Edexcel International AS Accounting specification (XAC11)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel International AS Accounting exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel International AS Accounting specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Edexcel International AS Accounting (XAC11) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Cambridge International AS Level in Accounting introduces students to the principles and purposes of accounting, developing knowledge of financial statements, record keeping and basic interpretation. It encourages understanding of how accounting information supports business decision-making. The course lays the foundation for further study by promoting accuracy, analysis and clarity in financial communication, with real-world relevance in both personal finance and organisational contexts. It builds skills in preparation and analysis of accounting data, applying both manual and structured formats using accepted accounting principles.
Subject content breakdown
1. The fundamentals of accounting
- Purpose of accounting and users of financial information
- Accounting principles and concepts
- The accounting equation and double entry
- Books of prime entry and journals
2. Accounting for non-current assets
- Capital and revenue expenditure
- Depreciation methods: straight line and reducing balance
- Disposal of non-current assets
3. Reconciliation and verification
- Bank reconciliation statements
- Control accounts and error correction
- Trial balance and suspense accounts
4. Accounting procedures
- Accruals and prepayments
- Bad debts and provision for doubtful debts
- Income statements and statements of financial position
5. Principles of accounting for partnerships
- Capital and current accounts
- Appropriation of profit
- Admission of a new partner
6. Introduction to accounting for limited companies
- Types of share capital and debentures
- Final accounts of limited companies
- Dividends and reserves
7. Analysis and interpretation
- Profitability, liquidity and performance ratios
- Comparison using accounting ratios
- Limitations of ratio analysis
8. Preparation of financial statements
- Income statements and statements of financial position
- For sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies
- Year-end adjustments
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Multiple Choice
- Written exam: 1 hour
- 30 marks
- 30 multiple-choice questions covering all AS topics
- 30% of AS Level
Paper 2: Structured Questions
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 70 marks
- Five structured questions based on AS content
70% of AS Level
- Candidates must take both papers in the same series for an AS award
- Assessment available in June and November
- Grading: A–E
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel International AS Accounting isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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