aca case study july

FAR - Full Series

Learn how to ace the aca certificate level exams, financial accounting and reporting (far) , classroom tuition, online tuition.

Having scored 92% in the Case Study exam, and winning the ICAEW prize for the highest score in the world, Kieran now teaches students the analytical skills and exam technique required to emulate this success. Under his guidance, one of our students also went on to win the ICAEW prize for the highest score in the world (score of 90%), whilst several others have won national and regional prizes.

You can watch the course introduction and a  FREE SAMPLE CLASS   below.

OUR PRIZE-WINNING TECHNIQUE

The course begins by teaching you the methodology for tackling the exam, as well as passing on prize-winning tricks and tips. Kieran provides a detailed walk-through of how you should tackle the Case Study exam, from initial AI analysis through to typing your report on exam day. 

The  next class is an exhibit by exhibit walk-through of the November 2024 AI, clearly demonstrating how each piece of information should be used in the exam. This enables you to understand the AI in an exam focused way.

The following classes  debrief our November 2024 mock exams where Kieran teaches you exactly how you should have read and interpreted the exam as well as how you should have typed your answer, with reference to his prize-winning model answer.​  The classes provide detailed advice as to how you should work through each requirement. This enables you to fully understand how to apply the prize-winning technique to your particular Case Study business and the type of points you should include in your report. 

Classes which are based on the November 2024 AI will be added to the course after the AI has been released. T he release dates for the classes can be found on the course structure document below. 

PAYMENT AND ACCESS

You can subscribe to all the classes for £395 and enjoy a viewing period of 12 months.

Please click  HERE  to purchase. Once payment has been made, you can view the full course  HERE . ​

Please note that our November  2024  PDF materials are sold separately from the video course .

​ ​ PASS GUARANTEE 

In the unlikely event that you fail your exam, we will extend your access until you pass your exam. This includes access to any additional content we upload in relation to subsequent Case Study businesses.  There will be no extra cost to you. This reflects our commitment to getting you qualified, as well as the confidence we have in Kieran's track record. 

AI ANALYSIS AND PROFORMA REPORT

Our prize-winning Case Study tutor Kieran Doe has developed our Proforma Report and AI Analysis. ​

This includes:

Comprehensive AI analysis which identifies all the key facts and figures, showing where they are likely to appear in the exam.

A proforma report to use in the exam with reminders of the points to include in each section.

A list of probable exam scenarios and a reminder of the key points to include. 

PAYMENT AND DELIVERY

The price of our  AI Analysis and Proforma Report PDF d ocument is £75. You can purchase using a credit or debit card below from 1 October .

You will receive an email containing a link to download the PDF document within 5 minutes of placing your order. You may print the document for your sole use.

Please ensure that you check your junk mail in case your email settings divert our emails to junk. 

OUR PRIZE -WINNING TECHNIQUE

The course begins by teaching you the methodology for tackling the exam, as well as passing on prize-winning tricks and tips. Kieran provides a detailed walk-through of how you should tackle the Case Study exam, from initial AI analysis through to typing your report on exam day.

You are then given the opportunity to put these skills to the test with a series of mock exams based on the November 2024 AI. You will be required to complete the exam in your own time using the ICAEW CBE software and submit this before class. Your tutor will perform a detailed review of your attempt so that class time can be spent coaching you on the specific areas where your report requires improvement. In addition, Kieran will explain exactly how the exam should have been tackled and demonstrate this with his prize-winning model answer. 

The key difference between the Video Course and the Live Course is that the Live Course includes three live classes where your tutor will give you detailed feedback on how and where you need to improve to score a higher mark. 

TUTION FEES AND BOOKING

The tuition fee is £1,100 plus VAT .  This includes: ​

Proforma reports to use in the exam with reminders of the points to include for each section.

AI  analysis document which identifies all the key facts and figures, showing where they are likely to appear in the exam.

A list of probable exam scenarios and a reminder of the key points to include.

Mock exams, marking grids and model answers which demonstrate exactly how you should write your points in the exam.

Access to all our Case Study video classes which are used as a preparatory and revision tool.

Please contact us HERE  for availability and course dates.

In the unlikely event that you fail your exam (we had a 100% pass rate in most recent exams), we will automatically enrol you on subsequent courses until you pass your exam. There will be no extra cost to you. This reflects our commitment to getting you qualified, as well as the confidence we have in our track record. In order for the pass guarantee to apply, you must attend all classes and complete all required work. 

MOCK EXAMS, MARKING KEYS AND MODEL ANSWERS

Our prize-winning Case Study tutor Kieran Doe has created our mock exams, marking keys and model answers.​

MOCK EXAM 1  1

Mock exam 1 and marking key

Prize-winning model answer which demonstrates exactly how you should structure your report and the points to include​

A sample is included below. 

The price of our  Mock Exam 1 PDF pack is £50 . You can purchase using a credit or debit card below from 1 October . 

You will receive an email containing a link to download the PDF document within 5 minutes of placing your order. 

MOCK EXAM 2  2

Mock exam 2  and marking key

The price of our  Mock Exam 2  PDF pack is £50 . You can purchase using a credit or debit card below from 8 October . 

MOCK EXAM 3  2

Mock exam 3  and marking key

The price of our  Mock Exam 3 PDF pack is £50 . You can purchase using a credit or debit card below from 31 October . 

Having failed Case Study TWICE, I had seen this course pop up on YouTube whilst I tried to figure out where I was going wrong. Took the plunge to change resource providers and honestly, there are NO words to express how grateful I am! Kieran and the team guide you with a CLEAR and CONCISE approach which really helped me focus on what I needed to improve on and what I was previously doing wrong.

From past failures of 48 & 36 previously, to now a gratifying pass of 74, I am honestly on TOP of the world!!! Don't hesitate - book before its too late, honestly you won't regret it!!!

(Case Study resit student who passed first time with us)

New website launched

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new website which integrates our learning platform, information website, purchase links and The Profit Room (our free student learning community) within a single site. Hit the button below to visit our new website. Hope to see you there soon (and in the next few seconds hopefully!). ‍

For exclusive Case Study tips, sign up to The Profit Room , our free student learning community!

Case study mock exam pack. relevant practice..

As we have explained on the other Case Study pages on this website, Case Study is fundamentally unlike the other ACA papers because it is marked with a unique "closed form" markscheme in which you can only attract credit if the idea in your exam answer matches the points on the finalised ICAEW markscheme. This is a potentially harsh marking approach and without a good understanding of what points are likely to be on the markscheme, you'll be relying on luck to pass. The other important aspect of preparing for Case Study is that it is a long, 4-hour exam (the longest of all the ACA papers) and one where you must pass all the different elements of the examination (Executive Summary, Requirement 1, Requirement 2 and Requirement 3) or you will be failed by the examiners, no matter how brilliant the other parts of your response may have been. We have therefore created our live Mock Exam Pack to give you 5 opportunities to practise your planning, timing and general exam technique, all within the context of learning points which are likely to be given credit in your own exam. As experienced creators of Case Study Mock Exam Pack since 2013, we have a very good understand of what points are likely to score, so we build these into our full markscheme examples. We also provide example model answers where we write up all our ideas, under the right headings and making the points nice and snappy, creating examples that are actually achievable by a good candidate in the time available. We round off the Mock Exam Pack with detailed Tutor Debrief videos of all 5 Mocks, and a supporting set of over 400 quick-fire questions on the Advance Information so that you can actively learn the content rather than just reading and re-reading the Advance Information yet again! Scroll down the page to learn more about our Mock Exam Pack. July 2024 Mock Exam Pack release schedule Mock 1 - 7 June 2024 by 23.59 UK time Mock 2 - 14 June 2024 by 23.59 UK time Mock 3 - 21 June 2024 by 23.59 UK time Mock 4 - 28 June 2024 by 23.59 UK time Mock 5 - 5 July 2024 by 23.59 UK time The release dates for our November 2024 Mock Exam Pack will be 20 September, 27 September, 4 October, 11 October and 18 October 2024

Prepare to pass.

We have no idea why certain other tuition providers allocate so much course and homework time to past paper Case Study examples. Okay, so doing past papers is obviously of some benefit, but for us, it makes much more sense to focus on the live Case Study Advance Information which will provide the basis of your examination attempt. Using our Mock Exam Pack, you get 5 opportunities to hone your exam technique while also learning about likely scenarios for the real exam (simply not possible by doing past papers!). With our expertly-prepared markscheme grids, we can help you understand what sorts of point to make in your own answer, again all based on points that can actually be tested in your exam (simply not possible by doing past papers!). Our commentaries on our marking grids also explain how we put the Mocks together and what we were trying to test, enhancing your knowledge of the live set of Advance Information.

