SYLLABUS

Cambridge International AS and A Level

Accounting

9706
For examination in June and November 2016 to 2018.
Also available for examination in March 2016, March 2017 and
March 2018 for India only.

Cambridge Advanced

What has changed in Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 for 2016?
Availability
This syllabus is for examination in 2016, 2017 and 2018.
If your candidates studied the 2015 syllabus please be aware of the following:

Assessments in the 2016 examination series are based on the revised syllabus.

Candidates can carry forward the result of their Cambridge International AS Level assessments in 2015
to complete the Cambridge International A Level in 2016 (subject to the usual time limit rules for carry
forwards). The Cambridge International A Level assessments in 2016 are based on the revised syllabus.

Assessments for candidates retaking Cambridge International AS or A Level in 2016 are based on the revised
syllabus.

Assessment changes

From 2016 there are three examinations papers (two AS Level papers and one A Level paper).

Paper 1 Multiple Choice is unchanged.

Paper 2 Structured Questions now has four questions covering the AS Level syllabus content on financial
accounting and cost and management accounting.

Paper 3 Structured Questions replaces Paper 3 Multiple Choice and Paper 4 Problem Solving. Paper 3 is a
3 hour written paper and tests the A Level syllabus content.

The increase in the number of written questions for 2016 allows candidates to demonstrate performance
across a wider range of the syllabus content.

Evaluation has increased from approximately 7% in 2015 to 12% overall. The additional evaluative demand is
included in Paper 3, which now provides clear progression from the AS Level.

From 2016, there are four assessment objectives: AO1 Knowledge and understanding 20%;
AO2 Application 43%; AO3 Analysis 25%; AO4 Evaluation 12%
Communication has been included in AO3 Analysis.
The changes in the weightings of AO1 and AO2 provide a better reflection of the nature of the papers.

The specimen materials have been revised to reflect the changes to the assessment and the syllabus
content.

Syllabus content changes

The Core and Extended headings are replaced by AS Level content and Additional A Level content.

The syllabus content has been completely revised to refresh the syllabus in response to feedback from
teachers, and to improve the balance of content between the AS and A Level. A brief summary of the
changes is given below.
Moved to the AS Level:

Moved to the A Level:

All aspects of partnership accounting, including

dissolution and revaluation (not sale to a limited
company or merger with a sole trader/other
partnership)
Book-keeping entries for the issue of shares
and debentures
The application of accounting to business
planning (new)
Removed from the qualification:
Redemption of shares
Capital reduction and reconstruction for a limited
company
Process costing

Financial statements of not for profit

organisations (from the AS Level)
Financial statements of a manufacturing
business (all aspects including profit on transfer)
(from the AS Level)
Consignment and Joint venture accounts (new)
Auditing and stewardship of limited companies
(new)
Aspects of computerised accounting (new)
Activity based costing (new)

You are strongly advised to read the whole syllabus before planning your teaching programme.
The Resource list for the syllabus and a list of international Accounting terminology can be found online at
www.cie.org.uk/alevelsupport

Cambridge International Examinations retains the copyright on all its publications. Registered Centres are
permitted to copy material from this booklet for their own internal use. However, we cannot give permission
to Centres to photocopy any material that is acknowledged to a third party even for internal use within a
Centre.
IGCSE is the registered trademark of Cambridge International Examinations
Cambridge International Examinations 2014

Contents
Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 2
Welcome
Why Cambridge International Examinations?
Why Cambridge International AS and A Levels?
Why Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting?
Teacher support

1. Syllabus overview ........................................................................................................... 9

1.1 Content
1.2 Assessment

2. Syllabus aims and assessment objectives ................................................................... 12

2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4

Syllabus aims
Assessment objectives
Relationship between assessment objectives and components
Relationship between assessment objectives and qualifications

3. Syllabus content ........................................................................................................... 14

3.1 AS Level content Paper 1 and Paper 2
3.2 Additional A Level content Paper 3

4. Summary of commonly used ratios (AS and A Level) .................................................. 25

4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5

Profitability ratios
Liquidity ratios
Efficiency ratios
Cambridge International A Level only
Investment ratios (stock exchange ratios) Cambridge International A Level only

5. Other information ......................................................................................................... 28

Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Introduction

Welcome
Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting encourages learners to explore their subject
in depth. The syllabus has been designed, in consultation with teachers and universities, to help
learners develop not only subject knowledge, but also a strong understanding of some of the key
concepts that are critical to mastering the subject.
All our syllabuses are reviewed and updated regularly so that they reflect the latest thinking of international
experts and practitioners, and take account of the different national contexts in which they are taught.
Consultation is an important part of the way we develop our syllabuses.
Consulting teachers

Consulting universities

Teachers at Cambridge schools worldwide help

us to shape our Cambridge International AS and A
Level syllabuses. The feedback contributes to the
development of syllabus content, assessments and
support materials. Consulting teachers ensures that
our materials are designed carefully around their
needs and the needs of their learners.

