I'm currently studying towards the AAT, but I'm not sure I've made the right choice. I don't want to be an accountant as I really enjoy the bookkeeping side of things. My only experience of bookkeeping is helping my hubby with his accounts which I really enjoy.
I'm thinking about jumping ship and looking at doing a dedicated bookkeeping qualification. I'm a bit stumped as to whether I should look at the IAB or ICB?
Both seem to offer similar things. I've seen the ICB on this forum quite a bit and wonder whether the ICB qualification is the one I should go for as it seems to tick all the boxes. However I dont want to rule out the IAB and end up making another costly mistake!
Any advice from other bookkeepers would be greatly appreciated.
Are you absolutely sure the AAT isn't right for you? I say that because I started the AAT (didn't finish it due to a lack of willpower) but it's very relevant if you want to be a book-keeper. If money is an issue and you're determined to move, why dont you try to complete the first level and then see if you can convert to the ICB or IAB. I'm pretty sure you'll get some exemptions.
With regards to the IAB and ICB I think you'll find they're pretty similar in terms of what you'll cover. I think the IAB is taught at more brick and mortar colleges (at least it was when I was looking), but I think the ICB is more popular with online learning providers. I also prefer the ICBs title when you qualify 'Certified Book-keeper', very posh!
Anyway I hope this helps a little, I know its a big step for you. Whichever way you opt it will be worth while in the end.
Stuart
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Stuart
Birmingham City FC - Blues is my religion St Andrews is my church
I know you asked bookkeepers rather than the ICB but I will try and be un-bias in my response
Stuart is right that you could stick with AAT and after you have completed apply to one of the others via exemptions.
Have you thought about employement or self employed? As I think that could be a decision maker.
The ICB was setup to be a pure bookkeeping body, supporting mainly self employed bookkeepers or bookkeeping firms. I personally believe if you want to be a self employed bookkeeper the ICB is the better option, as that is what it was started for.
However, if you want to be employed, in terms of employer recognition, AAT might be better to stick with. Although ICB are starting employer programs to help support their employed members, they are new to this where as the AAT have been around much longer.
Thank you Stuart and James for your very helpful replys.
Having looked at the ICB website I think its the way I will go long term. I will think about it over Christmas and may switch in the new year. I will also look into what ICB exemptions would be available if I did switch after the first level of the AAT.
I agree with you Stuart, I do like the sound of being a Certified Bookkeeper!