Some stats on our Mock Exam Pack.

The July 2024 edition of our Case Study Mock Exam Pack will be the 25th edition of the Mock Exam Pack since our first Mock Exam Pack was published in 2013. This means we have accumulated vast knowledge and experience, which we distill into our student-focused approach and realistic question papers.

>100,000

Taking into account our 5 question papers, 5 marking grids, 5 example student-standard model answers and our other tips and tricks content, each Mock Exam Pack contains over 100,000 words of content (about the same length as a novel!). All lovingly prepared under extreme time-pressure to help you as much as possible.

Practice makes perfect.

Since passing Case Study is all about exam technique rather than technical brilliance, it is vital that you do plenty of practice before the exam to work on things like time management, writing style, interpretation of the question and, most important of all, understanding the points that are likely to be on the final ICAEW markscheme. Because if your idea doesn't match the final ICAEW markscheme, you won't get any credit for your point! Harsh, we know, which is why we have got your back through our Mock Exam Pack.

Fully updated for 2024

As always, we will carefully work through the learning points from the 2023 past papers to ensure that our advice and example markschemes are fully up-to-date, ensuring that you are exposed to points that are likely to score. The Case Study examiners are always subtly evolving the examination so it is important that we keep on top of this "cat-and-mouse" game!

Key Points Summary

To make the most of the "open-book" nature of the Case Study exam, we will provide you with our Key Points Summary PDF, an alphabetically-organised summary of key "re-useable" points from the Mock Exam Pack. This will avoid you taking too much content into the exam as everything will be nicely condensed and organised for you. On the day, you must of course use your judgement when using any pre-prepared ideas, but our Key Points Summary PDF will put everything at your fingertips so that you can make your choices as quickly as possible!

Supporting video content

Making the most of advances in technology, recent editions of our Mock Exam Pack have been provided with supporting video content, allowing us to go into certain areas in a bit more detail than in a purely PDF format. Our online platform also allows us to provide over 400 quick-fire questions on the Advance Information so that you can learn it inside-out.

What our students say.

I bet your tutor team are probably feeling more of a strain than us students when it comes to the Case Study exam, seeing the huge amount of work that fits into six weeks. It's rather impressive, particularly with the Mock Exam Pack,  the on-demand videos and the patience of the tutor, to go through things over and over again. I honestly feel that you leave no stone unturned for Case  Study. I find the on-demand videos so useful. I feel it helps to refresh points in my head. Thank you as always.

I have just got my results for Case Study and I'm really happy to say that I managed  to pass with 60% on my first attempt. I am really glad that I came to you guys for my first attempt, which allowed me to adequately prepare myself both content and skill wise for the exam day. Thank you very much for all your  help (via TIS and e-mail conversation) throughout the past month and a half!

Thank you, and in particular to my tutor, for helping me pass my Case Study resit in November. The approach to technique and having 5 different Mock Exams based on the live set of Advance Information really helped and I felt so much more prepared going into this exam than the first time. I've already recommended the book and technique to others in my office. Thanks again.

I just wanted to say a huge thank you for your help and materials over the last three exams, as I had some great news on Friday that I passed my Case Study exam first time!! I was delighted to pass with 63% and found your books, Mock Exam Pack and TIS scripts really helpful towards this result. I shall be thoroughly recommending you to my colleagues!

Finally passed the Case Study exam. Thank you so much for all of the content, especially the Mock Exam Pack. Thank you again!

My son passed his Case Study exam and it went really well. He qualified on Friday, so very proud! He said without a doubt, that the Cracking Case book and Mock Exam Pack got him through. We only found out about you near to the exam day,  but he only read your book and studied the Mock Exams. Thank you so much, I wish everyone knew about you!

I passed the Case Study exam with 58% - thank you very much for the help!

Thank you for the tuition course. I managed to pass Case Study with a score of 78%, an improvement from 46% on my first attempt. I will recommend your course to fellow colleagues. Thanks again.

I passed Case with a mark of 61. Thank you for all your help and support - will definitely recommend you to others!

I passed my Case Study exam!! So happy and relieved, thanks very much!

I have passed Case Study at the first attempt only because of your company. Coming from academia, I had tremendous trouble accepting what the other tuition providers were doing or how they attempted to provide tuition. The combination of the Cracking Case book and the Mock Exam Pack can yield results if the student is willing to spend the required preparation  time.

I received my Case Study results today and achieved a pass mark of 74 which is higher than I ever imagined!! I didn't even think I would be able to pass let  alone anything else. The skills and techniques you taught were invaluable. The Mock Exam Pack was incredibly useful to get plenty of practice in before the main exam and the ERP was a very helpful summary of the Advance Information which saved me so much time in the exam. This was my first time sitting Case and I am so glad I chose to invest in the materials that you  provide.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, having passed my retake Case Study exam in July 2018. I took your online course and I will definitely recommend TIS to any student. I feel the feedback on a real time Mock Exam was very helpful. I got a good idea of how to hit points in the markscheme and how to write precise short points, in order to stick to the tight time window for this exam.

Happy to confirm that I passed Case! I found it a particularly tough exam so I don't know where I would have been without your mocks and guidance! Thank you again for all of the help!

I passed the Case Study exam and now have no more ACA exams to take!! Thank you so very much for the Mock Exam Pack, as well as the very useful TIS feedback that you gave me for the July 2018  sitting. I learned so much about the Case Study exam technique from your Mock Exams and am very grateful for all the help you have given me. Thank you again.

I just wanted to say thank you so much for your Case Study materials/Mock Exam Pack/TIS marking & feedback and personalised help - I passed with 63, compared to the 38 first attempt that I had with [XXXXXX]. Many thanks again!!

Many thanks to you. I purchased your Mock Exam Pack for the November 2019 sitting. I succeeded in my Case Study exam and increased my mark from 32 to 57. Thanks  a lot!

I bought your Cracking Case book and your Mock Exam Pack and they were worth every penny. I passed Case Study first time around. They gave me lots of tips about the best way to tackle the Case Study and what examiners wanted me to produce on the day. I would definitely not have passed the Case Study with just the notes and training I received from my previous tuition provider. I would recommend your books and Mock Exam Pack to anyone. Thank you for all your  help. Much appreciated.

I failed Case twice (with another provider) and did the True Taste Limited Case in November and finally passed! The course that you offered was exceptionally useful as the hints and tips provided by [tutor name] allowed you to get under the business and treat it as if it's your own. The Mock Exams also allowed me to stick to time and practice over and over again and gave me good  guidelines on how to set the Appendices and the markscheme gave you a good indication on whether I'm hitting those dreaded 40 Boxes.

I'm delighted to say that I passed my resit with the result of 65. I purchased your Cracking Case book, Exam Room Pack, Mock Exam Pack and TIS service for 2 Mock papers. Many thanks for your very helpful study materials and advice! Your methodology is indeed far superior to what I have seen previously.

I have purchased the Cracking Case book and the Mock Exam Pack. I cannot thank you enough for helping me pass Case Study following the process mentioned in the book (gospel-holy bible) along with taking a personal positive attitude and determination whilst attempting the 5 Mocks. I cannot stress enough how thankful I am since this was my sixth attempt, and your company was there for me at every query I made, showing a high level of professionalism.

I found Cracking Case and the Mock Exam Pack very useful in my preparation for my  exam!

Thank you! I am now a newly qualified accountant after passing my Case Study exam last Friday with 81% (first time). The Mock Exam Pack and techniques you taught me on the course really helped boost my confidence going into the exam.

I am pleased to say I passed with 80 marks! I can’t be more grateful your team for all the help in the study materials and I couldn’t imagine a better way to prepare! I have been a loyal user of your materials (esp the Exam Room Notes) for the Advanced Level examinations and they’re SUPER useful (scored 81 for  CR, 70 for SBM and CS score abovementioned), so a HUGE HUGE THANK YOU to the tutors for the hard work and dedication especially with such a challenging  time for the Case Study paper.

I recently purchased your Case Study Mock Exam Pack – brilliantly written and very funny! Thanks!

Many thanks for your help. The Mock Exam Pack and the TIS was very useful.

I got a 78 overall first time thanks to purchasing your Case Study materials! Definitely much more on the ball and clued up about the requirements and how to pass than my other provider. Will definitely recommend you to anyone doing Case Study.

Thank you so much, the Case Study Mock Exam Pack materials have been most helpful. Appreciate all your hard work.