Like teachers, universities help to shape our

Cambridge International AS and A Level syllabuses.
We consult with leading higher education
institutions to make sure the syllabuses encourage
learners to get a firm grasp of the subjects key
concepts and develop the skills necessary for
success at university.

Key concepts
Key concepts are essential ideas, theories, principles or mental tools that help learners to develop
a deep understanding of their subject and make links between the different topics. The key concepts
that this syllabus is designed to develop are detailed on page 5. The teaching support package helps
teachers integrate the key concepts into their teaching, showing how they fit into the overall syllabus
and suggesting ways to teach them with each topic.

Teacher support
Our comprehensive teacher support will help you deliver the syllabus confidently and effectively.
The support includes resources for teaching and learning as well as exam preparation. Learn more on
page 8.

Cambridge International AS and A Levels prepare students well for university

because theyve learnt to go into a subject in considerable depth. Theres that
ability to really understand the depth and richness and the detail of a subject. Its a
wonderful preparation for what they are going to face at university.
Christoph Guttentag, Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Duke University, USA

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Introduction

Why Cambridge International Examinations?

Cambridge International Examinations is the worlds largest provider of international education
programmes and qualifications for 5 to 19 year olds. We are a part of Cambridge Assessment,
a department of the University of Cambridge, trusted for excellence in education, and a
not-for-profit organisation. We invest constantly in research and development to improve our
programmes and qualifications.
We understand education. More than 9000 schools in over 160 countries are part of our Cambridge learning
community. We are committed to providing qualifications that are relevant, accurate, reliable, affordable and
recognised by universities and employers worldwide. Learners are at the heart of what we do and we are
committed to their development and future success.
Cambridge learners
Cambridge programmes and qualifications develop not only content but also skills. We help learners
to bridge the gap to the next stage of education and the world of work. We encourage Cambridge
learners to be:

confident in working with information and ideas their own and those of others

responsible for themselves, responsive to and respectful of others

reflective as learners, developing their ability to learn

innovative and equipped for new and future challenges

engaged intellectually and socially ready to make a difference.

Responsible

Confident

Reflective

Cambridge
learners

Engaged

Innovative

Learn more about the Cambridge learner attributes in Chapter 2 of our Implementing the curriculum
with Cambridge guide at www.cie.org.uk/curriculumguide

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Introduction

Why Cambridge International AS and A Levels?

Cambridge International AS and A Levels are international in outlook, but retain a local relevance.
The syllabuses provide opportunities for contextualised learning and the content has been created
to suit a wide variety of schools, avoid cultural bias and develop essential lifelong skills, including
creative thinking and problem-solving.
Our aim is to balance knowledge, understanding and skills in our qualifications to enable candidates to
become effective learners and to provide a solid foundation for their continuing educational journey.
Cambridge International AS and A Levels give learners building blocks for an individualised curriculum that
develops their knowledge, understanding and skills.
Cambridge International AS and A Level curricula are flexible. It is possible to offer almost any combination
from a wide range of subjects. Cambridge International A Level is typically a two-year course, and
Cambridge International AS Level is typically one year. Some subjects can be started as a Cambridge
International AS Level and extended to a Cambridge International A Level.
There are three possible assessment approaches for Cambridge International AS and A Level:
Option two

Option three

(remainder of A Level)

Cambridge International
AS Level

Cambridge International
AS Level

(standalone AS)

(AS is first half of A Level)

Learners take the Cambridge

International AS Level only. The
syllabus content for Cambridge
International AS Level is half
of a Cambridge International
A Level programme.

Learners take the Cambridge

International AS Level in Year 1 and
in Year 2 complete the Cambridge
International A Level.

Cambridge
International
A Level

Year 1

Option one

Year 2

Cambridge International
A Level

Learners take all papers of the

Cambridge International A Level course
in the same examination series, usually
at the end of the second year of study.

Every year thousands of learners with Cambridge International AS and A Levels gain places at leading
universities worldwide. Cambridge International AS and A Levels are accepted and valued by top
universities around the world including those in the UK, US (including Ivy League universities), European
nations, Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Learners should check the university website for specific
entry requirements before applying.
Did you know?
Many universities accept Cambridge International AS Levels in their own right as qualifications
counting towards entry to courses in the same or other related subjects. Many learners who take
Cambridge International AS Levels also choose to progress to Cambridge International A Level.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Introduction

Why Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting?

