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To begin your career in bookkeeping, you will probably want to arm yourself with an IAB qualification or two.
There are 2 ways in which you can study for these prestigious qualifications. These are:
Regardless of the method of study, you will end up with a top quality qualification which is in demand and highly sort after.
Choosing a method of study can be difficult and confusing. What is covered in the fee? What method would suit me best?
That is why we at the IAB have created this guide below of the sort of questions you should be asking prospective centres and yourself. As well as a quick overview of what each method is.
Classroom-based
What is it?
Classroom Based Learning, is a form of teaching which takes place in a classroom environment. It usually consists of going into a centre at a set time for a set duration.
Some IAB centres run an intensive week or two-week courses where you may go into the centre every day, while other centres may run weekly lessons which will run for a couple of months.
This type of learning is great as it is highly structured. Allowing you to meet new like-minded individuals, who are also interested in a career in bookkeeping and accounts.
How much is it?
The fees at centres vary between each centre. Normally the IAB Registration and qualification fee will be included in the cost of the course you will pay to the centre.
What questions should I ask the centre?
We would recommend that you ask the following questions:
- Can you help me choose the right level of qualification to take?
- What’s included in the fee? e.g study textbooks IAB fees etc.
- How long is the course?
- What days do the lessons fall on? E.g. Tuesday or Wednesday.
- What time are the lessons? E.g. Evening or Daytime lessons.
- How long are the lessons? E.g. 1 or 2-hour lessons.
- Do you have any entry requirements?
What questions should I ask myself?
- Can I afford the course fees?
- If not, is there any funding or payment plans I can make use of ?
- Is this the right level for me?
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Can I commit to the lesson timetable?
If you have any clashes such as holidays already booked, it is good to let the centre know now. - How great am I going to feel, once I have passed this qualification?
Where is my nearest centre?
You can find a centre by entering a specific area that you are looking or the name of a centre that you are looking to find.
If there isn’t a centre near you, don’t worry there is always distance learning. You can find out more about this method of study below.
Distance Learning
What is it?
Distance learning comes in many forms, from E-learning to traditional correspondence course. So it is important that you understand the differences between them.
E-Learning is a term used for courses that are completely online. These will often have an online platform which the provider will give you access to. Where you can access all the resources and sample tests needed. The resources can range from an electronic version of the book to videos explaining key elements. There often might be a forum where you get to interact with other students on the same or similar courses.
Traditional Correspondence courses would be offline, where you would receive a book and learning materials in the post, and then would have tutor support via phone, email and even post.
In reality, most accredited centres use a healthy mixture of the two. So, for example, you might receive your books in the post, but there will be videos explaining the book throughout. With support via phone and email. Each provider is a little different, so it is worth ensuring you know what you are going to get. Handily we have created some questions to help you do just that below.
How much is it?
The fees at Distance learning providers can vary dramatically, but so does what you get for your money. Most centres include the IAB registration and qualification fee in their fees, but it is always worth checking.
What questions should I ask the centre?
We would recommend that you ask the following questions:
- Can you help me choose the right level of qualification to take?
- Is the IAB qualification registration fee included in the fee I pay the accredited centre?
- What is included in the fee, e.g. study text books etc?
- How long does the tutor support last?
- How much time should spend studying?
- How long on average does it take for your students to complete?
- How does the learning take place? E.g. is it online or offline?
- What are the system requirements for the course? E.g. Need to have Microsoft Word etc?
- What system to you have to keep students on track with their course? E.g. Emails or phone calls, to check how you are progressing.
Will you arrange or help to arrange my examinations? (if applicable) - Do you have any entry requirements?
What questions should I ask myself?
- Can I afford the course fees?
If not, is there any funding or payment plans I can make use of? -
Am I getting the Distance Learning package for me?
Make sure you get a system that meets all your needs, and that you will use. - Can Is this the right level qualification for me?
- Can I keep myself motivated along the course?
- When do I want to have completed and obtained this qualification by? Distance learning goes at the pace you set. This means it is possible to get through a qualification as quickly as you want, although be realistic!
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Where can I sit the exams? (if applicable)
Please email ao@iab.org.uk for an up to date list of external exam centres. - How amazing am I going to feel, when I am a qualified bookkeeper?
Where can I find a centre?
Learners need to email ao@iab.org.uk for an up to date list of distance learning centres.
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