Can You Do ACCA or CMA USA While Working? A Practical Guide
Many of our students are working professionals — in accounts, audit, banking or operations — who want a global qualification without leaving their job. Both ACCA and CMA USA are designed to make that possible. Here is how to make it work.
Which is easier to combine with a job?
- CMA USA has just two parts and is usually completed in 12–18 months, which makes it popular with working professionals who want a fast upgrade.
- ACCA lets you take one or two papers per session across four sessions a year, so you control the pace. Your job can also count towards the 36-month experience requirement.
A realistic weekly plan
| When | What |
|---|---|
| Weekday evenings (3–4 days) | 1–1.5 hours: recorded lectures or reading |
| One weekday | Question practice |
| Weekend | 3–4 hours: live class, practice and a timed test |
That is roughly 8–12 hours a week — enough to make steady progress without burning out.
Tips from students who did it
- Book your exam date early so you have a fixed target.
- Protect two fixed study slots a week like meetings.
- Use recorded backups for the weeks work gets busy.
- Plan leave around the final two weeks before an exam.
- Tell your manager — many employers support professional qualifications.
How NPA Global supports working professionals
We build a personalised study plan around your work schedule, with live online classes, full recorded lectures, LMS access and mentor support. Explore our batches or book a counselling session to plan your route.
Talk to a mentor before you decide
Every student’s starting point is different. At NPA Global, a free counselling session maps your background, exemptions and goals to a clear plan. Book a free session or explore the ACCA course and CMA USA course.