Accounting technician : Entry requirements

There are no specific minimum entry requirements to train to be an accounting technician, although a reasonable level of literacy and numeracy is essential.

Usual entry involves on-the-job training while studying part time or via distance learning. You may qualify as an accounting technician through schemes run by either the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT)  or the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) .

The AAT Accounting Qualification is split into three levels:

• Level 2 Certificate in Accounting;
• Level 3 Diploma in Accounting;
• Level 4 Diploma in Accounting.

If you already have an accounting qualification, a degree or significant work experience you may be eligible to start at a higher level. Check with the AAT and the other accounting bodies for more information about the validity of your qualifications.

To gain technician status, you must also complete at least one year’s work experience. You will then be able to apply for full AAT membership and use the letters MAAT after your name.

The CAT (Certified Accounting Technician) scheme, offered by the ACCA, is a route that combines study and practical experience. The scheme involves studying for nine papers and completing a professionalism and ethics module called Foundations in Professionalism, as well as completing a year’s work experience in an accountancy environment. See the ACCA website for further details.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• strong written and oral communication skills;
• IT skills;
• ability to work in a team, often alongside accounting professionals;
• ability to multitask and manage your time;
• high-level numerical skills;
• good attention to detail;
• ability to work accurately and methodically with numbers.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.