What could you do after AAT?

After completing the AAT qualification, there are several paths you could pursue to further your career and professional development. And there are plenty of job roles you could go into. Here’s a quick run down of things to consider once AAT qualified.

Gain practical experience

Consider seeking employment in roles such as bookkeeper, accounts assistant, or accounting technician to gain practical experience in accounting and finance.

Further education

You might consider pursuing further education to enhance your skills and qualifications. This could include obtaining a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, or pursuing professional qualifications such as ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) or CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants).

Specialise

Determine if there’s a specific area of accounting or finance that interests you, such as taxation, auditing, management accounting, or forensic accounting. You could then pursue specialised training or qualifications in that area to advance your career.

Networking

Build and maintain a professional network within the accounting and finance industry. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with professionals in your field both online and offline.

Career progression

Once you’ve gained experience and further qualifications, you can aim for higher-level roles such as financial controller, finance manager, or even pursue opportunities in consultancy or entrepreneurship.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Stay up to date with the latest developments in accounting standards, regulations, and technology through CPD activities. This could include attending workshops, seminars, or online courses to enhance your skills and knowledge.

Explore international opportunities

Accounting skills are in demand worldwide, so consider exploring opportunities for international work or study to broaden your experience and perspectives.

Remember, the path you choose will depend on your interests, career goals, and personal circumstances. It’s essential to continuously assess your goals and make informed decisions about your professional development journey.

What about job roles?

There are plenty of roles to choose from once you’re AAT qualified. Here’s some examples.

Bookkeeper: As a bookkeeper, you would be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records for a company or organisation. This includes recording financial transactions, reconciling accounts, and producing financial statements.

Accounts Assistant: In this role, you would provide support to the accounting team by processing invoices, handling payroll tasks, preparing financial reports, and assisting with other day-to-day accounting duties.

Accounting Technician: Accounting technicians play a vital role in assisting accountants with tasks such as preparing tax returns, conducting audits, analysing financial data, and assisting with budgeting and forecasting.

Payroll Administrator: Payroll administrators are responsible for ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time. This involves calculating wages, deductions, and taxes, as well as maintaining payroll records and resolving any payroll-related issues.

Finance Assistant: Finance assistants provide support to the finance department by performing tasks such as processing expense claims, reconciling bank statements, assisting with budget preparation, and generating financial reports.

Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk: Accounts payable/receivable clerks are responsible for processing payments to suppliers and invoices from customers. This includes verifying invoices, reconciling accounts, and resolving any billing discrepancies.

Assistant Management Accountant: Assistant management accountants work closely with management accountants to analyse financial data, prepare management reports, assist with budgeting and forecasting, and provide financial insights to support decision-making.

Tax Assistant: Tax assistants assist with preparing tax returns, calculating tax liabilities, researching tax laws and regulations, and communicating with tax authorities on behalf of clients or employers.

Financial Analyst: Financial analysts analyse financial data to help businesses make informed investment decisions. This could involve evaluating financial statements, performing financial modelling, conducting market research, and preparing investment recommendations.

Audit Assistant: Audit assistants support auditors in examining financial records, assessing internal controls, and ensuring compliance with auditing standards and regulations. This role may involve conducting fieldwork, testing procedures, and preparing audit reports.

These are just a few examples of the job roles you could pursue with an AAT qualification. Depending on your interests, skills, and career goals, there are many opportunities for growth and advancement within the accounting and finance industry.

Interested in AAT, or your next step?

If you’re at the beginning of your accounting career, have a look at our AAT pages for more information about this great qualification. If you’re looking for your next steps, check out our ACCA and CIMA pages to see if they’re right for you.