I can only answer regarding the ICAS qualification but unsurprisingly the balance will depend on your previous knowledge of accounting. Personally, I had no prior knowledge so I required much more studying/revision than some of my colleagues who had done accounting degrees. Typically, for ICAS you will be out of work on a full-time basis for c.4-6 weeks where you will learn all exam content and then sit exams during this period. For the vast majority of exams there is no crossover with working on project work whilst you are studying. My advice would be to be prepared to do at least a few hours extra work a week from the beginning of the courses as the content moves quickly and it can be easy to get left behind if its not understood.

12 March, 2025 16:37

With regards to previous knowledge, my friend from university, who was studying an ACA qualification, said that purchasing an old Level 1 ACA text book really helped him settling into the exams as he had a read through during the summer before starting his graduate job. Are there any books similar for ICAS?

12 March, 2025 16:40

Thanks Lyndsey! I'm doing the ATT and CTA exams as part of the Tax graduate scheme. I also have zero prior knowledge as I am a Chemistry graduate, currently teaching myself basic accounting. I'll be sure to put in the hours.

12 March, 2025 16:47

I'm not sure on an exact book to read I'm afraid. But I'm sure if you google ICAS content/ look at what is covered in some ICAS accredited degrees then this could be a good starting point

12 March, 2025 16:58

Well done to both of you for looking into this content in advance, sure it'll pay off when you get to college 😃 Don't worry though if it doesn't fully make sense to you though as they go back to complete basics at college and train you from the ground up

12 March, 2025 16:59