What is the AAT?
The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) was set up over 25 years ago - and is one of the world's
leading membership organisations for accounting professionals with over 100,000 members.
We are dedicated to providing training, support and advice to our members at every stage of their career.
When an individual studies for an AAT qualification, they also become a student member of the AAT. This
means that they, and you, can call upon our expertise and resources whenever you need to.
The AAT Accounting Qualification - respected and trusted
There's a simple principle behind the AAT Accounting Qualification - it's called real life. The qualification
focuses on the practical knowledge and skills that are needed to be a successful accounting professional –
knowledge and skills that students will be able to put into action from day one.
The AAT is one of the largest awarding bodies of skills-based qualifications in accounting in the world.
Today you'll find AAT trained accounting staff in companies of all sizes and types in South Africa and around
the globe.
What qualifications are needed to start the course?
No formal qualifications are needed to begin studying for the AAT Accounting Qualification. If students do
have relevant qualifications from school, a degree - or some experience in accounting - they may be able to
start studying at a higher level. The only request we do make is that they are reasonably numerate and can
complete exams and written projects in English.
What will students learn?
The AAT Accounting Qualification is split into three levels. Each level is a qualification in its own right and
will give your students the knowledge and skills that they can apply immediately in their working life.
Students receive an AAT certificate for every level they complete.
Certificate
This level will start to develop students’ skills in double entry bookkeeping and give them an understanding
of management and administrative processes. They'll learn how to use manual and computerised
accounting systems and to work with the purchase ledger, sales ledger and general ledger.
Advanced Certificate
This level introduces more complicated accounting tasks, including the preparation of final accounts for sole
traders and partnerships. Students will also learn how to maintain cost accounting records and how to
prepare reports and returns.
Diploma
At this level, students will learn how to draft financial statements for limited companies, perform complex
management accounting tasks and develop their own management skills. This level includes a choice of
special units, which means that they can focus their efforts on the areas of accounting most relevant to their
needs and interests – including a business taxation unit tailored to South Africa.
How will their work be assessed?
As your students work towards the AAT Accounting Qualification, they'll be assessed on the practical skills
they develop during the course. This will be done in two ways.
Exams
These are set and marked by the AAT and will test their ability to apply what they have learned to true-to-life
examples. They can choose to sit exams in June or December - and they can also re-take any exams you
need to.
Skills tests
These course assessments are based on realistic work scenarios and will check their progress regularly.
How will student membership of the AAT help them?
As a student member of the AAT, your students will be able to tap into a wealth of resources and support to
help them as they study.
Website - aat.org.uk
The AAT website is an invaluable resource for our students and has a dedicated student section. This
includes:
 Free access to past exam papers and example answers.
 A popular discussion forum where they can swap questions and ideas with other AAT students.
 A comprehensive archive of articles relevant to their studies.
Magazine - www.accountingtechnician.co.uk
Every month, they'll receive a copy of Accounting Technician magazine. It's full of articles that will help with
their course - plus expert opinions and global accountancy news.
Events
As part of our commitment to supporting our centres we are currently planning to offer Taxation
Masterclasses to help with the South Africa specific taxation units offered as part of the AAT Diploma in
Accounting.
Helpline
If your students need advice or support at any time during their training, we are here to help.
They can call our helpline on +44 (0)20 7397 3001. Our lines are open 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday. (UK
time) Or they can email us at student services@aat.org.uk
How will the AAT help them after they have finished their course?
We have different levels of membership, based on the progress they have made in their training and the
experience they have gained in their working life. Once they have finished studying for their AAT Accounting
Qualification, they can apply to become a full member of the AAT.
The AAT’s qualification is widely recognised worldwide and our arrangements with other international
accounting bodies and educational establishments could lead to further development and progression
opportunities.
Want to know more?
If want to know more about the AAT and our courses, please contact us.
Call us on
Email us at
Go online
+44 (0)20 7397 3002
9 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday (UK time)
join@aat.org.uk
aat.org.uk
Association of Accounting Technicians
140 Aldersgate Street
London EC1A 4HY
UK