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How much does it cost to become an accountant?
Embarking on a career in accountancy can be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make, both personally and professionally. However, like many career paths, becoming qualified can require financial investment. At Eagle, we aim to make the journey as accessible and affordable as possible. Let’s break down the costs involved and compare them to alternative routes, such as university, while highlighting the potential return on investment (ROI) for aspiring accountants.
The costs of becoming an AAT qualified accountant through Eagle
1. Course fees
With Eagle, you can complete your AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualifications through a flexible and affordable study programme. You get access to ALL levels in one subscription, our plan options include:
Monthly – £45 per month
Quarterly – £120 per quarter
Yearly – £430 per year
It takes, on average, 6 to 18 months to complete each level – let’s say 12 months for each of the three levels – total 36 months, or three years.
Which would work out as:
Monthly subscription = £1,620
Quarterly subscription = £1,440
Yearly Subscription = £1,290
2. Total course fees
Three years of studies starts from £1,290 , you could save more depending on how long you take to complete the qualification – but this gives you a rough idea.
3. Additional costs
- AAT membership fees (payable after qualification): £187 per year. Fee information on AAT website.
- AAT registration fee: £46-£235. Registration fee information on AAT website.
- Exam fees: £38-£66 per exam (approximately 10 exams across all levels). Exam fee information on AAT website.
- Study materials: Included in Eagle’s course fees, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed.
- Estimated total additional costs: approximately £1,000.
4. Total investment
Completing your AAT qualification with Eagle typically costs around £2,500-£3,700.
Comparing costs: accountancy qualification vs. university
If you choose to study accountancy at university, the costs are significantly higher:
- University tuition fees: £9,250 per year in the UK. Over a standard three-year course, this totals £27,750.
- Living expenses: An additional £12,000 – £15,000 per year for accommodation, food, and other essentials. Over three years, this adds up to £36,000 – £45,000.
Total university costs: £63,750 – £72,750.
By comparison, pursuing accountancy qualifications through Eagle Education costs only a fraction – less than 10% of the cost of a university degree.
Return on Investment (ROI): pay and career growth
1. Starting salaries
- An AAT-qualified accountant can expect a starting salary of £23,000 – £32,500*.
- University graduates may start at a similar level but often have higher debt to repay.
2. Earning potential
- Progressing to Chartered qualifications such as ACCA or CIMA can boost earnings to £40,000 – £60,000+** within a few years.
- Experienced Chartered Accountants often earn £70,000+, with top-tier roles like CFO offering six-figure salaries.
3. Career flexibility and stability
The demand for qualified accountants is consistently high, offering excellent job security and opportunities across industries worldwide.
Why choose Eagle?
- Flexible study plans: Study at your own pace, balancing learning with work or family commitments.
- Supportive resources: Access expert tutors, tailored study materials, and a supportive community.
- Affordable costs: Gain industry-recognised qualifications without the financial burden of university debt.
- Quick career entry: Start your career sooner, often earning while you learn through apprenticeships or part-time roles.
The Bottom Line
Becoming an accountant with Eagle offers an affordable and efficient route to a rewarding career. Affordability has always been at the heart of what we do. That’s why, even as costs have increased, our prices have remained the same since the launch of our subscriptions back in 2019.
While university degrees are a valuable option for some, the AAT pathway provides an excellent alternative that significantly reduces costs while maximising earning potential and career flexibility.
Invest in your future today with Eagle and take the first step towards a thriving career in accountancy. Ready to get started? Check out our AAT courses and how we can help you achieve your goals.
*https://www.totaljobs.com/salary-checker/average-aat-salary
**https://www.totaljobs.com/salary-checker/average-chartered-accountant-salary