Is DipIFR Worth It for Working Professionals in India?

By IIC Lakshya

30 Sep 2025

With the constant evolution in the financial world, professionals seek opportunities to upgrade, obtain global recognition, and maintain relevance to audiences. One such qualification gaining popularity in India is the Diploma in International Financial Reporting (DipIFR) by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), UK.

However, the most relevant question is, is this worth it for working professionals in India? This answer lies in the scope, advantages, and disadvantages.

What is DipIFR
Why is DipIFR Worth it?
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FAQs on DipIFR for Working Professionals

What is DipIFR?

DipIFR is a certification in the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) that gives a framework for global reporting. Given that India has adopted Ind AS (that is, India Accounting Standards), which is relevantly converged with IFRS, this qualification works for corporate reporting, auditing, and finance professionals in India. For India-based professionals, especially in finance, audit, or reporting roles, the DipIFR is a no-brainer. It's short, flexible, inexpensive, and recognized all over the world, which makes it a great add-on certification to improve your professional profile.

Why is DipIFR Worth it for Working Professionals?

DipIFR is not a substitute for full-fledged qualifications like CA, ACCA, or CPA. It applies best to professionals with an accounting background who wish to bolster their qualifications in IFRS. It will not be sufficient as a standalone qualification for beginners who do not have any prior accounting experience.

DipIFR Holds Significant Value for Professionals in India:

1. Global Recognition with Local Relevance

DipIFR is recognized in 100+ countries and is linked with the international accounting standard IFRS. In India, since Ind AS is aligned with IFRS, this course gives global and local recognition.

2. Short Duration, Big Impact

Though most professional courses tend to be lengthy, the DipIFR can be achieved in 6 months, with only one exam to sit. This makes it extremely easy to complete this qualification whilst actively working, as there is no requirement for years of study.

3. Career Growth and Opportunities

DipIFR holders are sought after in these positions:

Statutory and Internal Auditors
Financial Reporting Managers
Accounting Advisory Consultants
IFRS Specialists
Big 4 and Multinational Corporations

With shared service centers and global reporting, India is one of the major destinations. Professionals with Dip IFR certifications to their name can stand above the rest in the competition.

4. Flexible for Working Professionals

The flexibility of the qualification is seen in the fact that the exam is conducted biannually in June and December, giving candidates the ability to plan their study periods without the need to disrupt their work schedule.

5. Cost-Effective Qualification

The DipIFR is of lesser value when compared to other global qualifications, such as the ACCA and the CPA, and is of lesser monetary value, whilst offering the same international recognition. Due to this, many professionals use the DipIFR as a place to begin their certifications to higher qualifications, with minimal financial aid.

Did you know?

IFRS standards are in use in more than 140 countries, which means IFRS is the most adopted accounting standard worldwide.

FAQs on DipIFR for Working Professionals

Who is eligible for DipIFR in India?

A graduate with 3 years of relevant accounting experience, or a CA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified professional, will be eligible to apply.

Is DipIFR useful if I already know Ind AS?

Yes, because Ind AS is based on IFRS. DipIFR will help get a deeper understanding and a more global perspective, which will be useful for multinational corporations or clients abroad.

How Much of a Pay Increase Can DipIFR Offer?

The salary increase might depend on how the DipIFR is offered to the individual. However, most professionals with a DipIFR will see a 10-30% increase in their pay, especially with multinationals, Big 4 companies, and IFRS reporting companies.