Thinking about bringing your ACCA qualification to the States? You’re not alone. Thousands of ACCA professionals wonder, “Is ACCA recognized in USA?”
Many students and young professionals also had doubts like:
- Will American employers even know what ACCA is?
- Can you compete with CPAs who speak the local financial language?
- And most importantly, will this international qualification help you grow, or will you spend your time justifying it?
The truth? Breaking into the U.S. finance job market with ACCA isn’t always straightforward. Some employers get it. Others? Not so much.
Recognition for ACCA USA varies by state, sector, and company. The trick is knowing where to look and how to position yourself.
Let’s cut through the confusion and show you exactly how to leverage your ACCA in America’s competitive market.
The status of the ACCA degree in the U.S. is best described as “selectively recognized.” While it’s not the dominant qualification like CPA, ACCA holds significant value in specific sectors and companies.
Here’s why the confusion exists:
- State-level regulations don’t formally recognize ACCA for CPA licensure
- Local market dominance of CPA creates awareness gaps
- HR departments in smaller firms often lack international qualification knowledge
That said, the global reputation of ACCA still opens doors in areas like financial planning, internal audit, and multinational business operations. This isn’t about ACCA being “less than” – it’s about understanding the market and positioning yourself strategically.
So, if you are aiming for senior finance roles, especially in companies with international reach, the ACCA can still work in your favour.
But, if you are looking to sign off on audits or work in U.S. public accounting, you’ll likely need to supplement your ACCA with a CPA license or similar U.S. credential. Now, that is a slightly longer route.
Is ACCA Recognized In The USA?
We all know how the ACCA qualification is globally recognized in 180+ countries. Yet, it is not formally recognized by most U.S. state boards for CPA licensure.
Another reason is that US accounting follows. GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles). But ACCA focuses on IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards).
Still, states like Florida, Texas, Delaware, New York, and California are corporate-friendly and give international talent the chance.
So, to get opportunities, you must target the right ACCA employers. Focus on companies with global footprints. These include:
- MNCs with global operations and branches.
- Big Four like Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG.
- Wall Street firms and finance hubs in NYC and other uptown cities.
Is ACCA Valued By Employers In The USA?
Speaking of, is ACCA accepted in USA – well, it depends on the type of company you are applying to.
International firms vs. domestic companies make a huge difference.
Multinational corporations, Big Four consulting firms, and global banks absolutely recognize ACCA’s value.
On the contrary, smaller domestic companies don’t. They prefer local candidates with a CPA. Visa sponsorship is not something they wish to grant to hire.
Below are some industries that value ACCA in America:
- Finance and banking with international clients
- Technology companies expanding globally
- Consulting firms serving multinational clients
- Outsourcing sectors seek ACCA for global expertise
Can I Study The ACCA Course In The USA?
There aren’t traditional ACCA institutes with physical campuses in the USA. But the beauty of ACCA is global flexibility. So, you can study online.
- Simply register online with ACCA
- Choose your global learning provider, like Ikka Classes, offering distance learning programs
- Take virtual classes and begin your studies.
Remote exam options are available at authorized centers across major US cities.
Need guidance on the best study approach? Consider connecting with our experienced ACCA training provider. They will help you out.
Can ACCA Professionals Get A Job In The USA?
The honest answer? Yes, but it comes with some reality checks. The US job market for ACCA professionals is growing, but you’ll need to be strategic about your approach.
Most roles in the USA either require local experience or additional certification, like a CPA or a CFA. Besides, entry-level positions require proving your credentials initially.
You can take up roles in financial analysis, audit support, or shared service centers. Start with these roles to build your US experience, then leverage that foundation to climb higher in your career ladder.
Pro tip: Target multinational corporations, consulting firms, or companies expanding internationally. They’re more likely to recognize and value your ACCA qualification right from the start.
What Are The Career Opportunities For ACCA Members In The USA?
ACCA in America opens doors to some fantastic career paths. And honestly, the opportunities are growing every year. Let’s break down what you can expect at each stage:
Entry-Level Job Positions For ACCA Affiliates In USA
Starting out? Don’t worry – there are plenty of solid entry points for fresh ACCA graduates like:
- Junior accountant roles in international companies
- Audit assistant or analyst in global finance teams
- Support roles in Big 4 offshoring centers
Mid-Level Job Roles For ACCA Members In USA
Those in the middle of their career with some experience (around 3-5 years) can expect career opportunities as:
- Financial analyst, cost accountant, or controller roles – Companies specifically seek ACCA professionals for these positions because of your analytical skills and international perspective.
Roles requiring IFRS or global reporting expertise – Since many US companies are expanding globally, they need professionals who can handle international financial reporting standards.
Senior Job Roles For Experienced ACCA Professionals
Now we are talking serious career advancement with 7-10 years under your belt:
- Senior Finance managers and Tax Auditors – Lead audits and financial operations for global organisations.
