The AAT-ACA Fast Track route at a glance
Instead of starting the ACA from scratch, your AAT trainees can apply for credit for prior learning towards some of the exams and professional experience requirements of the ACA, accelerating them towards a career as an ICAEW Chartered Accountant.
Who is the AAT-ACA Fast Track route for?
You can offer this route to Level 4 AAT trainees, AAT members or AAT-qualified individuals.
How long does it take?
Depending on how many exam exemptions your trainee is eligible, for the AAT-ACA Fast Track route can take as little as two years.
The elements of the ACA
The ACA is made up of three elements, each designed to build the technical knowledge, professional skills and practical experience your student needs to become an ICAEW Chartered Accountant. The key themes of sustainability, ethics and technology are integrated throughout the ACA, developing forward-thinking leaders who are well-prepared for the complexities of the accounting profession.
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Business, finance and accountancy exams
The ACA is made up of 14 exams spread over three levels: the Certificate Level, the Professional Level, and the Advanced Level. Each exam has been designed to fit students professional experience as they progress through the qualification and gain an in-depth knowledge of business, finance and accountancy.
Students on the AAT to ACA Fast Track route may be able to claim credit for prior learning for up to five Certificate Level exams depending on the AAT units they have studied at Level 3 and Level 4. Individuals who have completed an AAT Level 4 apprenticeship, including successful completion of the End Pont Assessment (EPA), will not be required to complete the Professional Level Fundamental Case Study exam.
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Specialised Learning
Tailor learning to meet business needs and ensure trainees stay at the cutting edge of new developments. Students will complete a minimum of 30 units of Specialised Learning from a wide range of interactive online content.
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Professional skills and experience
ICAEW Chartered Accountants are known for their professionalism and expertise, building trust, spotting and communicating risks and utilising technology. Students will build transferable professional skills in five key competency areas. They will also need to complete a minimum of 450 days of professional work experience as part of their training. This does not need to include audit work.
I truly believe the ACA makes you a better accountant. It gives you that superior level of understanding, and the confidence to speak to clients.
Keith Willis Associates
The AAT-ACA Fast Track enables Keith Willis to mould trainees for his successful small practice – and pass on his passion for the profession.
Getting started with the AAT-ACA Fast Track route
How the AAT to ACA Fast Track route works
An overview to the AAT-ACA Fast Track route. Find out what it is, how it works and what's involved.
Find out more
Why choose the ACA
Attract top quality professionals to your organisation. Discover the benefits ACA training can bring to your business.
Discover the ACA
Become authorised to train
You must become an Authorised Training Employer to train ACA students. Find out what is involved and how to apply.
Getting started
Level 7 Accountancy Professional Apprenticeship
Organisations in England can access government funding and offer this route as a Level 7 apprenticeship.
Find out more