How AAT distance learning accountancy training can be your alternative to university

This month it’s decision time for hundreds of thousands of young people as they consider: ‘Is university or college the right option for me?’

A-Level results were published on August 18th with GCSEs to follow. While many students will head into classroom-based further and higher education this September, it may not be the ideal option for everyone.

One popular alternative is studying AAT accountancy via distance learning, allowing young adults to qualify quicker and start earning sooner.

Here are five reasons why AAT distance learning may be right for you or your children:

 

Cost

With standard undergraduate tuition fees for full-time students £9,250 per year, university students can be faced with tens of thousands of pounds of debt upon completing their course. And that’s without including living and travelling costs. AAT distance learning courses with Premier Training start from less than £200, with the training provider’s Complete Accounting Bundle (including Levels 2, 3 and 4) currently available for a total course fee of just £1,944. Even with AAT membership and assessment fees to bear in mind, the savings are substantial.

 

Flexibility

Distance learning allows students to study at their own pace and when it suits them. That can allow them to combine their course with a job (see more below) or other commitments. On average, Premier Training students commit 6-8 hours per week to their AAT studies, allowing them to complete all three accounting qualifications within around three years. However, study time is entirely flexible, so the more you study the quicker you can gain your qualifications. In fact, some Premier Training students have completed every accounting qualification in less than a year.

Work and earn

Thousands of Premier Training students combine their AAT studies with full or part-time jobs in accountancy, finance or a completely separate field. The benefits are obvious – no debts, a regular income, no need to move home. This also provides the opportunity to gain valuable experience within accountancy and finance, learning and progressing through your qualifications while enhancing your CV and career prospects.

 

Support

A common misconception with distance learning is that students suffer from a lack of support. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Unlimited tutor support is available with all Premier Training AAT accounting and bookkeeping courses, with AAT specialist tutors available until late in the evening most days and even on Saturday mornings. Being able to pick up the phone and receive an instant answer to questions, in this way, is just not possible with traditional classroom-based courses.

 

Be work-ready

AAT qualifications are highly practical, internationally-recognised and in demand with employers, meaning young people can quickly begin their career as an accountant or other finance-related role across any industry. Studying with the AAT can provide a fast-track route to becoming a chartered accountant but it can also pave the way to becoming self-employed or a business owner, running your own practice as an AAT Licensed Accountant or Bookkeeper.

 

• With no previous qualifications or experience required, most students begin their AAT journey with the Level 2 Certificate in Accounting. Click here for more information.