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What Qualifications Do You Need for an Accounting Apprenticeship

It’s time to focus on the many types of apprenticeships available and what qualifications you need for an accounting apprenticeship to become a fully certified chartered accountant.

What qualifications do you need for an accounting apprenticeship? 

Intermediate Accounting Apprenticeships (Level 2)

An intermediate accounting apprenticeship (also known as a level 2 apprenticeship) is equivalent to 5 GCSEs with grades ranging from 9 to 4 (A* to C). This intermediate accounting apprentice would complete a Level 2 Diploma in Accounting and a Level 2 Diploma in Financial and Management Accounting.

This apprenticeship can lead to becoming a:

  • sales ledger clerk
  • purchase ledger clerk
  • finance assistant
  • credit control clerk
  • cashier
  • accounts clerk
  • accounts assistant

Advanced Apprenticeships in Accounting (Level 3)

An intermediate apprenticeship is also known as a Level 3 apprenticeship. They are interchangeable. Two A-levels are equivalent to a higher-level apprenticeship. For example, an apprentice who completes this will be awarded a Level 3 Diploma in Accounting and a Level 3 Diploma in Financial and Management Accounting.

This apprenticeship can lead to becoming a:

  • trainee accounting technician
  • assistant accountant

Higher Apprenticeships in Accounting (Level 4)

Two A-levels or an alternative certification are usually required as entry criteria for a higher apprenticeship. Any accounting apprentice who completes a higher apprenticeship will earn a Level 4 Diploma in Accounting and a Level 4 Diploma in Business Skills.

This apprenticeship can lead to becoming a:

  • accounts manager
  • accounts technician

Check out the Financial Skills Partnership for a comprehensive accounting apprenticeship scheme at the intermediate, higher, and advanced stages.

Updated on September 2, 2022

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