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is studying the ACCA/ACA/AAT exams by yourself worth it?

im currently working fulltime in retail and struggling to find a graduate financial job with a 2.2 degree and it's tough.

i was thinking of passing some exams to better increase my chances of getting a finance job but reading this:

http://forums.aat.org.uk/showthread.php?27955-AAT-BUT-NO-JOB-IN-Accountancy&highlight=graduate

makes me wonder if it actually worth going through this route?

has anyone taken the exams without having a financial job? how did it work out in the end?
Reply 1
Avatar for monk_keys
monk_keys
16
Everything you do will increase your chances of getting a better job but nothing will guarantee it.

What sort of job are you looking for and what's your degree?

Important to keep in mind that AAT and ACA/ ACCA are two different types of qualifications. ACA and ACCA offer chartered status and is used by all the largest accountants (along with CA); you are either qualififed or partially qualified. AAT is more common within smaller accountancy firms and has multiple levels that can be completed.
I am studying AAT, and I have back-up (my dad's firm). I am getting all the practical exposure I need from my family firm. However, I think, jobs and studying are two different things. You can study for accounting while holding a job in sales. These days, volunteering is also counted as experience.

Increase the chances of getting employed in accounting by being a professional certified accountant. If you are new to accounting, then start off with AAT and progress on to either ACCA or CIMA. One advice I have always given to anyone starting off an alternative career is: never let go off of you current job till you are a certified professional. This will keep your income inflow stable you can also learn at the same time.
Im studying for the C FAB qualification as a non-numerical undergrad. I think it will show commitment to career as a competency as well as possibly leading to exemptions. I spoke to a partner who said that one of their trainee goes on many science companies they audit as she has a bioscience degree.

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