The Accounting Technicians Scheme West Africa (ATSWA) continues to be a vital pathway for aspiring accounting professionals across Nigeria and West Africa. As a program administered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), ATSWA provides a foundation-level qualification that serves both as a standalone credential and as a stepping stone toward full ICAN membership. For students planning their accounting education journey in 2025, understanding the complete fee structure is essential for proper financial planning. This comprehensive guide breaks down all costs associated with ATSWA registration fees and examinations for 2025, helping candidates make informed decisions about their professional development.
What is ATSWA?
Before diving into the fee structure, it’s important to understand what ATSWA represents. The Accounting Technicians Scheme West Africa was established to develop middle-level accounting personnel across West African countries. The program is recognized by employers across the region and provides a practical accounting education that prepares candidates for various roles in the accounting field.
ATSWA is particularly valuable for:
- Secondary school leavers looking to build a career in accounting
- Working professionals seeking to formalize their accounting knowledge
- Individuals planning to eventually pursue full ICAN qualification
- Those seeking affordable entry into the accounting profession
ATSWA Registration Fees for 2025
Registration with ATSWA is your first step toward obtaining this qualification. The 2025 registration fees have been structured to remain accessible while maintaining the program’s quality standards.
Initial Registration Fee
For new students registering with ATSWA in 2025, the initial registration fee is ₦15,000. This one-time payment covers:
- Processing of your application
- Issuance of a unique student registration number
- Access to the ATSWA student portal
- Basic study materials guidelines
Annual Student Subscription
After your initial registration, you’ll need to maintain your student status through annual subscription payments. For 2025, the annual student subscription fee is ₦7,500. This fee:
- Keeps your student status active
- Provides access to student resources and updates
- Allows you to register for examinations
- Must be paid before you can register for any examination
It’s important to note that failure to pay your annual subscription on time may result in late payment penalties of ₦2,000, so timely renewal is recommended.
ATSWA examinations are conducted twice a year, typically in March and September. The examination structure consists of three levels: ATSWA Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3. Each level contains four papers, making a total of twelve papers to complete the entire program.
Examination Fees per Level
For 2025, the examination fees have been set as follows:
- ATSWA Part 1
- Registration per paper: ₦4,500
- Registration for all four papers: ₦18,000
- Subjects: Basic Accounting, Economics, Business Law, Communication Skills
- ATSWA Part 2
- Registration per paper: ₦4,750
- Registration for all four papers: ₦19,000
- Subjects: Financial Accounting, Public Sector Accounting, Quantitative Analysis, Information Technology
- ATSWA Part 3
- Registration per paper: ₦5,000
- Registration for all four papers: ₦20,000
- Subjects: Principles of Auditing, Cost Accounting, Preparing Tax Computations and Returns, Management
Examination Entry Deadlines and Late Registration
For 2025, the examination entry deadlines are typically:
- March Examination: Registration closes by late January
- September Examination: Registration closes by late July
Late registration is possible but attracts additional fees:
- Regular late registration (up to 2 weeks after deadline): ₦5,000 flat fee
- Extended late registration (up to 4 weeks after deadline): ₦10,000 flat fee
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Additional ATSWA Registration Fees for 2025
Beyond the basic registration and examination fees, there are several other potential costs that candidates should be aware of:
Study Materials
Official ATSWA study packs are available for purchase:
- Electronic study pack (all subjects): ₦25,000
- Individual subject study materials: ₦2,500 – ₦3,500 per subject
- Printed comprehensive study pack: ₦35,000
While these materials are optional, they are highly recommended for proper examination preparation.
Exemption Fees
Candidates with relevant qualifications may be eligible for exemptions from certain ATSWA papers. In 2025, exemption fees are structured as:
- Part 1 exemption fee per paper: ₦4,000
- Part 2 exemption fee per paper: ₦4,500
- Part 3 exemption fee per paper: ₦5,000
Supporting documents must be provided when applying for exemptions, and fees are payable for each exempted paper.
Administrative Fees
Various administrative services carry additional fees:
- Examination deferment: ₦5,000 per examination diet
- Result verification: ₦3,000
- Replacement of registration number: ₦2,500
- Change of examination center: ₦3,500
Payment Methods for ATSWA Fees
ICAN has modernized its payment systems for 2025, offering several convenient options:
- Online Payment
- Through the ICAN ATSWA portal using debit/credit cards
- Via bank transfers through the integrated payment platform
- Using mobile money services connected to the ICAN system
- Bank Deposits
- Direct deposits to designated ICAN accounts
- Bank draft payments at approved financial institutions
- District Society Payments
- Cash or transfer payments at local ICAN district offices
- Payment verification and processing through district representatives
Financial Planning for ATSWA Qualification
Understanding the total cost of obtaining your ATSWA qualification is crucial for financial planning. Here’s an estimate of the total costs for completing the program in 2025:
- Minimum Cost Scenario
- Initial registration: ₦15,000
- Annual subscription (2 years): ₦15,000
- Examination fees (all 12 papers): ₦57,000
- Total minimum cost: ₦87,000
- Average Cost Scenario
- Initial registration: ₦15,000
- Annual subscription (2.5 years): ₦18,750
- Examination fees (all 12 papers): ₦57,000
- Basic study materials: ₦25,000
- Miscellaneous costs: ₦10,000
- Total average cost: ₦125,750
- Extended Timeline Scenario
- Initial registration: ₦15,000
- Annual subscription (3 years): ₦22,500
- Examination fees (with some retakes): ₦70,000
- Comprehensive study materials: ₦35,000
- Miscellaneous costs: ₦15,000
- Total extended cost: ₦157,500
Scholarships and Financial Assistance
The ICAN Foundation and various state governments occasionally offer scholarships for promising ATSWA candidates. For 2025, these opportunities include:
- ICAN Merit Scholarships: Covering up to 70% of examination fees
- Corporate-sponsored scholarships: Varying coverage
- State government bursaries: Available in select states
- Educational trust funds: Application-based support
Candidates are encouraged to check the ICAN website regularly for updated information on financial assistance programs.
ATSWA registration fees for 2025: Key Takeaways
The ATSWA program remains one of the most cost-effective pathways to building a career in accounting in Nigeria and West Africa. With total costs ranging from ₦87,000 to ₦157,500 depending on your study approach and timeline, the qualification offers excellent value for the career opportunities it provides.
For 2025, the fee structure has been designed to maintain accessibility while ensuring the program’s quality and integrity. Proper financial planning, timely registration, and awareness of all applicable fees will help candidates navigate the ATSWA journey successfully.
Prospective students are advised to verify all fees directly with ICAN before making payments, as there may be minor adjustments to the fee structure throughout the year. With careful planning and dedication, the ATSWA qualification represents an excellent investment in your professional future.
Why TSPS is the Best Tutorial for ATSWA Registration & Exam Preparation in Lagos (2025)
If you’re preparing for the ATSWA exam in 2025, TSPS is the best tutorial center in Lagos to help you pass with ease. With a proven track record of success, TSPS offers structured courses, expert tutors, and comprehensive study materials designed to give you an edge.
From registration guidance to in-depth exam preparation, TSPS ensures you understand every aspect of the ATSWA program. Whether you’re a first-time candidate or retaking a paper, our strategic study approach, mock exams, and personalized coaching guarantee top-notch preparation.
Don’t leave your ATSWA success to chance—join TSPS today and take the first step toward becoming a certified accountant!
Contact Information
- Website: https://tspsnigeria.com/
- Phone: +234 806 430 2210
- Email: info@tspsnigeria.com