ICAEW ACA Advanced Level
The ICAEW Advanced Level is the final and most challenging stage of the ACA qualification, designed to refine your expertise and prepare you for senior leadership roles in finance and business. It builds on the technical knowledge gained at earlier levels and focuses on strategic thinking, professional judgment, and real-world application.
Designed for aspiring chartered accountants nearing the completion of their ACA journey
Master complex areas such as corporate reporting, strategic decision-making at a senior level and the ability to problem solve.
Can be completed in as little as 12 months
Prepare for high-level roles such as Finance Manager, Audit Manager, or Senior Tax Consultant (with typical salaries ranging from £50,000 to £70,000+)
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Market leading pass rates
Dedicated support from ICAEW qualified tutors
100% online, classroom and residential options
ICAEW approved provider
Globally recognised qualifications
Over 50 years delivering accounting qualifications
Overview
Why is the ICAEW Advanced Level course right for you?
Take your accountancy career to the next level with the ICAEW Advanced Level, the final stage of the ACA qualification. This course is designed for aspiring chartered accountants who are ready to master complex financial concepts and demonstrate strategic leadership in real-world business environments.
Master advanced technical skills in corporate reporting, strategic business management, and case study analysis
Develop real-world applications of your knowledge through scenario-based exams that reflect the challenges faced by senior finance professionals
Enhance your strategic thinking to support high-level decision-making and long-term business planning
Gain a globally respected qualification from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), elevating your professional standing
Step into more senior roles in finance and business and become a chartered accountant who leads with confidence in complex financial environments.
This course is suitable for you if you are:
ACA students who have successfully completed the Professional Level and are ready to qualify as chartered accountants
Finance professionals aiming for leadership roles such as Finance Manager, Audit Manager, or Strategic Advisor (with typical salaries ranging from £50,000 to £70,000+)
Individuals committed to achieving full ACA membership and making a lasting impact in the accounting and finance industry
Course details
Whether you’re interested in progressing your accounting career or are planning to start your own business, ICAEW Advanced Level will teach you the high-level knowledge and practical skills to equip you for senior roles and running your own accountancy practice.
You’ll develop the advanced skills you need to succeed in your business career, including corporate reporting and complex strategic decision-making.
The ICAEW Advanced Level consists of three compulsory modules to help you develop your understanding and strategic decision-making at a senior level. At the end of each module, you’ll take an exam which will assess your understanding and ability to use technical knowledge in real-life scenarios.
Modules
Completing this ICAEW qualification typically takes 12-15 months.
You should have successfully completed the ICAEW Professional Level to progress to this ICAEW Advanced Level course.
For more information, speak to a learning advisor.
Delivery options
With our wide range of flexible delivery options, we provide tailored support for each student’s needs, ensuring a productive and enriching learning experience for every stage of their accountancy career.
To accommodate different learning preferences, we offer five delivery methods:
Study whenever and wherever suits you. On-demand learning offers ultimate flexibility, allowing learners to access high-quality course materials anytime, anywhere.
Ideal for independent learners who want flexible, self-paced learning to fit around their busy lives.
Self-paced learning
Digital materials and videos
Remote accessibility
Self-paced progression
Email tutor support
Flexible access
Self-assessment quizzes
Access to recorded sessions
Optional 1-2-1 tutor support and face-to-face or live online revision classes (additional fee applies)
Flexible, live sessions accessible from any location.
Experience the flexibility of Live Online learning and engage in real-time, interactive sessions from anywhere. Achieve your goals without the commute!
Ideal for learners who want the flexibility to study from any location
Live interactive sessions online
Dynamic delivery and instant Q&A
Collaborative activities
Engaging real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities (online)
Access to full tutor support (online)
Access to study books and online resources
Access to recorded sessions
Online assignments and exam preparation
Get all the benefits of in-person learning, all from the comfort of your home. Great if you need a little more flexibility when it comes to location, but still want the opportunity to interact with other learners.
Ideal for learners who want the classroom experience from the comfort of their home
Live classroom sessions streamed online
Dynamic delivery and instant Q&A
Collaborative activities
Engaging real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities (online)
Online tutor support
Study books and online resources
Access to recorded sessions
Online assignments and exam preparation
Traditional face-to-face classes with experienced tutors. If you like the idea of learning in person, where you bounce around ideas with other learners, then our face-to-face classes are for you. Classes take place every few months at one of our many UK venues.
Ideal for learners who prefer traditional classroom settings
Face-to-face interaction
Convenient locations across the UK
Engaging in real-time learning experience
Structured delivery plan
Networking opportunities
In-person and online tutor support
Study books and online resources
Access to recorded sessions
In-class assignments and exam preparation
Our venues span London, Northampton, Birmingham, Newcastle, Cambridge, Little Compton, and many other locations. If you have a specific place in mind, reach out to us - we’d be happy to discuss options to suit your needs.
All the benefits of our Classroom delivery method and an immersive on-site learning experience in a unique, comfortable setting at our Cotswolds Manor.
Delivered at our iconic Manor, where you’ll get to know other learners, relax in our first-class accommodation and enjoy delicious homemade meals.
Ideal for learners wanting an immersive experience.
Unique learning environment: A picturesque location in the heart of the Cotswolds, ideal for focused study.
All-inclusive learning experience: Residential facilities and a relaxing, friendly atmosphere conducive to immersive study without distractions.
Engaging real-time learning: Small classroom-based sessions with peers and dedicated, experienced tutors who are subject specialists.
Structured delivery plan: In-class assignments, exam preparation, and a clear path to success.
