Distance Learning

Flexible, self-directed learning built around you.

Distance Learning gives you the freedom to manage your own study schedule, work at your own pace, and start when you're ready. With core study materials, exam practice, and expert academic support, you can work towards your qualification around your life, work, and other commitments.

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A man sitting at a desk writing notes in front of a laptop

Who it's for

Distance Learning is designed for learners who are confident managing their own studies and want complete control over when, where, and how they learn. You'll work through core study materials at your own pace, with support available whenever you need it.

Choose Distance Learning if you:

Want complete control over when, where, and how you study
Prefer learning independently from expertly written printed or digital study materials
Need a flexible, low-cost way to fit your studies around work, family, or other commitments

What’s included in Distance Learning?

Core learning and content

Complete study materials

Get the core printed or digital materials you need to work through your qualification. Written by expert Kaplan tutors, you'll find clear, comprehensive content designed to help you understand the syllabus and prepare for your exams.

Start anytime and learn at your own pace

Start studying as soon as you're ready, without waiting for course intakes. There are no fixed class times or scheduled live sessions. Set your own study timetable and work through the syllabus at a pace that suits you.

Exam preparation

Targeted revision and knowledge checks

Dedicated recap guidance, including short videos, knowledge checks, and comprehensive answer debriefs to build understanding and polish your technique.

Real exam practice

A diverse range of regular assessments, mock exams with feedback, and practice questions designed to mimic the real exam and pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses.

Unrivalled support

Support, designed just for you

Access Kaplan’s Academic Support team seven days a week via live chat, email, or video callback - whether you need help understanding a difficult topic, creating a study plan, or getting back on track after a setback.

Learning environment

MyKaplan - Your online study space

Manage your entire learning journey in one place, access course materials, test your knowledge with practice questions, monitor your progress, and connect with Academic Support.

Distance Learning free trials

Try Distance Learning for yourself with a free five-day trial.

AAT

Association of Accounting Technicians

The ideal starting point to build practical accounting skills and launch your finance career.

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ACCA

Association of Chartered Certified Accountants

A globally respected qualification, ideal if you’re looking to progress your accounting career.

Get your ACCA trial

CIMA

Chartered Institute of Management Accountants

An internationally recognised qualification that will set you up for success in management accounting.

Get your CIMA trial

Compare study methods

Whether you prefer complete independence or the structure of scheduled classes, you'll receive comprehensive resources and support throughout your learning journey.

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Feature	Distance Learning	OnDemand Learn more	Classroom Learn more	Live Online Learn more
Overview	100% self-directed learning with materials	Online learning with guided milestones	Structured, face-to-face learning	Live virtual classroom with scheduled classes
Live, tutor-led classes at set times
Re-watch your lessons
Interactive online modules
Speak face-to-face with tutors and other learners
Speak online with learners on the same course
Study at your own pace

Hear from our learners

Being able to study at home gives me so much more flexibility around my job. When it's really busy at work I generally don't get time to study during the week, so I make it up at the weekend.

Julie Dove

Distance Learning learner

It was a good price for me as I couldn’t do a classroom course, so I went for it and started asking questions, but was very surprised about the speed and quality of the feedback from all of the different tutors. The support that they gave me was very good and very fast, and it helped me a lot to keep going.

Daniel Salas

Distance Learning learner

Frequently asked questions

What is Distance Learning?

Distance Learning is a self-directed study method that gives you complete control over when, where, and how you learn.

You'll work through comprehensive printed or digital study materials at your own pace, complete practice questions and mock exams, and have access to expert academic support when you need it.

Is Distance Learning the same as self-study?

Distance Learning is designed for independent learning, but you're not simply studying from a textbook with no support.

You'll receive comprehensive Kaplan study materials, online practice and mock exams with personalised feedback, and access to Academic Support seven days a week.

Do I have to attend classes?

No. Distance Learning has no fixed class times or scheduled live teaching sessions.

You decide when and where you study, giving you complete flexibility to fit your learning around work, family, or other commitments.

Can I study Distance Learning while working full time?

Yes. Distance Learning can be particularly suitable if you have a busy or unpredictable schedule.

Because there are no fixed class times, you can create a study timetable around your working hours and other commitments, whether that means studying before work, in the evenings, or at weekends.

How quickly can I start Distance Learning?

You can start as soon as you're ready. Distance learning has no fixed start dates or term times, so simply choose when you’d like your access to begin.

Once you've ordered, your course materials will be ready on the date you select so you can start working through your studies straight away.

What study materials are included?

Depending on your course, you'll have access to comprehensive study materials, including study texts, exam kits, pocket notes or revision cards.

Will I get support if I'm studying independently?

Yes. Distance Learning gives you independence over your studies, but expert support is still available when you need it.

Kaplan's Academic Support team is available seven days a week through live chat, email, discussion forums on selected courses, or a callback where available.

How will I know if I'm ready for my exam?

Regular knowledge checks, practice questions, and online mock exams help you monitor your understanding and identify areas that need more work.

You can also submit mock assessments for expert marking and personalised feedback to help refine your exam technique.

Is Distance Learning cheaper than other study methods?

Distance Learning is Kaplan's low-cost study route, making it a good option if you're looking for a more budget-friendly way to work towards your qualification.

The exact price depends on your qualification and course, so check the relevant course page for current fees.

Have more questions?

Explore our full knowledge base for more Kaplan FAQs and support guides.

View our FAQs

Ready to start learning on your terms?

Try before you buy

Get a free Distance Learning five-day trial of AAT, ACCA, or CIMA.

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