|
AAT Level |
No. of Exams |
Includes Synoptic? |
|
Level 2 Certificate in Accounting |
4 (including synoptic) |
Yes |
|
Level 3 Diploma in Accounting |
4 |
No |
|
Level 4 Professional Diploma |
3 core + 2 optional |
No |
AAT Exams
Planning your AAT journey? You’re in the right place.
Understanding the AAT exams (how many there are, when you can take them, and what’s covered at each level) is essential to studying smart and progressing fast.
This guide breaks it all down..
How many exams are there in the different AAT levels?
The number of AAT exams depends on the qualification you choose. In total across all of the AAT professional qualification there are:
4 exams + 1 synoptic at Level 2 Certificate in Accounting
4 exams at Level 3
3 core + 2 optional exams at Level 4
So, if you're wondering how many AAT exams there are, the answer depends on your chosen level.
Let’s break it down.
Level 2 Certificate in Accounting
The AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting covers a wider range of topics and includes four exam units, plus a synoptic assessment that pulls it all together.
Business Environment Synoptic Assessment
Tests knowledge across multiple topics: a final check to make sure everything clicks.
Introduction to Bookkeeping
Foundational principles to get you started.
Principles of Bookkeeping Controls
Ensures you're confident handling reconciliations and accounting software.
Principles of Costing
Introduces cost behaviour, overheads, and job costing. Great for business-minded learners.
AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting
At AAT Level 3, you'll go deeper into financial reporting and management accounting. If you're asking how many exams at AAT Level 3?, here’s your answer: four.
Business Awareness
Covers business types, ethics, and how finance supports success.
Financial Accounting: Preparing Financial Statements
Helps you produce basic profit & loss accounts and balance sheets.
Management Accounting Techniques
Equips you to budget, monitor performance, and control costs.
Tax Processes for Business
Covers VAT rules, returns, and compliance for UK businesses.
Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting
This is the final stage of the AAT journey. And if you're searching “AAT Level 4 how many exams?”, here’s the breakdown:
3 mandatory exams
2 optional exams (from a choice of 5)
Core Exams
Applied Management Accounting – Learn to analyse financial performance and make strategic recommendations.
Drafting and Interpreting Financial Statements – Prepare limited company accounts to international standards.
Internal Accounting Systems and Controls – Evaluate internal controls and make recommendations for improvement.
Optional Exams (choose two)
Business Tax
Cash and Financial Management
Credit and Debt Management
Audit and Assurance
Personal Tax
Final Thoughts
So, how many AAT exams are there in total?
Here’s a recap:
Knowing the structure lets you plan your time, book smarter, and study more efficiently.
By studying AAT with BPP, you’ll always be one step ahead. You’ll have access to expert support, mock assessments, and performance-driven learning that helps you pass the first time.
Prepare for your future in accounting and finance
Explore BPP’s AAT courses and apprenticeships and start your journey towards a globally recognised qualification today.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The AAT offers both remote invigilation and in-centre exams, giving you flexibility in how you take your assessments. Remote invigilation allows you to take exams from home, while in-centre exams are taken at approved test centres.