Thanks for providing all the Case Study Mock Exams - they've been really helpful

Thank you so much for writing these Case Study Mocks (particularly during these unprecedented times). I have used your materials for BPT and all my Advanced Level exams and have always found them incredibly helpful!

The Mock Exam Pack was really helpful for my preparation – thank you!!

I’d just like to thank your team for their support and assistance in preparation of the August Case Study Exam. Through your help I managed to obtain a first-time pass (62%) and your Mock Exams were a real game changer for me, helping me feel extremely prepared when sitting for the exam. Due to the Mock Exams, I was extremely familiar with the Advance Information and was very comfortable under exam conditions too. Thanks so much!

I just wanted to personally send a note to express how grateful I am for your service! I bought the 5 Case Study Mock Exams for my resit. Confidence was at an all-time low after I failed the first time round with a 44% result, but the Mocks were massively helpful in my revision. The variety of questions were excellent for practice and the answer packs and markschemes were very thorough, targeted and exam technique focused and because of your help, I managed to get 80% in the Beal exam!

I found the Exam Room Pack very useful. In fact, once I’d read through it and could navigate it fairly proficiently, I didn’t really use anything else in the actual Case Study exam! The Mocks were invaluable too as the scenarios which came up in the real exam appeared in the Mocks in some way, shape or form. Thanks again.

I just wanted to send a massive thank you for helping me with the Case Study exam - I passed with 73%! Thank you so, so much for all your support ... of course, the 5 Mock Exams are THE KEY as these truly helped me so, so much in the exam. Doing the exam was just like doing Mock 6 for me and I was so well-practiced that it didn’t seem daunting, but just another practice test! I have already been suggesting to my juniors to definitely reach out to you when their Case Study exam time comes!

Thanks so much for the book and the Mock Exam Pack. I got 78% and could not have done it without your business. The book made sense and the Mock Exams got me match fit.

Having tried and failed with one of the Big Two providers I was very worried I would never pass. I was recommended your "Cracking Case" book and Case Study Mock Exam Pack and I am happy to say due to you, I have received a regional prize and cannot thank you enough. I would recommend you to anyone sitting the Case Study exam. The Mock Exam Pack is fantastic - I actually enjoyed doing them as I knew they were productive practice and I couldn't have felt any more confident when entering the exam room thanks to you.

I will certainly be recommending your resources - I don't think I would have been sufficiently prepared had I not purchased the Mock Exam Pack.

I have found your resources to be of great help and I will gladly pass on my recommendations to other ACA students.

Hope I pass Case Study using your book and Mock Exam Pack. I am using another tuition provider's Mock Exams but luckily last week I bought your Case Study  Mock Exam Pack. They are very very helpful and I believe the best.

I passed my Case Study exam which was my 2nd attempt (first time  with you) and scored 66% compared to my 1st attempt in November 2018 scoring 34%, so almost doubled my mark! The Cracking Case book was invaluable, I used it to create all my plans for the Mock Exams and used the key tips going forward for the actual exam. It really helped and it's amazing how you compile so much into one book. Everybody should purchase this book!

Both of the exam scenarios were in your Case Study Mock Exam Pack which was really helpful.

I just wanted to say thank you. I bought the July 2019 version of the Cracking Case book, Mock Exam Pack and Exam Room Pack for the July 2019 Case Study sitting - pleased to say I passed first time!

Thank you for taking the time to prepare the Mock Exam Pack and Cracking Case  resources, I found them very useful.

When I sat Case Study previously, I received no valuable technique or high level  tips (something your materials are full of) on the courses I attended with [XXX]. I actually enjoyed revising for the exam this time (using your method) as I had a clear approach when attempting past papers; the Mock Exams were fantastic. I received a "mock pack" of 2 Mock Exams from [XXX] which was 8 pages long so it was such a relief when I saw how detailed (198 pages in total) and focused the 5 Mock Exams provided by you were.

When I sat Case Study previously, I received no valuable technique or high level tips (something your materials are full of) on the courses I attended with [XXX]. I actually enjoyed revising for the exam this time (using your method) as I had a clear approach when attempting past papers; the Mock Exams were fantastic. I received a 'mock pack' of 2 Mock Exams from [XXX] which was 8  pages long so it was such a relief when I saw how detailed (198 pages in total) and focused the 5 Mock Exams provided by you were.

I was with another tuition provider through my employer but was really struggling  to get to grips with Case Study, particularly as I have a learning difficulty that made learning past paper sets of Advance Information a real challenge. Your Mock Exam Pack and Advance Information walkthroughs made all the difference. I ended up passing with 83% and don't think I could have managed any kind of pass without your materials.

I'm ecstatic to say I passed the Case Study exam and want to say thank you to Paradigm Shift for preparing the Mock Exam Pack as this played an  instrumental part in me passing the exam!

I have found the Mock Exam Pack and the Masterclass Live sessions to be really useful and will be recommending these to my colleagues in the year below.

Thank you for all your help. The Mock Exam Pack and the Exam Room Pack are both very useful and have really helped me prepare for the exam.

Wanted to pass on the great news to say I passed CR and Case! Thank you for your support and words of encouragement. Wanted to say those free sessions I was able to attend and the other 1-hour sessions were super useful and to the point! Additionally, the Mocks for Case gave me the confidence I needed to sit the exam. Continue what you are doing!

Thank you so much for providing such a wonderful Mock Exam Pack - finally passed this exam with 75% and I'm thrilled!

Just wanted to say I passed with 60% and couldn't be happier. The Masterclasses and Mock Exam Pack were vital to me passing and I wasn't anywhere near passing before I purchased them. Thank you very much, I really appreciate it!

Just emailing to say I passed and wanted to thank you guys for making such useful materials! Honestly would not have passed without the Mock Exam Pack.

Thank you for taking the time to prepare the Mock Exam Pack and Cracking Case resources, I found them very useful.

Hope I pass Case Study using your book and Mock Exam Pack. I am using another tuition provider's Mock Exams but luckily last week I bought your Case Study Mock Exam Pack. They are very very helpful and I believe the best.

I found your Case Study Mock Exam Pack to be excellent preparation - thank you.

I passed my Case Study exam which was my 2nd attempt (first time with you) and scored 66% compared to my 1st attempt in November 2018  scoring 34%, so almost doubled my mark! The Cracking Case book was invaluable, I used it to create all my plans for the Mock Exams and used the key tips going forward for the actual exam. It really helped and it's amazing how you compile so much into one book. Everybody should purchase this book!

Thank you for your top quality product!

On-demand Course

Purchase exam room notes.

© Paradigm Shift Financial Training 2024. All rights reserved.

• Advanced Level

Advanced Level Case Study

The Case Study module covers the following topics:

• requires demonstration of knowledge, skills and practical application from multiple areas of the syllabus
• tests professional skills in the context of a specific business issue
• demands ability to analyse financial and non-financial information
• requires demonstration of professional and ethical judgement
• involves the development of conclusions and recommendations
• relates to how students will be expected to work
• assesses the application of professional ethics

Ensure you order the correct edition of the materials. The 2023 edition is aligned with the syllabus and exams for 2023 only. The 2024 edition is aligned with the syllabus and exams for 2024 only. You risk losing exam marks if you use a different edition.

For more information and resources, please visit icaew.com/examresources .

Available editions:

Jag's Journey

Sharing my life experiences including the Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) qualification

ICAEW ACA Case Study – How Much Preparation Is Enough?

The ACA Case Study was an exam I had not heard much about in detail before my time came to prepare for the exam. I was always one to book annual leave to ensure I had enough time to revise for the exams, especially as I would sit three at a time . When asking my work friends how much time I would need to book off for the ACA Case Study exam they would state only a day or two . As a lot of the exam is skills based and dependant on the real exam itself, it is difficult to know whether you have done enough preparation. I therefore thought I would write this blog to hopefully help.

Note : you may also want to refer to ICAEW Case Study Made Easy , ACA Case Study Marking Key as well as ICAEW Software Testing for more help on the ACA Case Study exam.

Check out my  YouTube video  if you would prefer watching to reading!

Table of Contents

Advanced information (ai), past aca case study mock exams, planning sheets, how much preparation is actually needed, how similar are these mocks to the real exam.

The AI is provided six weeks before the ACA Case Study exam. When the AI was released, I of course took a look to see what industry the business was in. For me, it was Beal the magazine company. As expected, I then read the whole AI when I had more time and went through, very slowly, with the highlighter.

