Planning your ACCA examination schedule is crucial for successful qualification progression. Understanding the ACCA exam dates and scheduling system helps Sri Lankan students organise their studies effectively and manage their qualification journey with confidence.
ACCA Examination Schedule Structure
ACCA examinations follow a quarterly schedule, with sessions in March, June, September, and December each year. This regular pattern allows students to plan their studies with a clear timeline in mind.
The examination schedule varies depending on the qualification level. Applied Knowledge and Applied Skills examinations operate on a flexible on-demand basis, while Strategic Professional examinations follow the quarterly timetable.
Understanding this dual approach to scheduling is essential for planning your ACCA journey efficiently, allowing you to progress through the earlier levels at your own pace before aligning with the fixed dates at the Professional level.
Applied Knowledge and Skills Examinations
The first nine examinations of the ACCA qualification (three Applied Knowledge and six Applied Skills papers) are available on-demand throughout the year in Sri Lanka. These computer-based examinations offer maximum flexibility for students.
On-demand examinations can be booked with relatively short notice, typically requiring only a few days’ advance booking. This flexibility allows students to sit examinations when they feel fully prepared, rather than rushing to meet a fixed date.
Results for computer-based examinations are typically available much faster, often within 24-48 hours. This quick turnaround enables students to maintain momentum in their studies or quickly address any areas needing improvement.
Strategic Professional Examinations
The final four examinations at the Strategic Professional level follow the traditional quarterly session schedule. In 2025, the exam dates for these sessions are:
March 2025 Session:
- Strategic Business Leader: 4 March 2025
- Strategic Business Reporting: 5 March 2025
- Optional Papers: 7-8 March 2025
June 2025 Session:
- Strategic Business Leader: 3 June 2025
- Strategic Business Reporting: 4 June 2025
- Optional Papers: 6-7 June 2025
September 2025 Session:
- Strategic Business Leader: 2 September 2025
- Strategic Business Reporting: 3 September 2025
- Optional Papers: 5-6 September 2025
December 2025 Session:
- Strategic Business Leader: 2 December 2025
- Strategic Business Reporting: 3 December 2025
- Optional Papers: 5-6 December 2025
Registration for these examination sessions typically closes 3-4 weeks before the examination dates. Early booking is advisable to secure preferred examination centers in Colombo or other major Sri Lankan cities.
Results Release Schedule
For Strategic Professional examinations, results are released approximately six weeks after the examination date. Students often ask what time are ACCA results released, and typically they become available at 00:01 UK time on the scheduled release date, which translates to early morning in Sri Lanka.
The anticipated results release dates for 2025 are mid-April for March examinations, mid-July for June examinations, mid-October for September examinations, and mid-January 2026 for December 2025 examinations.
Results are accessible through the ACCA online portal, with email notifications sent to students when results become available. The prompt results service allows students to plan their next steps without extended periods of uncertainty.
Strategic Examination Planning
When planning your examination schedule, consider factors such as:
- Personal study pace and availability
- Logical paper combinations that complement each other
- Appropriate gaps between examinations for adequate preparation
- Balance between work, personal commitments, and study requirements
For Sri Lankan students, the availability of local examination centers for all sessions makes scheduling more convenient. The major centers in Colombo offer excellent facilities, ensuring a conducive environment for optimal performance.
Understanding the ACCA exam dates structure allows students to create a personalised roadmap through the qualification, maximising their chances of success while maintaining a manageable workload throughout their professional education journey.
