If you are hoping to apply to university but are worried that you may not have enough UCAS points, AAT could be an option worth exploring.
Many students feel disappointed if their grades are not quite what they hoped for. However, this does not always mean your university plans have to stop. A vocational qualification such as AAT could help you build practical skills, strengthen your application and, depending on the qualification and grade achieved, add valuable UCAS points.
AAT qualifications are widely recognised in accounting, bookkeeping and finance. They are designed to give students practical knowledge that can be used in the workplace, while also supporting progression into further study.
For students interested in accounting, finance, business, management or economics, studying AAT can be a useful way to show universities that you are committed to developing your knowledge and skills.
How many UCAS points could AAT give you?
The AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting can be worth:
Pass – 32 UCAS points
Merit – 48 UCAS points
Distinction – 56 UCAS points
The AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping can be worth:
Pass – 16 UCAS points
Merit – 20 UCAS points
Distinction – 28 UCAS points
This could make a real difference if you are close to meeting the entry requirements for your chosen university course.
Why study AAT before university?
Studying AAT is not just about UCAS points. It can also help you develop skills that are useful for university, future employment and career progression.
You can build knowledge in areas such as bookkeeping, financial accounting, management accounting, business awareness and finance processes. These skills can be especially helpful if you are planning to study accounting, finance, business or a related subject at university.
It can also help you start your degree with more confidence. Instead of going into higher education with only classroom-based knowledge, you can begin with a practical understanding of how finance works in real businesses.
A useful option if your results were not what you hoped for
Not every student gets the results they were aiming for, and it can be worrying if you are short of the UCAS points needed for your preferred university course.
Studying AAT could help strengthen your application and may support your UCAS points total, depending on the course, university and qualification achieved.
For some students, AAT can also open up other routes, including apprenticeships, bookkeeping roles, accountancy work or further professional study.
Always check with your chosen university
UCAS points can support your application, but each university and course sets its own entry requirements. Some universities accept a range of qualifications, while others may ask for specific subjects, grades or combinations of study.
Before enrolling, it is important to check the entry requirements for the university course you want to apply for. You can also contact the university admissions team directly to ask whether they will accept AAT as part of your application.
Study AAT with Premier Training
At Premier Training, we support students across the UK through flexible distance learning. You can study from home, at your own pace, with tutor support available when you need it.
Whether you want to improve your UCAS points, build confidence before university or start a career in accounting and finance, AAT could be a practical next step.
If you are unsure which AAT course is right for you, our team will be happy to talk through your options and help you choose the best route.
