CIMA Certificate Level: BA3 - Fundamentals of Financial Accounting
The CIMA BA3 module gives you a practical understanding of financial accounting, including how to prepare financial statements for single entities within a conceptual and regulatory framework.
Our expert tutors and subject specialists provide high-quality study materials and are there to support you every step of the way.
Study from£325 (inc VAT)
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Dedicated support from CIMA qualified tutors
Classroom, residential and blended online options
Over 50 years delivering accounting qualifications
Approved CIMA provider
Globally recognised qualifications
Market leading pass rates
What you'll study
In the BA3 - Fundamentals of Financial Accounting module, learners will explore the core concepts and practices of financial accounting. The key topics typically include:
The nature of financial accounting
Understanding the role of financial accounting in recording and reporting financial transactions.
The key principles and standards that govern financial accounting, including the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
The accounting cycle
The sequence of steps involved in the accounting process, from the identification of transactions to the preparation of financial statements.
The importance of journals, ledgers, trial balances, and adjusting entries in maintaining accurate financial records.
Accounting for assets, liabilities, and equity
Principles and techniques for valuing and recording assets, liabilities, and equity.
Understanding depreciation, amortization, and impairment of assets.
Preparation of financial statements
Income Statement (Profit & Loss): Understanding revenues, expenses, and net profit.
Balance Sheet (Statement of Financial Position): Analysing assets, liabilities, and equity.
Cash Flow Statement: Understanding the inflow and outflow of cash.
Financial statement analysis
Techniques for evaluating financial statements, such as ratio analysis, trend analysis, and benchmarking.
How to assess liquidity, profitability, and solvency using key financial ratios.
Revenue recognition and expense matching
Understanding the recognition of revenues and expenses in the context of accrual accounting.
The matching principle and its impact on the timing of revenue and expense recognition.
The role of financial accounting in decision-making
How financial accounting information is used by stakeholders such as investors, creditors, and managers for decision-making.
Understanding the importance of transparency and accuracy in financial reporting for stakeholder trust.
This module provides foundational knowledge and skills in financial accounting, crucial for further studies in business, finance, and accounting, and essential for professional application in financial reporting and business management contexts.
Entry requirements
There are no entry requirements but you’ll need a good understanding of both English and Maths, as well as a passion to succeed in business.
You’ll also need to register with CIMA before you begin your studies.
If you have some accounting experience, you might be eligible for exemptions from subjects at this level or be eligible for full exemptions from this level and be able to move directly to the Professional level.
To find out more speak to a learning advisor.
Support & assessments
Support from expert advisors
Our team will be on hand throughout your journey to answer questions, signpost additional support and provide guidance on your study route. Our experienced tutors will also be there to support you through your learning.
24/7 access to all our learning resources
Our online learning resources give you 24-hour access to our comprehensive business and finance resources to help you through your course and beyond. Available for the duration of your CIMA programme, it includes course recordings and course notes, revision question bank and revision cards, online access to practice mocks, as well as group chats. Perfect for when you want to revisit something you’ve just learnt or revise for your assessments.
Collaborate with other learners
Learn with and from other our experts and other students on our online platform. Share what you have learnt in each unit, reinforcing your understanding while helping you prepare for your assessments and future role.
Get your burning questions answered quickly
Our learning support team are here to help If you have a question about the VLE, CIMA membership, workshops or anything else to do with your course. They are contactable whenever you need them, for as long as you’re on the programme.
To achieve this CIMA Certificate in Business and Accounting you’ll need to pass exams in each module. These can be taken one at a time after you’ve completed each module.
Booking your exams
Reed Business School is a CIMA exam center.
You’ll need to register with CIMA before you can sit an exam. If you’d like to book your exam with us, please complete our CIMA enrolment form.
If you are not attending one of our courses and you’d like to book your CIMA exam with us, please download our computer-based exam (CBE) dates, complete the booking form and return it to us.
Achieving your qualification
For the CIMA BA3 module (Fundamentals of Financial Accounting), learners are assessed through:
Objective Test (OT): A computer-based exam featuring multiple-choice, multiple-response, drag-and-drop, and other objective question formats.
Exam Duration: 90 minutes.
Passing Mark: 70%.