The study of Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting allows learners to take the first
step towards a career in accountancy and business. With a good understanding of the subject,
students can progress to a degree in a related field, or go on to study for the professional
qualifications of one of the major accounting bodies.
About the syllabus
Cambridge learners will develop:

an understanding of how to plan, budget and manage financial resources

an ability to critically apply, analyse and evaluate accounting policies and practices

an understanding how to use accounting information to make viable business decisions

a solid foundation for further study.

Key concepts
The key concepts on which this syllabus is built are set out below. These key concepts can help teachers
think about how to approach each syllabus topic in order to encourage learners to make links between
topics and develop a deep overall understanding of the subject. The teaching support package gives
teachers guidance on integrating the key concepts into their teaching. See page 8 for more information on
our teacher support.

A true and fair view

Financial statements are designed to give a true and fair view of the business to internal and external
stakeholders.

Duality (double-entry)
Duality (double-entry) in accounting recognises that every financial transaction has a double (or dual)
effect on the position of a business as recorded in the accounts.

Consistency
Consistency in the treatment of financial transactions enables the performance of a business to be
compared meaningfully over different time periods.

Business entity
A business is a separate legal entity from the owner of a business. The accounting records must relate
only to the business and not to the personal assets and spending of the owner.

Money measurement
Financial accounts only include transactions that can be expressed in terms of money. For example, the
purchase of raw material is recorded in the accounts whereas staff creativity is not.

Guided learning hours

Guided learning hours give an indication of the amount of contact time teachers need to have with learners
to deliver a particular course. Our syllabuses are designed around 180 guided learning hours for Cambridge
International AS Level, and around 360 guided learning hours for Cambridge International A Level.
These figures are for guidance only. The number of hours needed to gain the qualification may vary
depending on local practice and the learners previous experience of the subject.
Prior learning
We recommend that learners who are beginning this course should have previously completed a Cambridge
O Level or Cambridge IGCSE course in Accounting or equivalent.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Introduction

Progression
Cambridge International A Level Accounting provides a suitable foundation for the study of Accounting
or related courses in higher education. Equally it is suitable for candidates intending to pursue careers or
further study in Accounting, or as part of a course of general education.
Cambridge International AS Level Accounting constitutes the first half of the Cambridge International A
Level course in Accounting and therefore provides a suitable foundation for the study of Accounting at
Cambridge International A Level. Depending on local university entrance requirements, the AS Level may
permit or assist progression directly to university courses in Accounting or some other subjects. It is also
suitable for candidates intending to pursue careers or further study in accounting, or as part of a course of
general education.
Teachers and learners should take into account that, in some countries, universities advise that some
combinations of subjects with similar content should be avoided where possible, for example Economics,
Business and Accounting. Learners are advised to contact universities in advance of making decisions about
subject combinations that include two or more of these subjects.
For more information about the relationship between the Cambridge International AS Level and Cambridge
International A Level see the Assessment section of the syllabus overview.
How can I find out more?
If you are already a Cambridge school
You can make entries for this qualification through your usual channels. If you have any questions,
please contact us at [email protected]
If you are not yet a Cambridge school
Learn more about the benefits of becoming a Cambridge school from our website
at www.cie.org.uk/startcambridge
Email us at [email protected] to find out how your organisation can register to become a
Cambridge school.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Introduction

Cambridge AICE
Cambridge AICE Diploma is the group award of the Cambridge International AS and A Level. It gives
schools the opportunity to benefit from offering a broad and balanced curriculum by recognising the
achievements of candidates who pass examinations from different curriculum groups.
A Cambridge International A Level counts as a double-credit qualification and a Cambridge International
AS Level counts as a single-credit qualification within the Cambridge AICE Diploma award framework.
Learn more
For more details go to www.cie.org.uk/aice

Our research has shown that students who came to the university with a
Cambridge AICE background performed better than anyone else that came to the
university. That really wasnt surprising considering the emphasis they have on critical
research and analysis, and thats what we require at university.
John Barnhill, Assistant Vice President for Enrolment Management, Florida State University, USA

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Teacher support

Teacher support
We offer a wide range of practical and innovative support to help teachers plan and deliver our
programmes and qualifications confidently.
The support package for our Cambridge International AS and A Levels will help teachers integrate key
concepts into their teaching, showing how they fit into the overall syllabus and suggesting ways to teach
them within each topic. It also gives teachers access to a worldwide teaching community enabling them to
connect with other teachers, swap ideas and share best practice.
We offer a customised support package for each subject. Find out more about the specific support for this
syllabus at www.cie.org.uk/alevelsupport

Teaching and learning resources

Exam preparation resources

Schemes of work provide teachers with a

Past question papers and mark schemes so

teachers can give your learners the opportunity
to practise answering different questions.

medium-term plan with ideas on how to deliver

the course.

