Within the Accountancy sector, incredible feats occur day-in and day-out. That’s why when the truly notable achievements hit the headlines – it holds even more weight (FreeAgent submitting a tax return from space and TC Group merging with TC Farnell Clarke Limited spring to mind).
Professionals are redefining the pathway for accounting, and what was once deemed impossible has been proven possible. Today, we spoke with Zaid Hamdani , who finished (and passed) all 13 ACCA papers in under a year. We’ll cover his background, how he did it, and why it might not be possible for everyone.
Zaid’s journey begins in Karachi Grammar school in Pakistan. During his tenure, he studied Accounting and Finance, and despite having an attendance of around 5%, it wouldn’t be long before he turned that perception on its head. Zaid took his first ACCA exam in September 2023 at the age of 18.
Accountancy runs in the family: Zaid’s father was a partner at KPMG In Pakistan for a decade, and his influence played a large part in Zaid’s trajectory. Zaid cites that he was often surrounded by CEOs, CFOs, COOs and other C-suite influential figures. He was “looking at them, watching them the way they talk…” before thinking “I want to do this”.
But still, thirteen exams in eleven months. How did Zaid do it?
Plan
Whilst Zaid said in our conversation that there wasn’t an initial plan, it seems there was a logical approach in place. The exams were taken in order, however when looking at the syllabus, Zaid started studying for the toughest exam first. Most would work up to the toughest exams, however Zaid tackled the hardest exam early when motivation was highest. From there, each new topic gets easier, and you build momentum. “If you have the hardest paper left at the end, you won’t study for it.”
It makes sense, if say you are seven exams in after seven months and each exam gets progressively harder, not only have you lost your initial motivational high, but you’ll experience greater resistance and mental fatigue.
Focus on your motivation and energy levels and plan accordingly
Study
This section is slightly controversial. Zaid omitted notetaking, past papers, and instead opted to listen to lectures throughout the day on two times speed. This helped him absorb the information whilst maintaining his life balance. It’s a unique approach – I for one struggle to remember things without writing them down. But it’s a testament to Zaid’s ability to learn, and those with an auditory preference will find this method powerful.
Review lectures on 2 times speed
Circumstances
Though you may read the headline and truly question how Zaid did this with a full-time role, don’t feel discouraged. Everyone’s situation is different. For the first half of the course, Zaid wasn’t working, instead dedicating a full-time focus to the ACCA. For the last 6 months, he worked full-time at KPMG in Pakistan—but emphasised that “me working full-time and you working-full time is not the same”. If he needed time to study, this was allowed, and the flexibility paid dividends.
Your environment reflects your results.
Zaid fondly referenced his father’s impression, and those that he grew up with. He had planned to do this, and achieved his goal with hard work, dedication, and a conducive environment. Zaid has since accepted an audit role with KPMG at the age of 20, and when asked, plans to stay with KPMG, aspiring to be one of the youngest partners.
When there is a will, there is a way, and though the journey into accountancy is uncertain in the UK with the changes to the level 7 support, not everyone will have the opportunity to complete their ACCAs as quick as Zaid. Throughout our conversation, Zaid was more than honest about his circumstances, “me working full-time and you working-full time is not the same.”
The ACCA recognised Zaid’s achievement, saying, “Zaid Hamdani’s story is more than a career profile – it’s a call to action for ACCA students around the world. His life so far is proof that with vision, discipline and belief, you can redefine what’s possible.”
It really begs the question of how people will complete the ACCA exams in the traditional path before reaching the cut-off for level 7 support. Zaid was able to complete the entire course in 11 months, but it is such an unheard achievement that it’s hard to believe others could reach this status even after 2 years more exam preparation. The traditional ACCA student will spend 3 years at a minimum working through the course alongside employment.
A massive congratulations to Zaid Hamdani and KPMG Lower Gulf, and AJ Chambers ® wishes you all the best!
AJ Chambers ® is a specialist recruitment and M&A consultancy for the Accounting and Legal Sectors. If you would like to discuss your future, our team will be happy to help.
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