Here is a checklist I have pulled together for what information you need to ensure to pull out of the AI:

• Details of who the report will be from so you can form your disclaimer – join my journey for a draft disclaimer included on the overall timing sheet with a draft structure for the report too
• Benchmarks/targets/key performance indicators (KPIs) for Requirement 1 – this will give you quick and easy marks in the real exam if you state whether these have been met or not
• The relevant PY figures from the AI for Requirement 1 – join my journey to receive how I laid this out and set it up for my Case Study as well as a blank template for your own that you can populate and copy in your exam
• For Requirement 2 and 3 you will need to pull out assumptions and these will come from the AI. The AI should also help you with the calculations for these. For my case study, I was able to pull out at least a page of assumptions from the AI!
• Business issues and wider context that you can put into any of the exam requirements such as whether the industry is competitive
• The ethics marks you should be able to easily identify these from the articles at the end of the AI

Something to consider is whether you need to practice past ACA Case Study mock exams. Now, I studied with Kaplan who really did not focus on the real potential exam much at all to begin with. Even when the AI was out, we would still be going through past paper exams. This was very frustrating at the time but in hindsight, it was definitely beneficial .

We actually ended up going through four ACA Case Study mock exams both in class and as homework and then ran through the real AI and two mocks for this too. Given each mock exam is four hours long, this was definitely not fun. However, timing is KEY with this exam and it is very important to nail timing . If you mess up your timings, leading to an incomplete report as a result, this could result in failure . If you need help with timings, join my journey to receive my timings sheet.

I would therefore strongly recommend practicing at least a couple of ACA Case Study mock exams. Not only will it help ensure you are able to stay on top of your timings but another plus is that it does really help you to understand the mark scheme . The more you practice, the more you start to figure out where the marks/”diamonds” come from and how the mark scheme actually works. For example, knowing which figures are in bold and are needed or how conclusions and the Executive Summary needs to be written.

If you have joined my journey, you should also have been sent some blank planning sheets . These were very helpful when I was studying for the ACA Case Study so I thought I would share these. I only really went into detail on this planning sheet for Requirement 1. This requirement is quite predictable based on the AI in the sense that you should be able to grasp whether the areas of interest are revenue, gross profit and operating profit for example.

What is nice is that the AI purposely gives you three years of management accounts. The AI actually gives example analysis of the year-on-year movements too where they use a range of different numbers and movements. This should help you to prepare for Requirement 1 so you can get an idea of what kind of analysis comments , such as revenue mix, may score a “diamond”. However, a lot of this information and the marks are in the real exam so make sure to pull all of this information into your answers.

I thought it would be helpful if I showed you my Requirement 1 planning sheet for Beal so you can get the gist of how I did this:

Essentially for the Requirement 1 planning sheet I would draft it out similarly to how I have done. Include PY comparison figures so you have these to hand such as PY revenue growth or revenue mix. Also ensure to include business issues and wider context points and recommendations . If your AI mentions any benchmarks/targets/KPIs I would note to comment on whether they were met. Additionally, if there are any bank loan covenants to comment on a breach based on overdraft, note this down. A draft conclusion can also be made based on past mark schemes.

In college we did go through and do a few more planning sheets to Requirement 2 and 3 but I did not really use these given the reduction in predictability. It looks like I have more sheets stapled to the Requirement 1 sheet photographed. However, there are all actually blank (sorry to disappoint) . I pulled this together myself but it may be worth going through this with a friend or study buddy . This may speed up time and it does help with this exam if you all write the same!

It does actually sound like I did a LOT of preparation for the ACA Case Study exam. Looking back, I guess I actually did. Here is a list of points that I think you must do :

• Read the AI and pull out everything I have said above!
• Practice a couple of past mock exams to time so you can nail timings and understand the mark scheme – depending on how well you do, you may need more practice.
• Draft a table with the PY figures for Appendix 1 so you can copy this out into the exam and get started almost straight away
• Practice a mock exam based on your AI . Hopefully you are with a training provider so you have access to this or see the next section for an alternative

Anything else on top of this is just an added bonus , such as the next section of this blog. The Requirement 1 planning sheet is not a must do but it really is worthwhile if you do have the time. You could also draft some standard recommendations for Requirement 2 or 3. I have included a photo of a some I had made below for Beal.

Given the above bullet points, I think you should not need to spend more than a few days on preparing for the ACA Case Study exam outside of college. It is very skills based in terms of how you structure and write your report. Many of the marks are going to be in the real exam so through practice, you should get better at knowing how to pull this out and where to include it in your report.

ACA Simplified/Paradigm Shift Mock Exams

Many of you have probably heard of the ACA Simplified or newly named Paradigm Shift ACA Case Study mock exam pack . I did actually get these for my ACA Case Study exam, where I was given five mock exams. It definitely was not needed to pass but I do think it helped. I did not practice any of these but did read through the mark schemes, understood the calculation workings and took these into the exam with me. Given there are so many mocks, I made a quick reference guide for each mock so I could easily identify the relevant mock.

The reason I wanted the mocks is because I found for my case study Beal that the Requirement 2 and 3 calculations were quite difficult. In all honesty, even though I love Maths and know I am good at it, I did always find these tricky. These mock exams give examples of potential calculations that could come up as well as model appendices to address these. The mocks were therefore helpful in this sense.

The mocks were actually quite similar to the real exam in terms of the scenarios that came up. Such as an increase in the magazine price for one of the requirements. I was able to apply how the calculation was done in the mocks to the real exam. This is likely to be the case given the AI indicates a limited number of potential scenarios and I was given five mocks.

You do need to bear in mind that many of the marks/”diamonds” for the real exam will be based on the information given in the real exam . This of course cannot be predicted and so you cannot just copy the mock answers. The same exam will never come up so application is required and given the time pressure, you do need to know what you are doing. That being said, you can probably copy the business issues and wider context points.

If you have other Advanced Level exams to revise for, try not to get too carried away with the ACA Case Study. SBM also helps with Requirement 1 as there is an overlap with the performance analysis.

I hope this helps and good luck!

• Pingback: ICAEW Case Study Made Easy - How to Pass ACA Case Study - Jag's Journey
• Pingback: New ICAEW Exam Software Testing Experience - Exciting ACA Case Study Opportunity - Jag's Journey
• Pingback: How To Successfully Pass BST - ICAEW ACA Business Strategy and Technology - Jag's Journey
• Pingback: How Difficult/Hard REALLY are the ICAEW ACA Exams? With ACA Exam Difficulty Ranking and Proven ICAEW ACA Pass Rates - Jag's Journey
• Pingback: The Weekend Before Sitting ACA Advanced Level Exams: Last Minute Tips - Jag's Journey
• Pingback: The Best Order to Sit The ACA Exams - Jag's Journey
• Pingback: How to Make ACA Studying and Working Full-Time Easy - Jag's Journey

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Buy Me a Coffee

Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance

Get the Reddit app

I want to make a subreddit dedicated to the ICAEW professional qualification. I'll build it when we have established a group of members.

How many mocks did everyone do for case? Got 11 days till exam and planning to do the 3 ACA masters mocks. Is this sufficient? Finished college tuition which we went through all exhibits and possibilities.

By continuing, you agree to our User Agreement and acknowledge that you understand the Privacy Policy .

Enter the 6-digit code from your authenticator app

You’ve set up two-factor authentication for this account.

Enter a 6-digit backup code

Create your username and password.

Reddit is anonymous, so your username is what you’ll go by here. Choose wisely—because once you get a name, you can’t change it.

Reset your password

Enter your email address or username and we’ll send you a link to reset your password

Check your inbox

An email with a link to reset your password was sent to the email address associated with your account

Choose a Reddit account to continue

FDA initiating independent review of tampon ingredients after study found many contain toxic metals

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is taking a closer look into tampon ingredients after a study in July found toxic metals in a wide variety of the menstrual products.

On Thursday, Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray, who is also the chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that a letter she had sent the FDA in July after the study's release had now received a response, with the FDA saying it has initiated both an independent review of the literature and an internal lab study of the metals the researchers found in tampons.

The FDA's review will also more precisely determine the proportion of metals that the products may release in normal use and how much risk that poses to the consumer. This will also allow researchers to understand any possible adverse health effects that may be linked to tampon use.

"These are products millions of women are using on any given day, so it's important we absolutely put to rest any concerns about their safety — so I'm pleased that FDA is taking action to help us better understand the issue of metals in tampons, and I am going to keep pushing to make sure we are taking all the steps we need to keep women safe and healthy," Sen. Murray said in announcing the FDA's response.

