ACCA Exam Sittings in 2026
ACCA holds four main exam sittings each year: March, June, September, and December. These apply to the Applied Skills and Strategic Professional papers. The Applied Knowledge papers (BT, FA, MA) are available on demand year-round at approved computer-based exam centres.
2026 Exam Windows
ACCA exam sittings run over a multi-week period. The exact dates vary by paper and exam centre location, so always check the ACCA website and your exam centre for confirmed dates in your region. In 2026, the four sittings are expected to run in the following approximate windows:
March 2026 sitting: Exams typically take place across the first two weeks of March. Registration typically closes in January.
June 2026 sitting: Exams run across the first two weeks of June. Registration typically closes in April.
September 2026 sitting: Exams run across the first two weeks of September. Registration typically closes in July.
December 2026 sitting: Exams run across the first two weeks of December. Registration typically closes in October.
Note: Strategic Business Leader (SBL) is a four-hour exam and may have slightly different scheduling than other papers. Always confirm dates via your ACCA MyACCA portal.
How to Register for ACCA Exams
You register for ACCA exams through your MyACCA account on the ACCA website. You'll need to book each exam individually and pay the exam fee at the time of booking. Early entry fees apply if you register by an early deadline (typically six to eight weeks before the exam window), and late entry fees apply if you book closer to the sitting. Missing the registration deadline means waiting for the next sitting.
ACCA Exam Fees in 2026
ACCA exam fees vary depending on whether you're booking at the standard or late rate, and on your country of registration. As a guide, Applied Skills papers typically cost £100–£150 per exam at the standard rate in the UK. Strategic Professional papers are slightly higher. Check the ACCA website for the most current fee schedule.
On-Demand Exams: Applied Knowledge Papers
Business and Technology (BT), Financial Accounting (FA), and Management Accounting (MA) are computer-based exams available at Pearson VUE test centres on demand throughout the year. You can book these exams whenever you feel ready, without waiting for a fixed sitting window. Results are available immediately after you complete the exam.
Tips for Planning Around ACCA Exam Dates
Build a study schedule backwards from your target exam date. Most tutors recommend allowing at least 100 hours of study per Applied Skills paper and 150+ hours per Strategic Professional paper. Factor in time for at least two full mock exams under timed conditions before each sitting.
If you're sitting multiple papers in one sitting, ensure you give each paper adequate time and don't overload yourself — sitting two papers in one session is the recommended maximum for most working candidates.
Where to Find Official ACCA Exam Dates
The definitive source for ACCA exam dates, registration deadlines, and fees is the official ACCA website at www.accaglobal.com. Your MyACCA portal also shows your personal exam history and upcoming booking options. Don't rely on third-party websites for registration deadlines, as these can be inaccurate.
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Johnny Meagher
Expert Tutor at Learnsignal
Qualified professional with years of experience in teaching and helping students achieve their accounting qualifications.
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