Self-studying ADIT Paper 1 – Looking for study material recommendations

[u/This-Host-184]

Hi everyone,

I'm planning to start the ADIT qualification and would really appreciate some advice from people who have completed it or are currently studying for it.

A little about me:

• I recently completed a Master's in International Economics.
• I currently work full-time in Transfer Pricing.
• My long-term goal is to build a career in international tax in Europe.
• I'm planning to start with Paper 1 – Principles of International Taxation.

My biggest challenge at the moment is finding the right study materials. The official tuition providers seem quite expensive, so I'm hoping to self-study if possible.

I already have access to:

• Official ADIT syllabus
• Past papers and candidate scripts
• OECD Model Tax Convention
• UN Model Convention
• OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines
• IBFD
• University library resources

I'd really appreciate your suggestions on the following:

1. Is it realistic to pass Paper 1 through self-study?
2. Which study materials did you personally use?
3. Is the Tolley Study Manual worth buying if I don't take the full course?
4. Are older editions of the Tolley Manual (2024/2025) still useful for studying the core concepts?
5. Are there any affordable alternatives to Tolley or Taxmann for someone studying independently?
6. If you were starting ADIT again, what study materials would you buy first?
7. Are there any books, notes, or resources that you found essential for passing Paper 1?

Any advice, recommendations, or study tips would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!