Example candidate responses to help teachers

to see the level of performance needed to achieve
key grades and understand exactly what
examiners are looking for.

Endorsed textbooks produced by leading

publishers. We have quality checked these

materials to make sure that they match the
syllabus well.

Principal examiner reports describing learners

overall performance on each part of the papers.
The reports give insight into common
misconceptions shown by learners, which
teachers can address in lessons.
Cambridge

Resource lists to help support teaching,

including textbooks and websites.

Professional development

International
AS and A Level
support for
teachers

Face-to-face training
We hold workshops around the world to support
teachers in delivering Cambridge syllabuses and
developing their skills.

Online training
We offer self-study and tutor-led online training
courses via our virtual learning environment. A
wide range of syllabus-specific courses and skills
courses is available. We also offer training via
video conference and webinars.

Qualifications
We offer a wide range of practice-based qualifications
at Certificate and Diploma level, providing a
framework for continuing professional development.

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Learn more

Find out more about specific

support for this syllabus at
www.cie.org.uk/alevelsupport
Visit our online resource bank and community
forum at teachers.cie.org.uk

Useful links
Customer Services www.cie.org.uk/help
LinkedIn http://linkd.in/cambridgeteacher
Twitter @cie_education
Facebook www.facebook.com/cie.org.uk

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus overview

1.

Syllabus overview

1.1 Content
This table gives an overview of the syllabus content for Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting.
Topics

All candidates study these AS Level

topics

A Level candidates also study these

additional topics

1. Financial
Accounting

The accounting cycle

Accounting for non-current assets

manufacturing businesses

Reconciliation and verification

not for profit organisations

Preparation of financial statements:

limited companies

adjustments

sole traders

International Accounting
Standards

partnerships

limited companies

auditing and stewardship of

limited companies

2. Cost and
Management
Accounting

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Preparation of financial statements:

Business purchase and merger

Consignment and Joint venture

accounts

Computerised accounting systems

Analysis and communication of

accounting information

Costing for materials and labour

Activity based costing (ABC)

Analysis and communication

of accounting information to
stakeholders

Traditional costing methods:

Budgeting and budgetary control

absorption costing

Standard costing

marginal costing

Investment appraisal

costvolumeprofit analysis

The application of accounting to

business planning

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus overview

1.2 Assessment
For Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting, candidates:
take Papers 1 and 2 only (for the Cambridge International AS Level qualification)
or

follow a staged assessment route by taking Papers 1 and 2 (for the Cambridge International AS Level
qualification) in one series, then Paper 3 (for the Cambridge International A Level qualification) in a later
series

or

take Papers 1, 2 and 3 in the same examination series, leading to the full Cambridge International
A Level.

All components are externally assessed.

Component

Weighting

Paper 1 Multiple Choice

AS Level

A Level

30%

15%

70%

35%

50%

1 hour

30 multiple choice questions based on the AS Level syllabus

content
30 marks
Paper 2 Structured Questions

1 hour 30 minutes

Four structured questions on the AS Level syllabus content

Question 1 on financial accounting (30 marks)
Questions 2 and 3 on financial accounting (2 15 marks)
Question 4 on cost and management accounting (30 marks)
Total 90 marks
Paper 3 Structured Questions

3 hours

Paper 3 tests the additional content for the A Level, but also
requires a knowledge and understanding of the AS Level content.
Section A: Four structured questions on financial accounting
(4 25 marks)
Section B: Two structured questions on cost and management
accounting (2 25 marks)
Total 150 marks

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus overview

Availability
This syllabus is examined in the June and November examination series. This syllabus is also available for
examination in March for India only.
This syllabus is available to private candidates.
Detailed timetables are available from www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers
Centres in the UK that receive government funding are advised to consult the Cambridge website
www.cie.org.uk for the latest information before beginning to teach this syllabus.

Combining this with other syllabuses

Candidates can combine this syllabus in an examination series with any other Cambridge syllabus, except:

syllabuses with the same title at the same level

9755 Cambridge International A Level Principles of Accounting (Singapore).

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

2.

Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

2.1 Syllabus aims

The syllabus aims to enable candidates to:

develop an ability to apply accounting concepts, principles and practices

understand the role of accounting as an information system for monitoring, problem-solving and decision
making and the place of accounting in changing economic, social and technological environments

develop a critical and analytical approach to examining and evaluating accounting policies and practices

develop skills of communication, analysis, interpretation and presentation of both qualitative and
quantitative accounting information.

