ACCA recommends starting with FA1 and MA1, followed by FA2 and MA2, before progressing to FBT, FMA, and FFA. Each stage builds the accounting knowledge needed for the next, creating a structured route through the Foundation-level subjects.
Foundations in Accountancy
ACCA Foundation Diploma Structure & Subjects
Explore how ACCA's Foundation-level qualifications are structured, from introductory accounting and management information through to the Diploma in Accounting and Business. Understand the subjects, qualification levels, CAT route, and progression options towards the ACCA Qualification.
Foundations in Accountancy
Foundations in Accountancy (FIA) is ACCA's group of Foundation-level qualifications, designed to build essential knowledge and skills in accounting, finance and business. FIA qualifications progress from RQF Level 2 through RQF Level 4 and provide different routes for students who are beginning their accountancy studies or building their existing finance skills.
Three progressive stages
ACCA Foundation-Level Diplomas: Structure & Subjects
The FIA diploma pathway progresses through three qualification levels. Each level builds on the knowledge developed at the previous stage, helping students move from fundamental accounting skills towards broader financial and management accounting knowledge.
Stage 1 – Diploma in Financial and Management Accounting (RQF Level 2)
Broadly equivalent to GCSE level, this is the starting point for students developing fundamental accounting and bookkeeping knowledge. It is suitable preparation for junior accounting and bookkeeping roles.
Stage 2 – Diploma in Financial and Management Accounting (RQF Level 3)
Broadly equivalent to A level, this stage builds on the knowledge gained at Level 2 and develops further skills in financial records, costing and management accounting.
Stage 3 – Diploma in Accounting and Business (RQF Level 4)
Broadly equivalent to HND level or the first year of a degree, this stage develops broader knowledge of business, financial accounting and management accounting and prepares students for progression to the ACCA Qualification.
FBTBusiness and TechnologyFMAManagement AccountingFFAFinancial Accounting
The Foundation Diploma is a specific FIA award available in Bangladesh and Pakistan. It consists of the same seven exams covered across the three FIA diploma levels, together with Foundations in Professionalism. Students elsewhere can follow the relevant FIA qualification route available to them.
Recommended order
ACCA Foundation-Level Changes From 2027
ACCA is simplifying its entry route for students who do not meet the minimum entry requirements for the ACCA Qualification. From July 2027, the current Foundations in Accountancy structure will transition to a new Foundations level with three mandatory exams and an Essential Employability Module.
Students already studying FIA will receive transition arrangements and credit for equivalent elements they have completed. If you are currently studying FA1, MA1, FA2, MA2, FBT, FMA, FFA or CAT, check ACCA's latest transition guidance before planning your remaining exams. See the [2027 qualification changes](/about-acca/2027-qualification-changes).
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
What is ACCA Foundations in Accountancy (FIA)?
Foundations in Accountancy (FIA) is a group of ACCA Foundation-level qualifications that develop fundamental knowledge and skills in accounting, finance, and business. The current FIA structure includes three diplomas: CAT, the Foundation Diploma, and the Professional Diploma.
What subjects are included in the ACCA Foundation-level diplomas?
The three FIA diplomas cover FA1, MA1, FA2, MA2, FBT, FMA, and FFA. The exams are structured progressively, with FA1 and MA1 providing the foundation for FA2 and MA2, followed by FBT, FMA, and FFA.
What is the difference between FIA and the ACCA Foundation Diploma?
FIA is the wider group of Foundation-level qualifications offered by ACCA. The Foundation Diploma is one specific FIA award, while the other FIA routes include the Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4 diplomas and CAT.
What is the difference between the FIA diplomas at RQF Levels 2, 3 and 4?
Level 2 introduces fundamental accounting and bookkeeping; Level 3 develops further financial and management accounting knowledge, and Level 4 broadens this into accounting and business subjects. Each qualification builds on the knowledge developed at the previous level.
Can FIA qualifications lead to the ACCA Qualification?
Yes. FIA provides a route towards the ACCA Qualification. Students completing the relevant current FIA qualifications can receive exemptions from applicable ACCA exams and progress to the next stage of their studies.
How long does it take to complete FIA?
There is no fixed completion time. ACCA states that students progressing quickly through the FIA diplomas can complete their studies in around 12–18 months, while the flexible structure allows others to take longer.
Are the ACCA Foundation-level qualifications changing in 2027?
Yes. ACCA is replacing the current FIA structure with a redesigned Foundations level from July 2027. Current students will receive transition arrangements and credit for equivalent studies they have already completed.
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