The Level 4 Accounting Technician Apprenticeship is an entry level programme into accounting that includes ICAEW Certificate Level exams.
Explore the benefits of the Level 4 apprenticeship
Access apprenticeship levy funds or benefit from government funding to cover some of the costs of training.
Develop a more motivated and satisfied workforce with greater loyalty towards your organisation.
The Level 4 apprenticeship can serve as a stepping stone to the ACA, allowing you to decide whether the ACA is right for your organisation and your employees.
Structure of the Level 4 apprenticeship
The Level 4 apprenticeship combines work experience with Certificate Level exams. It consists of an on-programme assessment and end-point assessment which develops the knowledge, skills and behaviours your employees (KSBs) need to qualify as Level 4 Accounting Technician Apprentices.
On-programme assessment
During the on-programme assessment, apprentices will:
- complete the six Certificate Level exams;
- record their progress in an online training file; and
- spend at least six hours per week on off-the-job training.
The six Certificate Level exams (launching from September 2025) include:
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Accounting Fundamentals
Ensures that students have a sound understanding of the techniques of double entry accounting and can apply its principles in recording transactions, straightforward adjustments to financial records and preparing non-complex financial statements.
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Assurance and Risk Fundamentals
Ensures that students understand the assurance process and fundamental principles of ethics, and are able to contribute to the assessment of internal controls and gathering of evidence on assurance work.
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Business Insight and Performance
Enables students to prepare essential financial information for the management of a business.
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Business Law
Provides students with an understanding of the principles of business law.
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Sustainability and Ethics
Provides students with an understanding of the fundamentals of sustainability and ethics and how they are relevant to the work of the professional accountant.
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Tax Fundamentals (launching December 2025)
Enables students to understand the general objectives of taxation and to calculate income tax, national insurance contributions, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, corporation tax, VAT and stamp taxes in straightforward scenarios.
End-point assessment
During the end-point assessment, apprentices will:
- complete a Portfolio and Reflective Statement; and
- pass a Role Simulation exam.
Once all elements of the apprenticeship have been successfully completed, the apprentice will qualify as an Accounting Technician.
Entry requirements
There are no set entry requirements for the Level 4 apprenticeship but apprentices must have a Level 2 (GCSE pass) in English and Maths before they can attempt the end-point assessment.
Duration
Study options
You will need to select a tuition provider (otherwise known as training provider) to deliver apprenticeship training to your apprentices. The tuition provider monitors a great part of the apprenticeship process and will help you review your apprentice’s performance and ensure they are adhering to the off-the-job training requirements. They will also be able to help design an apprenticeship programme that suits your business' needs.
Choosing an apprenticeship training provider
Levy paying employers can select a provider from the apprenticeship provider and assessment register (APAR). We recommend that non-levy paying employers discuss their tuition provider options with our team.
Fees and funding
Fees associated with the Level 4 apprenticeship include:
| Current |
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| Student fee | £206.00 + VAT |
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| Exam entry | £90.00 |
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| Role Simulation exam entry | £272.00 |
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| Portfolio and Reflective Statement | £325.00 |
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| Tuition | Varies by provider | |
Apprenticeship funding
Employers can access their own apprenticeship levy funds or benefit from government funding to cover some of the costs associated with training a Level 4 apprentice.
Setting up an apprenticeship
Setting up an ICAEW apprenticeship is easy and straightforward. Our Business Development team will be with you every step of the way and can advise you on what your options are based on your needs.
Frequently asked questions
View answers to frequently asked questions from employers.
Interested in offering an ICAEW apprenticeship?
Register your interest and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss your needs.
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