2.2 Assessment objectives

AO1 Knowledge and understanding
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of financial accounting and cost and management accounting.
AO2 Application
Apply knowledge and understanding of financial accounting and cost and management accounting to given
accounting and business situations, and present the outcomes in the most appropriate form.
AO3 Analysis
Analyse financial accounting information and cost and management accounting information and
communicate outcomes in the most appropriate form.
AO4 Evaluation
Evaluate financial accounting information and cost and management accounting information to facilitate
effective decision making.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

2.3 Relationship between assessment objectives and components

The approximate weightings allocated to each of the assessment objectives are summarised below.
The table shows the assessment objectives (AO) as a percentage of each component.
Component

AO1
%

AO2
%

AO3
%

AO4
%

Paper 1

50

32

18

Paper 2

24

40

22

14

Paper 3

10

48

30

12

2.4 Relationship between assessment objectives and

qualifications
The approximate weightings allocated to each of the assessment objectives are summarised below.
The table shows the assessment objectives (AO) as a percentage of each qualification.
Assessment
objective

Weighting in AS Level
%

Weighting in A Level
%

AO1

30

20

AO2

40

43

AO3

20

25

AO4

10

12

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus content

3.

Syllabus content

Candidates for Cambridge International AS Level should study the AS Level content for Paper 1 and Paper 2.
Candidates for Cambridge International A Level should study all the syllabus content.
The syllabus content is divided into two main topic areas:
1. Financial Accounting
2. Cost and Management Accounting.

3.1 AS Level content Paper 1 and Paper 2

1

Financial Accounting (AS Level)

1.1

The accounting cycle

1.2

Accounting for non-current assets

Candidates should be able to:

explain and apply the principles of the double entry

system to record business transactions

apply the accounting equation

describe the functions of the books of prime entry

describe the limitations of the books of prime entry

prepare ledger accounts and trial balance

apply the accounting concepts underpinning the

preparation of accounts: business entity, historic cost,
money measurement, going concern, consistency,
prudence, realisation, duality, materiality, matching and
substance over form.

Candidates should understand the:

distinction between and treatment of capital and revenue

incomes and expenditures

causes of depreciation

purpose of accounting for depreciation and the

application of relevant accounting concepts in respect of
non-current assets.

Candidates should be able to:

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calculate depreciation using the reducing balance,

straight-line and revaluation methods

evaluate the most appropriate method of calculating

depreciation

prepare ledger accounts and journal entries for

non-current assets, depreciation and disposal (including
entries for part exchange)

calculate the profit or loss on disposal of a non-current

asset

record the effect of providing for depreciation in the

income statement and statement of financial position.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus content

Financial Accounting (AS Level) continued

1.3

Reconciliation and verification

Candidates should understand the need to reconcile and

verify ledger accounts using documentation from internal and
external sources.
Candidates should be able to:

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prepare a bank reconciliation statement from relevant

information

prepare ledger accounts and journal entries to correct

errors using a suspense account and record the effects
of these in the financial statements

prepare sales and purchase ledger control accounts

reconcile control accounts and ledgers

outline the uses and limitations of control accounts.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus content

Financial Accounting (AS Level) continued

1.4

Preparation of financial
statements

1.4.1 Adjustments to financial

statements

Candidates should be able to calculate the adjustments

needed for:

accruals and prepayments

irrecoverable debts and doubtful debts

depreciation

inventory.

1.4.2

Sole traders

Candidates should be able to prepare an income statement

and statement of financial position for a sole trader from full
or incomplete accounting records.

1.4.3

Partnerships

Candidates should be able to:

1.4.4 Limited companies

16

Candidates should understand the need for and purpose of

financial statements.

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prepare an income statement, appropriation account and

statement of financial position for a partnership from full
or incomplete accounting records

prepare capital and current accounts to record changes

required in respect of goodwill and revaluation of assets
on the introduction of a new partner, retirement of an
existing partner and the dissolution of a partnership.

Candidates should be able to:

prepare an income statement, statement of financial

position and simple cash flows for a limited company
from full or incomplete accounting records

describe the distinction between capital and revenue

reserves

explain the different types of shares a company may

issue

prepare ledger accounts to record the issue of the

different types of shares, including bonus and rights
issues

prepare a statement of changes in equity.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus content

Financial Accounting (AS Level) continued

1.5

Analysis and communication

of accounting information to
stakeholders

Candidates should understand the need for the analysis of

financial data to aid decision making by stakeholders.
Candidates should be able to:

identify and discuss the differing requirements for

information of user groups including: management,
employees, potential investors, creditors, government,
public and environmental bodies; and communicate
the information required by these different stakeholder
groups

calculate key accounting ratios to measure profitability,

liquidity and efficiency:

Profitability ratios including: gross margin, mark up,

profit margin, return on capital employed, expenses
to revenue ratio (operating expenses to revenue ratio)

Liquidity ratios including: current ratio, liquid (acid

test) ratio

Efficiency ratios including: non-current asset turnover,

trade receivables turnover (days), trade payables
turnover (days), inventory turnover (days), rate of
inventory turnover (times)

(See the formulae in the Summary of commonly used

ratios section.)

