Scheduled retirement
ACCA retires ACCA-SBL on 2027-06-30. S2 is the named replacement path.
Prepare for S2: Strategic Business Leader (S2)The Strategic Business Leader exam, certified by the ACCA, evaluates professional capabilities in strategic management. It covers strategic position, choices, and action, alongside professional skills. The exam assesses how candidates apply management knowledge to complex business scenarios. It is a linear exam that requires candidates to demonstrate leadership, governance, and risk management proficiency within an organizational context. This assessment ensures that individuals are prepared to handle the multifaceted challenges inherent in modern corporate environments while maintaining high standards of professional conduct and strategic oversight throughout their careers.
This exam is intended for individuals pursuing professional accounting qualifications who possess a solid understanding of business strategy and organizational management. It is suitable for those preparing for leadership roles who need to demonstrate professional skills in complex, real-world business environments.
Review the technical articles and topic explainers provided by the ACCA. Practice applying management models to scenario-based questions. Ensure you are familiar with the linear exam format. As the exam retires on 2027-06-30, focus your efforts on the curriculum requirements for the successor, S2. Consistent practice with past papers is a standard method for candidates to prepare for the 240 minutes of testing required to succeed.
This domain covers the analysis of an organization's strategic position. It involves assessing the internal and external factors that influence business performance, long-term direction, and the overall competitive landscape in which the entity operates.
This domain focuses on the strategic choices available to an organization. It examines how leaders select specific paths to achieve sustainable competitive advantage, growth, and long-term value for their stakeholders within various market conditions.
This domain addresses the implementation of strategic actions. It covers the practical steps required to execute plans, manage organizational change effectively, and ensure that the business remains aligned with its core objectives and strategic vision.
This domain emphasizes the professional skills required by leaders. It involves demonstrating ethical judgment, effective communication, and the ability to influence organizational outcomes while maintaining integrity and professional standards in all business dealings.
The exam lasts 240 minutes and uses a linear format. Candidates must answer Objective Test Questions and Constructed Response questions. Manage your time effectively across all sections to reach the passing score of 50 and demonstrate your full competency.
The exam features a mix of Objective Test Questions and Constructed Response questions. Candidates must manage their time during the 240-minute duration to address all required tasks and accurately ensure they meet the necessary standards for certification.
To successfully pass the Strategic Business Leader exam, candidates are required to achieve a minimum score of 50. This threshold reflects the level of proficiency and professional competence expected of individuals seeking this specific accounting qualification from the ACCA.
The total duration for the exam is 240 minutes. Candidates should plan their time carefully to ensure they can complete all sections, including the Objective Test Questions and the Constructed Response tasks, within this allocated timeframe to maximize their performance.
The Strategic Business Leader exam is scheduled for retirement on 2027-06-30. The verified successor exam is S2. Candidates should prepare for this transition by reviewing the updated curriculum requirements and guidance provided by the ACCA for the new qualification path.
Verified 2026-08-30
This editorial was developed by reviewing official ACCA exam documentation and technical articles to provide accurate information regarding the exam's status, content, and the transition to the successor exam, S2, for all candidates.