AAT Level 1Award in Bookkeeping (SCQF Level 5)

Choosing the right AAT course depends on your current experience and career goals.

• AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping is the best place to start if you’re completely new to bookkeeping or finance and looking to gain confidence in the basics. 
• AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping is ideal if you have little industry experience but are ready to develop core bookkeeping skills, including double-entry bookkeeping.
• AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping is suited to learners who already have a solid understanding of bookkeeping and are confident with the topics covered in AAT Level 2.

Alternatively, you can study the AAT Level 2 & 3 Combined Course in Bookkeeping if you want to fast-track your career with a two-in-one AAT qualification.  

However, if you’re interested in a broader financial skillset or want access to a wider range of finance and accounting roles, one of our full accounting qualifications may be a better fit:

• AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting
• AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting
• AAT Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting

Need help deciding? You can explore exactly what’s covered at each level in our free downloadable AAT course guides, or speak to our Course Advisors for personalised advice.

The main difference between AAT Level 1 and AAT Level 2 in Bookkeeping is the level of knowledge you gain and the types of roles you’re prepared for.

The AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping is designed for complete beginners, introducing you to the fundamentals of bookkeeping, including basic terminology and how financial transactions are recorded.

On its own, AAT Level 1 typically supports junior or trainee roles, often with supervision.

• Trainee Bookkeeper
• Junior Accounts Assistant 
• Finance Assistant (entry-level)
• Bookkeeping Assistant
• Junior Accounts Clerk 

The AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping develops practical, job-ready bookkeeping skills, including double-entry bookkeeping. This AAT qualification is often the minimum level employers look for in bookkeeping candidates. 

Jobs after AAT Level 2 typically include:

• Junior Bookkeeper
• Bookkeeper
• Accounts Assistant
• Finance Assistant
• Purchase Ledger Clerk
• Sales Ledger Clerk

In a nutshell, AAT Level 1 helps you get started, while AAT Level 2 prepares you for more responsibility and a wider range of bookkeeping roles.

If you already have some bookkeeping knowledge or experience, you may be able to skip AAT Level 1 and start at AAT Level 2. However, we recommend AAT Level 1 if you’re completely new to finance and want to build a strong foundation first.

Yes, it’s possible to work as a bookkeeper without formal qualifications, particularly in small businesses or entry-level roles. However, having a recognised qualification can make a big difference when it comes to finding work, building confidence, and advancing your career.

Many employers look for bookkeepers who can demonstrate accurate, reliable financial skills and an understanding of best practice. Studying an AAT qualification, like the AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping, helps you develop those practical skills and shows employers that you’re serious about working in finance.

Qualifications from the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) are widely recognised across the UK and often improve your employability and open up more opportunities for career progression than relying on experience alone.

In short, while qualifications aren’t always essential, they can give you a clear advantage (especially if you’re just starting out or changing careers!).

The AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping is designed as a starting point on the AAT pathway, helping you take your first steps into finance or build the confidence to progress.

After completing AAT Level 1, you'll qualify for entry-level roles, primarily focused on single-entry bookkeeping, including:

• Trainee Bookkeeper
• Junior Accounts Assistant 
• Junior Finance or Accounts Administrator
• Office Administrator (with finance duties)
• Bookkeeping Assistant

However, since AAT Level 1 is an introductory qualification, many students progress to the online AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping to unlock a wider range of job opportunities and earning potential.

This is because employers often look for AAT Level 2 (and above), as these qualifications offer students the practical skills employers are looking for, including double-entry bookkeeping and basic financial processes. 

Right away! When you enrol, you’ll be able to log in to your course and get started within an hour.

There are no set start dates or study schedules – everything is shaped around you.

As an ICS Learn student, you'll always have the support you need to succeed. From the moment you enrol, you'll gain access to:

• Our all-in-one virtual learning platform, mystudyspace
• Access to all of your interactive online course materials
• Online Induction Session and AI-led videos
• FREE online study planners 
• Personalised tutor support
• Access to our Resource Library, full of tools, tips and guidance
• Our friendly Student Services team to help you with non-academic questions

You'll also have lifetime access to our Career Hub, which offers you thousands of resources to help you impress employers, master critical business skills, and build your dream career. This includes:

• A CV and cover letter builder
• An interview simulator
• An elevator pitch builder
• Career and work psychology assessments
• In-depth industry and employer profiles
• 350+ employer films with practical advice from hiring managers
• 1000+ short courses, articles and videos on key career skills like negotiating a raise and leading a team

You can take a sneak peek at the Career Hub and sign up for free today.

You’ll be assessed for your AAT Level 1 qualification through one computer-based assessment designed to test your understanding in practical, real-world scenarios. 

This exam is set and marked by AAT and takes place either online via remote invigilation or at an AAT exam centre near you.

We specialise in flexible, 100% online learning designed to fit around your life. Whether you're working full-time, caring for family, or just need more control over your studies, we give you the freedom to learn at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.

Here’s why thousands of students choose ICS Learn every year:

• 24/7 course access so you can study anytime, on any device
• Personalised tutor support from subject experts
• Flexible payment plans to spread the cost
• Trusted by students in over 100+ countries 
• Career-ready qualifications recognised by employers and universities

With ICS Learn, you’re in control of your education — and your future.

Enrol online or get in touch with our Course Advisors today! 

They’ll talk through your experience, education and ambitions to make sure you’re choosing the right course, then get you enrolled with a flexible payment plan.

You can also verify that your course is budget-friendly when you use our handy affordability calculator. 

If you have any disabilities which you think might affect your studies or assessments, please tell your Course Advisor before you enrol so we can advise you on whether reasonable adjustments can be made to accommodate your needs.