AAT has made the difficult decision to stop offering its qualifications in Botswana through a planned transition that will conclude in March 2028. This follows a review of the local market and AAT's long-term role in Botswana. AAT believes this is the right time to support the development of a strong and sustainable local accounting profession in the country.
This is a planned transition, not an immediate change. Students already studying an AAT qualification can continue with their studies, and support will be available for students, training providers, members and employers throughout the process.
We know this change may feel unsettling for some students, training providers, members and employers. AAT will continue to support everyone affected throughout the transition, with clear guidance, regular updates and practical help available at each stage.
This page explains the key dates, what the changes mean for different audiences, and where to get support.
Key dates
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| 31 August 2026 | Final registration date for the Q2022 Level 4 qualification in Botswana. Please note: the Level 4 Diploma for Professional Accounting Technicians (L4PAT) will not be available in Botswana. |
| 31 October 2026 | Final registration date for Levels 2 and 3 (Q2022) qualifications in Botswana. |
| 31 December 2027 | Final opportunity to sit AAT assessments and resits in Botswana. |
| 31 March 2028 | Formal completion of AAT's withdrawal as an awarding organisation in Botswana. AAT will complete final certification and withdrawal activities. |
What does this mean for you?
Current students
- If you're already studying an AAT qualification, you can continue your studies as planned. There is no immediate impact on your qualification.
- Assessments and resits will continue until 31 December 2027, giving you time to complete your studies wherever possible.
- Any qualifications, units or levels you have already achieved remain valid evidence of your learning, skills and achievement.
- If you are concerned about your ability to complete before the final assessment date, AAT will work with you to understand your individual circumstances and help you understand the options available to you.
Frequently asked questions from students
Can I continue studying my AAT qualification?
Yes. If you are already studying an AAT qualification in Botswana, you can continue your studies. Assessments and resits will remain available until 31 December 2027.
Will my qualification still be valid?
Yes. Any qualifications, units or levels you have already achieved remain valid evidence of your learning, skills and achievement.
What should I do if I’m worried I won’t finish in time?
Please contact AAT or speak to your training provider. We will work with you to understand your circumstances and help you understand the options available.
Thinking about studying AAT?
If you're considering studying an AAT qualification in Botswana, you should carefully consider the registration deadlines and the time available to complete your studies.
Registration will close in stages:
- Level 4 (Q2022): 31 August 2026
- Levels 2 and 3 (Q2022): 31 October 2026
Please note: the Level 4 Diploma for Professional Accounting Technicians (L4PAT) will not be available in Botswana.
AAT and training providers will help students understand their options, including progression opportunities and available pathways.
Frequently asked questions from prospective students
Can I still register for an AAT qualification in Botswana?
Yes, but registration will close in stages. The final registration date for Q2022 Level 4 is 31 August 2026, and the final registration date for Levels 2 and 3 is 31 October 2026.
Will the new Level 4 Diploma for Professional Accounting Technicians be available in Botswana?
No. The Level 4 Diploma for Professional Accounting Technicians will not be available in Botswana.
What should I consider before registering?
You should carefully consider the registration deadlines and the time available to complete your studies before the final assessment date.
Training providers
- Training providers can continue supporting students throughout the transition period.
- AAT will work closely with providers to understand the impact on student cohorts, agree transition arrangements and support planning for affected learners.
- Training providers will have access to support, including:
- A dedicated relationship manager
- Provider meetings
- Transition guidance and resources
- Support with student pathway planning
- Training Providers should ensure prospective students understand the registration deadlines and have sufficient time to complete their studies before the final assessment date.
Frequently asked questions from Training Providers
Can we continue supporting students during the transition?
Yes. Training providers can continue supporting students throughout the transition period.
What support will AAT provide to training providers?
AAT will work closely with providers to understand the impact on student cohorts, agree transition arrangements and support planning for affected learners. Support will include relationship manager support, provider meetings, guidance and resources, and support with student pathway planning.
What should we tell students who are considering registering?
Students should be made aware of the registration deadlines and should carefully consider whether they have enough time to complete before the final assessment date (December 2027).
Members and qualification holders
- AAT qualifications and designations that have already been awarded remain valid evidence of skills, learning and professional achievement.
- Members will continue to receive updates throughout the transition period and will be informed of any practical implications as the withdrawal progresses.
- AAT will continue working with employers, the Botswana Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) and other stakeholders to help maintain confidence in AAT qualifications and credentials.
Frequently asked questions from AAT Members
Will my AAT qualification or designation still be recognised?
AAT qualifications and designations that have already been awarded remain valid evidence of skills, learning and professional achievement.
Will members continue to receive updates?
Yes. Members will continue to receive updates throughout the transition and will be informed of any practical implications as the withdrawal progresses.
Employers
- Qualifications already achieved by employees remain valid evidence of their knowledge, skills and achievement.
- AAT will continue engaging with employers throughout the transition and will provide information and updates to help maintain confidence in AAT qualifications and members.
- Employees currently studying an AAT qualification should continue with their studies and seek guidance from AAT or their training provider where required.
Frequently asked questions from Employers
Will employees’ existing AAT qualifications remain valid?
Yes. Qualifications already achieved by employees remain valid evidence of their knowledge, skills and achievement.
What should employees who are currently studying do?
Employees currently studying an AAT qualification should continue with their studies and seek guidance from AAT or their training provider where required.
Support and further information
If you have questions about how these changes affect you, support is available.
Students and Members
- Book a call – we can call you at a time that suits your schedule
- Email us at customersupport@aat.org.uk
Training providers and Employers
- Contact your AAT account manager or dedicated relationship manager directly
- Email us at accountexecutives@aat.org.uk