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use ratios to evaluate and comment on the profitability,

liquidity and efficiency of an organisation

identify and discuss the limitations of accounting

information.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus content

Cost and Management Accounting (AS Level)

2.1

Costing for materials and labour

Candidates should understand the need to account for

material and labour costs.
Candidates should be able to:

2.2

Traditional costing methods

2.2.1 Absorption costing

identify and calculate fixed costs, variable costs, semivariable costs and stepped costs

identify the elements of direct and indirect materials and

labour

calculate the value of closing inventory using the FIFO

and AVCO methods (perpetual and periodic)

calculate labour costs using different methods of

remuneration including bonus schemes

understand the different characteristics, and the

appropriateness, of using FIFO, AVCO and LIFO
(Detailed calculations of the value of inventory using LIFO
will not be set.)

demonstrate the effect of different methods of valuing

inventory of material on profit.

Candidates should understand the application of traditional

costing methods.
Candidates should be able to:

2.2.2 Marginal costing

allocate and apportion overhead expenditure between

production and service departments

calculate overhead absorption rates

calculate and explain the causes of under absorption and

over absorption of overheads

identify and explain the uses and limitations of absorption

costing.

Candidates should understand the application of marginal

costing.
Candidates should be able to:

calculate the contribution of a product

prepare a break-even chart

calculate the break-even point, contribution to sales ratio

and margin of safety

explain the use and limitations of break-even charts

prepare a statement reconciling the reported profit using

marginal costing and absorption costing

identify the uses and limitations of marginal costing

calculate the effect of limiting factors on production.

cont.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus content

Cost and Management Accounting (AS Level) continued

2.2.3 Costvolumeprofit analysis

2.3

The application of accounting to

business planning

Candidates should be able to:

identify and explain the advantages and limitations of

costvolumeprofit analysis

evaluate and interpret costvolumeprofit data and its

value as a support for management decision making

prepare costing statements using unit, job and batch

costing principles

apply costing concepts to make business decisions and

recommendations using supporting data.

Candidates should understand the benefit to business

planning by the use of accounting data.
Candidates should be able to:

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explain the need for a business to plan for the future

explain why organisations prepare budgets and the

benefits they bring to the planning process

explain the advantages and disadvantages of budgetary

control, including both financial and non-financial factors.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus content

3.2 Additional A Level content Paper 3

The content of the AS Level is assumed knowledge for the assessment of Paper 3. However, the AS Level
content will not be the direct focus of questions in Paper 3.
1

Financial Accounting (A Level)

1.1

Preparation of financial
statements

1.1.1 Manufacturing businesses

1.1.2 Not for profit organisations

1.1.3

1.1.4

Limited companies

International Accounting
Standards

Candidates should understand the need for and purpose of

financial statements for specific types of trading and not-forprofit organisations.
Candidates should be able to:

prepare a manufacturing account, including profit on

transfer from factory to finished inventory

account for manufacturing profit and the elimination of

unrealised profit from unsold inventory.

Candidates should be able to prepare financial statements for

not for profit organisations, including:

a trading account

an income and expenditure account

a statement of financial position.

Candidates should be able to:

understand the nature and purpose of the financial

statements of limited companies, and the regulatory
framework in which they operate

prepare an income statement, statement of financial

position and statement of cash flows for a limited
company in line with the relevant international accounting
standards.

Candidates should be able to:

explain and apply the main provisions of each of the

following International Accounting Standards (IAS):
IAS Topic
IAS 1

Presentation of financial statements

IAS 2

Inventories (not long-term contracts)

IAS 7

Statement of cash flows

IAS 8

Accounting policies

IAS 10 Events after the reporting period

IAS 16 Property, plant and equipment
IAS 36 Impairment of assets
IAS 37 Provisions, contingent liabilities and contingent
assets
IAS 38 Intangible assets

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explain the need for an ethical framework in accounting.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus content

Financial Accounting (A Level) continued

1.1.5

Auditing and stewardship of

limited companies

1.2

Business purchase and merger

Candidates should be able to:

explain the role of the auditor

explain and discuss the role of directors and their

responsibilities to shareholders (stewardship)

discuss the importance of a true and fair view in respect

of financial statements.

