On the note of 'prestige', yes, people out there (the general public) regard ACCA higher than degree.

But for my firm (at least), they prefer degree grads over acca?
Why?

The bond period of 4 years makes retaining degree graduates up to senior level (where the shortages generally occur) easier, whereas ACCA grads are flexible and can leave whenever they so please. (it's just a matter of 'retention', as one of the actions taken to address the horrible turnover in audit)

Therefore, from a firm point of view, they prefer degree students imo, and that's why I find my firm takes in more degree than ACCA, even if there are alot of applications from ACCA affiliates. (I implied this from my observation, might have other reasons though)

@fastandfurious = Me too. I did CAT+ACCA in 2 1/2 years and regretted it lol.

General public oso regard ICAEW > ACCA, actually. ACCA is far too common already But in terms of publisity and awareness by the general non-accounting public, ACCA > ICAEW

No not really, its just that a "perception". For acca its not about "institute" but more to lecturers.
If you want a flexible and an environment which allows you independence to study, its better to each lecturers independently. Which is why my acca life is fantastic. I played more than study anyway. And I dont mind the least when friends or relatives ask where I study (no kiasu issue there). But for certain people, its a major issue so not everyone can adapt to it. I am sure there are some relatives eagerly waiting to display their "star child" whenever the issue of education is brought up. I faced a torrent of it whenever CNY approaches.

If you want a consistent and good environment to study then you can consider sticking to one college or uni which is easier and comfortable. Less hectic too, but since they want extra publicity cos their KPI depends on it, do expect they will grind you for performance. For those who thrive under pressure this is a good place to go. Another thing is that most reputable college or uni will have some affiliation with certain organizations so its a but "easier" for them to apply. (yep big 4 included).

CPA is also different case,
1) Entry requirement:
Also minimum a degree holder / other professional qualification which is why some say its more prestigious.

2) Difficulty:
Have asked quite a lot of people doin g it and most admit acca is tougher cos CPA don’t need study much but needs common sense and reasoning skills. Cos got MCQ. Not those easy ABCD though, got ED and sometimes 2 or 3 answers. My firm incorporate this idea in my firm training for accounting and audit standards. Quite difficult on its own way.

3) Reputation:
You want to work in US or Aust or for US / Aust MNC then CPA will be a good choice as they don’t recognized other papers that much or none at all. But Aust CPA is not US CPA both are different like MICPA and HKICPA. Malaysia have CPA too but since less common and not as prestigious so they just called MICPA.
ACCA reputation is worldwide but CPA recognition is only restricted to where you took it. So if you took Aust CPA but you want to worked in MYS, ACCA has higher preference. But let say you took US CPA and work in US you will have higher preferential treatment compared to normal acca graduates.

4) Fees:
Annual fees is cheaper (in Aussie) but since can only start after degree, its no longer practical for asian student (cos most are highly calculative) Sounds funny but that’s how we survived the the financial crisis. Still bleeding from it though.

If somebody have degree + CPA, its better than acca holder alone. But the main argument is tax & law . CPA follows the origin country. So if took aussie CPA, you will be learning Aussie tax & law not MYS one. ACCA follows the local guidelines.

If you are good you can work everywhere irregardless of acca or degree. ACCA just gives you easier transition. Btw what is CFAB ?

Unemployment is hitting every part of the world. US unemployment rate is 10%, Aus/NZ = 4.5%. Europe no need to cerita lah. SG also cutting job until govt need to introduce a grant to employers not to fire their staff. Anyway in order to enjoy heaven, one must endure hell first. Anyway I learn more than most fresh graduates out there under such severe circumstances (got give and take). So its kinda like the firm use me, I use them back. No love lost between us.

Besides going oversea as a junior staff is a nightmare for everyone. But if you are going as a manager or senior staffs then your life is much easier. Everyone needs to endure few years of hardship if they want a successful future, doctors, engineers, lawyers, auditors, accountants,....all are the same.