How to Become an Accountant Without a Degree in South Africa:
Becoming an accountant without a degree may seem challenging but it’s not impossible, even in South Africa. Through strategic choices and hard work, you can establish a solid foundation and gain the necessary experience to excel in the accounting profession.
How to Become an Accountant Without a Degree in South Africa
Here are the steps to becoming an accountant without a degree in South Africa.
Step 1: Gaining Basic Skills and Knowledge:
Firstly, equip yourself with basic accounting skills and knowledge. Many free and paid online platforms offer introductory courses in accounting where you can learn the basics of financial statements, debits and credits, and the principles of accounting.
Step 2: Obtain a National Senior Certificate (Matric):
In South Africa, the bare minimum requirement for pursuing most accounting qualifications is a National Senior Certificate (Matric) with a pass in Mathematics. If you don’t have a Matric, you can consider adult education courses that provide opportunities to achieve the certificate.
Step 3: Get an Accounting Technician Qualification:
The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) offers an Accounting Technician Qualification, which can be completed without a degree. This program is designed to provide practical, industry-focused skills and could be an excellent starting point for those without a degree.
Step 4: Register for a SAICA Training Contract:
After acquiring the Accounting Technician Qualification, you may register for a three-year SAICA training contract. This opportunity allows you to gain practical experience in a professional environment under the supervision of experienced accountants.
Step 5: Take the SAICA Initial Test of Competence:
Once you have completed your training contract, you are eligible to take the Initial Test of Competence (ITC). This test is SAICA’s first qualifying examination, which assesses your ability to apply technical competence at a professional level.
Step 6: Complete the SAICA Assessment of Professional Competence:
The final hurdle to becoming a professional accountant without a degree in South Africa is passing the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC). This assessment tests your ability to integrate technical knowledge, ethical behavior, and professional judgement.
Step 7: Continue Learning and Developing Skills:
The world of accounting is always evolving, making continuous learning and skills development crucial. Join professional accounting bodies, participate in professional development courses, attend seminars, read accounting publications, and network with other accounting professionals to stay up-to-date and enhance your career.
While the path may seem daunting, it’s entirely possible to become an accountant without a degree in South Africa. With dedication, hard work, and the right steps, you can achieve your dream of becoming an accountant. Remember, the journey is equally important as the destination, so strive to learn as much as you can along the way.