Candidates should understand the nature and purpose of

the merger of different types of businesses to form a new
enterprise.
Candidates should be able to:

1.3

Consignment and Joint venture

accounts

make entries in the relevant ledger accounts to record

the:

merger of two or more sole traders businesses to

form a partnership

merger of a sole traders business with an existing

partnership to form an enlarged partnership

acquisition of a sole traders business or partnership

by a limited company

prepare income statements and statements of financial

position for the newly formed business following the
merger, for example the limited company acquiring the
partnership

evaluate and discuss the advantages and disadvantages

of the proposed merger.

Candidates should be able to distinguish between

consignments and joint ventures and the environment in
which they operate.
Candidates should be able to:

1.4

Computerised accounting
systems

prepare ledger accounts for consignment transactions,

including the calculation of closing inventory valuation

prepare ledger accounts for joint ventures

calculate the profit for joint ventures.

Candidates should understand the need for and be able

to discuss the process of computerising the accounts of a
business.
Candidates should be able to:

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discuss the advantages and disadvantages of introducing

a computerised accounting system

discuss the process of computerising the business

accounts

discuss ways in which the integrity of the accounting

data can be ensured during the transfer to a
computerised accounting system.
(Candidates are not required to use ICT.)

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus content

Financial Accounting (A Level) continued

1.5

Analysis and communication of

accounting information

Candidates should understand the need for the analysis of

financial data to aid decision making by potential investors in
a business.
Candidates should be able to:

calculate the following ratios:

working capital cycle (in days)

net working assets to revenue (sales)

income gearing

gearing

earnings per share

price earnings ratio

dividend yield

dividend cover

dividend per share

(See the formulae in the Summary of commonly used

ratios section.)

analyse and evaluate the results of the ratios and draw

conclusions

make appropriate recommendations to potential investors

on the basis of the analysis undertaken

evaluate the interrelationships between ratios.

Cost and Management Accounting (A Level)

2.1

Activity based costing (ABC)

Candidates should be able to understand and discuss the

application of activity based costing and identify and explain
its uses and limitations.
Candidates should be able to:

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use ABC to:

apportion overheads

calculate the total cost of a unit

calculate the value of inventory

demonstrate the effect of different methods of

overhead absorption on profit

apply ABC costing techniques to make business

decisions and recommendations using supporting data.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus content

Cost and Management Accounting (A Level) continued

2.2

Budgeting and budgetary control

Candidates should understand the need for and benefits of a

budgetary control system to an organisation.
Candidates should be able to:

2.3

Standard costing

discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a budgetary

control system to an organisation

prepare the following budgets:

sales

production

purchases

labour

trade receivables

trade payables

cash

master budget

recognise the effect of limiting factors on the preparation

of budgets

prepare a flexed budget statement

identify and explain the causes of differences between

actual and flexed budgeted data

make business decisions and recommendations using

supporting data

discuss the behavioural aspects of budgeting.

Candidates should understand the application of a system of

standard costing to an organisation.
Candidates should be able to:

Back to contents page

calculate the following variances:

direct material price and usage

direct labour rate and efficiency

fixed overhead expenditure, capacity, efficiency and

volume

sales price and volume

reconcile standard cost to actual cost

reconcile standard profit to actual profit

explain the causes of the variances and their relationship

to each other

discuss how standard costing can be used as aid to

improve the performance of a business

discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a standard

costing system.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Syllabus content

Cost and Management Accounting (A Level) continued

2.4

Investment appraisal

Candidates should understand the process of investment

appraisal.
Candidates should be able to:

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ascertain future net cash inflows and outflows arising

from the project, including the treatment of working
capital

discuss the advantages and disadvantages of and apply

the following capital investment appraisal techniques:

net present value (NPV)

accounting rate of return (ARR)

payback

internal rate of return (IRR)

make investment decisions and recommendations using

supporting data

evaluate, apply and discuss sensitivity analysis

techniques in respect of the data prepared.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Summary of commonly used ratios (AS and A Level)

4.

