Qualifications / Accounting and Finance
Level 2 Award in the Principles of Using Cloud Accounting Software for Business
This knowledge and skills-based learning programme builds upon the Level 2 Award in the Basic Principles of Using Cloud Accounting Software qualification and develops broader knowledge around using cloud-based accounting software that can be applied in a business setting.
Fee (does not include a course or training)
£204 for exams
Qualification overview
This qualification develops broader knowledge and practical skills in using cloud-based accounting software. You will understand and be able to set up accounting software and process routine payments and receipts and know how this can be applied in a business setting.
The modules are designed to integrate the overall learning outcomes and enable students to progress logically through the qualification’s three units. Upon successful completion, candidates will achieve a nationally recognised KPA Level 2 Award in the Principles of Using Cloud Accounting Software for Business (RQF).
Who is this qualification for?
This qualification is suitable for school leavers or adults who are looking to:
- Enter into a new vocation or reskill after a career break
- Upskill to progress in their current job role or area of work
- Develop the practical skills required to use cloud-based accounting software
- Gain recognition of existing skills
- Achieve a nationally recognised qualification
Progression opportunities
Each Cloud Accounting Software qualification is designed to progress from one to the next. Candidates will be equipped with the skills and/or knowledge to enter into employment or progress in a role requiring the use of cloud-based accounting software.
Candidates can continue to study and progress with the following complementary KPA qualifications to broaden their knowledge and understanding of discrete accounting functions, the increasing need for digital specialists working with emerging technology and/or the importance of cybersecurity and resilience to online crime:
- KPA Level 3 Certificate in Pensions Administration
- KPA Level 4 Award in New Technologies for Business
- KPA Level 4 Award in Cybersecurity for Business
These qualifications can also be used to demonstrate competency of specific skills within the level 2 Accounts or Finance Assistant Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
These qualifications are designed for learners who are typically aged 16 or older.
Whilst there are no specific entry requirements to study these qualifications, it is recommended that candidates have a good standard of English, Maths and Information Technology prior to starting their studies for this subject area. It is also recommended that candidates have a basic understanding of bookkeeping terminology and practices.
Our Centres are required to review relevant prior qualifications and experience for each learner and to use that information to decide whether the learner has the necessary foundations to undertake these programmes of study.
Exemptions and/or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
The KPA Level 2 Cloud Accounting qualifications are designed with progression in mind. Candidates can gain Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) at a unit level providing candidates who wish to progress further, exemption against units already passed in other qualifications within this suite.
Delivery languages
This qualification is available in English only at this time.
For those whom English is not their first language, we recommend the following standards of proficiency in English language skills or an approved equivalent for this qualification:
- IELTs 5.5
- Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) B2
- Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) 162 or above
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic 42-49
Ofqual Register of Regulated Qualifications
Structure and assessment
This qualification is composed of six units, which are listed in the qualification structure below. The candidate must successfully complete all six units to obtain the qualification certification. The total qualification time is 132 hours.
Qualification structure
| Unit title | Assessment method | Mandatory / Optional | Level | GLH |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Using cloud-based software to manage accounting information | Computer based | Mandatory | 2 | 18 |
| Using cloud-based software to process routine payments and receipts | 2 | 23 | ||
| Understand the Benefits and Risks of cloud-based software | 1 | 17 | ||
| Principles of recording and processing financial transactions | 2 | 17 | ||
| Basic principles of VAT | 3 | 18 | ||
| Understanding professional values and basic business legislation | 2 | 9 |
Assessment method
The training materials for these qualifications along with the assessments for all units are delivered using the 'Sage Qualifications' online platform.
Candidates registered for these qualifications are provided with an access code to online training materials via the 'Sage Qualifications' online platform. The training materials are delivered sequentially within the platform, at the end of which the candidate can access the assessment.
To achieve a pass, candidates must score at least 70% for each assessment.
For further details:
Training centres
This qualification is only available through KPA recognised training centres. We cannot advise which centres are running particular training courses at any time. Please contact the centre directly to find out if they are currently offering your chosen qualification.
Centres approved to run this qualification
| Training centre | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Dublin Business School | Dublin | More info |
Becoming a KPA approved centre
To become a KPA approved centre you will need to meet general and specific requirements to ensure the standard and quality of the qualification delivery is maintained year on year.
Our dedicated support team will guide you through the application process and help to ensure you have all the information you need to deliver the qualification and assessment in the most effective way for your candidates.
All approved centres will be subject to ongoing regulatory processes, including centre visits, which will focus on the internal quality assurance process, management of the qualification delivery and the service provided to the candidate.
To learn more about becoming a KPA centre or working in partnership with a KPA centre, please contact us.
Documents and specification
Full details of this qualification can be downloaded below.
Schedule of Key Dates
2025 Schedule of Key Dates (101KB PDF)file_download
Qualification specification
Candidate support
It’s imperative to us that qualifications and assessments are accessible to all candidates. If you have any special needs, disabilities, temporary injuries or commitments that might impact upon your daily activities, for example pregnancy, breastfeeding or daily prayer, please notify us on registration so that we can ensure your needs are met.
KPA complies with the Equality Act 2010 and Ofqual general conditions of recognition regarding fair assessment. Our Access Arrangments policy aims to remove any unnecessary barriers to assessment that may prevent you from effectively demonstrating your competence.
You can apply for access arrangements by contacting our team to request an application form. Applications must meet the deadlines set out in the policy. If you are granted access arrangements, please inform us immediately if the circumstances related to your access arrangements change prior to your examination date.