Press Release

Association of Chartered Certified Accountants partners with Pearson VUE to transform global exams from pen-and-paper to computer-based


LONDON, UK, Jan. 27, 2015 – The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has entered into a new partnership with global computer-based testing (CBT) leader Pearson VUE as the sole provider to transform its Accountancy Fundamentals exams from pen-and-paper to CBT.

The multi-year contract means that Pearson VUE will be delivering the tests – F5 Performance Management, F6 Taxation, F7 Financial Reporting, F8 Audit and Assurance and F9 Financial Management – which form part of the route to become an ACCA certified accountant.

ACCA selected Pearson VUE to deliver its CBT exam programme because it offers a complete solution including Test Development tools, a Registration and Scheduling platform, Test Centre Management tools and a full reporting service. Pearson VUE is providing its ExamDeveloper software to enable ACCA to write new content for the exams. This includes the authoring of advanced question types that test higher order skills and abilities and are more relevant to the accountancy sector.

Pearson VUE is also providing its Test Centre management applications to allow ACCA to manage the delivery of tests through its own network of test centres. This includes Pearson VUE’s Athena test driver that ensures exams are fully encrypted up to the point of delivery. Practice tests will also be offered to students using Athena, providing students with detailed contextual feedback to provide the best preparation for the exams.

Bob Whelan, managing director of Pearson VUE, said: “This exciting new partnership will allow ACCA to realise its global digital ambitions and deliver assessments which reflect the real-life experience of modern day accounting professionals.”

Helen Brand OBE, chief executive of ACCA, said of the partnership: “ACCA first introduced CBT for the Fundamental Knowledge exams in 1998 and this partnership with Pearson VUE represents the next stage in ACCA’s transition, ensuring the ACCA Qualification remains relevant to today’s business environment.” 

About ACCA
ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is the global body for professional accountants. It aims to offer business-relevant, first-choice qualifications to people of application, ability and ambition around the world who seek a rewarding career in accountancy, finance and management. It supports 170,000 members and 436,000 students throughout their careers, providing services through a network of 91 offices and active centres. ACCA's global infrastructure means that exams and support are delivered at a local level, directly benefiting stakeholders wherever they are based.


Media contact

Damien Fletcher
+44 (0)20 7775 6785
damien.fletcher@pearson.com