Certified Accounting Technician

ACCA's Certified Accounting Technician Qualification (CAT) has a combination of study and practical experience , designed to build your knowledge in accountancy, IT and management.

Whilst you will learn the ins and outs of double entry bookkeeping and, as you progress, advanced accounting concepts, a fully qualified Certified Accounting Technician will also be trained to manage themselves and their departments. Accounting Technicians will also have an understanding of the law as it relates to company accounts.

CAT Levels

CAT Introductory Level

The Introductory level of the CAT qualification is made up of Paper 1, Recording financial transactions and Paper 2, Information for management control. Students should anticipate taking around 160 hours of study time to complete the Introductory level of CAT.

CAT Intermediate Level

The Intermediate level of the CAT qualification is made up of Paper 3, Maintaining financial records and Paper 4, Accounting for Costs. Students should anticipate taking around 400 hours of study time to complete the Intermediate level of CAT.

CAT Advanced Level

The Intermediate level of the CAT qualification is made up of

• Paper 5, Manageing People and Systems
• Paper 6, Drafting Financial Statements
• Paper 7, Planning Control and Performance,
• Paper 8, Implementing Audit Procedures
• Paper 9, Preparing Taxation Computations

Students should anticipate taking around 1000 hours of study time to complete the Advanced level of CAT.

Certified Accounting Technician (CAT)

This is the ideal qualification for you if you are employed in an accounting support role, or looking for your first job in accounting. Being part qualified will also help you get your first accounting job.Many businesses employ accounting technicians to do the work that used to be done by accountants. Salary levels are good – usually up to £25K for fully qualified CAT staff. The CAT also acts as a stepping stone to professional accounting qualifications, for example giving you entry to the ACCA Professional Stage with exemption from Part 1. CAT is recognised globally and within the UK vocational qualifications framework.

More Info About CAT

Whether you wish to start a career in finance, gain recognition for the wealth of skills and experience you have already achieved, or want accelerated progression to the ACCA Qualification and a more senior position in accountancy, ACCA's Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) qualification will help you towards your career of choice.
The CAT qualification will provide you with a solid foundation in finance and accounting. You will learn all the necessary technical skills and knowledge required to perform an accounting-support role. And after passing the CAT exams, you’ll be able to gain exemptions from the ACCA Qualification and be one step closer to professional status.
To achieve CAT status you will need to complete a set of exams and one-year's practical experience in the workplace. The CAT qualification is flexible and allows you to take control of how and where you study. With a range of internationally relevant syllabus options and the choice of distance learning, face-to-face or self study, the qualification allows you to study at your own pace and achieve a work-life balance that suits you.