RELATED STORY | Are your tampons harming you? Study finds 16 metals in widely available brands

Sen. Murray is one of many lawmakers and consumers alike who were sent into a frenzy of questions and concerns once researchers from Columbia University, the University of California Berkeley and Michigan State University published their study about metals in tampons in the Environment International journal .

Presumed to be the first to measure metals in tampons, the study detected the presence of each of the 16 metals it tested for in 30 tampons from 14 different brands and 18 product lines. This included toxic metals like lead — which researchers said has no "safe" exposure level — elevated mean concentrations of arsenic and cadmium, and the presence of various other metals, including barium, calcium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, mercury, nickel, selenium, strontium, vanadium and zinc.

The study said that future research was needed to determine whether the metals that the tampons could absorb during the agricultural or manufacturing process were then being absorbed by the vagina's absorptive tissue.

In a comment to Scripps News at the time, the FDA said while it was reviewing the study, it did have limitations, such as not assessing whether the metals are released from the tampons and subsequently into the bloodstream. It also said that any tampons must undergo a "premarket review" to ensure their safety and effectiveness before being sold in the U.S.

Still, lawmakers like Murray had questions. Her July letter to the FDA asked, among other questions, whether the agency's initial review requires testing of tampons for metals or toxins and if additional authority is needed for the FDA to institute more safeguards against ingredient contamination and appropriate labeling.

RELATED STORY | Nonprofits struggle with rising cost of pads and tampons

And the day Murray announced the FDA had responded to her letter, another group of lawmakers — members of the Democratic Women's Caucus — sent their own.

"It's unconscionable to think that women could be putting their health and lives at risk simply by using basic, essential hygiene products like tampons," said Congresswoman Pressley, DWC policy co-chair. "In light of this alarming report, we're calling on the FDA to take urgent action to ensure the safety of these products, protect the health of those who depend on them, and give women the peace of mind that they can use them without putting themselves at risk."

Between 52% to 86% of menstruating people in the U.S. use tampons, the study said, and if each contains high levels of heavy metals, continued exposure can cause adverse health effects.

Signs and symptoms depend on the type of metal and level of exposure, according to Cleveland Clinic , but abdominal pain, dehydration, nausea and vomiting are some. More severe symptoms can include anemia, kidney or liver damage, higher cancer risk and brain damage.

Most Recent

Humanity generates 57 million tons of plastic pollution every year, study shows

Stakeholder in Truth Social parent company wins court ruling over sale of shares

Truth Be Told: Debunking Trump's abortion claims

Russia, Iran, China ramping up efforts to influence election, per intelligence

As Congress returns to Washington, a government funding battle looms

In rebuke of Donald Trump, Dick Cheney says he will vote for Kamala Harris

Learn how the 2024 campaigns are impacting everyday lives

About Scripps News

Download the Scripps News app.

For the best experience, we recommend you update your browser. Visit our accessibility page for a list of supported browsers. Alternatively, you can continue using your current browser by closing this message.

• Programme finder
• Application process
• Scholarships and awards
• Open events
• The RCA experience
• International students

Short courses

• Teaching dates & College hours
• Student policies, procedures and regulations
• Research projects
• Research centres
• Support for research
• Research Excellence Framework (REF)
• Research degrees
• Executive education
• Case studies
• InnovationRCA
• Collaboration with industry
• Research commercialisation
• Studio projects
• Terra Carta Design Lab projects
• RapidFormRCA
• News and events
• Media centre
• About the RCA
• Organisation
• Work at the RCA
• Sustainability
• Freedom of information
• Visiting the RCA
• About this website
• --> Pre-Master's
• --> Taught Master's
• --> Postgraduate research
• --> Short courses
• --> Part-time programmes
• --> School of Architecture
• --> School of Arts & Humanities
• --> School of Communication
• --> School of Design
• --> Apply to study at the RCA
• --> Eligibility and key dates
• --> English language requirements
• --> Funding your studies
• --> Application process: frequently asked questions
• --> Information for offer holders
• --> Where will the RCA take you?
• --> Careers support
• --> Our campus
• --> Facilities
• --> Learning environment
• --> Student support team
• --> Disability support
• --> Dyslexia support
• --> RCA BLK
• --> Student wellbeing
• --> Students' Union
• --> Accommodation in London
• --> Cost of living
• --> Student Visa
• --> Before you arrive in the UK
• --> CAS Number: frequently asked questions
• --> EAP (English for academic purposes) Pre-sessional courses
• --> Working in the UK after your studies
• --> The RCA and international agents
• --> Summer Schools
• --> Executive education masterclasses
• --> Art & design short courses
• --> Custom executive education
• --> IN SESSION: talks
• --> Participant testimonies
• --> Frequently asked questions
• --> Terms and conditions
• --> The Helen Hamlyn Centre for Design
• --> Intelligent Mobility Design Centre
• --> Materials Science Research Centre
• --> Computer Science Research Centre
• --> RCA Robotics Laboratory
• --> CLIMAVORE x Jameel at RCA
• --> Research students
• --> About InnovationRCA
• --> Start-up companies
• --> Our services
• --> College mission
• --> Governance
• --> Policies and codes of practice
• --> Equality & diversity
• --> Corporate publications
• --> Archive & collections
• --> Suppliers
• --> How to apply
• --> Staff benefits
• --> HR & payroll systems for casual workers
• --> Accessibility
• --> Data protection, privacy & cookies
• --> Terms & conditions
• Register your interest in studying
• Support GenerationRCA
• Visit our application portal

Case Study: Graphic Novel Summer School 2024

A live online short course with an expanded view of visual storytelling that ran from 1-23 July 2024.

Grete Drummond, Graphic Novel participant July 2024

Course team

• Andrzej Klimowski , RCA Tutor and Emeritus Professor of Illustration
• Miguel Angel Valdivia , RCA Alumnus and Illustrator
• Ravista Mehra , RCA Alumna, Graphic Designer

Register your interest for 2024/25 course dates.

Graphic Novel: Visual Storytelling course page.

Selected participants work

Jenni Spangler - Graphic Novel participant July 2024

Anita Bernacka - Graphic Novel participant July 2024

Cherry Yeung - Graphic Novel participant July 2024

Shumin Ong - Graphic Novel participant July 2024

Laura Vinas - Graphic Novel participant July 2024

Tiffany Liu - Graphic Novel participant July 2024

Ozge Karatas - Graphic Novel participant July 2024

Yi Zhen Leong, Editorial Design summer school 2024

Mia Jasmine Rhodes - Graphic Novel participant July 2024

“An inspiring and quick-paced course during which pressure to consistently work on one's story is balanced with support, encouragement and wholehearted engagement shared by the course leaders and participants. It was a unique opportunity to partake in different trajectories of participants' stories and experience a variety of drawing styles, themes and approaches. A friendly litmus test for one's ideas.” Anita Bernacka Graphic Novel participant July 2024

“Great way to network with people from different backgrounds and countries. Excellent chance to get drawing in a supportive environment where you are given constructive feedback and encouragement by the course leaders and your peers. Good insight into developing your skills as an artist and storyteller for industry professionals.” Olivia Rissik Graphic Novel participant July 2024

“The programme was professionally lead with numerous resources and very accomplished tutors who provide excellent advice and really shape the course of your work until the very end even with aspects such as titles, never neglecting the smaller details.” Mia Jasmine Rhodes Graphic Novel participant July 2024

Andrzej Klimowski

Course Leader

Andrzej has taught and exhibited around the world. He has an international reputation as a poster and book-jacket designer, as well as a graphic novelist and illustrator.

Miguel Angel Valdivia

Short Course Tutor

Miguel Angel Valdivia is an Italian visual artist currently living in Naples. He graduated from the Royal College of Art in the Visual Communication department in 2013, where he also taught as a visiting lecturer for three years. He recently published his first graphic novel, "Il divino inciampare”, in Italy. He is currently writing the storyboard for his second book.

Editorial Design

Contemporary Art Summer School

Architecture Summer School

Get in touch if you'd like to find out more about our short courses.

Discover the latest MyICAEW app for ACA students and members, available to download now. Find out more

• Benefits of membership

Gain access to world-leading information resources, guidance and local networks.

• Visit Benefits of membership

Becoming a member

98% of the best global brands rely on ICAEW Chartered Accountants.

• Visit Becoming a member
• Pay fees and subscriptions

Your membership subscription enables ICAEW to provide support to members.

Fees and subscriptions

Member survey.

We have partnered with Truth Consulting to conduct a comprehensive study on the needs of ICAEW members.

• Find out more

Member rewards

Take advantage of the range of value added or discounted member benefits.

