay consistent – Spread your study hours across months instead of cramming.
Practice past papers – Understand exam patterns and improve time management.
Don't ignore soft skills – EPSM and written communication are key, especially in SBL.
Stay updated – ACCA syllabi evolve with industry trends; always use current materials.
Join a reliable coaching center – It makes a huge difference in confidence and preparation.
Final Thoughts
So, is ACCA hard? Yes — but not impossible. Like any professional qualification, it requires commitment, discipline, and the right strategy. Thousands of Malaysian students have passed and are thriving in local and international careers.
With quality guidance from trusted institutions like Hamzah Academy, the journey becomes more structured and achievable. If you’re ready to put in the work, the ACCA qualification can be your gateway to a global accounting and finance career.
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