Course Suitability Criteria - ELF College

Course Suitability Criteria

Find the perfect AAT qualification for your experience level and career goals

Choose Your Starting Point

2

Certificate in Bookkeeping

Build essential bookkeeping skills

Who is this for?

  • Level 1 graduates or basic knowledge holders
  • People seeking entry-level bookkeeping roles
  • Small business owners managing their books
  • Office workers adding finance skills

Entry Requirements

  • Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping (preferred)
  • GCSE Maths and English Grade C/4
  • Basic understanding of business transactions
  • Computer literacy for online assessments

What You'll Learn

  • Double-entry bookkeeping principles
  • Processing business transactions
  • Managing purchase and sales ledgers
  • VAT calculations and procedures
Duration
3-6 months
Study Time
4-6 hours/week
Assessment
2 computer-based exams
2

Certificate in Accounting

Comprehensive accounting foundation

Who is this for?

  • Those wanting broader accounting knowledge
  • People seeking accounts assistant roles
  • Existing bookkeepers expanding skills
  • Young people (16-19) starting careers

Entry Requirements

  • Good standard of English and mathematics
  • GCSE Maths and English Grade C/4
  • Basic computer skills
  • Understanding of business concepts

What You'll Learn

  • Core accounting knowledge and skills
  • Double-entry bookkeeping mastery
  • Basic costing principles
  • Professional ethics and communication
Duration
6-12 months
Study Time
6-8 hours/week
Assessment
4 computer-based exams
3

Certificate in Bookkeeping

Advanced bookkeeping specialization

Who is this for?

  • Level 2 graduates ready for advanced skills
  • Experienced bookkeepers seeking qualification
  • Those aiming for AAT membership (AATQB)
  • Self-employed bookkeepers

Entry Requirements

  • Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping/Accounting
  • Equivalent qualification from external body
  • Significant practical experience
  • A-Level standard English and Mathematics

What You'll Learn

  • Advanced double-entry bookkeeping
  • Preparing financial statements
  • Complex VAT calculations
  • Payroll principles and procedures
Duration
6-12 months
Study Time
6-8 hours/week
Assessment
2 computer-based exams
3

Diploma in Accounting

Professional accounting qualification

Who is this for?

  • Level 2 accounting graduates
  • Those seeking accounting technician roles
  • People aiming for assistant accountant positions
  • Finance professionals wanting recognition

Entry Requirements

  • Level 2 Certificate in Accounting/Bookkeeping
  • A-Level or equivalent qualifications
  • Relevant accounting/finance experience
  • Strong mathematical and analytical skills

What You'll Learn

  • Advanced financial accounting
  • Management accounting principles
  • Business awareness and environment
  • Tax processes for businesses
Duration
6-12 months
Study Time
8-10 hours/week
Assessment
4 computer-based exams
4

Diploma in Professional Accounting

Advanced professional qualification

Who is this for?

  • Level 3 graduates seeking advanced skills
  • Experienced accounting professionals
  • Those aiming for senior finance roles
  • People wanting AAT full membership (MAAT)

Entry Requirements

  • Level 3 Diploma in Accounting
  • Equivalent professional qualification
  • Significant accounting/finance experience
  • Degree-level analytical skills

What You'll Learn

  • Advanced management accounting
  • Financial statements preparation
  • Internal accounting systems
  • Strategic financial management
Duration
12-18 months
Study Time
10-15 hours/week
Assessment
5 computer-based exams

Your Learning Journey

Follow our structured pathway or join at your appropriate level

2
Certificate
Essential skills & knowledge
3
Advanced
Professional competency
4
Professional
Expert-level qualification

Not Sure Which Level is Right for You?

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