• Member rewards – More from your membership
• Technical and ethics support
• Support throughout your career

Information and resources for every stage of your career.

From software start-ups to high-flying airlines and high street banks, 98% of the best global brands rely on ICAEW Chartered Accountants. A career as an ICAEW Chartered Accountant means the opportunity to work in any organisation, in any sector, whatever your ambitions.

Everything you need to know about ICAEW annual membership fees, community and faculty subscriptions, eligibility for reduced rates and details of how you can pay.

Membership administration

Welcome to the ICAEW members area: your portal to members'-only content, offers, discounts, regulations and membership information.

• Membership regulations

Members are required to supply certain information to the members’ registrar and to pay annual fees and subscriptions. These matters are governed by regulations.

• Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is an integral part of being a successful ICAEW Chartered Accountant.

The ICAEW Chartered Accountant qualification, the ACA, is one of the most advanced learning and professional development programmes available. It is valued around the world in business, practice and the public sector.

ACA for employers

Train the next generation of chartered accountants in your business or organisation. Discover how your organisation can attract, train and retain the best accountancy talent, how to become authorised to offer ACA training and the support and guidance on offer if you are already providing training.

Digital learning materials via BibliU

All ACA, ICAEW CFAB and Level 4 apprenticeship learning materials are now digital only. Read our guide on how to access your learning materials on the ICAEW Bookshelf using the BibliU app or through your browser.

Take a look at ICAEW training films

Focusing on professional scepticism, ethics and everyday business challenges, our training films are used by firms and companies around the world to support their in-house training and business development teams.

Attract and retain the next generation of accounting and finance professionals with our world-leading accountancy qualifications. Become authorised to offer ACA training and help your business stay ahead.

CPD guidance and help

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is an integral part of being a successful ICAEW Chartered Accountant. Find support on ICAEW's CPD requirements and access resources to help your professional development.

ICAEW flagship events

ICAEW boasts an extensive portfolio of industry-leading conferences. These flagship events offer the opportunity to hear from and interact with all the key players in the industry. Find out what's coming up.

Leadership Development Programmes

ICAEW Academy’s in-depth leadership development programmes take a holistic approach to combine insightful mentoring or coaching, to exclusive events, peer learning groups and workshops. Catering for those significant transitions in your career, these leadership development programmes are instrumental to achieving your ambitions or fulfilling your succession planning goals.

Specialist Finance Qualifications & Programmes

Whatever future path you choose, ICAEW will support the development and acceleration of your career at each stage to enhance your career.

Why a career in chartered accountancy?

If you think chartered accountants spend their lives confined to their desks, then think again. They are sitting on the boards of multinational companies, testifying in court and advising governments, as well as supporting charities and businesses from every industry all over the world.

• Why chartered accountancy?

Search for qualified ACA jobs

Matching highly skilled ICAEW members with attractive organisations seeking talented accountancy and finance professionals.

Volunteering roles

Helping skilled and in-demand chartered accountants give back and strengthen not-for-profit sector with currently over 2,300 organisations posting a variety of volunteering roles with ICAEW.

• Search for volunteer roles
• Get ahead by volunteering

Advertise with ICAEW

From as little as £495, access to a pool of highly qualified and ambitious ACA qualified members with searchable CVs.

Early careers and training

Start your ACA training with ICAEW. Find out why a career in chartered accountancy could be for you and how to become a chartered accountant.

Qualified ACA careers

Find Accountancy and Finance Jobs

Voluntary roles

Find Voluntary roles

While you pursue the most interesting and rewarding opportunities at every stage of your career, we’re here to offer you support whatever stage you are or wherever you are in the world and in whichever sector you have chosen to work.

• ACA students

"How to guides" for ACA students

• ACA student guide
• How to book an exam
• How to apply for credit for prior learning (CPL)
• Exam resources

Here are some resources you will find useful while you study for the ACA qualification.

• Certificate Level
• Professional Level
• Advanced Level

Digital learning materials

All ACA learning materials are now digital only. Read our guide on how to access your learning materials on the ICAEW Bookshelf via the BibliU app, or through your browser.

• Read the guide

My online training file

Once you are registered as an ACA student, you'll be able to access your training file to log your progress throughout ACA training.

• Access your training file
• Student Insights

Fresh insights, innovative ideas and an inside look at the lives and careers of our ICAEW students and members.

• Read the latest articles

System status checks

Getting started.

Welcome to ICAEW! We have pulled together a selection of resources to help you get started with your ACA training, including our popular 'How To' series, which offers step-by-step guidance on everything from registering as an ACA student and applying for CPL, to using your online training file.

Credit for prior learning (CPL)

Credit for prior learning or CPL is our term for exemptions. High quality learning and assessment in other relevant qualifications is appropriately recognised by the award of CPL.

Apply for exams

What you need to know in order to apply for the ACA exams.

The ACA qualification has 15 modules over three levels. They are designed to complement the practical experience you will be gaining in the workplace. They will also enable you to gain in-depth knowledge across a broad range of topics in accountancy, finance and business. Here are some useful resources while you study.

• Exam results

You will receive your results for all Certificate Level exams, the day after you take the exam and usually five weeks after a Professional and Advanced Level exam session has taken place. Access your latest and archived exam results here.

Training agreement

Putting your theory work into practice is essential to complete your ACA training.

Student support and benefits

We are here to support you throughout your ACA journey. We have a range of resources and services on offer for you to unwrap, from exam resources, to student events and discount cards. Make sure you take advantage of the wealth of exclusive benefits available to you, all year round.

• Applying for membership

The ACA will open doors to limitless opportunities in all areas of accountancy, business and finance anywhere in the world. ICAEW Chartered Accountants work at the highest levels as finance directors, CEOs and partners of some of the world’s largest organisations.

ACA training FAQs

Do you have a question about the ACA training? Then look no further. Here, you can find answers to frequently asked questions relating to the ACA qualification and training. Find out more about each of the integrated components of the ACA, as well as more information on the syllabus, your training agreement, ICAEW’s rules and regulations and much more.

• Anti-money laundering

Guidance and resources to help members comply with their legal and professional responsibilities around AML.

Technical releases

ICAEW Technical Releases are a source of good practice guidance on technical and practice issues relevant to ICAEW Chartered Accountants and other finance professionals.

• ICAEW Technical Releases
• Thought leadership

ICAEW's Thought Leadership reports provide clarity and insight on the current and future challenges to the accountancy profession. Our charitable trusts also provide funding for academic research into accountancy.

• Academic research funding

Technical Advisory Services helpsheets

Practical, technical and ethical guidance highlighting the most important issues for members, whether in practice or in business.

• ICAEW Technical Advisory Services helpsheets

Bloomsbury – free for eligible firms

In partnership with Bloomsbury Professional, ICAEW have provided eligible firms with free access to Bloomsbury’s comprehensive online library of around 80 titles from leading tax and accounting subject matter experts.

• Bloomsbury Accounting and Tax Service

Country resources

Our resources by country provide access to intelligence on over 170 countries and territories including economic forecasts, guides to doing business and information on the tax climate in each jurisdiction.

Industries and sectors

Thought leadership, technical resources and professional guidance to support the professional development of members working in specific industries and sectors.

Audit and Assurance

The audit, assurance and internal audit area has information and guidance on technical and practical matters in relation to these three areas of practice. There are links to events, publications, technical help and audit representations.

The most up-to-date thought leadership, insights, technical resources and professional guidance to support ICAEW members working in and with industry with their professional development.

• Corporate Finance

Companies, advisers and investors making decisions about creating, developing and acquiring businesses – and the wide range of advisory careers that require this specialist professional expertise.

• Corporate governance

Corporate governance is the system by which companies are directed and controlled. Find out more about corporate governance principles, codes and reports, Board subcommittees, roles and responsibilities and shareholder relations. Corporate governance involves balancing the interests of a company’s many stakeholders, such as shareholders, employees, management, customers, suppliers, financiers and the community. Getting governance right is essential to build public trust in companies.

Corporate reporting

View a range of practical resources on UK GAAP, IFRS, UK regulation for company accounts and non-financial reporting. Plus find out more about the ICAEW Corporate Reporting Faculty.

Expert analysis on the latest national and international economic issues and trends, and interviews with prominent voices across the finance industry, alongside data on the state of the economy.

• Financial Services

View articles and resources on the financial services sector.

• Practice resources

For ICAEW's members in practice, this area brings together the most up-to-date thought leadership, technical resources and professional guidance to help you in your professional life.

