CIMA vs ACCA: Which is Best for Your Accounting and Finance Career?

CIMA vs ACCA is a common dilemma for aspiring finance professionals aiming to specialise in management accounting or global accountancy. As of 2025 ACCA boasts over 247,000 members across 181 countries, while CIMA under the AICPA - CIMA banner, represents more than 696,000 professionals globally. 

CIMA and ACCA both offer lucrative career paths, yet they differ in focus, flexibility and global recognition. Understanding their core distinctions and similarities is crucial for aligning your career goals.

What is CIMA?

The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) is a professional association for management accountants in the United Kingdom. Members of the organization hold the CIMA qualification, which demonstrates proficiency in financial and business management.

What is ACCA?

ACCA stands for the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. It is a global professional accounting body that offers the Chartered Certified Accountant qualification. The ACCA qualification is respected and recognized around the world, providing its members with the skills and knowledge needed to work in various sectors, including finance, accounting, consulting, and management.

Differences Between CIMA and ACCA

To have a clear view of the difference between the CIMA vs ACCA, it is essential to go through the table below to gain more insights.

Eligibility Requirements for CIMA Vs ACCA

Studying ACCA necessitates a minimum requirement of two A levels and three GCSEs across various subjects to initiate studies at the Fundamentals level. Alternatively, individuals holding a degree from an ACCA-accredited university might qualify to commence directly at the Professional level. Furthermore, prior academic achievements could potentially exempt candidates from certain examinations.

In contrast, embarking on CIMA studies offers flexibility. Beginning at either the Certificate or Professional level is feasible, with no mandatory prerequisites at the Certificate level. Progression to the CIMA Professional qualification is attainable based on existing qualifications, potentially leading to exemptions from specific papers.

Also Read: ACCA vs CA

Average Salaries of CIMA Vs ACCA & Career Opportunities

CIMA graduates have a wide array of employment opportunities across both corporate and public sectors, with potential roles in diverse industries such as Investment Advisory, Risk Advisory, Audit and Assurance, and Accounting Advisory.

Average CIMA Salary in 2025

The CIMA graduates have great opportunities worldwide and here is a list of average salaries for CIMA graduates with their average salary.

Please note that these figures are averages and actual salaries can vary based on factors like experience, skills, location, and the specific role.

Career Opportunities for CIMA Certified Professionals

CIMA qualified professionals typically work in cost and risk management, financial planning, business strategy, growth initiatives and business analytics, driving strategic decision making within the organisation. In demand job profiles for CIMA professionals include:

• Management Account 
• Business Analyst
• Financial Analyst 
• Management Consultant 
• Financial Controller 
• Project Manager

Leading Employees Hiring CIMA Professionals include

• Accenture 
• American Express
• Astrazeneca 
• Atkins
• AXA
• BAE Systems
• Bank of America 
• Barclays

Average ACCA Salary in 2025

The ACCA graduates get paid well worldwide. Here is a list of salary packages provided in the top countries. Have a look at the table below to learn more about the courses.

Have a look at Top Accounting Courses in Canada for International Students to know more about the accounting courses in Canada.

Career Opportunities for ACCA Certified Professionals

ACCA graduates have diverse employment opportunities across corporate and public sectors, with potential roles in fields such as Investment Advisory, Risk Advisory, Audit and Assurance, and Accounting Advisory. Popular Job Roles include:

• Chief Financial Officer (CFO) 
• Statutory Auditor 
• Finance Manager 
• Internal Auditor 
• Forensic Accountant
• Management Account 
• Corporate Treasurer 
• Financial Accountant 
• Fund Manager
• Business Analyst 
• Tax Specialist

Top Global Companies Hiring ACCA Professionals:

• KPMG
• Deloitte
• EY (Ernst & Young)
• PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
• BDO
• Grant Thornton
• Credit Suisse 

ACCA or CIMA: Which is Better?

Addressing this frequently posed question is no straightforward task. If your inclination leans towards the managerial facets of accounting, desiring foundational managerial skills, CIMA is better poised to equip you for such responsibilities. On the contrary, ACCA places a greater emphasis on intricate taxation principles and external auditing procedures.

Consequently, those graduating from ACCA are more adept at navigating roles that involve independent work or positions within private firms, particularly in finance-centric domains. So you can try to choose according to the career perspective that you have decided to grow and enhance.

Get to know more about Accounting Jobs in Canada to have a clear glance at the scope of accounting jobs in Canada.

Looking for the Right Fit Between CIMA vs ACCA? Seek Advice from GetGIS Guidance!

If you're facing the tough choice between CIMA and ACCA, you can rely on GetGIS Guidance for personalized support. Our team specializes in offering tailored insights to assist you in making the best decision based on your career aspirations and goals.

Whether you're considering delving into the intricacies of the Indian taxation system with CIMA or setting your sights on the global opportunities offered by ACCA, our experts are here to provide the guidance you need for your professional journey. Book Your Free Consultation

Useful Links!

• ACCA vs CPA
• How to Choose the Right Accountant Courses in the UK
• Canada PR for Indian Chartered Accountant (2025)
• Finance Courses in Canada
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