The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has launched the Next Generation ACA qualification, an updated version of its business, finance, and accountancy credential.
The first cohort of students has already undertaken certificate-level exams under the new ACA structure.
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This was launched during a reception held at Chartered Accountants’ Hall.
Panelists included Lottie Roberts from RSM, Andrea Cook from ICAEW, Ginny Bradwell from First Intuition, and Henry Michaelson from Bupa.
ICAEW chief executive Alan Vallance also addressed the attendees.
The redesign of the ACA qualification follows a consultation with over 100,000 students, employers, and stakeholders.
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By GlobalDataIt comprises three core components: 14 modules covering business, finance, and accountancy; a new Specialised Learning programme and professional work experience.
The learning programme is designed to incorporate emerging skills and topics requirements, with students expected to complete 30 modules, including those mandated by their employers.
As of July 2025, new students at ICAEW are automatically enrolled in the updated ACA programme.
Meanwhile, existing students are given the choice to select their preferred pathway.
The Next Generation ACA is a key initiative under ICAEW’s refreshed strategy, which aims to uphold the relevance, and boost the resilience of the chartered accountancy profession.
Vallance said: “In an era when businesses and society face complex challenges, the need for agile, ethical leadership has never been greater. We’ve worked with employers, students and educators to design a qualification that will equip future Chartered Accountants with the skills to lead now and in the future, across a vast range of careers.
“That’s why we’ve incorporated integrated sustainability, technology and ethics content into the Next Generation ACA, alongside a Specialised Learning platform that will provide students with real-time insight into emerging trends and issues.”
Recently, ICAEW voiced concerns over proposed reforms to inheritance tax on pensions. The Institute has called for an urgent reassessment of the draft legislation, which it deems “unworkable”.
