fresher Chartered Accountant banner
a fresher Chartered Accountant thumbnail
fresher Chartered Accountant

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

A fresher Chartered Accountant manages financial tasks, ensures compliance, and assists in audits. They analyze financial data and prepare reports.

Average Salary

₹4,50,000

Growth

high

Satisfaction

medium

Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA) in India

To become a Chartered Accountant in India, aspiring candidates need to follow a structured educational path prescribed by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). Here's a detailed breakdown:

  • Entry Points:

    • After 10th Grade: Students can register for the CA Foundation course after passing their 10th-grade exams. However, they are eligible to appear for the Foundation exams only after appearing for the 12th-grade exams.
    • After Graduation: Graduates or post-graduates with a specific percentage (usually 55% for commerce graduates and 60% for others) can directly register for the Intermediate course.
  • CA Foundation Course:

    • This is the first step for students entering after 10+2.
    • It includes subjects like:
      • Accounting
      • Business Laws
      • Quantitative Aptitude
      • Business Economics
  • CA Intermediate Course:

    • This course is divided into two groups.
    • It covers subjects such as:
      • Accounting
      • Corporate Laws
      • Cost and Management Accounting
      • Taxation
      • Advanced Accounting
      • Auditing and Assurance
      • Enterprise Information Systems & Strategic Management
      • Financial Management & Economics for Finance
  • Practical Training:

    • Candidates must undergo practical training (articleship) of three years under a practicing Chartered Accountant.
    • This provides real-world experience and is a crucial part of the CA curriculum.
  • CA Final Course:

    • This is the final stage of the CA examination.
    • It includes subjects like:
      • Financial Reporting
      • Strategic Financial Management
      • Advanced Auditing and Professional Ethics
      • Corporate and Economic Laws
      • Strategic Cost Management and Performance Evaluation
      • Direct Tax Laws & International Taxation
      • Indirect Tax Laws
  • ICITSS Training:

    • Candidates must complete Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills (ICITSS) which includes courses on Information Technology Training (ITT) and Orientation Course (OC).
  • Membership:

    • After clearing the CA Final exams and completing the articleship, candidates can apply for membership with ICAI and become certified Chartered Accountants.

Key Points to Remember:

  • Consistent study and dedication are essential to clear the CA exams.
  • Practical training provides invaluable experience.
  • Staying updated with the latest amendments in laws and regulations is crucial.
  • ICAI provides study materials and guidance to help students prepare for the exams.
Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges and Institutions for Chartered Accountancy (CA) Coaching in India

While Chartered Accountancy (CA) is a professional course conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), many students opt for coaching from various institutions to prepare for the exams. Here are some of the top coaching centers and institutions in India:

  • VSI Jaipur (Vidya Sagar Institute):

    • Known for producing top rankers in CA exams.
    • Offers comprehensive coaching for all levels (Foundation, Intermediate, and Final).
    • Experienced faculty and well-structured study materials.
  • JK Shah Classes:

    • One of the oldest and most reputed coaching centers for CA.
    • Pan-India presence with branches in major cities.
    • Focuses on conceptual clarity and rigorous practice.
  • Aldine CA:

    • Offers both online and offline coaching.
    • Known for its experienced faculty and comprehensive study materials.
    • Provides mock tests and doubt-clearing sessions.
  • The WallStreet School:

    • Specializes in finance-related courses, including CA.
    • Offers practical training and case study-based learning.
    • Focuses on industry-relevant skills.
  • ICA Edu Skills:

    • Provides skill-based training in accounting and finance.
    • Offers CA coaching with a focus on practical application.
    • Has a wide network of training centers across India.

Key Points:

  • These institutions offer comprehensive coaching, mock tests, and study materials.
  • Consider factors like faculty experience, study environment, and past results when choosing a coaching center.
  • Many students also opt for online coaching platforms for flexibility and convenience.
  • Success in CA exams depends on self-study and consistent effort, in addition to coaching.
Fees

Fee Structure for Chartered Accountancy (CA) Course in India

The fee structure for the Chartered Accountancy (CA) course in India varies depending on the stage of the course and the type of institution (coaching centers vs. self-study). Here's a general overview:

  • ICAI Registration Fees:

    • CA Foundation: Approximately ₹9,000 to ₹10,000 (including registration and exam fees).
    • CA Intermediate: Approximately ₹18,000 to ₹20,000 (including registration and exam fees for both groups).
    • CA Final: Approximately ₹22,000 to ₹25,000 (including registration and exam fees for both groups).
  • Coaching Fees:

    • CA Foundation Coaching: ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 (depending on the coaching center).
    • CA Intermediate Coaching (per group): ₹35,000 to ₹70,000.
    • CA Final Coaching (per group): ₹40,000 to ₹80,000.
  • Other Costs:

    • Study materials, mock tests, and other resources can cost an additional ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 per level.

Fee Variations:

  • Private Coaching Centers: These tend to be more expensive but offer comprehensive coaching with experienced faculty.
  • Online Coaching Platforms: These are generally more affordable, with fees ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per level.
  • Self-Study: This is the most cost-effective option, with minimal expenses for study materials and registration fees.

Key Points:

  • Fees can vary significantly based on the coaching center's reputation and facilities.
  • ICAI provides study materials, but many students opt for additional coaching.
  • Consider the total cost, including registration, coaching, and study materials, when planning your budget.

To become a Chartered Accountant in India, you need to clear exams conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). These exams are divided into three levels:

  • CA Foundation: This is the entry-level exam. Students who have appeared for their 12th-grade exams are eligible. The exam covers subjects like Accounting, Business Laws, Quantitative Aptitude, and Business Economics. Passing this exam is the first step toward becoming a CA.

  • CA Intermediate: Graduates or those who have cleared the CA Foundation can appear for the Intermediate exams. This level is divided into two groups. Key subjects include Accounting, Corporate Laws, Cost and Management Accounting, Taxation, Advanced Accounting, Auditing and Assurance, Enterprise Information Systems & Strategic Management, and Financial Management & Economics for Finance.

  • CA Final: This is the final and most challenging level. Candidates can appear for the Final exams after clearing both groups of the Intermediate exams and completing the required articleship. The subjects covered are Financial Reporting, Strategic Financial Management, Advanced Auditing and Professional Ethics, Corporate and Economic Laws, Strategic Cost Management and Performance Evaluation, Direct Tax Laws & International Taxation, and Indirect Tax Laws.

Key Points:

  • ICAI conducts these exams.
  • Registration is required before appearing for each exam.
  • Passing marks are generally 50% in aggregate and 40% in each subject.
  • Proper preparation and strategic study plans are essential to clear these exams.
  • **Mock tests and previous year's question papers can be very helpful.
Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. High earning potential and job security.
  2. Respect and recognition in the financial sector.
  3. Diverse career opportunities in various industries.
  4. Opportunity for continuous learning and professional development.
  5. Chance to become an entrepreneur or consultant.
  6. Globally recognized qualification.
  7. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  8. Contribution to financial transparency and ethical practices.
  9. Opportunity to work in top companies and organizations.
  10. Personal satisfaction from helping businesses succeed.

Cons

  1. Rigorous and demanding course curriculum.
  2. Long hours of study and hard work required.
  3. High competition and exam pressure.
  4. Constant need to update knowledge with changing regulations.
  5. Initial years may involve long working hours.
  6. Ethical dilemmas and responsibilities can be stressful.
  7. Risk of professional liability.
  8. Can be isolating due to study demands.
  9. Requires strong commitment and perseverance.
  10. Balancing work and personal life can be challenging.