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AIA Professional Qualification: Accountancy
The AIA Professional Qualification in Accountancy is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding needed to succeed in today’s global financial environment. Developed in collaboration with employers, academics, and industry experts, this qualification prepares you for a dynamic career in accountancy, business, or finance.
- Globally recognised and respected
- Developed with real-world business needs in mind
- Combines technical excellence with practical application
- Emphasises professional ethics and conduct
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Structure
The qualification is structured across three levels, with 10 exams in total. Exams are held in May and November each year.
Foundation Level
Subjects
Financial Accounting
Management Accounting
Corporate Governance & Audit
Business Management
Exam
A single, multiple choice, 3 hour online exam covering all four components.
Exemptions
Exemptions for prior learning are available and further details can be found on the Exemptions Database.
Award: Certificate in Accountancy
Once you have passed the AIA Foundation Level integrated exam you will be awarded the AIA Certificate in Accountancy.
This Certificate is attainable in 6-12 months depending on prior learning.
Professional Level 1
Subjects
Financial Accounting and Reporting 1
Principles of Governance and Audit
Management Accounting
Business Law for Accountants
Taxation (UK, HK and China versions are available)
Professional Level 2
Subjects
Financial Accounting and Reporting 2
Developments in Assurance and Accountability* (Islamic version is available)
Business and Financial Management*
Ethics and Professional Practice
Multi-disciplinary Case Study
Qualifying as an Accountant
To become a qualified accountant with AIA, you’ll need to complete a combination of study, exams, and Initial Professional Development (IPD). This includes gaining three years of relevant, supervised work experience, which can be completed before, during, or after your exams.
On qualifying, you will:
Become an AIA member
Enjoy full member benefits. The AIA designatory letters after your name are a mark of distinction, showing employers, clients, and businesses that you’ve completed a professional qualification and uphold industry standards.
Demonstrate your commitment to ethics
The final stage of the AIA qualification includes a dedicated Ethics paper, highlighting your understanding of the ethical responsibilities expected of professional accountants.
Receive lifelong support
AIA provides students with a wide range of study resources to help you succeed in your exams. Once qualified, you’ll gain access to expert guidance and information to support your career at every stage.
Continue developing your skills
AIA offers ongoing opportunities to expand your knowledge, from CPD courses to degree pathways and MBA programmes. You’ll be supported to grow professionally and stay ahead in a changing industry.
Entry Requirements
You can begin your journey with a minimum of 2 A Levels or equivalent.
Already have a degree or professional qualification? You may be eligible for exemptions, helping you qualify faster.
Don’t Have the Entry Requirements?
We’re working hard to ensure that there is a pathway to membership for everyone that wants a career in accountancy.
For those without any relevant existing qualifications, you can take the AIA Certificate in Business Finance before progressing on to the professional accountancy qualification.
Getting Started
Explore your options: Review AIA’s range of qualifications and decide which pathway aligns with your goals.
Check for exemptions: Use the AIA exemptions database to see if your previous learning qualifies you for exemptions.
Choose your study route: Study independently through the AIA Achieve Academy or with the support of an approved Study Provider.
Register as a student: Join AIA and gain access to resources, support, and a global professional network.
Accountancy Scholarship
The AIA Accountancy Scholarship is part of our commitment to making the accountancy profession accessible to everyone. We believe opportunity should be based on merit, not background.
Each year, we offer a number of scholarships to outstanding candidates who show dedication to achieving the AIA Recognised Professional Qualification. These scholarships provide financial support to help you take the next step in your professional journey.
To find out more, contact us at:
📧 join@aiaworldwide.com
Prospectus
AIA Professional Qualification: Accountancy
