AT(SA) is a division of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) dedicated to the education, development, regulation and support of accounting technicians in South Africa. With SAICA, AT(SA) represents confident, skilled accounting technicians who are committed and empowered to deliver and uphold the high professional standards and ethics that the profession demands.
AT(SA) is a practical, work-ready foundational designation which offers professional membership and an accessible framework for lifelong learning and professional development. This qualification provides South Africans the opportunity to develop the skills that the economy needs. Members are bound by a code of professional ethics and are required to keep their skills and competence up to date through AT(SA) and SAICA’s continuing professional development system. The AT(SA) badge of competence also reflects a commitment to maintaining and developing skills and knowledge.
To find out more about AT(SA), visit the SAICA website.
This qualification covers the theory and practice of accountancy and offers prospects a solid foundation in accounting, finance and business practice.
The Public Finance Management Act and Treasury Regulations set high standards for financial management in the public sector, requiring skilled practitioners.
This qualification gives learners access to the accounting field through entry and mid-level accounting roles within the municipal environment.
Accounting Technicians play a vital role in accounting, finance and business sectors, ensuring accurate records, aiding financial decisions, and contributing to the overall well-being and compliance of an organisation. Their tasks range from recording financial transactions, bookkeeping, managing invoicing, and assisting with budgeting. Proficient in using accounting software, they actively contribute to the creation of financial statements and reports. Their collaboration with other departments ensures that financial information aligns with the overall goals and operations of the organisation. In a nutshell, these professionals are important for the smooth financial functioning of businesses across various sectors.
Choose AT(SA) for a credible and recognised qualification. Acquire practical, applicable skills that contribute to a sustainable career. The work-based learning approach allows you to apply your skills, making your contribution invaluable in the workplace.
AT(SA) empowers you to control your career progression. Work and study simultaneously, qualifying at your own pace. This progressive approach ensures continuous skill development, significantly enhancing your employment prospects.
The AT(SA) qualification and membership provide professional freedom, enabling you to take on various roles. From entry-level positions, like bookkeeping, to handling advanced tasks, such as preparing financial reports, the program prepares you for a diverse range of responsibilities.
AT(SA) is accredited and widely recognised by employers and the profession. Its quality, rigor, and practical approach make it a trusted choice for those seeking a reputable qualification in the field of accounting.
Once registered as an AT(SA) member, you will belong to a professional accountancy body who will provide continuous support and who will assist in developing and maintaining your competence. As an AT(SA) member, you will also have access to a range of membership benefits such as:
The average learner takes 12 months to complete a qualification level, with a typical completion time per module of 2 to 3 months. The duration will depend on which qualification level the learner enrols in.
AT(SA) offers an entry into the accounting profession, even for learners with no prior accounting knowledge. The NQF 3 qualification has open access, meaning there are no entry requirements. Prospective learners only need English literacy, numeracy, and computer skills to enter. These basic skills are needed to succeed in the course, and prospective learners will complete a skills assessment to evaluate competence. The courses build on each other, which means that the higher-level courses have some admission requirements – please refer to the detail on each course page for the requirements.
