Whether you’re starting your studies or are an experienced accountant, AAT membership validates your skills. But with different levels of membership available, it can be confusing to understand the definition of each one.

Navigating the transition from student to professional member is a key milestone in your career. In this insights article, we’ve broken down the different types of AAT membership, detailing what they mean, who they are for, and the benefits they unlock.

AAT Student membership: Access the resources you need to study

Your journey begins here. AAT Student membership is the essential first step for anyone studying an AAT qualification. You cannot sit an assessment or access your results unless you’re registered as a student member.

Student membership is your entry point to a wealth of study support. It’s designed to help you pass your exams and build your confidence.

Key benefits include:

• Study support: Access to the AAT Lifelong Learning Portal, which is packed with e-learning resources, practice assessments, and the "Green Light" tests to check your exam readiness.
• Career advice: Exclusive tips on writing CVs and interview techniques tailored to the finance industry.
• Events: Opportunities to attend events and network with other students and professionals.

Registering as a student is straightforward. Most learners register at the start of their Level 2 or Level 3 studies. It is important to note that you’ll need to pay a membership fee to register, which is an investment in your future career.

AAT Bookkeeping membership (AATQB): specialist support for dedicated bookkeepers

If you’ve a passion for balancing the books, AAT Bookkeeping membership (AATQB) is your professional home. This status is ideal if you want to specialise in bookkeeping or if you want to gain professional recognition while working towards your full accounting qualification.

Achieving AATQB status allows you to put the designatory letters AATQB after your name. This is a signal to employers that you have mastered the essential skills of double-entry bookkeeping, indirect tax, and payroll.

Why choose AATQB?

• Professional recognition: Stand out in the job market with official letters after your name.
• Self-employment: With an AATQB status, you can apply to become an AAT Licensed Bookkeeper, allowing you to offer self-employed services to clients legally and professionally.
• Earnings potential: According to the 2023 AAT Salary Survey, AATQB members earn, on average, 11% more than non-members.

To be eligible, you typically need to complete the AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting or the AAT Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping.

AAT Affiliate membership: Bridging the gap to professional status

Historically, Affiliate membership was the stepping stone for those who had completed their Level 4 Professional Diploma but had not yet applied for full membership.

AAT has recently updated its membership structure and currently states that they no longer offer Affiliate membership to new applicants. Instead, if you have completed your Level 4 qualification, you’re encouraged to progress directly to AAT Full Membership (MAAT) or Bookkeeping Membership (AATQB), depending on your eligibility and career goals.

AAT Full membership (MAAT): Achieving professional recognition and status

This is the goal for many aspiring accountants. AAT Full membership, known as MAAT, is an internationally recognised professional status. It demonstrates not only that you have the knowledge (by passing the Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting) but that you have the practical competence to apply that knowledge in the workplace.

Using the letters MAAT after your name proves to employers that you have reached a high standard of education and experience.

The benefits of MAAT status:

• Higher earning potential: Data suggests a significant salary bump for full members. The AAT Salary Survey 2023 showed a 35% increase in salary for those moving from Level 4 qualified to MAAT status.
• Global recognition: Your skills are recognised internationally, opening doors to work abroad.
• Professional development: You gain access to a massive library of CPD (Continuing Professional Development) resources to keep your skills sharp.
• Licensing: Like AATQB members, MAATs can apply for a licence to offer self-employed accountancy services to the public.

To apply, you generally need to have completed the AAT Level 4 Diploma and meet AAT’s "fit and proper" and professional competence requirements.

AAT Fellow membership (FMAAT): Accounting excellence

For those who have been dedicated to the profession for the long haul, Fellow Membership (FMAAT) is the highest level of recognition AAT offers. It is reserved for senior professionals who can demonstrate sustained professionalism and expertise.

To become a Fellow member, you must have held full membership (MAAT) for at least five continuous years.

Why upgrade to FMAAT?

• Senior status: The FMAAT letters signify that you are an experienced, senior professional.
• Salary growth: The financial rewards continue to grow. According to the AAT, FMAAT members on average earn 26% more than their MAAT counterparts.
• Leadership: It highlights your commitment to the industry and positions you as a leader in your field.

Frequently asked questions

What designatory letters can I use?

Depending on your membership level, you can use the following letters after your name:

• AATQB: AAT Bookkeeping Member
• MAAT: AAT Full Member
• FMAAT: AAT Fellow Member

Can I become self-employed with an AAT membership?

Yes, but you must hold a licence. AATQB members can apply to become AAT Licensed Bookkeepers. MAAT and FMAAT members can apply to become AAT Licensed Accountants. Offering services to the public without a licence is against AAT regulations.

How much does AAT membership cost?

Fees are subject to change, but as of the latest guidance:

• AATQB: £140 annual fee + one-off admission fee.
• MAAT: £195 annual fee + one-off admission fee.
• FMAAT: £208 annual fee + one-off admission fee.
• Students: Typically pay an admission and/or annual fee upon registration.

Do I need work experience to become a member?

For student membership, no. For AATQB, you need the relevant qualification. For full MAAT membership, you previously needed to log specific hours, but the focus is now on professional competence and meeting "fit and proper" criteria alongside your Level 4 qualification.

Choosing the right path for your career goals

Your AAT membership level is more than just a title, it’s a reflection of your hard work and dedication to the finance profession. Whether you are using AATQB to launch your own bookkeeping practice or aiming for FMAAT to cement your status as a senior leader, there is a membership level to support your ambitions.

If you are ready to take the next step in your career, ensuring you have the right qualifications is the best place to start.

Explore our AAT accounting courses.