HOW MALAYSIAN ACCA STUDENTS CAN WORK IN THE UK OR AUSTRALIA

How Malaysian ACCA Students Can Work in the UK or Australia

How Malaysian ACCA Students Can Work in the UK or Australia

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How Malaysian ACCA Students Can Work in the UK or Australia


For many Malaysian ACCA students, one of the biggest attractions of the ACCA qualification is its international recognition. With the right planning and steps, students can turn their ACCA journey into a global career opportunity—especially in countries like the UK and Australia.


If you're currently pursuing ACCA courses in Malaysia, or considering it, here’s how you can make your dream of working abroad—particularly in the UK or Australia—a reality.






1. Why ACCA is Recognized Globally


The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is headquartered in the UK and recognized in over 180 countries, including major economies like Australia, Singapore, copyright, and the UK itself. Both the UK and Australian employers highly value the ACCA qualification because of its global accounting standards and practical approach.


This global recognition opens doors for Malaysian students to explore career paths beyond borders.






2. Completing ACCA in Malaysia – The First Step


Before you look abroad, the first step is to complete your ACCA qualification in Malaysia:





  • Complete all 13 ACCA exams (or fewer, if you have exemptions)




  • Complete the Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM)




  • Fulfill the 36-month Practical Experience Requirement (PER)




Institutions like Hamzah Academy in Malaysia offer dedicated support, structured study plans, and career mentoring to help you complete your ACCA coaching smoothly.






3. Gaining Practical Experience


To be recognized as a full ACCA member, you must have 3 years of relevant work experience. This experience can be gained in Malaysia or abroad. If you plan to migrate or work overseas, having work experience in audit, finance, taxation, or accounting fields can make you more competitive.


Employers in the UK and Australia often look for job-ready candidates, and having some local experience before applying abroad can help significantly.






4. Pathways to the UK for ACCA Professionals


Skilled Worker Visa (UK)


As an ACCA affiliate or member, you may be eligible for accounting jobs that fall under the UK’s Skilled Occupation List. Once you receive a job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor license, you can apply for the Skilled Worker Visa.



Graduate Schemes


Some global firms operating in Malaysia, such as the Big Four (PwC, Deloitte, EY, KPMG), offer internal relocation programs after 1–2 years of experience. This is one of the easiest ways to work abroad with ACCA.






5. Working in Australia with ACCA


While ACCA is not a statutory body in Australia like CPA Australia, it is still recognized by many employers, especially in multinational companies.



General Skilled Migration (GSM) Visa


You can apply for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) if you meet the criteria, including:





  • Age below 45




  • English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE)




  • Relevant qualifications and work experience




  • Good points score in Australia’s point-based immigration system




Mutual Recognition Agreements


Although ACCA doesn’t have full mutual recognition with CPA Australia, you can apply for membership if you complete some bridging assessments. This can help you gain dual recognition in both bodies and boost your employability.






6. Build a Strong Profile


To maximize your chances of getting hired internationally:





  • Gain experience with reputable companies




  • Build a strong LinkedIn profile




  • Learn soft skills and international workplace etiquette




  • Take up roles in audit, tax, or financial reporting, which are in high demand globally







Final Thoughts


Malaysian ACCA students can absolutely work in the UK or Australia, provided they follow the right process and build a strong foundation. With the global demand for finance professionals on the rise, ACCA gives you the right ticket to international career success.


Choosing a reliable training provider like Hamzah Academy ensures you not only pass the exams but also receive career support that prepares you for opportunities abroad.

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