Learning providers FAQs on computer-based exams (CBE)

How many CBE are available within the ACCA and CAT Qualification and the FIA Suite of Awards?

ACCA: 3
All knowledge module papers within the ACCA qualification are available by CBE, as well as by paper-based exam:

• F1 Accountant in Business
• F2 Management Accounting
• F3 Financial Accounting

New syllabus and study guides have been introduced for all ACCA Knowledge exams papers F1, F2 and F3. This is to accommodate for the following exams with common syllabuses:

• ACCA F1 and FAB
• ACCA F2 and FMA
• ACCA F3 and FFA.

The first seven papers in the FIA suite of awards and the CAT qualification are also available in CBE format.

More information on the FIA suite of awards

What are the main differences between computer-based exams and paper-based exams?

Questions in both formats of the exam are written to correspond with the syllabus and students should expect to see questions covering all aspects of the syllabus in both paper-based and computer-based exams.

In all cases, the computer-based version is automatically generated so that each candidate gets a different set of questions, whereas the written exam is made up of a pre-selected set of questions.

The table below compares computer-based exams with their paper-based equivalents:

What are the benefits of computer-based exams versus paper-based exams?

Computer-based exams have the advantage of being available at any time of the year and give instant results at the end of the exam. However, students who have not previously used or who lack confidence in using computers may prefer completing the exam on paper.

How is it best to prepare for the ACCA Qualification Knowledge module exams?

Students should ensure that as part of their revision, they are familiar with the multiple choice style of questions as well as the wider range of objective question types if taking a computer-based exam.

It is recommended that students sit the relevant CBE Pilot exam.

Are section weightings for computer-based exams the same as for paper-based exams?

Both computer-based and paper-based exams have the same weightings for different syllabus areas. Weightings for each area have been given to reflect their relative size and importance.