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Accountancy is open to people of all ages. Total commitment is required along with good time management skills because to become a fully qualified accountant it will take approximately around 3 years (up to 5 depending on entry route) to complete the ACA (Associate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants).

Accountancy qualifications can be achieved from 6 organisational bodies within the UK, which includes ICAEW ( The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and also the CIPFA (Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy ' recognized Internationally). .Registration with ICAEW is required before being able to take assessments.

It would help to have a degree along with Maths and English. Usually, 2 A Levels or 3 GCSE (or equivalent) are required in order to train as an accountant. Also a candidate with no formal experience can enroll on a full-time NVQ course at a training center run by ICAEW, which are situated throughout the UK. An initial interview is required to ensure the student is literate and numerate. Upon successful completion of the level 2, students' progress to a level 3 (additional fees will be charged).

The ACA consists of different levels. There are a total of 14 exams, (12 professional stage and 2 advanced stage) The qualification involves IPD (Initial Professional Development), work experience (450 days minimum), exams and ethics training along with a training contract ( which is an agreement between the employer and candidate, which is required by ICAEW in order that the student receives practical training).

Employers usually cover the training costs if a student has secured employment based on a training contract (agreement between employer and employee). If the employer is a training company the fees will vary depending on how much the employer is willing to cover and, of course, the tuition provider.

Fees payable at the Professional stage will be around £60 - £80 each. The advanced stage is £155 - £240. On top of this there is the cost for the learning materials which starts at £20 and can go up to £130.

International students who wish to study in the UK will need to make an application for a permit.

Qualifications for accountancy are recognized worldwide because it's one of the oldest professions.