- Regional Finance Head in MNCs – Oversee financial operations across multiple locations or business lines.
- Head of FP&A (Financial Planning & Analysis) – Drive financial modelling, variance analysis, and decision support.
- Risk and Compliance Lead – Set internal controls and manage financial governance.
Top Executive Job Roles For ACCA Members
At the top of the ladder, ACCA professionals in the USA take on roles that influence big-picture decisions and drive financial direction at scale.
The top executive job roles for ACCA USA are:
- CFO positions in global startups or international NGOs
- Heath of Strategy and growth roles in finance leadership for cross-border businesses
- Finance Director position to oversee budgeting & planning across business units.
Chief Risk Officer (CRO) who owns enterprise-level risk frameworks
What Is The Average Salary Of ACCA Professionals In The USA?
Let’s talk numbers – ACCA is valid in USA, and the salaries are pretty competitive!
Here’s what you can realistically expect:
- Entry-Level Pay (0-2 years): $50,000 – $70,000
- Mid-Level (3-5 years): $80,000 – $120,000
- Senior-Level (10+ years): $150,000 – $250,000
Industry Makes a Huge Difference:
Industry | Average Salary Range |
Financial Services | |
Consulting | |
Technology | $80,000 – $160,000 |
Healthcare | $70,000 – $140,000 |
While ACCA recognition in USA continues to grow, your earning potential really depends on three things: your experience level, the industry you choose, and where you’re willing to work.
Are There Specific Industries In The USA That Offer Higher Salaries To ACCA Members?
Yes, several industries in the USA offer higher salaries to ACCA members, with average annual salaries ranging between $70,000 and $150,000, depending on your experience, skill set, and talent.
Some top-paying industries for ACCA USA are:
- Finance & Banking – Jobs in banking & finance are projected to grow faster than any other industry for the period of 2024-2033. (source)
- Technology & Fintech – Tech firms love ACCA’s international expertise, especially for global operations and compliance.
- Management Consulting – Big Four consulting firms and strategy consultancies pay premium salaries for ACCA professionals, particularly for international projects and cross-border transactions.
- ESG & Sustainability Consulting – New hot sector where ACCA’s global standards knowledge is gold.
- Global Logistics & Supply Chain – Multinational corporations value ACCA holders for their understanding of international financial reporting standards.
Do ACCA Professionals Need A CPA License To Work In The USA?
No, ACCA professionals don’t need a CPA license to work in the USA – you can work in many accounting and finance roles with just ACCA.
There are roles in corporate finance, internal audit, management accounting, and other non-attest positions that are open to international candidates.
However, you may need a US CPA to perform statutory audits of public U.S. companies and prepare audited financial statements. That’s because these are considered “attest functions,” and U.S. law reserves them for licensed CPAs under state boards of accountancy.
That said, there are many roles where a CPA isn’t required:
- Financial analysis
- Internal audits
- Controllership and FP&A roles
- Risk, compliance, or advisory positions
But again, if you want broader career mobility or plan to work in public accounting long-term, then ACCA with a CPA combo can be your best bet. Many professionals take this hybrid route.
You know the drill on how to clear ACCA exams. And for CPA, here’s what you need to do:
- Complete 150 credit hours of education (bachelor’s + extra coursework)
- Pass 4 CPA exam sections: AUD, BEC, FAR, and REG
- Meet your state’s work experience requirement (usually 1-2 years)
What Visa Options Are Available For ACCA Professionals Seeking Employment In The USA?
If you wish to study ACCA in USA and then seek a permanent job, here are your work visa options:
- H-1B (Specialty Occupation Visa)
This is the most sought-after U.S. work visa. It’s designed for professionals with specialised knowledge and a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent). However, it’s lottery-based and requires employer sponsorship. - L-1 (Intra-Company Transfer Visa)
If you are working with a multinational firm outside the U.S. (say, PwC or Deloitte), you can transfer to a U.S. office using this visa. But it only applies if you’ve been employed for at least a year within the last three years. - O-1 (Extraordinary Ability Visa)
For those with exceptional achievements, such as high-level certifications, publications, or awards. While rare in accounting, senior-level professionals or niche experts may qualify.
Now, the catch in these visas is sponsorship from the employer. Which is why most US employers prefer hiring candidates who are already authorised to work in the US. That’s where having an F-1 student visa followed by Optional Practical Training (OPT). Even
STEM MBA programs could help.
Frequently Asked Questions About ACCA USA
Is There Scope Of ACCA In The USA?
Yes, there is a good scope for the ACCA course in USA for accountancy roles at all levels. There are many financial hubs in cities like L.A., New York, Chicago, and San Fransico offering remunerative opportunities.
Can ACCA Professionals Get A Job In The USA?
Yes, ACCA professionals can get jobs in the USA. Currently, there are 2000+ entry-level positions for ACCA USA listed on the ACCA Careers website.