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The ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Accounting & Finance is a foundation-level qualification designed for students who want to begin their academic and professional journey in accounting, finance, and business. This qualification provides the essential knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to progress into higher-level UK pathways such as ATHE Level 4 & Level 5, eventually leading to a UK bachelor’s degree (BA/BSc Hons) through a Top-Up year.
ATHE is an Ofqual-regulated awarding body, ensuring that the Level 3 qualification is internationally recognized, academically credible, and accepted by universities worldwide. The program focuses on building a strong understanding of key financial concepts, business operations, budgeting, bookkeeping, financial reporting, and analytical skills.
The Level 3 Diploma is equivalent to A-Levels/Intermediate, making it an excellent option for students who have completed Matric, O-Levels, or Intermediate and want to enter the UK education pathway through a cost-effective and flexible route. With assignment-based assessment, flexible learning modes, and comprehensive academic support, students can complete Level 3 in 6–9 months and progress smoothly toward higher education and future professional careers.
Minimum education required: Matric / O-Levels / Intermediate (Grade 10–12).
Minimum age: 16 years.
Basic English reading and writing skills (IELTS not required at this level).
Suitable for students aiming to progress to ATHE Level 4 & 5 in Accounting & Finance.
Standard Pathway
Duration: 6-8 months per level
Ideal for students who prefer a steady, structured pace with regular support and guidance.
Fast-Track Pathway
Duration: Based on prior educational background
Eligible students may complete the level in a shorter time
Learning Modes Available
On-Campus Classroom Sessions
Learn in a structured environment with face-to-face teaching, peer interaction, and classroom support.
Online / Distance Learning
Flexible, self-paced learning through our online platform-perfect for working professionals or students outside the city.
Blended Mode (Hybrid)
A combination of online learning and on-campus sessions.
Ideal for students who want flexibility without compromising in-person support.
Introduction to Accounting 10 Credits Mandatory
The aim of this unit is to develop an understanding of the different areas of accountancy practice and to begin to consider how these inter-relate with the business environment.
Introduction to Accounting Principles 10 Credits Mandatory
The aim of this unit is to develop an understanding of accounting principles and information systems. Learners will develop practical bookkeeping skills and understand how to prepare double entry ledger accounts from first principles.
Financial Accounting Applications 10 Credits Mandatory
The aim of this unit is to gain an understanding of financial accounting techniques. Learners will develop practical accounting skills to enable them to prepare final accounts for a range of different business organisations and will understand how to analyse and evaluate these statements making appropriate justifications for organisational improvements.
Introduction to Management Accounting 10 Credits Mandatory
The aim of this unit is to develop their management and costing accounting skills. Learners will demonstrate numerical dexterity by completing practical tasks completed by business organisations on a day to day basis.
Introduction to Cost Accounting Techniques 10 Credits Mandatory
The aim of this unit is to develop cost accounting skills. Learners will gain an understanding of the importance of costing to the effective operation of a business organisation.
Ethical, Social and Political Issues in Accounting Practice 10 Credits Mandatory
By considering a range of social responsibilities, learners will gain an understanding of the inter-relationship between quantitative and qualitative information.
Progress directly to ATHE Level 4 Diploma in Accounting & Finance (equivalent to Year 1 of a UK bachelor’s degree).
After completing Level 4, continue to ATHE Level 5 Diploma (equivalent to Year 2 of a UK bachelor’s degree).
Upon finishing Level 5, students can enter a Level 6 Top-Up Degree in the UK, Ireland, Canada, or online to complete a BA (Hons) / BSc (Hons) in Accounting & Finance.
After the Top-Up degree, students may pursue professional qualifications such as ACCA, CIMA, CPA, CFA, or continue to a Master’s degree (MBA, MSc Finance, etc.).
Entry-level finance roles such as Accounts Assistant, Finance Intern, Billing Assistant, or Bookkeeping Support.
Administrative positions with a finance focus, including Office Assistant, Data Entry for Accounts, and Finance Clerk roles.
Opportunities in small businesses, corporate departments, trading firms, and service companies that require basic accounting support.
