ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is the largest and fastest-growing international accountancy body with 260,000 students and 110,000 members in 170 countries.

In the UK, ACCA is by far the largest accountancy body in terms of student numbers, and the second largest in terms of members. It is, however, the only body to operate on a global basis. The ACCA syllabus has been recognised by the United Nations as providing the basis for a global accountancy qualification. ACCA members enjoy wide professional mobility.

Founded in 1904 in London, ACCA's mission is to provide quality professional opportunities to people of ability and application, to be a leader in the development of the global accountancy profession, to promote the highest ethical and governance standards and to work in the public interest.

ACCA is governed by a Council all of whom are themselves ACCA members from around the world and who are elected by the whole membership. There are no constituencies; Council members therefore represent all ACCA members. An International Assembly, elected on the basis of national and regional constituencies, advises Council and acts as a channel of communication between council and ACCA's global membership.

ACCA delivers qualifications in partnership with many organisations. It operates joint examination schemes in 21 countries and work closely with nearly 400 registered tuition providers and over 6,500 employers of accountants and finance professionals. It delivers services to students and members through a network of over 75 offices and other centres, aiming to support them throughout their careers.

It uses its expertise and experience to assist governments, donor agencies and professional bodies to develop the profession. ACCA aims to achieve and promote the highest professional, ethical and governance standards and advance the public interest.

ACCA's reputation is grounded in over 100 years of providing accounting and financial qualifications. Its long traditions are complemented by modern thinking, backed by a predominantly young, dynamic membership.

ACCA offers four core qualifications:

• a technician level qualification provides a comprehensive introduction to accountancy
• a professional qualification enabling members to reach the highest level in accountancy
• a Bachelor of Science in Applied Accounting which is centred on the needs of employers for practical, professional accounting
• an MBA designed to broaden business understanding and enhance strategic decision making