AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting

Introduction to Bookkeeping

This unit will teach you core accounting skills related to both manual and digital bookkeeping systems. You'll study the procedures and documents involved in these systems and delve deeper into the fundamental principles that govern double-entry bookkeeping systems. 

This unit accounts for 25% of the overall grade for the qualification.

Learning outcomes

• Understand how to set up bookkeeping systems.

• Process customer transactions.

• Process supplier transactions.

• Process receipts and payments.

• Process transactions into the ledger accounts.

Principles of Bookkeeping Controls

The Principles of Bookkeeping Controls builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in Unit 1. This module explores control accounts, journals and reconciliations.

This unit's contribution percentage to the overall qualification grade is 25%.

Learning outcomes

• Use control accounts.

• Reconcile a bank statement with the cash book.

• Use the journal.

• Produce trial balances.

Principles of Costing

Through this unit, you will receive a comprehensive introduction to the principles of basic costing - skills that will assist you in more complex costing and management accounting tasks.

This unit's contribution percentage to the overall qualification grade is 20%.

Learning outcomes

• Understand the cost recording system within an organisation.

• Use cost recording techniques.

• Provide information on actual and budgeted costs and income.

• Use tools and techniques to support cost calculations.

The Business Environment

Through this unit, you will acquire an in-depth understanding of key business concepts and their practical implementation in both internal and external environments. You will also understand how a business entity is structured and where finance functions play a part.

This unit's contribution percentage to the overall qualification grade is 30%.

Learning outcomes

• Understand the principles of contract law.

• Understand the external business environment.

• Understand the key principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR), ethics, and sustainability.

• Understand the impact of setting up different types of business entities.

• Understand the finance function within an organisation.

• Produce work in appropriate formats and communicate effectively.

• Understand the importance of information to business operations.

Format

AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting has three objective-type tests and one synoptic assessment you must pass before earning the qualification.

The objective tests are computer-based and assess all component learning outcomes you have covered in the unit. The synoptic assessment is also a computer-based format that assesses your knowledge across all units.

• Exams: Online exam available (additional cost)
• Exams: Available via a test centre (additional cost)

Duration

Below are the duration for each exam at this level:

• Introduction to Bookkeeping: 90 min.

• Principles of Bookkeeping Controls: 90 min.

• Principles of Costing: 90 min.

• The Business Environment: 120 min.

Availability

All AAT exams from this level can be taken at AAT testing centres. We'll provide you with all the support and resources you need to prepare for your exams.

You must become an AAT member to sit your AAT assessments. AAT student membership and exam fees are separate from the course price.

Objective tests are computer-marked, so you'll receive your results within 48 hours via MyAAT. The synoptic assessment is human-marked, so you'll receive the results within six weeks of the last day of the synoptic window.

Course Level

This course is Level 2, which is equivalent to the following:

• GCSE grades 4–9.

• GCSE grades A*–C.

• SCQF Level 6 (Scotland).

The AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting is perfect for those looking to start a career in accounting and those with minimal industry experience.

You will be required to:  

• Be at least 16 years old (or have the consent of a parent or guardian).

• Have a solid understanding of the English language.

• Be comfortable with basic mathematics.

• Have access to a PC or Laptop (This course is both Mac and Windows compatible).

• Comprehensive Training: Enjoy a comprehensive education with eLearning, live classes, books, and dedicated tutor support tailored just for you.

• Benefit from live online sessions: Join your classmates in live online study classes and exam prep sessions led by our 2024 AAT Tutor of the Year, which run weekly. You will also have access to all past live session recordings.

• Study resources to suit you: Our online portal has every digital resource you could need, including PDF Kaplan pocket notes, workbooks, mock exams, slides, question banks, and recordings of live sessions.

• Hardcopy textbooks: We also deliver Kaplan textbooks straight to your door, which is great if you are a fan of traditional learning methods.

• Best Price Guarantee: We assure you that you're getting the most cost-effective training solution in the UK.

• High-Quality Training: Access high-quality materials and methodologies, such as interactive eLearning modules, comprehensive study guides, and real-world case studies, to ensure a superior learning experience.

• High Pass Rates: Join a thriving community of candidates like yourself, benefiting from our high pass rates.

• Exceptional Tutor Support: Receive fantastic guidance and assistance from our dedicated tutors, ensuring your success.

• Leading AAT Training Provider: Choose to learn from one of the largest AAT training providers in the country and take advantage of our expertise.

• Trusted and Credible Provider: Trust in positive Trustpilot scores, reflecting our reputation as a trusted and credible training provider focused on your success.

• Interest-Free Finance Options: Make your education more accessible with our interest-free finance options, eliminating immediate financial strain from your learning journey.

What is AAT Level 2 equivalent to?

AAT Level 2 is equivalent to GCSE Grades 4-9 (A*-C) in the UK education system and to Level 2 in the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). In Scotland, it is equivalent to SCQF Level 6. AAT Level 2 is not equivalent to a bachelor's degree.

Is AAT Level 2 enough to get a job?

AAT Level 2 provides fundamental accountancy-related business skills to help you secure an entry-level job in the bookkeeping, accounting or finance industry.

However, the opportunities for advanced positions are greater with AAT Level 3 and Level 4 accounting qualifications as they provide a more comprehensive understanding and proficiency in accounting.

Every employer is different, so the exact requirements will vary. Gaining further qualifications will open more doors for you.

Are you an Accountant after AAT Level 2?

Passing AAT Level 2 does not make you a fully qualified Accountant. This is just the beginning of your accounting qualification journey.

To become a qualified Accountant, you typically need to complete a higher level of accounting qualification, such as AAT Level 3, AAT Level 4, or CIMA Professional Qualification.

How long will AAT Level 2 take?

This online AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting is a flexible learning course. As such, the completion time varies depending on your pace and commitment, but it can take an average of 6 to 9 months.

How much does an AAT earn?

An average AAT professional can earn an average salary of £30,000. At AAT Accounting Level 2, you can earn a starting salary of £24,000 and can go as high as £56,000 or more once you've completed the AAT Accounting Level 4.

Can I get a job with AAT Level 2?

Having an AAT certificate on your CV can increase your confidence and give you a competitive advantage in the job market. Employers value AAT qualifications, and large organisations such as KPMG train their staff with AAT, demonstrating the real industry demand.

Typical job roles include:  

• Accounts Administrator - £23,000.

• Purchase/Sales Ledger Clerk - £23,000.

• Payroll Administrator - £24,000.

• Accounts Payable Clerk - £24,000.

(Source: Payscale)

Additional pathways include progressing onto our AAT Advanced Diploma in Accounting Level 3. With this AAT qualification, you can apply for more senior accounting jobs and gain AATQB status, making you a qualified Bookkeeper. You can also apply for licensed bookkeeper status, allowing you to legally run your own bookkeeping business.   

Our AAT Level 2 Certificate & Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting package will save you money compared to ordering the courses separately, as well as our Level 2, 3 & 4 AAT package.