Entry Requirements

How long it takes to study

Expect to spend around a year at on each level.

• If you’re a school leaver, this would probably mean three years to qualify as you’ll start at Level 2.

• If you have previous accounting experience, you might complete training in two years or less.

• If your situation changes, you might be able to take a study break for up to three years – any longer and you may need to retake parts of the qualification.

• You should plan to spend three hours a week outside of class for each learning and assessment area you’re studying, then increase it in the run-up to assessments when you’re revising.

• Don’t forget, you can also draw on a wealth of further AAT support.

Do I need prior qualifications?

All you need is an aspiration to achieve - AAT only ask that you’re confident with numbers and that you can complete assessments and written projects in English. If you do have any relevant school or college qualifications, a degree or some accounting experience, these will still be a help. You might even be able to start with AAT at a higher level.

What’s the best level at which to start training?

It all depends on your qualifications and accounting experience. If you can show competence in some skills, you might not need to complete every learning and assessment area. Once you’ve found an AAT approved training provider that sounds right for you, contact them to talk about your course options. To prepare for this meeting, complete online AAT Skillcheck [New window] questionnaire, which evaluates your current skills and experience, and recommends a starting level.