Course Overview

The ATHE Level 5 Diploma in Accounting & Finance is an advanced, Ofqual-regulated qualification equivalent to the second year of a UK Bachelor’s Degree. Designed for learners who want to deepen their understanding of financial management, accounting principles, and business decision-making, this diploma builds on the core foundation developed at Level 4.

At this stage, students explore higher-level competencies such as financial analysis, managerial finance, taxation, ethics, auditing concepts, and strategic business performance. The curriculum prepares learners for both academic progression and real-world financial roles with strong analytical and professional skills.

Upon completing Level 5, students receive 120 UK credits, making them eligible to progress to the Level 6 Top-Up at partner universities in the UK, Europe, or through online study options. This progression leads directly to a full BA (Hons) Business degree awarded by an internationally recognized university

Eligibility Requirements 

ATHE Level 5 is the second year equivalence and requires prior foundational knowledge:

• Successful completion of ATHE Level 4 (Business pathway)

• OR a relevant Level 4 diploma from any Ofqual-recognized awarding body

• OR 2 years of professional experience in business/management (for mature learners)

• English proficiency as required by EdSkills (IELTS needed only for Top-Up admission)

• Minimum age: 18 years

Duration 

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

Study mode

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.

Modules/Units

Pathway After Level 5

After completing ATHE Level 5 in Accounting & Finance, students become eligible to progress directly into the final year (Level 6 Top-Up) of a UK Bachelor’s degree. This enables learners to complete an internationally recognized UK BA/BSc (Hons) Accounting & Finance or a related business degree through an accelerated and affordable pathway. Students may choose to complete the Top-Up on-campus in the UK or through an approved online Top-Up program, depending on university offerings.

Learners typically progress into Top-Up programs such as:

• BA (Hons) Accounting & Finance

• BA (Hons) Business Accounting

• BSc (Hons) Financial Management

• BA (Hons) Business & Finance

• BA (Hons) International Business

• BSc (Hons) Banking & Finance

• BA (Hons) Business Administration

Most Top-Up programs are completed in 12 months, after which students receive a full UK Bachelor’s (Hons) degree awarded directly by the university.

Career Opportunities

ATHE Level 5 strengthens analytical, managerial, and technical skills-qualifying learners for mid-level business and finance roles and making them eligible for the final-year UK Top-Up degree.

Mid-Level Career Opportunities

• Accounts Officer / Executive

• Finance Officer

• Assistant Accountant

• Senior Bookkeeper

• Audit Associate

• Tax Associate

• Banking Relationship Officer

• Financial Analyst (Junior Level)

• Business & Reporting Analyst

• Credit Control Officer

• Cost & Budgeting Assistant

Long-Term Career Pathways (After Top-Up Degree)

Completing the UK Top-Up degree can open doors to:

• Chartered Accountancy pathways

• Corporate finance roles

• Investment and banking positions

• Financial management

• Business consulting

• International employment and postgraduate study (MBA/MSc)

Top-up Universities List 

Students who complete ATHE Level 4 & Level 5 in Accounting & Finance become eligible to progress into the final year (Level 6 Top-Up) of a UK-recognized Bachelor’s degree.

Some of the popular institutions accepting Level 5 graduates include:

• Bangor University (United Kingdom)

• George Brown College (Canada)

• Glyndwr University (United Kingdom)

• University of Sunderland (United Kingdom)

These universities offer pathways leading to a full BA/BSc (Hons) degree in Accounting & Finance or closely related fields.

Why Choose Us?

•  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.

Fees & Payment Plans

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)

FAQs

1. What is the UK Accounting & Finance Diploma (ATHE Level 4 & 5) Program?

This pathway enables students to complete Level 4 & Level 5 in Accounting and Finance in Pakistan (equivalent to Year 1 and Year 2 of a UK Bachelor’s degree). After completing both levels, students can progress to a Level 6 Top-Up year at a UK university to earn a full BA/BSc (Hons) in Accounting & Finance.

2. Is ATHE recognized internationally?

Yes. ATHE is regulated by Ofqual (UK Government) and accepted worldwide by universities and professional institutions for advanced standing and progression.

3. Is this qualification equivalent to the first two years of a UK degree?

Yes:

• Level 4 = Year 1 of a UK degree

• Level 5 = Year 2 of a UK degree

4.Is Level 5 enough to get a job in Pakistan or internationally?

Yes. Many learners use Level 5 to enter junior and supervisory roles in:

• Accounts & bookkeeping

• Payroll and finance support

• Cost control

• Audit support roles

• Finance assistant positions

However, completing the UK Top-Up degree further increases international employability and opportunities.

5. Do I need IELTS for Level 4 & 5?

Not always. EdSkills may accept internal English assessments.
IELTS is generally needed only for UK on-campus Top-Up, not for online Top-Up pathways.

6. What is the duration of the program?

• Level 4: 8–12 months

• Level 5: 8–12 months

• UK Top-Up: 11–12 months
  Total duration: approx. 2.5–3 years

7. Are there exams in Level 4 & 5?

No. Assessment is based on:

• Assignments

• Research tasks

• Case studies

• Practical application projects

8. Can I complete the Top-Up degree online instead of going to the UK?

Yes. Many universities offer 100% online Level 6 Top-Up in Accounting & Finance, giving the same degree as on-campus students.

9. Which UK universities accept ATHE Level 5 Accounting & Finance for Top-Up?

Common accepting institutions include:

• Bangor University (UK)

• George Brown College (Canada)

• Glyndwr University (UK)

• University of Sunderland (UK)

(Progression depends on individual university requirements.)

10. Will my final degree be awarded by the UK university?

Yes. After completing the Top-Up, your BA/BSc (Hons) Accounting & Finance degree is awarded directly by the university.

11. What career opportunities are available after completing this pathway?

Graduates may pursue roles such as:

• Assistant Accountant

• Finance Officer

• Audit Trainee

• Tax Associate

• Banking & Finance Executive

• Payroll Officer

• Accounts Administrator

• Financial Analyst (entry level)

12. Can international students enroll?

Yes. EdSkills accepts both local and international students for Level 4 & Level 5.

13. What is the fee structure?

EdSkills provides affordable, flexible payment plans with installments.
Contact the admissions team for the current fee schedule.

14. Does EdSkills help with university admission and visa guidance?

Yes. Support includes:

• University selection

• Application & documentation assistance

• Visa support

• Pre-departure guidance

Students Testimonials