How to Study for the Certified Accounting Technician Exam
Passing the ACCA CAT Exams
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants is a global organization that promotes professionalism in the accounting industry. The ACCA also provides certification through a series of accounting exams. Accountants who pass the Certified Accounting Technician Exams, referred to as the CAT exams, can enhance career potential by obtaining CAT qualification. Accountants and other financial experts seeking CAT qualification should use the various ACCA study recommendations and tips to prepare for this challenging series of accounting certification exams.
BPP Learning Media
BPP Learning Media has the distinction of being one of only two official publishers designated by ACCA for the ACCA and CAT Qualifications. BPP recommends a three-step approach to preparing for CAT exams: textbooks and the "i-learn" interactive learning tool for learning and understanding; practice and revision kits and the "i-pass" set of about 300 practice questions for practicing and applying accounting knowledge; and revising and retaining knowledge and skills through audio CD products and passcards.
CAT test takers may access the "Our Products" page to download the latest catalogs for books, flashcards, online course offerings and other CAT exam resources. As of 2010, the fees range from about £8 to £25 for BPP study guides and tools. Email customer service at learningmedia@bpp.com for ordering details. You may also call 0845-075-1100 from within the UK or +44-(0)20-8740-2211 from overseas.
Kaplan Publishing
ACCA recommends Kaplan Publishing exam references as another tip for passing the certified accounting technician exams. Kaplan Publishing is also an official publisher for CAT-Qualification study materials. Kaplan provides a CAT study textbook, an exam kit with past questions and pocket notes. As of 2010, the fees range from £10 to £20 per resource. CAT students may order online, call +44-(0)118-989-0629 or email publishing@kaplan.co.uk (see Resources).
Tuition Providers
ACCA compiles a list of multiple tuition providers that can provide both classroom and distance-learning courses for CAT Qualification. ACCA runs its own "Approved Learning Partner--Student Tuition" program to approve specific tuition providers. ACCA recommends choosing one of these providers to study for the certified accounting technician exams. Test takers may use the tuition provider directory and search tool to find a provider. Select a country to run a search. Check off the "ALP" option if you want to see only providers recommended through the Approved Learning Partner program. You can see the provider name, physical address and contact details in the search results.
Student Accountant Magazine
ACCA publishes the Student Accountant magazine to provide tips and key topics and articles for CAT students and ACCA Qualification. Use the "Student Accountant Magazine" page to access the "Essential Guide," technical articles on accounting and other important information for succeeding on the CAT exams.