Public Sector

Many ICAEW members work in or with the public sector to deliver public priorities and strong public finances. ICAEW acts in the public interest to support strong financial leadership and better financial management across the public sector – featuring transparency, accountability, governance and ethics – to ensure that public money is spent wisely and that public finances are sustainable.

Sustainability and climate change

Sustainability describes a world that does not live by eating into its capital, whether natural, economic or social. Members in practice, in business and private individuals all have a role to play if sustainability goals are to be met. The work being undertaken by ICAEW in this area is to change behaviour to drive sustainable outcomes.

The Tax area has information and guidance on technical and practical tax matters. There are links to events, the latest tax news and the Tax Faculty’s publications, including helpsheets, webinars and Tax representations.

Keep up-to-date with tech issues and developments, including artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, big data, and cyber security.

Trust & Ethics

Guidance and resources on key issues, including economic crime, business law, better regulation and ethics. Read through ICAEW’s Code of Ethics and supporting information.

Communities

ICAEW Communities

Information, guidance and networking opportunities on industry sectors, professional specialisms and at various stages throughout your career. Free for ICAEW members and students.

• Discover a new community

ICAEW Faculties

The accountancy profession is facing change and uncertainty. The ICAEW Faculties can help by providing you with timely and relevant support.

• Choose to join any of the faculties

UK groups and societies

We have teams on the ground in: East of England, the Midlands, London and South East, Northern, South West, Yorkshire and Humberside, Wales and Scotland.

• Access your UK region
• Worldwide support and services

Support and services we offer our members in Africa, America, Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, Greater China, the Middle East, Oceania and South East Asia.

• Discover our services

ICAEW Faculties are 'centres of technical excellence', strongly committed to enhancing your professional development and helping you to meet your CPD requirements every year. They offer exclusive content, events and webinars, customised for your sector - which you should be able to easily record, when the time comes for the completion of your CPD declaration. Our offering isn't exclusive to Institute members. As a faculty member, the same resources are available to you to ensure you stay ahead of the competition.

Communities by industry / sector

Communities by life stage and workplace, communities by professional specialism, local groups and societies.

We aim to support you wherever in the world you work. Our regional offices and network of volunteers run events and provide access to local accounting updates in major finance centres around the globe.

Election explainers

ICAEW experts offer simple guides to help understand the technical, economic jargon that will be at the heart of political debates in the coming weeks.

Insights pulls together the best opinion, analysis, interviews, videos and podcasts on the key issues affecting accountancy and business.

• See the latest insights

ICAEW podcasts

ICAEW produces two podcast series that count towards your CPD: Accountancy Insights for news from across the profession, and The Tax Track for specialist analysis from the ICAEW Tax Faculty.

Professional development and skills

With new requirements on ICAEW members for continuing professional development, we bring together resources to support you through the changes and look at the skills accountants need for the future.

• Visit the hub
• Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion is a key pillar of ICAEW's strategy. Discover the latest insights on equality, diversity and inclusion. You can also join our Diversity & Inclusion Community.

• Find out more on our hub
• Join the community

Insights specials

A listing of one-off Insights specials that focus on a particular subject, interviewing the key people, identifying developing trends and examining the underlying issues.

Top podcasts

Insights by topic.

ICAEW Regulation

• Regulatory News

View the latest regulatory updates and guidance and subscribe to our monthly newsletter, Regulatory & Conduct News.

• Regulatory Consultations

Strengthening trust in the profession

Our role as a world-leading improvement regulator is to strengthen trust and protect the public. We do this by enabling, evaluating and enforcing the highest standards in the profession. 

Regulatory applications

Find out how you can become authorised by ICAEW as a regulated firm. 

ICAEW codes and regulations

Professional conduct and complaints, statutory regulated services overseen by icaew, regulations for icaew practice members and firms, additional guidance and support, popular search results.

• Practice Exam Software
• Training File
• Ethics Cpd Course
• Routes to the ACA
• ACA students membership application
• Join as a member of another body
• How much are membership fees?
• How to pay your fees
• Receipts and invoices
• What if my circumstances have changed?
• Difficulties in making changes to your membership
• Faculty and community subscription fees
• Updating your details
• Complete annual return
• Promoting myself as an ICAEW member
• Verification of ICAEW membership
• Become a life member
• Become a fellow
• Request a new certificate
• Report the death of a member
• Practising certificates
• Advancement to fellowship regulations
• Regulations relating to membership cessation, readmission and resignation
• ICAEW's guide to directors' duties and responsibilities
• Information to be supplied by members
• Payment of annual subscription
• Power to change subscription fees
• New members
• Career progression
• Career Breakers
• Volunteering at schools and universities
• ICAEW Member App
• Working internationally
• Self employment
• Support Members Scheme
• Your guide to CPD
• CPD learning resources
• Online CPD record
• How to become a chartered accountant
• Register as a student
• Train as a member of another body
• More about the ACA and chartered accountancy
• How ACA training works
• Become a training employer
• Access the training file
• Why choose the ACA
• Training routes
• Employer support hub
• Get in touch
• Apprenticeships with ICAEW
• A-Z of CPD courses by topic
• Firms' guide to CPD
• ICAEW Business and Finance Professional (BFP)
• ICAEW Annual Conference 2024
• Restructuring & Insolvency Conference
• Virtual CPD Conference
• Virtual Healthcare Conference 2024
• All our flagship events
• Financial Talent Executive Network (F-TEN®)
• Developing Leadership in Practice (DLiP™)
• Network of Finance Leaders (NFL)
• Women in Leadership (WiL)
• Mentoring and coaching
• Partners in Learning
• Board Director's Programme e-learning
• Corporate Finance Qualification
• Diploma in Charity Accounting
• ICAEW Certificate in Insolvency
• ICAEW Data Analytics Certificate
• Financial Modeling Institute’s Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation
• ICAEW Sustainability Certificate for Finance Professionals
• ICAEW Finance in a Digital World Programme
• All specialist qualifications
• Team training
• Start your training
• Improve your employability
• Search employers
• Find a role
• Role alerts
• Organisations
• Practice support – 11 ways ICAEW and CABA can help you
• News and advice
• ICAEW Volunteering Hub
• Support in becoming a chartered accountant
• Vacancies at ICAEW
• ICAEW boards and committees
• Exam system status
• ICAEW systems: status update
• Changes to our qualifications
• How-to guides for ACA students
• Apply for credits - Academic qualification
• Apply for credits - Professional qualification
• Credit for prior learning (CPL)/exemptions FAQs
• Applications for Professional and Advanced Level exams
• Applications for Certificate Level exams
• Tuition providers
• Latest exam results
• Archived exam results
• Getting your results
• Marks feedback service
• Exam admin check
• Training agreement: overview
• Professional development
• Ethics and professional scepticism
• Practical work experience
• Access your online training file
• How training works in your country
• Student rewards
• TOTUM PRO Card
• Student events and volunteering
• Xero cloud accounting certifications
• Student support
• Join a community
• Wellbeing support from caba
• Student mentoring programme
• Student conduct and behaviour
• Code of ethics
• Fit and proper
• Level 4 Accounting Technician Apprenticeship
• Level 7 Accountancy Professional Apprenticeship
• AAT-ACA Fast Track FAQs
• ACA rules and regulations FAQs
• ACA syllabus FAQs
• ACA training agreement FAQs
• Audit experience and the Audit Qualification FAQs
• Independent student FAQs
• Practical work experience FAQs
• Professional development FAQs
• Six-monthly reviews FAQs
• Ethics and professional scepticism FAQs
• Greater China
• Latin America
• Middle East
• North America
• Australasia
• Russia and Eurasia
• Southeast Asia
• Charity Community
• Construction & Real Estate
• Energy & Natural Resources Community
• Farming & Rural Business Community
• Forensic & Expert Witness
• Global Trade Community
• Healthcare Community
• Internal Audit Community
• Manufacturing Community
• Media & Leisure
• Portfolio Careers Community
• Small and Micro Business Community
• Small Practitioners Community
• Travel, Tourism & Hospitality Community
• Valuation Community
• Audit and corporate governance reform
• Audit & Assurance Faculty
• Professional judgement
• Regulation and working in audit
• Internal audit resource centre
• ICAEW acting on audit quality
• Everything business
• Latest Business news from Insights
• Strategy, risk and innovation
• Business performance management
• Financial management
• Finance transformation
• Economy and business environment
• Leadership, personal development and HR
• Webinars and publications
• Business restructuring
• The Business Finance Guide
• Capital markets and investment
• Corporate finance careers
• Corporate Finance Faculty
• Debt advisory and growth finance
• Mergers and acquisitions
• Private equity
• Start-ups, scale-ups and venture capital
• Transaction services
• Board committees and board effectiveness
• Corporate governance codes and reports
• Corporate Governance Community
• Principles of corporate governance
• Roles, duties and responsibilities of Board members
• Stewardship and stakeholder relations
• Corporate Governance thought leadership
• Corporate reporting resources
• Small and micro entity reporting
• IFRS Accounting Standards
• UK Regulation for Company Accounts
• Non-financial reporting
• Improving Corporate Reporting
• Economy home
• ICAEW Business Confidence Monitor
• ICAEW Manifesto 2024
• Economy explainers
• Spring Budget 2024
• Energy crisis
• Levelling up: rebalancing the UK’s economy
• Resilience and Renewal: Building an economy fit for the future
• Social mobility and inclusion
• Investment management
• Inspiring confidence
• Setting up in practice
• Running your practice
• Supporting your clients
• Practice technology
• TAS helpsheets
• Support for business advisers
• Join ICAEW BAS
• Public Sector hub
• Public Sector Audit and Assurance
• Public Sector Finances
• Public Sector Financial Management
• Public Sector Financial Reporting
• Public Sector Learning & Development
• Public Sector Community
• Latest public sector articles from Insights
• Making COP count
• Climate hub
• Sustainable Development Goals
• Accountability
• Modern slavery
• Resources collection
• Sustainability Committee
• Sustainability & Climate Change community
• Sustainability and climate change home
• Tax Faculty
• Budgets and legislation
• Business tax
• Devolved taxes
• Employment taxes
• International taxes
• Making Tax Digital
• Personal tax
• Property tax
• Stamp duty land tax
• Tax administration
• Tax compliance and investigation
• UK tax rates, allowances and reliefs
• Artificial intelligence
• Blockchain and cryptoassets
• Cyber security
• Data Analytics Community
• Digital skills
• Excel community
• Finance in a Digital World
• IT management
• Technology and the profession
• Trust & Ethics home
• Better regulation
• Business Law
• UK company law
• Data protection and privacy
• Economic crime
• Help with ethical problems
• ICAEW Code of Ethics
• ICAEW Trust and Ethics team.....
• Solicitors Community
• Forensic & Expert Witness Community
• Latest articles on business law, trust and ethics
• Audit and Assurance Faculty
• Corporate Reporting Faculty
• Financial Services Faculty
• Academia & Education Community
• Construction & Real Estate Community
• Entertainment, Sport & Media Community
• Retail Community
• Black Members Community
• Career Breakers Community
• Diversity & Inclusion Community
• Women in Finance Community
• Personal Financial Planning Community
• Restructuring & Insolvency Community
• Sustainability and Climate Change Community
• London and East
• Yorkshire and Humberside
• European public policy activities
• ICAEW Middle East
• Latest news
• The World’s Fastest Accountant
• Access to finance special
• Attractiveness of the profession
• Audit and Fraud
• Audit and technology
• Adopting non-financial reporting standards
• Cost of doing business
• Mental health and wellbeing
• Pensions and Personal Finance
• Ukraine crisis: central resource hub
• More specials ...
• The economics of biodiversity
• How chartered accountants can help to safeguard trust in society
• Video: The financial controller who stole £20,000 from her company
• It’s time for chartered accountants to save the world
• Video: The CFO who tried to trick the market
• Video: Could invoice fraud affect your business?
• Business confidence, local authority finance, probate delays, and tax reform
• Why are female-led startups so underfunded?
• How to get Britain growing
• Groupthink: the boardroom’s most pervasive problem?
• Corporate reporting update and VAT on private hire vehicles
• AI in audit: the good, the bad and the ugly
• Company size thresholds and CGT on residences
• Lessons in leadership from ICAEW's CEO
• So you want to be a leader?
• A busy new tax year, plus progress on the Economic Crime Act
• Does Britain have a farming problem?
• More podcasts...
• Top charts of the week
• EU and international trade
• CEO and President's insights
• Sponsored content
• Insights index
• Charter and Bye-laws
• Archive of complaints, disciplinary and fitness processes, statutory regulations and ICAEW regulations
• Qualifications regulations
• Training and education regulations
• How to make a complaint
• Guidance on your duty to report misconduct
• Public hearings
• What to do if you receive a complaint against you
• Anti-money laundering supervision
• Working in the regulated area of audit
• Local public audit in England
• Probate services
• Designated Professional Body (Investment Business) licence
• Consumer credit
• Quality Assurance monitoring: view from the firms
• The ICAEW Practice Assurance scheme
• Licensed Practice scheme
• Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII)
• Clients' Money Regulations
• Taxation (PCRT) Regulations
• ICAEW training films
• Helpsheets and guidance by topic
• ICAEW's regulatory expertise and history
• Introduction to the Case Study exam

