How to become AAT qualified

Becoming AAT qualified means achieving The Association of Accounting Technician qualification – a significant milestone in your accounting career. The AAT qualification opens doors to opportunities in the accounting and finance sector, providing you with the knowledge and technical skills needed to excel in any accounting role.

The AAT qualification is internationally recognised. It is respected and valued by employers around the world, opening up career opportunities in various countries and industries.

But how to become AAT qualified? This blog will guide you through the process and offer some practical tips from current AAT students to help you succeed.

What is the AAT qualification?

The AAT qualification is a professional certification in accounting. It’s designed to give you practical skills that you can apply in the workplace, making it an excellent choice for those looking to start or advance their career in accounting. The AAT qualification is divided into levels 2, 3 and 4, each building on the knowledge and skills gained in the previous one.

By becoming AAT qualified you’ll develop professional expertise across various areas of accounting and business, including bookkeeping, tax and financial management.

Once you complete the AAT Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting, you can apply to become an AAT full member and use the letters MAAT after your name. This demonstrates a high level of education and experience, and a commitment to keeping your skills up to date.

Become AAT qualified by learning on the job

One of the big benefits of pursuing an AAT qualification is being able to study while being employed. You’ll gain practical experience in an office environment, providing real-world applications of what you’re learning.

Many employers, including PKF Francis Clark, are willing to cover all the course and exam fees. You get time off the job for study and by working alongside more experienced accountants you’ll learn too.

Ellie is working towards becoming AAT qualified alongside her job as a trainee accountant at PKF Francis Clark. She says: “The biggest challenge with AAT is balancing study deadlines with work deadlines. It is all manageable with good communication and planning, and my colleagues are happy to help. Come in with an open mind as there is a lot to learn. Have confidence in yourself and never be afraid to speak up to ask questions.”

Adam is also currently studying for the AAT qualification, earning while learning as a trainee accountant at PKF Francis Clark. He echoes the benefits of learning on the job saying: “Asking questions is the best thing you can do when you start an accounting apprenticeship. Your colleagues have been learners just like you are now so they get it; no question is a silly one!”.

What to expect when becoming AAT qualified

Rosie recently achieved the Level 4 AAT qualification, while working as a trainee accountant at PKF Francis Clark. Her experience offers valuable insights and practical tips for anyone looking to embark on the journey to becoming AAT qualified.

Mix of exams and office days

One of the best things about the AAT qualification is the blend of exams and practical experience. Balancing your time between study and work in an office environment can break up the pressure and help you see the real-world applications of what you’re learning.

Gain experience in an office environment

Gaining experience in an office environment is a crucial part of becoming AAT qualified. It allows you to meet new people and learn from them. The networking opportunities with clients and colleagues can be invaluable for your progression.

Fun stationery and notebooks

Never underestimate the power of fun stationery! Having a nice set of highlighters, colourful notebooks, and other fun study aids can make revising and studying much more enjoyable.

Earn while you learn

One of the main benefits of the AAT qualification is that you earn while you learn. You can afford to do things outside of work which is helpful for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, for example I was able to take fun holiday and trips away to recharge my batteries.

Time management

Effective time management is key to balancing your AAT studies with your work life. Create a study schedule that allows you to dedicate time to your study and exams. It takes planning to fit your studies alongside your work life, especially when exams are lurking!

Apply what you learn on the job

The AAT qualification is highly practical. It’s a reciprocal process of learning so that everything you do in the classroom you’ll find yourself applying to real clients at work!

The AAT qualification and lifelong learning

Becoming AAT qualified is the start of a rewarding accounting career, one in which you’ll never stop learning. Billy, who is also on track to becoming AAT qualified, explains: “This is an ever-changing sector, influenced by new legislation, the state of the economy, and emerging technologies. You’ll encounter something new every day, it never gets boring!”.

As we wrap up this blog, we’ll go back to Rosie for the last words about the journey to becoming AAT qualified: “Remember, you’re working towards an amazing qualification that will open many doors for you”. Get the AAT qualification and varied career opportunities await!