Study Tips

Studying for the AIA professional qualification requires more than just reading—it’s about understanding, applying, and demonstrating your knowledge at the right level. Here’s how to make the most of your preparation:

Focus on Learning Outcomes

Each exam paper is designed around specific Learning Outcomes (LOs). These define what you’re expected to know and do. Make sure you:

• Read the LOs in the syllabus for your paper.
• Understand the level of proficiency required.
• Use the command words to guide your responses (see the Levels of Proficiency and Levels of Learning document).

Understand the Question Structure

• Questions are designed to balance knowledge and application based on the level of the exam (Foundation, Professional 1, or Professional 2).
• They cover the full range of Prescribed Subjects (PSs) and align with International Education Standards (IESs)—see PQ Programme Section 3.2 for a summary.
• The number and type of questions vary by paper, so review the Syllabus Structure to know what to expect.

Prepare Strategically

• Use past papers to familiarise yourself with question formats and time management.
• Focus on demonstrating your understanding of the LOs, not just memorising content.
• Plan your study time around the areas with the highest weighting or complexity.

Case Study Questions

Case study questions are in-depth and often span multiple screens. They present a complex situation with several issues to analyse. You’ll need to:

• Identify the key components of the case.
• Analyse the issues and how they relate to each other.
• Distinguish between relevant and irrelevant information.
• Use the ‘Exhibit’ feature to access supporting material.

At the professional levels, you’re expected to demonstrate critical thinking—evaluating evidence, identifying arguments, and drawing well-reasoned conclusions. At higher levels, you should go further by forming a new position based on your analysis.

Tip: Always read the question requirements carefully and respond in the context of the case.

Scenario Questions

Scenario questions are shorter and more focused than full case studies. They still require analysis but typically deal with fewer or less complex issues. These questions often take a problem-solving approach, helping you apply your knowledge to real-life situations.

What to Expect

• Case studies and scenarios may use real or fictional data.
• The mark allocation varies—check the Syllabus Overview for each paper.
• Questions are designed to reflect the level of complexity appropriate to your stage of study.

Recommended Reading

AIA provides a list of recommended texts to help you improve your:

• Study techniques.
• Critical thinking skills.
• Exam performance.

Effective time management is key to exam success. Each question is linked to a specific number of marks, and your time should be allocated accordingly.

General rule

For a 3-hour exam (180 minutes), you should allow 1.8 minutes per mark.

Example breakdown:

To calculate your time per question, simply multiply the marks by 1.8.

Sample Paper: Financial Accounting & Reporting 2 (Professional 2 Level)

• Question 1 (Scenario, 40 marks): 72 minutes.
• Questions 2, 3, and 4 (20 marks each): 36 minutes each.
• Total: 180 minutes.

Some candidates choose to reserve 10–15 minutes for reviewing answers or flagged questions. Use the ‘Navigation’ button to revisit flagged items.

Practical Tips

• If you reach the time limit for a question (e.g. 72 minutes for a 40-mark question), move on and return later if time allows.
• Attempt every question—even partial answers can earn marks.
• When practising, simulate exam conditions to build speed and confidence.
• Use model answers and tutor feedback to improve your technique.
• Be reflective—identify gaps and adjust your study plan accordingly.
• Reach out to the study support team or your tutor for guidance.

Final Checks

• Review your answers for clarity and structure—especially for case study questions.
• Make sure you understand the online exam format and system requirements.
• Visit the Online Exams page for setup guidance and try the onscreen sample assessment.

Online exams require a slightly different approach to traditional exams. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

Before the Exam

• Prepare your exam space: Most papers are closed book, so make sure your room is quiet and free from notes, books, or other materials.
• Log in early: Give yourself time to settle and relax before the exam begins.
• Take a comfort break: You’re only allowed one break during the exam, so plan ahead.

During the Exam

• Manage your time: Use the onscreen timer to stay on track and allocate time based on marks.
• Show your workings: Include calculations and reasoning in your answer boxes—workings in the onscreen Note Pad won’t be marked.
• Use the Chat Box for help: If you experience technical issues, reach out via the onscreen Chat Box.

Practice and Preparation

• Answer practice questions: Build your confidence and exam technique by working under timed conditions.
• Stay current: Keep up to date with accountancy standards and issues that may be examined.
• Use AIA resources: Visit the Online Exams page and log in to My AIA for guidance, system checks, and sample assessments.

Practice, Practice, Practice

The more you practise, the more confident and prepared you’ll feel on exam day. AIA offers a range of tools to help you build your skills and improve your performance.

• Self-review questions: Type your answers and compare them with model responses. You can attempt these as many times as you like—perfect for reinforcing your learning.
• Tutor-marked questions: Submit your answers through the AIA platform and receive personalised feedback from a tutor to help you improve.
• Automated feedback: For Foundation-level questions, you’ll receive instant feedback to help you track your progress.