Quick Start Guide
This Quick Start Guide has been designed to provide you with some very quick answers to a range of questions that we are frequently asked about AAT courses in general.
What course should I start with?
Whatever your long terms goals, if you’re new to accounting, (or specifically, double entry bookkeeping) the AAT Level 2 (equivalent of Level 2/GCSE) is generally where you need to start.
For much more detailed information on this, please click here
In the meantime, you might want to work through the AATs online skillcheck here – this will be a good indicator of the most appropriate starting point for you.
How much will it cost?
This is a difficult one to answer due to so many variables, but a very rough estimate on how much it costs to become fully AAT qualified (e.g. Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4 Accounting levels) will be anything from around £2,600 (inclusive of all AAT membership and exam fees) to upwards of £4,600, after which you would be able to apply for MAAT status.
If you wish to follow the AAT Bookkeeping route (through to application of AATQB status), then it will cost you anything from £762 to £1,388 to qualify.
It is important to note though, that you do not have to find all this money up front – getting started on your AAT journey could cost you as little as £99.
For much more detailed information on this, please click here
What support will I get?
Much depends on whether you decide to enrol onto a college course or to study via distance learning. With college courses, you would generally attend classes on a weekly day release or evening class basis (over 3 terms) and there should be a tutor there at all times to provide tuition and support.
Distance learning is a lot more flexible but it is also likely to be a lot more variable in terms of the delivery method e.g. learning via a structured programme of online lectures, online interactive and/or non-interactive course materials with tutor support, or online interactive and/or non-interactive course without tutor support (i.e. self-study).
For much more detailed information on this, please click here
When can I start?
For a college course, you will generally start in September, although some colleges may have another entry point in January.
With distance learning, you can generally start at any time of the year (although there will probably be specific entry points if you are applying for a course consisting of a programme of online lectures). Upon enrolment, you should be up and running with your course from as little as a couple of hours through to a few days.
For much more detailed information on this, please click here
How do I enrol?
For a college course, you will need to complete an online (or hard copy) application form, and you may well need to attend an interview prior to acceptance onto the course. Payment is generally required at the time of enrolment although do check if there is a payment plan option, and also check if you are eligible for funding.
For distance learning, this will be variable according to which training provider you choose to enrol with. Often, enrolment will be via an online e-commerce site (online shop) and you will need to pay for your course at the same time (some training providers may offer a payment plan – do check if this is ‘interest free’). Alternatively, you may be able to enrol over the phone (or you may be given the option to enrol via a hard copy application form).
