If you’re good with numbers, enjoy analytical problem-solving, and feel like you could use these skills to provide insights to organisations on their financial health, becoming a chartered accountant could be ideal.
Updated: 26 Jan 2026
Accountancy is a very broad field of work, and depending on your role or specialism, you might find yourself auditing company accounts, advising on tax and corporate strategy, preparing budgets and reports, or producing financial statements in line with UK regulations. If you work for smaller clients, or individuals, then you might find yourself doing many of these tasks at once
You’ll typically balance technical skills with client-facing communication work, which makes you a versatile and detail-focused professional.
Numerical skills
Percentages, proportions, ratios, and complex calculations. You’ll need to be mathematically sharp, and able to keep calm under tight deadlines
Communication
Don’t forget, your client may not be fluent in accountancy terminology, so you’ll need to communicate complex technical details into clear advice.
Ethics and integrity
You’ll be expected to uphold high professional standards of confidentiality and objectivity, as well as adhering to the rules of financial fair play
Most accounting degrees expect A-levels (or equivalent) in subjects like maths, economics, or business studies, however STEM subjects like computer science, physics, and chemistry are also highly valued due to their analytical aspects.
You’ll usually need three A-levels. Accounting degrees are popular, so depending on where you want to study, grades can vary widely between A*AA–CCD.
Common degrees include BSc Accounting and Finance, BSc Accounting, Economics, and Finance, or BA Business and Accounting.
There are many options that will move you closer to chartered status. The key thing is to make sure your course carries accreditation by one of the UK’s professional bodies, such as ICAEW, ACCA, or ICAS. Accreditation means you'll get exemptions from some professional exams later on, saving you time and money.
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You can expect a good mixture of lectures, workshops, and self-guided study. You’ll use a variety of different accountancy software, learn plenty of new methods for building financial models, and test out your new skills on simulated real-world projects.
Assessment methods include exams, coursework, group projects, and a dissertation or extended piece of personal research. Many courses offer a year-long placement in industry, giving you an opportunity to work in audit firms, in-house finance teams, or government agencies.
Yes! You've got a few different options:
Degree apprenticeships
Allow you to earn a salary while studying part-time toward your qualification, with course fees covered by your employer.
Accelerated postgraduate diplomas
Ideal for those with qualifications or experience in similar fields. These diplomas focus on getting you ready for professional exams.
School leaver programmes
Firms like the ‘Big Four’ offer on-the-job training, mentoring, and study support, leading to chartered status without a traditional university degree.
After earning your degree, you’ll enter a training contract (typically three years) at an audit firm or corporate finance organisation, where you gain professional experience, and work towards your professional exams.
After passing your exams, you’ll achieve professional membership, earning the title Chartered Accountant. Newly qualified accountant salaries often start at around £25,000 per year, moving on to £45,000–£55,000 per year when you've got a few years experience, eventually rising to £70,000 and beyond later in your career.
Relevant experience
Look for internships or summer work experience at accounting firms
Interview prep
Make sure you’re able to articulate your approach to accountancy related questions, ensuring the interviewer can see your thought process in addition to reading your grades
Networking
It’s never too early to build a network. Attend open days, workshops, or student society events to meet potential recruiters and gain career insights
“The course is accredited by professional bodies like ICAEW, ACCA, and CIMA, meaning you can get exemptions from exams if you want to qualify as an accountant. The business school also has good links with employers, and there are plenty of networking events, career fairs, and internship opportunities”
— Thomas, BSc Accounting and Finance at Cardiff University
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How long does it take to become a chartered accountant in the UK?
Typically three years of degree study plus three years of a training contract while passing professional exams. Do I need a placement year?
Not mandatory, but a sandwich year may enhance your practical skills and employability. Is the training contract competitive?
Yes, recruitment is rigorous, especially at major firms. A strong academic record and internships will help. Can I work abroad?
Chartered status is globally recognised, and many firms offer international secondments.
Set your sights on achieving chartered status by comparing accredited accounting degrees below.
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