The Chartered Accountancy (CA) course is emerging as a popular profession among students in India, due to its prestige and potential for growth. However, there often arises confusion about the duration of the CA course and the right path towards achieving it.
In this article, we aim to provide comprehensive information on the duration and method of the How long is the CA course 2024. Read on to gain clarity on the journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant. Let’s delve into the topic without further delay.
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How long is the CA course?
The duration of the CA course to become a qualified Chartered Accountant primarily depends on the educational background of the student and various sequential stages of the course. Under normal circumstances, without any exemptions, the course duration for a person who starts immediately after their standard XII, takes approximately 4.5 – 5 years to complete. However, for a graduate or postgraduate, this course may take approximately 3 – 4 years to complete.
The CA course can be broken down into three key stages:
- Foundation Course: This is the entry-level course for any student aiming to pursue a CA’s career, primarily after their higher secondary education. The CA foundation course is four months.
- Intermediate Course: After passing the 12th and foundation levels, the student is required to pass the CA Intermediate level. The course schedules for about 8 months.
- Final Course: The final stage of the CA course can be pursued only after passing the Intermediate level and undergoing an article training duration of a minimum of 2.5 years. This final stage requires a minimum study period of four months, leading to the Final examination.
Each level has examinations twice a year, usually in May and November. So technically, if a student clears each exam in one attempt sequentially, it requires a minimum period of about 4 – 5 years to become a Chartered Accountant after standard XII.
What is CA?
The term CA stands for Chartered Accountant, a title used globally, including in the Hindi language. Chartered Accountants are professionals who examine financial audits, provide financial advice, and fulfill tax-related responsibilities.
The Chartered Accountant (CA) program is an esteemed degree course which provides comprehensive financial education.
Upon successful completion of this specialized degree, candidates earn the designation of a Chartered Accountant (CA). If you have a keen interest in the field of finance, pursuing a career as a CA could be an excellent choice for you.
Qualification to become CA
If you aspire to become a CA (Chartered Accountant), please follow the eligibility criteria below.
- Prospective students should have successfully graduated from their 12th standard examinations with a commerce subject.
- In their 12th standard examinations, students must achieve a score of 55% or higher, ideally surpassing 60%, in the commerce subject.
- To gain admission into the CA program, candidates are required to take and pass the main examinations for both CPT (Common Proficiency Test) and IPCC (Integrated Professional Competence Course).
- Additionally, if a student possesses a graduate degree, it should be a B.Com degree.
- Please note, there is no age limit to apply for the CA program.
How to do CA course after 12th?
To pursue a CA (Chartered Accountancy) career after the 12th grade, a student must first sit for the CPT (Common Proficiency Test) exam. Following that, they’re eligible to prepare for the IPPC (Integrated Professional Competence Course) exam. However, some students may not be able to attempt the CPT exam due to various circumstances.
Fortunately, alternatives exist. These students can opt to take the IPPC exam after the completion of their undergraduate degree.
Should a student decide to study CA directly after class 12, the pathway generally involves the following steps:
- CA Foundation Course
- CA Intermediate Course
- Articleship Training
CA Course Fees
Next in line is the CA course’s fee structure. Surprisingly, pursuing a career as a CA in India still remains economically viable when compared to other professional courses. The fee can range between INR 50,000 – 1,00,000 for the entire course depending on various factors such as supplementary classes, study materials, training costs, and examination fees.
Please note that these amounts are subject to discretion of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and may vary slightly.
How to become CA?
To become a Chartered Accountant (CA), you must first complete your 12th grade education. Once done, you need to appear for the Aadhaar exam, which is conducted twice annually.
After passing this exam, you will need to register for both CPT (Common Proficiency Test) and IPCC (Integrated Professional Competence Course). It’s crucial you pass both, ensuring a score of at least 50%.
Next, you’ll proceed to the formal CA program, requiring a minimum of 60% passing grade. This course lasts four years. Towards the end, in the last six months of your articleship education, you’ll be required to undertake an interview.
Upon successful completion of the above steps, you’ll then become a chartered accountant.
How many subjects are there in CA?
The CA IPCC exam evaluates a candidate’s skills and understanding of accounting, consisting of seven subjects divided into two groups. Candidates must successfully complete both groups to advance to the next stage of the examination. Major topics covered in CA IPCC exam include:
- Accounting
- Business Loss, Ethics, and Communication
- Cost Accounting and Financial Management
- Taxation
- Advanced Accounting
- Auditing and Assurance
- Information Technology and Strategic Management
What are the career options after becoming CA?
If for some reason, you successfully pass the Certified Accountant (CA) exam but are unable to secure a job, there are several pathways you can pursue. Some career roles you could consider include:
- Accounts Manager
- Financial Accounts Specialist
- Managing Director
- Financial Business Analyst
- CEO
- Finance Manager within the Tax Department
- Internal Auditor
- Chief Accountant
These positions can all greatly benefit from your knowledge and qualifications as a CA.
What is the salary of CA?
When it comes to remuneration, CAs in India command a fair price for their specialized skills and knowledge. As a fresh CA, you can expect a starting salary of approximately INR 7,00,000/- – 15,00,000/- per annum. These amounts can vary significantly based on factors like the company you join, the city of operation, and years of experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about How long is the CA course 2024?
What is the duration of the CA course in 2024?
The CA course duration in 2024 is about 4.5 to 5 years, depending on a student’s progress. This includes the Foundation, Intermediate, and Final course levels, along with practical training and other requirements.
How is the CA course structured?
The CA course comprises three levels: Foundation, Intermediate, and Final. Each level has its own exams, theoretical courses, practical training, and other learning activities that contribute to developing a well-rounded Chartered Accountant.
Is the CA course difficult to complete?
The CA course is considered challenging due to the extensive curriculum and high passing standards. Success depends on individual dedication, effective time management, and practice. Continuous self-improvement and professional guidance can significantly enhance the odds of success.
What changes are expected in the CA course by 2024?
Changes to the CA course are frequent in order to keep current with industry developments and international standards. By 2024, it is likely that the curriculum will include updates on technology, tax laws, and accounting regulations, making the course more comprehensive and rigorous.
