AAT offers record number of bursaries for trainees

This year’s record 50 bursaries mark a significant expansion in the AAT’s commitment to foster social mobility within the accounting profession, up from 40 in 2024.

The bursaries provide 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.

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.’

For the first time, AAT has signed a deal for a further six bursaries through 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.

Surju Kanani, commercial manager at Kaplan, said: ‘We believe in empowering individuals to unlock their potential and achieve their dreams.

‘By working with AAT to add an additional six places to this year’s bursary cohort we are breaking down financial barriers and providing aspiring finance professionals with the support they need to kickstart their careers.’

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 25 April – 23 May 2025. Following this, judging takes place and successful applicants will be informed by the end of June 2025.

Further information on the AAT bursary programme is available here