Comprehensive resources: Study books, digital course materials, online resources, and access to recorded sessions for revision.
In-person and online tutor support: Receive expert guidance whenever needed.
Access to outstanding facilities: Benefit from state-of-the-art learning environments.
Networking opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals and peers.
Support & Assessments
Support from our dedicated team
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.
Access to our ICAEW learning resources
When you enrol on this course, you’ll get access to our comprehensive ICAEW resources to help you through your course and beyond. Available for the duration of your ICAEW 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.
Get your questions answered
If you have a question about the programme, ICAEW the qualification or anything else to do with your course, our training support team are here to help.
You can call the support team whenever you need to, for as long as you’re on the programme.
For the Advanced Level, the Corporate Reporting and Strategic Business Management modular exams are 3.5 hours each, whilst the Case Study is 4 hours. All exams are taken as computer-based exams using bespoke software developed by ICAEW. There are two sittings a year in July and November. The three papers can be sat together or separately. The Case Study must be the last exam attempted, and when a student has entered their final year of training.
Students will be permitted a maximum of four attempts at each exam at Certificate and Professional Level.
Payment options
Invoice your employer
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.
Call our team of advisers today to get started!
Pay in full
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.
Useful links
If you're currently a student or considering ICAEW 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.
Where can this course take me?
ICAEW focuses on developing strong technical expertise in accounting, audit, tax, and finance, making it an ideal choice for those aiming to become chartered accountants and take on influential roles across a wide range of industries.
Compare ICAEW with other accounting qualifications
As a chartered accountant, a variety of career options are available to you. You can work in audit and assurance, taxation, management accounting or corporate finance in various industries, such as finance, healthcare, retail, or technology, or pursue an entrepreneurial path by starting your own accounting firm. Alternatively, having a chartered accountancy background can open doors for general finance and business strategic roles.
See what other roles your accountancy journey could lead you to
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.
Residential
In-person learning at our 17th-century Manor. Experience the ideal immersive environment.
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.
£5295.00 (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
£5295.00 (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
£4395.00 (inc VAT)
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
£4395.00 (inc VAT)
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
Optional 1-2-1 tutor (fees apply)
£2965.00 (inc VAT)
Looking to earn this qualification through an apprenticeship?
The ICAEW Level 7 Apprenticeship: Accountancy Professional allows you to develop professional skills while working, with the added benefit of government funding for eligible employers.
It’s a practical, cost-effective way to earn a recognised qualification and gain valuable work experience simultaneously.
Enquire today to find out more!
Why Reed Business School?
When you learn with Reed Business School, you’ll benefit from:
Market-leading pass rates: achieve top results with our expert support and resources.
Proven success: our students consistently perform at the highest level.
Experienced tutors: subject specialists guide you to pass your qualifications.
Proven teaching formula: helping thousands of students succeed.
Flexible delivery options: classroom, online, residential, and self-paced study available.
Convenient study: learn anytime, anywhere on your laptop, phone, or tablet.
Additional study materials: includes revision cards and question bank.
Mock exams & recorded lessons: accessible via Microsoft Teams.
Comprehensive materials: texts, revision cards, and mock exams included.
Highly rated: 4.6/5 on CourseCheck from hundreds of reviews.
50+ years of experience: a trusted provider with proven ICAEW results.
On-site exam centre: sit exams in a familiar, convenient setting.
Trusted brand: decades of expertise in learning and recruitment.
Market-leading pass rates
Trusted by leading accountancy practices
Top organisations trust Reed Business School for their Accountancy training and development.
Testimonial
Frequently asked questions
ICAEW offers the prestigious ACA (Associate Chartered Accountant) qualification, which is highly regarded by employers. The qualification demonstrates your high level of competence to management teams and accounting firms.
ACA currently consists of 15 exams divided into three levels:
Certificate
Professional
Advanced
Plus 450 days of practical work experience and ethical and professional development before qualifying.
Once you have completed all your exams, ethics training and practical work experience you can apply to become a member of ICAEW. Once approved, you’ll be granted the status of chartered accountant and can use the letters ACA or FCA (Fellow Chartered Accountant after ten years of ICAEW membership) after your name. Reed Business School currently offers:
Read our blog Becoming a chartered accountant – a step-by-step guide
ACA stands for Associate Chartered Accountant qualification.
The duration is usually three years. The maximum time limit for an ACA training agreement is five years but there is no time limit on completing your exams. You can continue to sit the ACA exams until you reach the maximum attempt limit which is four for the certificate and professional level modules but limitless for advanced level modules.
The ACA is equivalent to a postgraduate qualification such as a master’s degree.
ICAEW – consists of 15 exams divided into three levels: certificate, professional and advanced plus 450 days of practical work experience and ethical and professional development before qualifying.
As a chartered accountant, a variety of career options are available to you. You can work in:
Audit and assurance
Taxation
Management accounting
Corporate finance
Consulting
Risk management
Business recovery and insolvency
You can also choose to work in various industries, such as finance, healthcare, retail, or technology, or pursue an entrepreneurial path by starting your own accounting firm. Alternatively, having a chartered accountancy background can open doors for general finance and business strategic roles.
Case studies
Robert Lay, another ICAEW prize winner!
Exciting news from one of our final-year ICAEW students, Robert Lay, who recently won a prize at the ICAEW awards. Let's hear about his achievement.
Lily Gammon's journey to accountancy success: A Reed Business School triumph | Reed Learning
Discover how Lily Gammon achieved her dream career with Reed Business School's support and guidance. Her inspiring story showcases determination and success in the world of accountancy.
Useful links
If you're currently a student or considering ICAEW with us, you'll find 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.
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