Aspiring Accountant Programme (AAP)

Professional accounting qualification for non-accounting graduates

The Aspiring Accountant Programme (AAP) is a foundation course to provide students from non-accounting disciplines the preparatory accounting course as a first step to train and qualify as chartered accountants.

A fully-funded six-week accounting foundation course is followed by a training contract to complete a professional accounting qualification through the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) or The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW) while working in a leading professional services firm.

The participating firms include BDO, Deloitte, EY, KPMG and PwC. Applicants enjoy full-time employment and time off to complete additional classes and exams to obtain professional accounting qualifications.

The employers’ perspective

Amy Chua, assistant manager, talent acquisition of KPMG says:

“KPMG chose to participate in the AAP in support of the Government’s Economic Transformation Programme (ETP). We feel that the AAP is a good initiative which provides opportunities for non-accounting graduates to train and qualify as Chartered Accountants. We will provide the necessary practical work experience, monetary support and study leave to these graduates in completing their professional accounting qualification.”

With regard the qualities that KPMG looks for in non-accounting graduates, Chua explains:

“We basically look for non-accounting graduates who are genuinely interested in business and commercial issues, highly numerate, and have the drive to succeed. These graduates will undergo our comprehensive training and development programmes and also gain practical work experience which will provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge to complete their professional accounting qualification.”

Tan Gim May
Degree in Science (Computational Mathematics)
KPMG, Corporate Tax

Before joining AAP, Tan Gim May, was at a loss as whether to pursue a Masters or work in a bank as a salesperson.

“Most people don’t really know what their future goals are, including me. Some people enrol in university involuntarily”, she said.

Having majored in Computational Mathematics, her passion for mathematics spurred her on a path to become an accountant.

Nur Melissa Ismail
Degree in Finance
EY, Assurance (Energy)

Nur Melissa had completed her training in AAP and is now employed in EY, shared that the main challenge was commitment. Catching up with an unfamiliar subject within six weeks was a major undertaking. However, with “good and competent lecturers at Sunway University”, she managed to make it.

Nur Melissa and Tan are grateful for this opportunity to train in leading professional services organisations while acquiring new skills.

Programme commencement: January and July/August, twice a year

Interested applicants may apply via email (including a detailed resume) to upskilling@talentcorp.com.my