AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping (AQ2022)

The AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping provides a strong foundation in core accounting principles and skills. The qualification consists of two mandatory units:

• Financial Accounting: Preparing Financial Statements (FAPS)
• Tax Processes for Businesses (TPFB)

Each unit is assessed via a separate computer-based exam. Both assessments must be passed to achieve the full Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping.

We offer three course tiers—Lite, Premium, and Premium Pro—so you can choose the one that best fits your needs, budget, and preferred level of support.

All three tiers include a personalised Individual Learning Plan (ILP), access to our online learning platform, and hard copy course books to support your studies.

Lite is a self-directed option with minimal tutor support. You’ll have access to the platform and resources, but no live tutorials and only limited progress tracking and feedback. It’s a good choice if you're confident studying independently and want a lower-cost option.

Premium adds more structured support. In addition to everything in Lite, you’ll receive regular tutor interaction, monthly group topic tutorials, and tutor feedback on your progress.

Premium Pro offers our highest level of support. Along with everything in Premium, you’ll get weekly group tutorial sessions, priority tutor responses, personalised feedback, and guidance. This tier also includes your AAT exam fees (at our nearest exam centre) making it the most comprehensive and convenient option.

All three tiers are available via monthly subscription to help you spread the cost.

All of our course tiers include high-quality learning materials designed to support your success. You’ll receive printed course books delivered to your door, full access to our user-friendly online learning platform, and a personalised Individual Learning Plan (ILP) to guide your studies. The platform hosts interactive resources, practice activities, and structured content mapped to the AAT syllabus—ensuring you stay on track and focused at every stage of your qualification.

To enrol on the AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping, learners should have a solid foundation in basic bookkeeping principles. The ideal entry point is successful completion of the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping or the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting.

You may also be eligible if you have:

• Relevant work experience in a bookkeeping or finance role

• Prior study in accounting or finance at a similar level

There are no formal qualifications required to enrol, but we recommend the following for the best chance of success:

• Good literacy and numeracy skills – ideally GCSEs in English and Maths (or equivalent).

• Basic IT skills – you should feel comfortable using a computer, browsing the internet, and working with documents and spreadsheets.

• A willingness to learn independently – especially if choosing the Lite or Premium package.

If you're unsure which level is right for you, we encourage you to complete the AAT Skillscheck – a free online assessment designed to evaluate your current knowledge and recommend the most suitable starting point.

👉 Take the AAT Skillscheck here: https://www.aat.org.uk/qualifications-and-courses/skillcheck

This short quiz takes around 30 minutes and is a useful tool to help ensure you start your AAT journey at the appropriate level for your experience and confidence.

Completing the AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping opens up a wide range of career opportunities within the finance and accounting sector. This qualification demonstrates your ability to manage more complex bookkeeping tasks and prepares you for both employed and self-employed roles in the industry.

Whether you're looking to advance in your current role or take on new responsibilities, this course equips you with the practical skills and recognised credentials to progress confidently.

Typical job roles suited to this qualification include:

• Accounts Assistant

• Finance Assistant

• Accounts Administrator

• Purchase Ledger Clerk

• Sales Ledger Clerk

These roles exist across nearly every industry, offering you flexibility and variety in your career path.

Many learners also use this qualification as a stepping stone to becoming a freelance bookkeeper or setting up their own bookkeeping practice. With AAT’s licensing options, you can register as an AAT Licensed Bookkeeper (AATQB) and offer services to clients independently.

After completing Level 3, you can:

• Progress to the AAT Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting and work towards full membership (MAAT)

• Expand into related areas such as payroll, tax, or financial management