Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA) essentials on one page

AAA introduces more complex topics and covering the basics from different angles to reflect the challenges auditors will face in their professional life. Current issues, exposure drafts and developments in audit including emerging technologies also feature. Questions are set in the context of single entities, groups and private or public sector organisations.

To prepare for AAA effectively you need to understand the nature of the
exam and what you will be asked to do.

Advice from an expert tutor

• Make use of ACCA resources
• Cover the entire syllabus
• Learn how to apply and use knowledge
• Practice planning questions, writing full answers and review them thoroughly. Visit the AAA past exams and question practice page for guidance on how to approach question practice, including using the ACCA Practice Platform
• Wider reading, for example news of current issues and developments in auditing.

• Analyse the wording of the requirements carefully
• Use the mark allocation to guide the length and breadth of the answer you should plan
• Read the first paragraph to understand the assignment
• Invest time in active reading of the scenario
• Identify relevant technical knowledge
  • Accounting as well as auditing
• Apply this to the scenario
  • Organise your planned points
  • Check you have used all information and exhibits before writing out your answer

The AAA exam has 20 marks for demonstrating professional skills

• Communication
  Section A questions require briefing notes
  Use appropriate headings and sub-headings, and clear, concise language
  Ensure you answer the question asked!

• Analysis and evaluation
  Analysis or evaluation must be relevant to the organisation and their situation

• Scepticism and judgement
  Demonstrate your professional judgement by prioritising risks based on the situation

• Commercial acumen
  Assess business risks affecting the client and the impact of the engagement on the audit firm.