Each year companies authorised by ICAEW offer around 6,000 training roles through which you can study the ACA and complete the practical work experience element of the qualification.

You do all this while earning a competitive starting wage, with ACA trainees earning starting salaries of between £12,000 and £30,000 per year, depending on their academic qualifications.

Alongside your contract of employment, you will sign a training agreement with your employer which details:

• The training you will do and the support you’ll receive from your employer, including: paid tuition, study leave and mentoring.
• Your start date – training can start at any time, but often begins in September, January or April.
• Contract length – between three and five years, with most students qualifying in three years.
• Timescales for your ongoing structured learning and reviews.

There are more than 5000 ICAEW authorised training employers (ATEs) around the world and across business sectors.

ATEs are not just accountancy firms, but businesses of all types and sizes, as well as organisations operating in the not-for-profit sector.

Each ATE must meet strict ICAEW standards to provide ACA training, including having a ‘qualified person responsible for training’ (QPRT), who is likely to be your mentor.

To secure a training agreement you will need to apply directly to an ICAEW authorised training employer for a position or with a registered authorised training principal.

You will find a comprehensive list of ATE training opportunities, placements and internships via our Training Vacancies website, where you can sign up to receive alerts when new vacancies are posted.

Application processes vary, but typically you can expect to complete an online application form and submit a CV. You may be asked to complete some numeracy and aptitude tests and attend an assessment centre before being selected for an interview.