Myth-Busting and FAQs: What You Really Need to Know About AAT and a Career in Finance
Posted: 28 May 2025 at 2:26 pm | Author: CAW Business School
If you’re considering a career in finance or wondering whether an AAT accounting or bookkeeping qualification could be the right step, it’s natural to have questions. For many people, misconceptions and worries can create unnecessary barriers to starting their journey.
Whether you’re a school leaver, career changer, or simply curious about working in finance, we’re tackling some of the most common myths and frequently asked questions about AAT and the finance industry more broadly:
I’m not good at maths – can I still work in finance?
This is one of the most common concerns people have, and the answer is a reassuring yes.
Working in finance does involve numbers, but it’s not about solving complex equations or mastering advanced mathematics. Instead, it’s about understanding patterns, being accurate, and applying practical skills in real-world situations. Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualifications are designed to teach you the skills you need from the ground up. You’ll learn how to manage budgets, understand financial documents, and use accounting software without needing to be a mathematical expert.
Modern finance roles use digital tools like spreadsheets, accounting platforms, and automation. These do much of the heavy lifting, so the focus is more on interpretation and accuracy than mental arithmetic. If you’re comfortable with numbers and willing to learn, you can succeed in finance.
Can I study accounting later in life?
Absolutely. Whilst AAT is a popular route for school leavers, it is by no means limited to them. People enter the finance profession at all ages — whether they’re returning to work, changing careers, or just ready for a new direction. Many of our accounting students study with us later in life, often after a career in a completely different field. There’s no set timeline, and your previous experience often brings valuable transferable skills.
With flexible study options including half-day/evening classes or online learning, AAT is designed to fit around your existing responsibilities, whether you’re working full-time or balancing family life. In essence, AAT courses are ideal if you:
- Want a practical route into finance without going to university
- Are looking to re-enter the workforce with updated skills
- Are already working in finance and want to formalise your experience
- Need a flexible qualification you can study around work or family life
What if I don’t know exactly what job I want yet?
That’s perfectly normal. In fact, an AAT accounting qualification can be an excellent starting point if you’re still exploring your options.
An AAT qualification provides a solid grounding in core financial principles and practices, and early training and entry-level roles expose you to different areas like bookkeeping, payroll, credit control, or reporting – so you can discover what suits you best. This knowledge is transferable across a wide range of roles and industries, meaning you don’t have to make a long-term commitment to one job title straight away.
AAT can lead to roles in accounting, payroll, finance administration or bookkeeping – and that’s just the beginning. Many people use AAT as a stepping stone to higher qualifications (such as ACCA, CIMA, or ACA) and go on to become chartered accountants, financial analysts, or finance managers. In short: AAT keeps your options open whilst building valuable skills and boosting your employability from day one.
Is finance all spreadsheets and routine?
It can be, but it doesn’t have to be. Whilst many roles involve regular tasks, finance can also be analytical, strategic, creative, and people-focused. As you progress, you might find yourself advising teams, planning budgets, or influencing big decisions. If you enjoy solving problems and making a tangible impact, finance can be very fulfilling.
Are finance roles always office-based?
Not necessarily. Some finance roles offer hybrid or remote working, and as you move into more senior or collaborative roles, you may find yourself interacting across teams, contributing to projects, and shaping how a business runs well beyond the desk.
Is a university degree essential for a career in finance?
No. A university degree is just one of many pathways. Many successful finance professionals start their careers through vocational qualifications such as AAT, which are designed to provide practical, job-ready skills. AAT is a respected, professional qualification that employers value highly. It often leads directly to jobs without the need for a degree. It’s also more practical and cost-effective, with many learners qualifying and entering the workforce much faster.
Is it expensive to study AAT?
Compared to other academic routes such as degree-level study, AAT can be an affordable way to launch a finance career. Many training providers offer payment plans, and you may also be eligible to study AAT as part of an apprenticeship, where your employer would cover your training fees — especially if you’re already working in a finance-related role.
How do I know if a qualification like AAT is right for me?
If you’re unsure whether an AAT accounting or bookkeeping qualification suits your career goals, please don’t hesitate to request a call back. We’ll talk through your options and help you work out the best path based on your goals and background.
AAT Accounting and Bookkeeping courses at CAW Business School – your route into finance?
Applications are now open for our AAT Accounting and Bookkeeping courses, starting in September 2025 from our training centre in Godmanchester, near Huntingdon (or you can study online and start at any time). If you’re ready to make a move, this could be your first step toward a stable, rewarding new career.
The AAT accounting qualification pathway (Levels 2–4) is respected by employers across the UK and globally. It’s flexible, affordable, and designed for people without prior experience. Whether you’re switching careers, returning to work, or just starting out, AAT gives you the knowledge and confidence to take the first step into a finance role.
Find out more about our AAT accountancy and bookkeeping training here.