The BA3 module is assessed through a standalone exam with no additional coursework or assessments required.
Booking your exams
Reed Business School is a CIMA exam center.
You’ll need to register with CIMA before you can sit an exam. If you’d like to book your exam with us, please complete our CIMA enrolment form.
If you are not attending one of our courses and you’d like to book your CIMA exam with us, please download our computer-based exam (CBE) dates, complete the booking form and return it to us.
Your pathway to becoming CIMA qualified
Completing this CIMA qualification typically takes 6-12 months
Induction
Before we dive into the course units, you’ll complete an induction to help you prepare for the programme and get the most out of your learning. This will involve:
Meeting the learner community and accessing our extensive online resources
Receiving your study materials
Meeting your tutor and connecting to Microsoft Teams
Exploring your module workbooks
Apply now
Ready to take your accounting skills to the next level?
Complete this booking form to apply for this course.
Not sure which study option is right for you?
Our specialist advisers are here to help. They’ll talk you through the different qualifications and delivery styles, and help you choose the best options for your career.
Enquire today to speak to an advisor.
Chose your study method
We offer a range of study methods to suit your lifestyle and budget. All our study options include 24-hour access to our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) where you can study in your own time between classes.
On-demand
Flexible, self-paced online learning. Ideal for independent learners.
Comprehensive digital materials
Access to recorded webinars
Tutor support via email
Self-assessment quizzes
Engage with your tutor on a 1-2-1 basis
Live Online
Real-time, online classes with live tutors. Ideal for learners seeking flexibility.
Scheduled live sessions online
Direct support from tutors
Real-time collaboration with peers
Recorded sessions for later review
Interactive online learning environment
£540.00 (inc VAT)
Online classroom
Enjoy a classroom experience from home. Ideal for learners seeking live online lessons.
Online classroom experience
Direct support from tutors
Real-time collaboration with peers
Recorded sessions for later review
Interactive online learning environment
£540.00 (inc VAT)
Classroom
In-person learning. Ideal for learners who prefer traditional classroom settings.
Face-to-face, classroom learning.
Immediate feedback from tutors.
Networking with fellow learners.
Online resources for extra support.
Convenient times and locations
£735.00 (inc VAT)
Residential
In-person learning at our 17th-century Manor. Ideal immersive experience.
Unique learning environment
All-inclusive experience
Accommodation and meals
Outstanding facilities
On-site exam centre
Course price does not include accommodation fees. Rooms are available from £75 per night.
£970.00 (inc VAT)
Payment options
To pay for your course in full, simply enquire, call us on 016 0867 4224, or complete the booking form and return to rbs.reed@reedbusinessschool.co.uk
We’ll provide you with all the details you need to complete the payment smoothly.
If your employer is paying for your course, then we can invoice them directly, so you don’t have to worry about trying to organise the payment yourself. You focus on your studies and we’ll take care of the rest.
What to expect
If you're looking to start a career in business and finance but lack experience or qualifications, the CIMA BA3 Fundamentals of Financial Accounting module is the ideal first step.
Designed for beginners, this module introduces core financial accounting principles, helping you develop the skills needed to succeed in your first role in business, finance, or accounting. Whether you're aiming to join a finance team or take on a broader business role, this module lays the foundation for your career development.
When you learn with Reed Business School, you’ll get access to:
Dedicated, experienced tutors who are subject specialists, providing the knowledge and support you need to pass your qualifications
A variety of delivery options including classroom learning at our conveniently located training centres and residential study programs at our iconic 11th-century manor
Access to additional study materials including revision cards and a question bank
Our unique teaching formula, which has helped thousands of students succeed on their course and beyond
Access to practical mock exams and recorded lessons via Microsoft Teams
Not sure if this CIMA qualification is right for you?
Get in touch with a learning advisor. They’ll run through the options with you and help you make the best decision for your career.
Useful links
If you're currently a student or considering CIMA with us, you'll find all essential resources here, from course outlines to application forms.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our support team. We're here to help ensure your success every step of the way. Remember to return your forms to rbs.reed@reedbusinessschool.co.uk.
Not sure which option is right for you?
Speak to one of our specialist learning advisers who will talk you through your options.
