A Comprehensive Guide to AAT Exam Centres

You’ve decided to go for your AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualification – Congratulations, you’ve made an excellent choice towards creating a successful career in accounting. Part of the process involves taking your exams, for which a good understanding of AAT exam centres is required. In this detailed guide we’ll be looking at AAT approved exam centres, booking and finding exam centres, requirements and all other exam centre related aspects. Whether you’re examining for the first time, or you’re a regular examiner, you’ll find all the information you need here for a hassle-free exam.

What are AAT Exam Centres?

AAT exam centres are locations where exams are held and where the examination standard can be maintained, ensuring fairness and honesty. Exam centres follow strict guidelines to offer candidates the best possible environment to show their knowledge and skills and are approved by the AAT. They have facilities and equipment such as computers, exam software, and invigilators, to ensure exams are conducted in a secure and efficient manner.

AAT Approved Exam Centres

Criteria for Approval

For an exam centre to be accepted by the AAT, it must fulfill certain criteria, such as:

1. Facilities: The exam centre needs sufficient facilities to accommodate the candidates, including seating and space, computer equipment, and exam software.
2. Security: The exam centre needs to uphold strict security protocols to avoid cheating and ensure exam honesty. This includes storage of exam papers and equipment in a secure location and candidates being invigilated during the exam.
3. Accessibility: Easy access should be available for all candidates, including those with special needs, along with any required accommodations.
4. Qualified Staff: Exam centre staff should be trained and equipped to handle the exam and assist candidates.

Types of AAT Exam Centres

There are different types of centres where AAT exams can be taken, including:

1. Public Centres: Open to all examining candidates, usually based in schools, colleges, training centres, or professional bodies.
2. Private Centres: Generally based with specific training providers, and some of these centres may only accept students on their courses.
3. Employer Centres: Certain employers have approved exam centres based at their premises for employee’s studying AAT qualifications.

How to Locate an AAT Exam Centre

Online Search Tool

The most convenient method for finding an AAT exam centre is through the online search tool on the AAT’s official website. Here you can search for exam centres by postcode, city, or country, and filter the results depending on your requirements such as, accessibility options, or distance from your location.

Contacting AAT Directly

You can always contact AAT directly if you’re having difficulties finding an exam centre that suits you through the online tool. They have a support team that can help you with this issue, and offer further information if required.

Recommendations from Training Providers

Your AAT training provider can also recommend exam centres, especially if they have a partnership with specific centres. They can provide insights into the facilities and support available at these centres.

How to Book an AAT Exam

Registering with the AAT

You need to be registered with the AAT as a student before you can book an exam. This requires you to fill in an application form and payment of the registration fee. Once you have registered, you will be allocated a student membership number that you need to quote when booking exams.

Choosing an Exam Centre

You can use the online search tool or recommended by your training provider, choose an exam centre that is convenient for you. Check their availability and any special requirements they may have.

Booking the Exam

1. Book Online: Most AAT exam centres now offer the facility to book online through their websites. You will be required to quote your student membership number, your personal details and the type of exam you want to sit. Obviously, you will also need to select a date and time slot.
2. Book by Phone or Email: A few exam centres may only accept bookings by phone or email. You will need to call the centre directly and give them the necessary details to confirm the booking.
3. Payment: At the time of booking, you will be required to pay the exam fee. Acceptable methods of payment vary between exam centres but common ones are by credit/debit card, bank transfer or PayPal.

Confirmation

After your booking has been confirmed, you will get an email confirmation with the exam details, including date, time, location and any special instructions you need to follow. You need to read the information carefully and retain a copy for your records.

What do you need on the Day of the Exam? (Essentials for Exam Day)

ID

You will need to take a valid form of ID with you on the day of the exam. A passport, driving licence or national ID card are acceptable forms. Your ID needs to be valid (not expired) and show your photo and signature.

Admission Ticket

An admission ticket is required by some exam centres. You will get a copy of this by email after you book your exam. You need to print this ticket and take it with you to the exam centre.

Stationery and Equipment

While most AAT exams are computer-based, you may still need to bring basic stationery such as pens, pencils, and a calculator. Check the specific requirements for your exam to ensure you have everything you need.

Arrive Early

Plan to arrive at the exam centre at least 30 minutes before your scheduled start time. This allows for check-in procedures and any unforeseen delays.

What to Expect at the Exam Centre

Check-In Process

You will be asked to check in, your identification may be checked and you may be asked to sign in. Then you will be guided to the exam room and allocated to a workstation.

Exam Environment

The exam room is a quiet and distraction-free area. Workstations usually provide computers and headphones if required. Invigilators will be there to oversee the exam and to help if you have any problems.

During the Exam

• Guidance: You will be given guidance on the use of exam software and any specific rules to follow before the start of the exam.
• Time: Each exam duration is limited and will be controlled by the exam software, so please take care of your time.
• Breaks: Normally breaks are not permitted during the exam unless you have medical conditions specified.

Submitting the Exam

After you have finished your exam, you will submit it via the exam software. Please ensure that you have checked all your answers before you submit the exam as you will not be able to change anything after that.

Post-Exam

Results

AAT exam results normally will be released within six weeks after the exam date. You will be sent an email to inform you when the results are published and you can login to your AAT student account to view your results.

Resitting and Retaking

You may retake any exam you have not passed. You can follow the same steps as you do when booking your first exam. Take note of your past performance and work on the areas you are not satisfied with.

Other Tips to Success

Get to Know the Exam Format

Knowing what to expect in your AAT exam can help ease anxiety and help you perform better in the exam. You can practise using past papers and sample questions which are available on the AAT website.

Manage Your Time

Make a study timetable to ensure that you can go through all the topics before the exam. Divide your study time into smaller portions and have regular breaks so that you will not get burnout.

Seek Support

If you are struggling with certain topics, don’t hesitate to seek help from your tutors, peers, or online forums. Joining a study group can also provide additional support and motivation.

Conclusion

AAT exam centres play a vital role in your journey to achieving an AAT qualification. Understanding how to locate, book, and prepare for exams at these centres can make the process smoother and less stressful. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can focus on your studies and approach your exams with confidence. Remember, thorough preparation and a calm, organised approach on exam day are key to success. Good luck on your AAT journey!