How Long Does It Take to Become an Accountant?
Many people assume that becoming an accountant requires years of education and training. While it’s true that high-level roles like Chartered Accountant (CA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) take time, you can actually start your accounting career in just a few months with the right approach.
Whether you’re looking to become a bookkeeper, an assistant accountant, or work toward professional qualifications, the time required depends on your chosen path. In this guide, we’ll break down how long it takes to become an accountant and the different career options available.
📌 Step-by-Step Timeline to Becoming an Accountant
📚 0-3 Months: Learn the Basics
Before jumping into the world of accounting, it’s essential to build a strong foundation.
✅ Learn basic accounting principles, bookkeeping, and financial statements.
✅ Get familiar with accounting software like QuickBooks, Xero, or Sage.
✅ Take introductory courses on platforms like ELF College, ACCA-X, or Coursera.
💡 At this stage, you can start applying for entry-level roles in bookkeeping.
📜 3-6 Months: Earn a Certification
To boost your employability, consider earning an industry-recognized accounting certification. Some of the best options include:
🎓 AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) – Ideal for beginners in the UK.
🎓 ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants – Applied Knowledge Level) – A strong foundation for an international career.
🎓 CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants - Certificate Level) – Best for those interested in management accounting.
✅ Study part-time while gaining hands-on experience.
✅ Learn how to prepare tax returns, manage payroll, and create financial reports.
💡 After completing a short certification, you can start working as a junior bookkeeper or accounts assistant.
💼 6-12 Months: Gain Practical Experience
Once you’ve acquired basic accounting knowledge and certifications, it’s time to gain real-world experience.
✔️ Apply for entry-level roles such as Accounts Assistant, Bookkeeper, or Junior Accountant.
✔️ Work with small businesses or accounting firms to develop skills.
✔️ Continue learning taxation, financial reporting, and auditing principles.
💡 By the end of your first year, you’ll have enough experience to progress into higher-level roles.
🎓 1-3 Years: Advance Your Career
If you’re looking to become a fully qualified accountant, the next step is advanced certifications and higher-level experience.
📌 Qualification Paths:
• ACCA (Full Qualification) – Typically takes 3 years but can be completed faster with experience.
• CIMA (Chartered Management Accountant) – Around 2-3 years with exams and practical experience.
• ACA (Chartered Accountant - ICAEW) – Requires 3 years of training under an employer.
By this stage, you can:
✅ Work as a Management Accountant, Auditor, or Tax Specialist.
✅ Earn higher salaries with recognized qualifications.
✅ Specialize in financial analysis, tax advisory, or forensic accounting.
💡 Many professionals work while studying, allowing them to earn while progressing.
⏳ How Long Does It Take to Become a Fully Qualified Accountant?
💡 The key takeaway? You can start working in entry-level accounting roles in under a year, and progress to higher-level positions as you gain experience and qualifications.
💰 How Much Can You Earn as an Accountant?
One of the biggest benefits of an accounting career is its strong earning potential.
💼 UK Salary Estimates:
• Entry-Level Bookkeeper: £22,000 - £28,000 per year
• Assistant Accountant: £25,000 - £35,000 per year
• Fully Qualified Accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA): £50,000+ per year
• Senior Finance Roles (CFO, Finance Director): £100,000+ per year
💡 With professional qualifications, your earning potential significantly increases over time.
🎯 Conclusion: Start Your Accounting Career Today
Becoming an accountant doesn’t have to take years. With the right training and experience, you can start working in the industry in under a year and progress toward higher qualifications over time.
At ELF College, we offer flexible and affordable courses to help you launch your accounting career quickly and effectively.
📌 Want to start your journey?