The school-leaver route to becoming an ICAS Chartered Accountant (CA) enables those with good Higher/A Level results to skip university and begin paid training.
Lots of school leavers seeking an interesting and rewarding future in business and beyond choose to bypass university and come directly to ICAS to train as CAs.
They don’t need any accountancy or business knowledge to follow this route.
All they need are strong Higher/A Level results – like those that would secure a place at university – and the ambition to begin a truly extraordinary career.
Three to five years' supported study
The school-leaver route to becoming a CA usually takes three to five years. The qualification is rated at the same level as a master’s degree and is organised to cover everything from the essentials to advanced principles of accounting, business and ethics.
We’ll provide support throughout their studies, offering high-quality information, advice and guidance.
Discover the syllabusRelevant practical experience (RPE)
To qualify as a CA, they’ll also need to be in a Training Contract of at least 3 years and achieve a minimum of 450 days of relevant practical experience. They’ll gain this by signing a training agreement and working with an ICAS-authorised employer – and earn a competitive salary whilst you learn.
Find out moreEntry requirements: Highers/A-Levels
No previous business or accountancy knowledge is required because the ICAS course syllabus is structured to cover everything they’ll need to know.
All that’s required are strong Higher or A Level results, like those that would secure a place at university.
For students who have studied an HND or the AAT qualification, exemptions may be available. Please refer to our Exemptions guidance.
Check exemptions guidance
Recruitment support
For support recruiting trainees onto this route, please visit our Become a CA jobs site.
Become a CA jobs site
