How to Get Into Accounting Without a Degree: AAT and ACCA Routes

A common question among those interested in accountancy is whether you can get into the profession without a degree. The good news is that you can — accountancy is one of the more accessible professions, with well-established routes in that don't require a degree. This guide explains how to get into accounting without a degree. For wider context, see our guides on the AAT and accountancy careers.

Can you get into accounting without a degree?

Yes — you can absolutely build a career in accountancy without a degree. Accountancy is notable for having accessible, well-established routes in that don't require a university degree. Professional qualifications like the AAT are specifically designed to be accessible, providing a practical, skills-based route into the profession that's open to people without prior qualifications. From there, you can progress to chartered or certified qualifications like ACCA or CIMA, which also don't require a degree to study. This means accountancy is genuinely open to people from many backgrounds, including school leavers, career changers and anyone without a degree who wants to enter the field. Far from being a barrier, the lack of a degree is something the profession's qualification routes are well set up to accommodate. With the right approach, a rewarding accountancy career is very achievable without a degree.

Routes into accounting without a degree

There are several well-established routes into accountancy that don't require a degree:

• The AAT — a practical, accessible qualification that's a leading entry route, building genuine accounting skills without needing a degree.
• Professional qualifications — ACCA and CIMA can be studied without a degree, often after or alongside the AAT, or via their own entry routes.
• Apprenticeships — where available, these combine work and study, offering a route in (and often earning while learning).
• Entry-level roles — starting in a junior finance or accounts role and studying towards a qualification alongside work.

These routes can be combined — for example, starting with the AAT and progressing to ACCA — and many people enter and build successful accountancy careers this way without ever having a degree.

The AAT as a starting point

For many people without a degree, the AAT is an ideal starting point. It's specifically designed to be accessible — not requiring a degree or prior qualifications — and it's practical and skills-based, building genuine, job-ready accounting skills. It's well-regarded by employers, and it provides a solid foundation you can either use to start working in accounting roles or build on towards further qualifications. Crucially, the AAT can be a stepping stone to chartered and certified qualifications like ACCA and CIMA, often with exemptions in recognition of what you've covered. So the AAT offers both an accessible way into the profession and a launchpad for going further. For someone without a degree wanting to enter accountancy, starting with the AAT is a well-trodden, effective path that opens the door and creates options for progression. It's a practical, achievable first step.

How to get started

If you want to get into accounting without a degree, a few steps help. Choose a route that suits you — the AAT is a great starting point for many, but consider apprenticeships or entry-level roles too. Gain a relevant qualification, such as the AAT, which builds skills and demonstrates your competence. Look for relevant experience, including entry-level roles, which builds your capability and track record. Develop the right skills, since accountancy values accuracy, numeracy and reliability. Plan your progression, considering whether you'll progress to further qualifications over time. And be confident — accountancy is genuinely accessible without a degree, and many successful professionals have entered this way. With a sensible route, a relevant qualification and some determination, building an accountancy career without a degree is very achievable.

Frequently asked questions

Can you become an accountant without a degree?

Yes — accountancy has accessible, well-established routes in that don't require a degree, including qualifications like the AAT and, from there, ACCA or CIMA.

What routes are there without a degree?

The AAT, professional qualifications like ACCA and CIMA (studyable without a degree), apprenticeships, and starting in entry-level roles while studying — often combined.

Is the AAT a good starting point?

Yes — it's specifically accessible (no degree needed), practical and well-regarded, and it can be a stepping stone to ACCA or CIMA, often with exemptions.

How do I get started?

Choose a route that suits you, gain a relevant qualification like the AAT, look for relevant experience, develop the right skills, plan your progression, and be confident.

Start your accountancy career with Learnsignal

You don't need a degree to build a career in accountancy. Learnsignal's tutor-led courses, including ACCA, help you build the qualifications and skills to enter and progress in the profession — with expert tuition and flexible online study that fits around work.

Can you get into accounting without a degree?

Yes. Many people enter accounting through professional qualifications such as AAT or ACCA, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles, rather than a university degree. What matters most is gaining recognised qualifications and practical experience; the route you take to get there is far less important to employers.