An auditor is a finance professional who examines and verifies the financial records of organisations to ensure accuracy, compliance with laws, and effective risk management. Auditors can work internally within a company or externally for an independent firm. Their main tasks include analysing financial statements, reviewing accounting systems, and making sure that organisations follow financial regulations and standards. Auditors may also provide advice on improving business processes and reducing financial risk. The role requires attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and a good understanding of business operations. Many auditors work for specialist audit firms, often travelling to client sites, while others are employed by large companies or public sector bodies.
The average salary for an auditor in the UK ranges from £28,000 to £55,000 per year, with senior auditors and those in London earning towards the higher end.
There are approximately 65,000 auditors and related professionals employed in the UK, according to the Office for National Statistics.
Most auditors hold a professional qualification such as ACA, ACCA, or CIMA, which typically takes 3 to 4 years to achieve after university.
Internal auditors work within organisations to assess financial records, ensure compliance with regulations, and identify areas for improvement in processes and controls.
Forensic auditors specialise in examining financial documents to detect fraud, investigate financial discrepancies, and provide evidence for legal cases.
Information systems auditors focus on reviewing and evaluating the effectiveness of IT systems, ensuring that data is protected and business processes are efficient and secure.
Achieve good grades in GCSEs, especially in Maths and English, and relevant A-levels such as Maths, Business Studies, or Economics.
Strong results in Maths and English at GCSE level are essential, as these skills form the foundation of auditing work. For A-levels, subjects like Maths, Business Studies, Economics, or Accounting are highly recommended and may be required by some universities or employers.
Study for a degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related subject, or pursue a higher apprenticeship in accountancy or auditing.
Many auditors have a university degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business. Alternatively, you can enter the field through a higher apprenticeship, such as the Level 4 Professional Accounting Technician or Level 7 Accountancy/Taxation Professional apprenticeship, which combine work and study.
Secure internships, placements, or entry-level roles in finance, accounting, or auditing to develop practical skills.
Work experience is highly valued by employers and provides insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of an auditor. Look for summer internships, year placements, or part-time roles during your studies. Many large audit firms offer structured programmes for students and graduates.
Practice analysing financial data and improve your written and verbal communication.
Auditors need to interpret data, prepare reports, and communicate findings clearly to clients or colleagues. Get involved in activities that require teamwork and presentation skills, such as student societies or volunteering, to help build these abilities.
Work towards a qualification from a recognised body, such as the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors (CIA), or Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).
Most auditors become professionally qualified by completing exams and gaining relevant work experience. The ACCA, ICAEW, and CIA qualifications are respected in the industry and may be required for career progression to senior auditor roles.
Apply for jobs as an internal or external auditor in organisations, accountancy firms, or the public sector.
Once qualified, you can work in sectors such as finance, government, or private businesses. Auditors can specialise in areas like internal audit, external audit, or forensic accounting. There are opportunities for further progression into management or consultancy roles.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Auditor. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a degree, then join a graduate scheme to complete further training to become an auditor.
Employers will accept a range of degree subjects. Relevant subjects include:
You'll usually need:
You may be able to complete an apprenticeship to qualify as an internal auditor, while working with a company.
You could do a:
You'll usually need:
You can join a company as a trainee auditor, or move into auditing by being seconded to an internal auditing team from another department.
You'll usually need at least A level qualifications or equivalent, and you'll be expected to take further training as your career develops.
You can qualify to audit public sector organisations through an apprenticeship or graduate scheme with the National Audit Office.
To be an external auditor, you'll need to be a qualified chartered accountant and a member of one of the following professional bodies:
You'll need to be a member of the The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy to carry out audits in the public sector.
If you're qualified as an accountant with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), you can carry out internal audits.
You can find out more about working in auditing from the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors.
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