Choosing to study towards an AAT, ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualification is an important step towards your career goals. Choosing how you want to study is just as important.

No two learners are exactly the same. Some people enjoy learning with a group, while others prefer studying independently. Some like following a regular timetable, while others want the freedom to decide when and where they study.

That's why choosing the right study method is about more than fitting study around your schedule. It's about understanding the learning environment that helps you stay motivated, build confidence, and make steady progress.

Whether you choose OnDemand, Classroom, Live Online, or Distance Learning, you'll benefit from expert tutors, comprehensive learning resources, and dedicated learner support. The difference isn't the quality of your learning experience. It's finding the approach that best matches your learning preferences, lifestyle, and goals.

How to choose the right study method

When you're comparing study methods, it's easy to focus on practical questions like where you'll study, how often you'll attend classes, or how much it will cost.

Those things matter, but it's also worth considering how you learn most effectively.

Ask yourself:

• Do I enjoy learning independently, or alongside other people?
• Do I prefer following a regular timetable?
• Do I like being able to revisit learning materials in my own time?
• Does structure help me stay motivated?
• Where do I feel most focused and productive?

There are no right or wrong answers. Understanding your learning preferences can help you choose a study method you'll feel comfortable with from the start.

If you prefer learning at your own pace

Some learners enjoy having the freedom to decide when they study and how quickly they progress through their course.

OnDemand learning is often well suited to learners who:

• Prefer learning independently, but still want a guided path
• Like revisiting topics whenever they need
• Want to progress at their own pace
• Prefer studying from their own environment

Being able to pause, replay, and revisit learning materials can help some learners build confidence before moving on to the next topic.

Some neurodivergent learners also appreciate this flexibility because it allows them to study in a way that suits their individual needs. Others prefer the routine, live interaction, and structure of scheduled classes. Neurodivergent learners, like all learners, have different preferences, so the most important thing is choosing the learning environment that helps you learn most effectively.

If you want independent study with core study materials

Some learners enjoy studying independently but prefer self-directed reading, learning from a combination of digital and printed course materials and practice, rather than an online course.

Distance Learning combines the flexibility of studying from home with high-quality learning materials, tutor support, and exam practice to help you stay on track.

This study method is often well suited to learners who:

• Want control over their study timeline and schedule
• Are self-motivated, confident, and thrive with independent learning
• Prefer learning through comprehensive reading and self-directed practice
• Want the flexibility to learn around other commitments

Like every Kaplan study method, Distance Learning provides expert support throughout your studies, giving you the flexibility to learn in the way that suits you best.

If you enjoy learning with others

Many learners enjoy learning alongside tutors and fellow students, asking questions as they arise, and discussing ideas in real time.

Classroom and Live Online learning both provide:

• Scheduled, tutor-led teaching
• Opportunities to ask questions during lessons
• Regular interaction with tutors and fellow learners
• A structured study routine

These study methods are often well suited to learners who enjoy learning through discussion or find that regular classes help them stay motivated and accountable.

Whether you attend classes in person or online, you'll receive the same expert teaching, comprehensive learning resources, and learner support throughout your studies.

If you're returning to study after a break

Returning to education after several years can feel like a big step.

Whether you're changing careers, returning after raising a family, or developing new skills for your current role, you may already have valuable professional experience and transferable skills. At the same time, it might take a little while to rebuild your study routine and confidence.

Some learners enjoy the flexibility of studying independently with OnDemand. Others find that the routine and interaction offered by Classroom or Live Online learning helps them settle back into studying more easily.

Building confidence isn't just about getting back into the habit of studying. It's also about feeling prepared to apply your knowledge in the workplace. That's why many of Kaplan's professional qualification courses include skills and behaviours modules, helping you develop practical workplace skills alongside your technical knowledge so you can feel more confident in your role and continue progressing your career.

If you've recently finished school, college, or university

If you've recently completed your education, you may already be familiar with structured learning and regular timetables.

Some learners enjoy continuing with that approach through Classroom or Live Online learning. Others see professional qualifications as an opportunity to become more independent by studying with OnDemand.

Neither approach is better than the other. The best study method is the one that helps you stay engaged, develop good study habits, and make consistent progress.

There's no single "best" study method

It's natural to wonder which study method is best.

The answer is that there isn't one.

Every learner is different, and the study method that works well for one person may not be the right fit for someone else.

Some learners thrive with the independence of OnDemand or Distance Learning. Others perform best when they have regular classes, live interaction, and a structured routine.

Whichever study method you choose, Kaplan provides the same expert tutors, comprehensive learning resources, and dedicated learner support. Your decision is simply about finding the learning experience that helps you succeed.

Find the study method that's right for you

Choosing a study method isn't about finding the "best" option. It's about finding the one that helps you learn with confidence.

Explore Kaplan's range of study methods to compare your options and discover which approach best matches your learning preferences, lifestyle, and goals.

Whichever study method you choose, you'll benefit from expert teaching, comprehensive learning resources, and dedicated learner support. We also offer flexible payment options, including PayPal Pay in 3 and 12-month interest-free instalment plans on selected courses, helping you start your studies without a high upfront cost.

If you're still deciding, why not try before you commit? Our free five-day trial on selected courses lets you experience the learning environment, explore the study materials, and see which study method feels right for you before you enrol.