Summary of commonly used ratios (AS and A Level)

4.1 Profitability ratios

Gross Margin

Gross Profit
100
Revenue

Mark up

Gross Profit
100
Cost of Sales
Profit for the year
100
Revenue

Profit Margin

can also be expressed as

Profit for the year (after interest)
100
Revenue

Return on Capital
Employed
Expenses to Revenue
Ratio
Operating Expenses
to Revenue Ratio

NPBI
100
Capital Employed
[Capital Employed = Issued Shares + Reserves + Non-Current Liabilities]
Expenses
100
Revenue
Operating Expenses
100
Revenue

4.2 Liquidity ratios

Current Ratio

Current Assets
Current Liabilities

Liquid (acid test) Ratio

(also known as Quick
Ratio)

Current Assets Inventory

Current Liabilities

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Summary of commonly used ratios (AS and A Level)

4.3 Efficiency ratios

Non-Current Asset
Turnover

Net Revenue
Total Net Book Value of Non-Current Assets

Trade Receivables
Turnover
(also known as
Average Collection
Period)

Trade Receivables
365 days
Credit Sales

Trade Payables
Turnover
(also known as
Average Payment
Period)

Trade Payables
365 days
Credit Purchases

Inventory Turnover

Average Inventory
365 days
Cost of Sales

Rate of Inventory
Turnover

Cost of Sales
(answer given in times)
Average Inventory

4.4 Cambridge International A Level only

Working Capital Cycle
(in days)

Net Working Assets

to Revenue (Sales)

Income Gearing

Trade Receivables Turnover (in days) + Inventory Turnover (in days) Trade Payables
Turnover (in days)
or
Average Collection Period + Inventory Turnover (in days) Average Payment Period
Net Working Assets = Inventories + Trade Receivables Trade Payables
Net Working Assets
100
Revenue (Sales)
Interest Expense
100
Profit Before Interest and Tax (PBIT)
Fixed Cost Capital
Total Capital

Gearing Ratio

which is:
Non-Current Liabilities + Preference Share Capital
Issued Ordinary Share Capital + All Reserves + Non-Current Liabilities + Preference Shares

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Back to contents page

Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Summary of commonly used ratios (AS and A Level)

4.5 Investment ratios (stock exchange ratios) Cambridge

International A Level only
Earnings per share

Net Profit Preference Share Dividend

Number of issued Ordinary Shares

Price Earnings Ratio

Market Price per share

Earnings per share

Dividend yield

Dividend paid and proposed

Market Price of share

Dividend cover

Profit available to pay ordinary dividend

Ordinary dividend paid

Dividend per share

Ordinary dividend paid

Number of issued Ordinary Shares

Calculate ratios using year-end balances where appropriate, unless the question specifies the use
of average figures.
Calculate ratios to the number of decimal places required by the question.

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27

Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Other information

5.

Other information

Equality and inclusion

Cambridge International Examinations has taken great care in the preparation of this syllabus and
assessment materials to avoid bias of any kind. To comply with the UK Equality Act (2010), Cambridge has
designed this qualification with the aim of avoiding direct and indirect discrimination.
The standard assessment arrangements may present unnecessary barriers for candidates with disabilities
or learning difficulties. Arrangements can be put in place for these candidates to enable them to access the
assessments and receive recognition of their attainment. Access arrangements will not be agreed if they
give candidates an unfair advantage over others or if they compromise the standards being assessed.
Candidates who are unable to access the assessment of any component may be eligible to receive an
award based on the parts of the assessment they have taken.
Information on access arrangements is found in the Cambridge Handbook which can be downloaded from
the website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers

Language
This syllabus and the associated assessment materials are available in English only.

Grading and reporting

Cambridge International A Level results are shown by one of the grades A*, A, B, C, D or E, indicating
the standard achieved, A* being the highest and E the lowest. Ungraded indicates that the candidates
performance fell short of the standard required for grade E. Ungraded will be reported on the statement of
results but not on the certificate. The letters Q (result pending), X (no results) and Y (to be issued) may also
appear on the statement of results but not on the certificate.
Cambridge International AS Level results are shown by one of the grades a, b, c, d or e, indicating the
standard achieved, a being the highest and e the lowest. Ungraded indicates that the candidates
performance fell short of the standard required for grade e. Ungraded will be reported on the statement
of results but not on the certificate. The letters Q (result pending), X (no results) and Y (to be issued) may
also appear on the statement of results but not on the certificate.
If a candidate takes a Cambridge International A Level and fails to achieve grade E or higher, a Cambridge
International AS Level grade will be awarded if both of the following apply:

the components taken for the Cambridge International A Level by the candidate in that series included
all the components making up a Cambridge International AS Level

the candidates performance on these components was sufficient to merit the award of a Cambridge
International AS Level grade.

For languages other than English, Cambridge also reports separate speaking endorsement grades
(Distinction, Merit and Pass) for candidates who satisfy the conditions stated in the syllabus.

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Cambridge International AS and A Level Accounting 9706 syllabus Other information

Entry codes
To maintain the security of our examinations, we produce question papers for different areas of the world,
known as administrative zones. Where the component entry code has two digits, the first digit is the
component number given in the syllabus. The second digit is the location code, specific to an administrative
zone. Information about entry codes for your administrative zone can be found in the Cambridge Guide to
Making Entries.

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29

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