IAB Level 3 - Certificate in Computerised Bookkeeping and Accounting

Introduces the learner to the more advanced processing skills required to make accounting adjustments and prepare financial statements and prepare management reports for a sole trader or partnership to using a computerised accounting system.

The qualification is made up of:

1 – Online Knowledge Test

1 – Examination

Key information:

70 GLH (Guided Learning Hours)

150 hours TQT (Total Qualification Time)

What it covers?

This qualification is made up of the following units:

Principles of advanced computerised accounting – J/508/5846

  • Understand the purpose of accounting concepts and standards, and recognise the qualitative characteristics of financial information
  • Understand the basics of computerised accounting
  • Understand terms used in accounting
  • Understand the purpose of VAT Accounts and the VAT return
  • Understand the process of accounting for a stock valuation
  • Understand the process of accounting for fixed assets
  • Understand the process of accounting for prepayments and accruals
  • Understand the process of accounting for bad and doubtful debts
  • Understand the purpose of a trial balance and a suspense account
  • Understand the purpose of financial statements
  • Understand the principles of accounting for partnerships
  • Understand the purposes of budgeting

Use a computerised accounting package – D/508/6629

  • Set up a computerised accounting system
  • Enter business transactions
  • Prepare and post journal entries
  • Account for a stock valuation
  • Account for fixed assets
  • Account for prepayments and accruals
  • Account for bad and doubtful debts
  • Make end of period adjustments
  • Amend the chart of accounts and generate reports

 

Who is it suitable for?

The Level 3 Certificate in Computerised Bookkeeping and Accounting qualification is primarily designed to appeal to learners who already have a good working knowledge of the software, and wish to further their studies of computerised bookkeeping within a working business environment gaining a qualification at Level 3 of the regulated qualification framework, or having already achieved the IAB Level 2 Award in Computerised Bookkeeping.

The qualification will also appeal to those learners who already have good practical knowledge and skills and wish to gain an accredited qualification in the subject.

Owners of small businesses may also find the qualification useful as it gives coverage of the wide range of tasks that can be carried out using commercially available accounting software suitable for maintaining accounts for a small business and automate the accounting cloud system. This will allow them to manage their accounting records anytime and from anywhere in the world.

Potential Career Opportunities

Upon completing this qualification, you will be well-prepared to apply for roles such as:

  • Professional digital bookkeeper
  • Senior digital bookkeeper
  • Accounts manager
  • Ledger manager
  • Set-up own bookkeeping practice (anytime and from anywhere in the world).

How long it takes?

The qualification typically takes between 9 to 12 months to complete, depending on the chosen study method and course timetable. However, if you opt for the "Fast Track" study mode, the teaching, learning, and assessment can be customised to fit your individual time constraints.

How and where to study?

You can choose to study through online distance learning, blended learning, or in the classroom—whatever suits you best. Whether you prefer evening classes, part-time, or full-time study, there’s an option to fit your schedule. Even if you opt for distance learning, you'll need to find a training provider. We’ll assist you every step of the way, including with registration. Once a cohort of students is registered, we’ll schedule sessions at times that work best for the group.

How it is assessed?

This qualification is made up of:

1 – Online Knowledge Test

Online Knowledge tests are a series of independent short answer questions made up of multiple choice, gap fill, and true or false type questions. They are assessed via IAB Online and are open book. This might be taken in class or at home

1 – Online Examination

Online Examination will need to be sat under controlled conditions at an IAB accredited centre.

What to expect from us?

We offer flexible study options through block-teaching sessions, available both online and in-person, to suit your lifestyle and schedule. To provide personalized support and cost-effective delivery, we organise small cohorts, ensuring each learner receives comprehensive attention. Understanding the challenges of balancing full-time employment with personal commitments, we schedule sessions to fit your availability, including daytime, evenings, and weekends. Throughout your studies, you’ll benefit from continuous support and guidance from your personal IAB tutor, who will assist you every step of the way.

Our team of fully qualified, highly experienced tutors and course advisors is available seven days a week, selected for their extensive industry knowledge. Our goal is to equip you with the tools and support needed to progress confidently through your IAB course and achieve your qualification efficiently and cost-effectively.

After completing Level 3, you will be eligible to apply for professional membership at the Associate grade.

What is the cost?

The total cost for the course is £700 plus the registration, assessment, admin and certification fees. The total cost can be determined at the point of enrolment.

  • A course fee of £700, which covers tuition (if attending in-person classes) and is paid directly to us.
  • Registration onto the qualification
  • All IAB assessment fees (excluding re-sits)
  • Certification upon successful completion of all assessments.

The registration fee, paid directly to IAB, grants access to study support resources. The assessment fee is paid to your training provider or assessment venue. Please be aware that training providers and assessment venues may charge an additional administrative fee for the assessment, which can vary between organisations.

Entry requirements

Complete Level 2 or similar qualification in bookkeeping and accounting. Students can start with any qualification based on their existing skills and experience. For the best chance of success, we recommend that students have a strong foundation in English and maths before beginning their studies.

Contact us about studying an IAB Qualification

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