From AAT student to AAT member: the next steps for your career

For many newly qualified accountants, their AAT journey doesn’t end with that final exam result; it’s just the beginning of an exciting new chapter as an AAT member.

You’ve put the hard work in, passed your exams and got your AAT qualification, but then what? AAT opens up a huge amount of doors in the world of accountancy and finance, including the chance to take the next step in your career as an AAT member.

Why make the transition from student to member?

The decision to continue as an AAT member after qualifying might seem obvious, but it’s worth understanding exactly what you’re gaining. Grace Hardy, MAAT, who runs her own accounting practice, wanted to remain as an AAT member to continue enjoying its social perks.

“One of the reasons I wanted to stay on and be a member is the community aspects,” she said. “Everyone is literally so nice. When I post on social media that I’m at AAT events, speaking on panels, or meeting up with people in the community, that gives me more credibility and trust with my clients and also future potential clients as well.

“Every year, I make a real effort to go and see everyone and catch up. I go to a lot of the accounting expos like Accountex London and the Finance, Accounting & Bookkeeping Show (FAB), to meet up with members in person, as well as AAT Connect.”

One of the most immediate benefits of AAT membership is the professional recognition it brings. Those designatory letters after your name – MAAT (Member of the Association of Accounting Technicians) – carry real weight in the industry.

Grace said: “Some clients don’t understand accounting qualifications, but they see the letters after your name and know that you’ve got a good qualification.”

Andy Sullivan, FMAAT (Fellow Member of AAT – which is a higher designation than MAAT and awarded to long-standing members who demonstrate commitment to the profession), who runs his own practice, Complete HQ, and mentors AAT trainees, emphasises thinks that for employers and clients alike, AAT membership demonstrates that you’re maintaining professional standards and staying current with industry developments.

He said: “One of the big things is being able to demonstrate to prospective clients that you’ve got that level of qualification and that you’re maintaining on those ongoing standards, because to remain a member is not just a case of completing the exam and getting a qualification. You have to do the ongoing CPD and various ongoing checks.”

AAT membership is a gateway to greater opportunities

AAT has long been recognised as the foundational gateway into the accounting industry. It’s the qualification that opens doors, whether you’re looking to work in practice, industry, or start your own business. The practical, hands-on approach of AAT training means you’re job-ready from day one, and membership keeps those doors wide open.

Grace said: “I was finishing up my Level 4, and I saw the AAT Be Your Own Boss campaign. It wasn’t until then that I realised you could start your own practice with your Level 4 qualification. I thought you had to progress to chartered, ACA or ACCA.” This opened up possibilities Grace hadn’t even considered, and she’s now the award-winning founder of Hardy Accounting.

Continuous learning through CPD and resources

Professional development doesn’t stop when you qualify – in fact, it becomes even more important. AAT membership gives you access to a wealth of learning resources through the Learning Portal, ensuring you can keep your skills sharp and stay ahead of industry changes. The best thing about these resources is their flexibility. Whether you prefer structured courses or bite-sized learning, there’s something to fit around your work schedule and learning style.

Beyond formal CPD, AAT members have exclusive access to the Knowledge Hub, a comprehensive resource that provides technical guidance, industry insights and practical tools. This platform keeps you connected to the latest developments in accounting standards, tax changes and best practice guidance – all the essential knowledge for any accounting professional.

Regulatory benefits for practice and opening doors

If you’re planning to work in practice or set up your own firm, AAT membership offers practical regulatory advantages. As Andy explains, “For us, being in practice, another benefit of being an AAT member is that they deal with your anti-money laundering compliance. We have to comply with AML Rules, and AAT are our regulatory and supervisory body.”

This support alleviates a significant administrative burden, ensuring you meet your professional obligations.

AAT membership also keeps your options open for further professional development. Many chartered accountancy qualifications offer exemptions for AAT members, recognising the solid foundation your qualification provides. Whether you’re considering ACCA, CIMA, or other professional qualifications, your AAT membership puts you in a strong position to progress.

The investment that pays dividends

Continuing as an AAT member after qualifying is more than just maintaining a qualification – it’s an investment in your ongoing professional development and career prospects. The combination of credibility, resources, community support, and practical benefits creates a platform for long-term success in the accounting profession.

As Grace sums up, “Everyone is delightful. They have been so supportive of my journey, and I’ve had so many opportunities that I don’t think I would get otherwise.”

So as you celebrate your qualification success, consider making AAT membership your next step. It’s not just about the letters after your name; it’s about joining a community that will support your career for years to come.

Further reading

AAT on a budget: how to manage study costs, from textbooks to exam fees

Why AI is making accountancy exciting for a new generation

AAT members discuss how they nurture strong client relationships

Sophie Cross is the Editor of Freelancer Magazine and a freelance writer and marketer at Thoughtfully.