AAT has launched the AAT Bursary for 2025, with its highest ever number of bursaries on offer, marking a significant expansion in its commitment to fostering social mobility within the accounting profession.
In 2024, AAT offered 40 bursaries – double the number in 2023 – and this year, the organisation will award a record 50 bursaries, providing comprehensive financial support to individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who aspire to pursue a career in accounting.
The AAT bursaries cover all essential costs associated with obtaining an AAT Diploma in Accounting across Levels 2 – 4. This includes full training provider fees, the one-off AAT registration fee, and all assessment fees, with provisions for one resit per assessment if necessary. By alleviating these financial barriers, the bursary enables recipients to focus entirely on their studies, thereby enhancing their prospects for success in the accounting field.
The scheme is open to anyone aged 16 or over, who can study with an approved AAT training provider, are not mid-course, and are able to demonstrate they are in genuine financial need.
To further expand the reach of its bursary scheme, this year AAT is working with training provider Kaplan. This will see a further six bursaries offered for the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting, which are fully paid for, along with a career guidance programme provided by Kaplan.
Isla Billett, Product Director – Membership, Commercial and Charity at AAT, said: “The expansion of the bursary programme underscores AAT’s dedication to social mobility, providing a pathway for those who might otherwise be unable to afford professional training.
“By increasing the number of bursaries to 50, and by working with Kaplan to deliver an additional six places, AAT is not only investing in individual futures but also contributing to a more diverse and inclusive accounting profession. This initiative reflects our broader mission to unlock opportunity for everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic background, and make a career in accounting more accessible.
“In 2024, AAT received 602 applications for the bursary – proving the high demand for spaces. This bursary represents a transformative opportunity for aspiring accountants to overcome financial obstacles and embark on a rewarding professional journey.”
The AAT bursary judging panel comprises AAT members, supported by internal AAT staff. Internal staff review applications to identify suitable individuals for the panel, while external members, chosen through an application process, bring diverse perspectives to the selection process. Anonymised data from bursary applications is shared with these external panel members to ensure unbiased assessments. This collaborative approach aims to uphold fairness and integrity in awarding the bursaries.
The bursary applications are open from 25 April – 23 May 2025. Following this, judging takes place and successful applicants will be informed by the end of June 2025. For further information please visit https://www.aat.org.uk/qualifications-and-courses/fees-funding/bursary
