ACCA Announces Major Change: Remote Exams to Be Phased Out

A complete and deeply researched explanation for students and training providers

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has officially announced a significant change to its global exam structure. Remote exams will no longer be available in countries where ACCA exam centres already exist. This update affects both session-based exams and remote on-demand CBEs.

This article provides a full research-based explanation covering timelines, eligibility, reasons, impacts, and practical steps for students.

What Has ACCA Announced? (Important Summary for 2025–2026)

ACCA is phasing out most remote exams and returning to centre-based assessments.

From 4 November 2025

Students living in countries with ACCA exam centres cannot purchase new remote on-demand exam tokens.
Existing tokens can still be used until their expiry date.

From March 2026

Session-based exams and on-demand CBEs will only be available in physical exam centres in all countries where centres are already present.
Remote exams will continue only in countries where ACCA has no exam centre infrastructure.

This marks the end of the flexibility introduced during the COVID period.

Why Is ACCA Removing Remote Exams?

ACCA has provided several reasons for this strategic shift.

  • Strengthening Exam Integrity: Remote exams increase the risk of malpractice, unauthorized assistance and identity inconsistencies. Removing remote sessions in major markets ensures greater fairness and standardisation.
  • More Controlled Exam Environments: Physical exam centres allow ACMA to maintain consistent supervision and reduce disruptions caused by internet issues and technical failures.
  • Reduced Operational and Data Security Risks: Remote exams require large-scale video recording, storage and monitoring systems. Centre-based exams reduce complexity and improve compliance with global regulations.
  • Standardised Global Assessment: With a return to centre-based conditions, all candidates attempt examinations under the same environment, improving reliability and employer confidence.

Who Is Affected by the Change?

Students in Countries With ACCA Exam Centres

  • These candidates must sit exams in centres starting from the March 2026 session.
  • This includes countries such as India, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Pakistan, Singapore, Bangladesh, Kenya and many others.

Students in Countries Without Exam Centres

  • These candidates will continue to have access to remote exams.
  • This ensures that ACCA remains accessible in markets without the infrastructure required for physical exam delivery.

Students With Medical or Accessibility Needs

  • Candidates with special circumstances must request support directly from ACCA.
  • Early communication is strongly advised.

Timeline of Changes

DateUpdate
November 4 2025Remote tokens disabled for countries with exam centres
Nov 2025 to Feb 2026Transitional period for on-demand and session-based exams
March 2026 onwardsCentre-based exams become mandatory where centres exist
Post 2026Remote exams remain only where there is no exam centre provision

Remote On Demand Tokens Policy Update

Tokens Bought Before 4 November 2025

They remain valid until their original expiry date and can still be used.

After 4 November 2025

Candidates cannot purchase remote exam tokens in countries with physical exam centres.

Advantages of Centre Based Exams

Despite the reduced flexibility, there are several benefits.

  • Improved Exam Credibility: Employers place a higher value on exams taken under controlled supervision.
  • Reduced Technical Problems
    • No internet failures
    • No webcam or microphone issues
    • No system crashes or compatibility problems
  • Consistent Exam Day Procedures: All candidates follow the same set of rules, timings and invigilation standards.
  • Simplified Compliance: Data protection requirements become easier for ACCA to manage.

Challenges Students Might Face

  • Travel Requirements: Some candidates may need to travel large distances to reach their nearest exam centre.
  • Limited Seating: Exam centres in major cities may fill up early during peak sessions.
  • Loss of Flexible Timings: Remote exams provided 24 hour flexibility, which will no longer be available in many countries.
  • Additional Time and Cost: Transportation and accommodation costs may increase for some students.

Action Plan for Students

Step 1: Check Your Country Exam Availability

Visit the official ACCA exam availability page to confirm whether your country will allow remote exams.

Step 2: Review Existing Remote Tokens

Check token validity dates and plan to use them before they expire.

Step 3: Identify Your Nearest Exam Centre

Locate the closest ACCA approved centre and review available dates for upcoming sessions.

Step 4: Book Exams Early

Seats should be booked at least six to eight weeks before the exam session.

Step 5: Adjust Your Study Plan

With the removal of on-demand remote CBEs, students must follow a more structured preparation schedule.

Step 6: Arrange Travel and Logistics

Book travel and accommodation in advance, especially in cities with high candidate volume.

Region Specific Note for India, UAE, Pakistan and Asia

A large number of ACCA students in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh and UAE have been using remote exams since 2020.

Since these countries have well established exam centres, all future exams will be centre-based starting March 2026.

Students should begin preparing for location based attempts immediately to avoid last minute challenges.

Final Conclusion

The ACCA decision to phase out remote exams marks a return to traditional, controlled, centre-based assessments. The change aims to improve exam security, strengthen fairness and uphold global professional standards.

While students may face initial inconvenience due to travel and reduced flexibility, the long-term benefit is greater credibility and uniformity across markets.

Early planning is essential for all students, especially those preparing for the March 2026 exam session.

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