What A Levels for Accounting? (Based on Finance Degree Entry Requirements)

Aspiring to become an Accountant?

The accounting field offers a dynamic and challenging career path, integral to the operational and strategic framework of every business entity. From ensuring compliance with financial regulations to advising on financial planning, accountants play a critical role.

Aside from personal preferences, accounting is also appealing thanks to its professional prospects. With an average salary of £49,035 and hundreds of thousands of open positions yearly, those looking for a stable and well-paying career can find an interesting alternative in accounting.

The journey to becoming a part of this rewarding profession begins with A-level selections, where subjects like Mathematics, Economics, and Business Studies become the pillars on which future learning is built.

Common FAQs (and our tutor's answers)

How hard is a career in Accounting?

Accounting, like any professional career, presents its challenges, including the need for ongoing learning and adaptation to regulatory changes. However, it also offers intellectual satisfaction, competitive salaries, and ample opportunities for advancement, as accounting is necessary in many aspects of life. Moreover, those who possess strong organisational skills, integrity, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly will find accounting to be a particularly good fit.

These traits, combined with the right educational background, pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career in accounting. Additionally, there are several different ways to become an accountant. Whether you want to enter university or get ACCA or CIMA certifications, you get to choose the option that suits you best.

How much are Accountants paid in the UK?

Accounting professionals in the UK enjoy promising salary prospects, with figures ranging based on experience, specialisation, and geographical location. The average salary for an accounting position is around £45,000, with potential growth to £80,000 and beyond with experience. Senior positions in large firms or industries may offer six-figure incomes.

Can you become an Accountant without GCSEs?

While traditional pathways into accounting typically start with GCSEs, alternative routes such as apprenticeships or qualifications from professional bodies like ACCA provide opportunities for those without GCSEs to enter the profession. Keep in mind that passing or resitting GCSEs doesn't have to be difficult if you follow the right indications and take courses that adapt to your needs and preferences.

Do you need A Levels to become an Accountant?

A Levels significantly contribute to the foundational knowledge required in accounting, as they are the mainstream method to prove your capabilities. Most universities require students to hold 3 A-levels, but 4 can be a nice-to-have.

Looking for other career options? Find what are the best A-levels for Law

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What A Levels do you need for Accounting?

Core subjects

Mathematics

Mathematics is a cornerstone A-Level for those looking to forge a career in accounting. It equips students with the ability to approach complex problems logically and develop solutions with precision, skills that are directly transferable to accounting practices.

Through the study of mathematics, students gain a solid foundation in calculus, algebra, and statistics, enhancing their analytical capabilities and preparing them for the numerical nature of accounting work.

Do you need maths for Accounting?

Indeed, a strong grasp of mathematics is essential in the accounting field. The principles of accounting rest on a foundation of mathematical concepts, from basic arithmetic used in bookkeeping to the more complex calculations required for financial analysis and forecasting. While advanced mathematical theories may not be applied daily, the logical thinking and problem-solving skills developed through studying mathematics are invaluable to a successful accountant.

Economics

Economics is a pivotal A-Level for aspiring accountants, providing them with a broad understanding of how economies operate. This subject delves into macroeconomic and microeconomic theories, offering insights into economic policies, market structures, and financial institutions that play a crucial role in the business environment.

An understanding of economics enables future accountants to grasp the external factors affecting businesses and economies, enriching their capability to analyse financial situations and advise clients or employers effectively.

Business

Business Studies as an A-Level subject lays a practical groundwork for those entering the accounting profession. It covers a range of topics essential for understanding the operation and management of businesses, including finance, marketing, organisational structure, and strategic planning. This knowledge is indispensable for accountants, who often work closely with businesses to ensure financial health and compliance.

Furthermore, Business Studies develops critical thinking and decision-making skills, preparing students to tackle real-world business challenges they will encounter in their accounting careers.

Complementary Subjects

English

Taking the English A-level is of utmost importance to develop your writing and oral skills, providing you with broader uses of the language. This will help you express yourself more efficiently and sound more professional. Additionally, it will boost your critical thinking, as you will be required to write essays and present arguments for your opinions. For this reason, English is always a great choice for any profession, as students can build a solid linguistic foundation and a strong professional profile. Additionally, this subject is requested by some universities as a pre-requisite to enter the Accounting course.

