Skipping level 2

sunbeam

Hi,

I've some experience with bookkeeping, having done Solicitors Accounts a number of years ago and found it really easy. I'm now thinking about changing careers from law to accountancy and I've decided to self study as I'm very short on funds. As it seems to be quite common, I'm going to skip the level 2 exams and just do level 3 to save money. Are there any areas I need to focus on before I start level 3? I've read mixed things about what it's useful to know. Would it be correct to think that I can start learning level 3 if I've just looked at the 2 bookkeeping books?

Thanks

BenA

If funds are an issue, have you considered a 24+ loan?

https://www.gov.uk/advanced-learner-loan/how-to-apply

Personally I would not recommend self study because the support you get from tutors and even other students really helps.

Regarding the fact of whether to skip level 2 really does depend on your knowledge. The biggest question would be, what is your knowledge of double entry? You may know how to process an purchase invoice to a piece of accounting software but do you know what effect it has on the VAT control account or the SLCA? Understanding double-entry is everything on Level 3 and it also has a big part to play in level 4. If you do not understand the basics you probably shouldn't be skipping level 2 and even more so be self studying

Please bare in mind these are just my opinions. Someone many post on your thread who has do exactly what you a proposing.

Good luck for which ever route you take.

sunbeam

Thanks for the response.

Unfortunately those loans aren't available to me because I don't live in England. I'm pretty confident in my ability to self study it anyway.

I've picked up a couple of books from ebay, so I'll see how it goes and try the Skill Checker again once I've had a look through.

annemarie

Hi,
I skipped level 2 and went straight to level 3. The training provider made me do an online test to see if they thought I had the ability to do so. This seems quite standard so I just purchased the relevant level 2 books from Osborne Books and read through them. That was sufficient to answer the entry level questions for level 3. I am now half way through level 4 and hoping to finish this year. I have done everything through distance learning so it can be done!

You might want to think about starting from September when the new qualifications will be launched to avoid having to resit any tests. You can find more information on the AAT website. Good luck!