Published: 10 Sep 2021 Update History

In this guide we will introduce you to the Case Study exam, and will cover what the Case Study exam is and why it is unique, the importance of time management, the professional skills examined as well as tips for success.

This series of Case Study exam resources will cover everything you need to know to prepare for the Case Study exam. This includes:

• How to approach the advance information
• Using the advance information during the Case Study exam
• A guide on Requirements one, two and three
• An overview of the Executive Summary
• How to prepare to retake the Case Study exam

What is the Case Study exam?

Case Study is designed to reproduce a typical situation in which ICAEW Chartered Accountants find themselves. It puts you in the position of a final year trainee, reporting directly to a Partner. You will be required to draft a formal business report on the current position of a client firm, advising the client on the way forward.

What is unique about the Case Study exam?

The Case Study exam is very different to any other exam you will have sat during your ACA studies to date. The major points of difference include:

• There is no syllabus.
• You will access a detailed pack of advance information six weeks before exam.
• There is a prescribed format for your answer.
• There are explicit marks for ethics and business trust analysis.
• It is marked using a matrix, with a total of 240 marks available.
• Always try and attempt all questions and requirements and answer them fully to give you the best chance of exam success. 

Time management

When you practise your first Case Study you will immediately become aware of the unique time pressure of this exam. Some students are of course able to think, plan and type very quickly, and will be able to produce their answers within the four hours permitted. However, most students will find time management the single greatest challenge in passing their Case Study exam.

The timings suggested below may support you to manage your timings during the exam:

• Reading and planning - 1 hour
• Calculations - 1 hour
• Drafting your report - 2 hours

Professional skills

Across the mark key matrix you will see four columns, each referring to the skills that an ICAEW Chartered Accountant acting as a business adviser is expected to have. The Case Study exam requires you to demonstrate competence across ALL of these skills:

• Assimilating and Using Information (AUI) - using basics facts to support your analysis, identifying how to use data in calculations.
• Structuring Problems and Solutions (SPS) - using data to perform meaningful analysis, identifying commercial and ethical aspects of business scenarios.
• Applying Judgement (AJ) - interpretation of data analysis, explaining the impact of commercial issues, recommending how to deal with ethics and business trust issues.
• Drawing conclusions and making recommendations - summarising your analysis, identifying practical ways to implement commercially-driven advice.

Tips for success

The key steps in the Case Study exam preparation include:

• Be familiar with your advance information. You must imagine that you are in the workplace, reporting to an actual client. Your analysis and advice must be relevant and impactful, and this only comes with client-specific knowledge.
• Be strict with your time management. It is better to submit a complete report that feels a little 'thin' in places, than a report that is very detailed but incomplete.
• Plan your calculations before starting them. There will always be more numbers in the advance information and the exam than you need, therefore, you must think about the most concise way to deliver the numerical analysis you need. Failing to plan can lead to excessively detailed financial appendices that add little value, and crucially wasting your precious time.
• Plan on paper – it may help to take blank marking keys into the exam with you, and in the early stages of planning Requirements one, two and three, fill in the mark box headings, then complete your bullet points before drafting your report. This will help you produce a coherent and concise report.
• Use headings from the marking key in your answer. If your report headings correspond with those in the exam marking key this will ensure the relevance of your answer and make it easier for the marker to award you credit.
• You must complete your report . The importance of completing your exam means that if you are overrunning in any section of the report you must switch focus to writing up the Executive Summary section for that section, then move onto the next requirement. Remember an incomplete report, or a report lacking an Executive Summary section will likely lead to a failed result.
• Practise, Practise, Practise, Practise . You are advised to attempt at least four past Case Study exams before your advance information is released. This will help you build the skills and time management techniques you need to pass.

Watch the webinar

View this short webinar for an introduction to the Case Study exam.

How to use the advance information during the Case Study exam

Overview of the Executive Summary

Read out this code to the operator.