SBL | Exam Kit - KAP LAN

Based on extensive global industry research, the Strategic Business Leader (SBL) exam was created with this in mind. The new exam will provide you with the strategic problem-solving and leadership skills that will benefit your career the most.

What does the Strategic Business Leader (SBL) ACCA exam look like?

The Strategic Business Leader (SBL) exam will be a four-hour, closed-book exam worth 100 points, with 80 points for technical knowledge and 20 points for professional experience. The exam will have one mandatory section with all questions based on a single case study.

There will be no material to prepare for the case study because it will be given out on the day of the exam. Up to 18 pages of mixed information will be sent to you, including:

1. Annual reports
2. Media sources
3. Spreadsheets
4. Pictures and diagrams
5. Survey results
6. Interview transcripts
7. Memos; emails; presentations

You'll use these materials to complete tasks that are similar to those you'll encounter in the workplace. They could include the following:

• Data analysis and interpretation
• Detecting and resolving issues
• Creating written business correspondence
• Putting together presentations

The core syllabus for the Strategic Business Leader (SBL) exam is drawn from the P1 and P3 exams, though it has been refreshed and restructured.

The Strategic Business Leader (SBL) exam is not just P1 and P3 renamed.

It is more closely aligned with the demands of the workplace, and it differs significantly from the old P1 and P3 exams in terms of content, style, and structure. It places a greater emphasis on the strategic application of knowledge and professional behavior in real-world business situations.

If you're taking the Strategic Business Leader (SBL) exam, you'll need to study the new syllabus, even if you've already studied for P1 and P3.

Who has to take the Strategic Business Leader (SBL) exam?

If you haven't passed both P1 and P3 by September 2018, you must take the new exam. If you've only passed one, you'll need to retake the Strategic Business Leader (SBL) exam and study the new material.

How can you prepare?

Two practice papers, as well as a marking and examiners guide, have been released by the ACCA. The ACCA will also collaborate with approved learning providers to ensure that you have access to enough relevant practice material, including mock exams.

Conclusion

The ACCA has taken a positive step forward by introducing the Strategic Business Leader (SBL) exam, which will help you better hone the skills you need to succeed in your career. However, make sure you plan ahead so you don't end up studying twice as much! If you apply for P1 and P3 and do not pass both by the September 2018 deadline, you will have to retake the exam.