A strong foundation for progressing into advanced roles after completing Level 4, Level 5, and the UK Top-Up degree, such as Junior Accountant, Finance Executive, Payroll Officer, and Audit Trainee.
After completing ATHE Level 3 in Accounting & Finance, students can progress to Level 4 & Level 5, and then enter a Level 6 Top-Up Degree at the following institutions:
Bangor University
Ulster University (United Kingdom)
University of Portsmouth (United Kingdom)
George Brown College (Canada)
Griffith College (Ireland)
Limerick Institute of Technology (Ireland)
No Exams - Assignment-Based Assessment
Learn through real-world business case studies, projects, and research instead of traditional exams.
Choose On-Campus ,Online, or Blended Learning based on your lifestyle and commitments.
Affordable & Accessible
Study the UK pathway locally with a cost-effective structure and flexible payment options.
Dedicated Academic Support
Our mentors and instructors guide you throughout your learning journey - from your first class to your UK top-up application.
EdSkills offers flexible and affordable fee options for ATHE Level 4, Level 5, and UK Top-Up pathways.
Flexible Payment Options
Monthly installments
Quarterly payments
Discounts for full upfront payment
Scholarships and early-bird offers (subject to eligibility)
What’s Included
Tuition & learning sessions
Online learning portal access
Assignment support & tutor guidance
Student services and admin support
Convenient Payment Methods
Bank transfer
Online payment
Credit/Debit card (where available)
1. What is the ATHE Level 3 Diploma in Accounting & Finance?
ATHE Level 3 is an introductory UK qualification designed to build strong foundations in accounting, finance, and business skills. It prepares students for university-level study by developing essential concepts such as financial statements, budgeting, business environment, and numerical analysis.
2. Is ATHE Level 3 recognized internationally?
Yes. ATHE is an Ofqual-regulated awarding body (UK Government).
The Level 3 qualification is globally recognized and accepted by universities as an entry route into Level 4 (Year 1 of a UK bachelor’s degree).
3. What can I study after completing Level 3?
After Level 3, students progress to:
ATHE Level 4 Diploma in Accounting & Finance (equivalent to Year 1 of a UK degree)
ATHE Level 5 Diploma in Accounting & Finance (Year 2)
UK Level 6 Top-Up (final year) to earn a BA/BSc (Hons) degree
This creates a complete UK pathway from foundation to bachelor’s degree.
4. Do I need IELTS for Level 3?
No.
IELTS is not required for Level 3 entry.
Basic English reading and writing skills are sufficient.
IELTS is usually needed only if you later choose an on-campus UK Top-Up at Level 6.
5. What is the duration of the Level 3 program?
The Level 3 Diploma typically takes:
6 to 9 months, depending on study pace and mode.
6. Are there exams in Level 3?
No. Assessments are based on:
Coursework
Assignments
Case studies
Practical tasks
There are no written exams.
7. Can I study Level 3 online?
Yes. Level 3 is offered through online, blended, and flexible learning, making it ideal for students balancing studies with work or other commitments.
8. Which universities accept progression after Level 3 (via Level 4 & 5)?
After completing Level 3 → Level 4 → Level 5, students can progress to Top-Up degrees at institutions such as:
Bangor University
Ulster University (UK)
University of Portsmouth (UK)
George Brown College (Canada)
Griffith College (Ireland)
Limerick Institute of Technology (Ireland)
9. Will my final degree be awarded by the university?
Yes.
After completing Level 6 Top-Up, your BA/BSc (Hons) Accounting & Finance degree will be issued directly by the UK, Irish, or Canadian university you choose.
10. What career opportunities are available after Level 3?
Level 3 prepares you for entry-level roles such as:
Finance Intern
Accounts Assistant
Bookkeeping Support
Office/Administrative Assistant
Higher-level roles become available after progressing to Level 4, 5, and the Top-Up degree.
11. Can international students enroll?
Yes.
Level 3 accepts both local and international students.
12. What is the fee structure?
EdSkills provides flexible and affordable installment plans.
For exact fees, students may contact the admissions team directly.
13. Does EdSkills provide study support?
Yes.
Students receive support with:
Assignments & coursework
Learning materials
Academic guidance
University progression counseling