ACCA to end online exams from March 2026 after raising serious concerns over the increasing use of artificial intelligence in cheating. The UK-based Association of Chartered Certified Accountants has confirmed that most candidates will be required to appear for exams in person.
The decision marks a major shift in the assessment process of one of the world’s largest professional accounting bodies. The change will impact more than 500,000 students pursuing ACCA qualifications across multiple countries.
ACCA Cites AI-Driven Cheating as Key Reason
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants stated that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence tools has made it difficult to safeguard online examinations. According to the organisation, the sophistication of AI-enabled cheating methods has overtaken the effectiveness of existing digital monitoring systems.
ACCA chief executive Helen Brand acknowledged the seriousness of the issue while explaining the move. She stated that cheating systems are evolving faster than the safeguards designed to prevent them. Despite continuous efforts to strengthen online controls, misuse has continued to rise.
The organisation currently has over 2,57,900 members worldwide and conducts examinations across numerous jurisdictions. Maintaining exam integrity on a global scale has become increasingly complex in a digital-first testing environment.
Online Exams Introduced During COVID-19 Pandemic
ACCA introduced online examinations during the COVID-19 pandemic when physical test centres were inaccessible due to lockdowns and travel restrictions. Remote exams allowed students to continue their qualification journey during an unprecedented global crisis.
While the system initially proved effective, long-term challenges gradually emerged. As artificial intelligence tools became more accessible and advanced, monitoring remote exam conditions became increasingly difficult. The organisation found it harder to detect unfair practices in uncontrolled environments.
Officials stated that although online exams served an important purpose during the pandemic, they are no longer sustainable under current technological conditions.
Impact on ACCA Students Worldwide
The shift to in-person examinations will affect a large global student base. Over 500,000 candidates currently enrolled in ACCA programmes will need to plan for physical exam attendance starting March 2026.
ACCA has indicated that nearly all exams will be conducted at designated test centres. This move is expected to restore confidence in the credibility and fairness of the qualification. Exact details regarding centre availability and regional implementation are expected to be shared separately.
The organisation emphasised that the decision was taken to protect honest candidates and maintain the global reputation of the ACCA qualification.
Exam Integrity Becomes Priority for Professional Bodies
The ACCA decision highlights a growing concern among global education and certification bodies regarding the misuse of artificial intelligence. While AI has proven beneficial for learning and research, its unchecked use in assessments poses serious risks.
By returning to in-person examinations, ACCA aims to ensure uniform evaluation standards and reduce malpractice. Officials stated that safeguarding trust in professional qualifications remains a top priority.
The move reflects a broader shift in assessment strategies as institutions adapt to emerging technological challenges. ACCA candidates are advised to stay alert for further updates regarding exam centres and implementation timelines.