Accounting

A-Level Accounting offers direct insight into the profession, covering fundamental principles and practices. It's ideal for understanding the day-to-day responsibilities of accountants, providing a solid foundation for further studies and a career in accounting.

Note: Although Accounting is an A-Level subject, universities do not request this subject as mandatory among their entry requirements, but it's more of a nice addition. Additionally, keep in mind that many universities consider Business Studies and Accounting A-levels to be overlapping, so we don't recommend taking both simultaneously.

Finance

Something similar happens with Finance. Though students are not required to hold this A-level, having it may show a strong interest in the matter. Studying Finance complements core subjects by exploring investment, management, and financial decision-making, crucial for understanding the broader financial landscape in which accountants operate.

Statistics

Statistics equips students with the tools to analyse and interpret data, an essential skill in accounting for making informed financial decisions and predictions.

Further Maths

Further Maths deepens mathematical understanding beyond the A-Level Maths curriculum, enhancing analytical and problem-solving skills critical for tackling complex accounting challenges.

What's the best subject combination for aspiring accountants?

A balanced selection of Mathematics, Economics, and Business Studies forms an ideal core.

Mathematics sharpens analytical and quantitative skills crucial for financial analysis, while Economics provides insights into market behaviors and economic policies affecting financial decisions. Business Studies offer a comprehensive view of organisational operations and management strategies, essential for understanding the broader business context in which accounting functions.

Together, these subjects equip students with a robust framework of knowledge and skills, preparing them for the complexities of a career in accounting and beyond, by fostering critical thinking, strategic decision-making abilities, and a deep understanding of the financial landscape.

Accounting & finance degree entry requirements (of top universities)

University	A-Level Requirements	Grades Requirements	Others
London School of Economics	Mathematics and an essay-based subject	AAA with an A in Mathematics	English and Maths GCSEs above 6 and a majority of As.
University of Warwick	Mathematics + humanities is appreciated	A*AA including A in Mathematics	Accounting + Business are not accepted together
University of Aberdeen	No specific requirements	BBC	GCSE Maths required
University of Edinburgh	No specific requirements	A*AA	GCSE Maths at B or C and English at C or 4

Acing your exams: Tips for resitting, mature & homeschooled students

Resitting exams, studying as a mature student, or tackling A-levels from home can feel daunting and isolating, but it's important to remember that there are strategies to make this process easier. Let's explore how these approaches can further benefit your study routine:

• Mastering time management

Effective time management is crucial for exam success. Set realistic study goals, prioritise tasks, and dedicate specific times for studying each subject. A consistent schedule transforms overwhelming tasks into manageable ones.

Tip: CloudLearn's structured A Levels courses are accessible anytime, allowing you to study the crucial topics for each subject without losing flexibility.

• Consistency and motivation: the game changers

Maintain a consistent study routine to enhance learning and retention. Set small, achievable goals and reward yourself for accomplishing them. Have a look at the course's syllabus, assign goal dates to set milestones and test yourself with flashcards and quizzes to see how far you've come.

• Embrace support: You don't have to go It alone

Leverage support from tutors and fellow learners. CloudLearn provides access to a community of students and experienced tutors, making it easy to seek help and collaborate. Embracing support is a strategic approach to overcoming academic challenges and achieving your goals.

Taking A-levels as a mature student doesn't need to be difficult. Leverage CloudLearn's flexible study time and syllabus.

Begin your accountant journey on the right foot with CloudLearn!

At CloudLearn we support your ambition to enter the accounting profession by offering flexible, comprehensive A-level courses designed for aspiring accountants.

Our platform facilitates a personalised learning experience, enabling students to study at their pace, fast-track courses in just a few months and utilise resources tailored to their educational needs together with 1:1 tutoring.

Plus, access flexible payment options with monthly installments and seasonal discounts and have your exam booked by us to skip the hassle of doing it yourself!

Join us to embark on a rewarding journey into accounting, equipped with the knowledge and skills for success.