AAT Level 2Certificate in Bookkeeping (SCQF Level 6)

To get the most out of this course, you’ll need a good grasp of English and Maths. We recommend at least GCSE Level 4 (or equivalent).

You'll also need access to Microsoft Word and Excel throughout your studies – essential tools for building your bookkeeping expertise.

If English isn’t your first language, we suggest an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent to help you feel confident with the course materials. However, we're happy to assess your case on an individual basis. 

Please note that if you’ve been declared bankrupt or have a criminal record, AAT may not accept you as a member, which could prevent you from sitting your exams. It’s best to check with AAT directly for guidance on this.

Your AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping is fully online. You'll study 2 units:

• Introduction to Bookkeeping
• Principles of Bookkeeping Controls

For full details of what you’ll learn in each unit, download your free AAT course guide today. 

You'll sit 2 exams in total. You can choose to sit your exams via remote invigilation or at an AAT exam centre near you.

• Introduction to Bookkeeping (90 minutes) 
• Principles of Bookkeeping Controls (90 minutes) 

You’ll also complete online mock tests throughout your course to ensure you’re well-prepared for your exams.

Please note that your exam fees and AAT registration fees are not included in your course cost. However, if you'd like to bundle your registration fee into your overall course cost, reach out to one of our course advisors today – they'll be happy to help! 

Bookkeeping involves accurately recording and organising a business’s day-to-day financial transactions. This includes tasks such as:

• Managing invoices
• Tracking income and expenses
• Maintaining ledgers
• Reconciling bank statements

Since every organisation relies on accurate financial records, bookkeeping plays a vital role in keeping businesses running smoothly. It's also a popular entry point into a career in finance.

Studying an online AAT bookkeeping qualification helps you develop practical, job-ready skills that employers value.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or want to formalise the experience you already have, AAT qualifications can support entry into junior finance roles and provide a clear route for your progression.

With flexible online learning, expert tutor support, and a qualification designed to fit around your life, ICS Learn makes it easier to build confidence and take your first step into bookkeeping.

The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) is the UK’s leading professional body offering skills-based accountancy and finance training.

AAT's globally recognised qualifications provide a strong foundation for careers in bookkeeping, finance, and accountancy, making them highly valued by employers across industries.

With over 130,000 members and students worldwide, AAT supports individuals at all stages of their accounting careers. Many AAT graduates go on to become chartered accountants, progressing to further qualifications with bodies such as ACCA, CIMA, or ICAEW.

If you're looking to advance your accounting career, our flexible, online AAT courses allow you to study at your own pace, on your own terms.

Yes, ICS Learn is an AAT-approved training provider! 

Our AAT courses meet the high standards set by the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) for quality, support, and student success. This means that when you study with us, you can be confident that you're getting expert-led training that’s fully recognised by both employers and AAT.

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. These include: 

• 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.