Practical Experience (PER)

The Practical Experience Requirement (PER) is an essential component of the ACCA Qualification. It ensures that candidates not only possess theoretical knowledge but also demonstrate the practical skills and ethical standards required of a professional accountant.(ACCA Global)

 Overview of ACCA’s Practical Experience Requirement (PER)

To achieve ACCA membership, candidates must fulfill the following PER component:

  1. 36 Months of Relevant Work Experience
    Candidates must complete a minimum of 36 months in a relevant accounting or finance role. This experience can be accumulated before, during, or after completing ACCA exams.
  2. Achievement of Performance Objectives
    Candidates are required to achieve nine performance objectives:

Five Essentials:

  1. Ethics and professionalism
  2. Stakeholder relationship management
  3. Strategy and innovation
  4. Governance, risk, and control
  5. Leadership and management

Four Technical (chosen based on the candidate’s role):

  1. Corporate and business reporting
  2. Financial management
  3. Management accounting
  4. Taxation
  5. Audit and assurance
  6. Advisory and consultancy
  7. Data, digital, and technology

  8. Regular Recording and Verification
    Progress must be documented in ACCA’s online platform, MyExperience. Each performance objective requires a written statement (200–500 words) demonstrating how the candidate met the objective, which must be reviewed and signed off by a Practical Experience Supervisor.

Role of the Practical Experience Supervisor

A Practical Experience Supervisor is typically a qualified accountant who oversees the candidate’s work, provides guidance, and verifies the completion of performance objectives. Their responsibilities include:

  • Reviewing and approving the candidate’s experience and performance objective statements.
  • Providing feedback and support throughout the PER journey. (ACCA Global, GFTI)

 Flexibility and Global Recognition

The PER is designed to be flexible:

  • Experience can be gained across different roles, sectors, and countries.
  • Part-time roles, internships, and volunteer positions can count towards PER, provided they meet ACCA’s criteria.
  • There’s no requirement for the 36 months to be continuous or with a single employer.

 Importance of PER in Professional Development

Completing the PER:

  • Bridges the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application.
  • Develops essential skills such as ethical judgment, leadership, and strategic thinking.
  • Enhances employability and readiness for senior roles in accounting and finance. (accaclubindia.in, ACCA Global)
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For detailed guidance and resources on PER, candidates can visit ACCA’s official Practical Experience Requirement page.(ACCA Global)