How to Become CA is one of the most searched questions among commerce students in India. And for a good reason. Becoming a Chartered Accountant gives you respect, job security, high income, and career freedom. But the path is long, confusing, and full of doubts if you don’t have the right guidance.
Build a strong start to your CA journey with expert CA Foundation coaching that simplifies concepts, boosts confidence, and prepares you to clear the exam in your very first attempt.
This guide is written to answer every single question you may have in mind about how to become CA. No fluff. No confusion. Only clear, verified, and practical information based on official rules of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).
If you read this once properly, you won’t need to search anywhere else.
What Is a Chartered Accountant (CA)?
A Chartered Accountant is a professional expert in:
- Accounting
- Auditing
- Taxation (Income Tax & GST)
- Finance & Business Advisory
A CA can work in top companies, start their own practice, or even work abroad. In India, only ICAI has the authority to award the CA degree.
Who Can Become a CA?
Anyone can become a CA if they meet these basic conditions:
- Passed Class 12 from any recognized board
- Commerce, Science, or Arts stream – all are allowed
- No age limit
- No minimum percentage required
Yes, even science students can become CA.
How to Become CA After 12th – Step-by-Step Process
This is the direct and most common route.
Step 1: Register for CA Foundation
After Class 12, you must register for CA Foundation with ICAI.
You can register online on the official ICAI portal.
If you want structured guidance, joining a good CA Foundation coaching helps you understand concepts clearly and avoid early mistakes.
Step 2: Clear CA Foundation Exam
CA Foundation has 4 papers:
- Accounting
- Business Laws
- Quantitative Aptitude
- Business Economics
- Objective + subjective pattern
- Negative marking in objective papers
- Passing criteria: 40% per paper & 50% aggregate
Once you clear this, you move to the next level.
Step 3: Register for CA Intermediate
CA Intermediate is divided into two groups:
- Group 1
- Group 2
You can appear for:
- One group at a time, or
- Both groups together
Step 4: Complete ITT & OC Training
Before articleship, ICAI makes it compulsory to complete:
- ITT (Information Technology Training)
- OC (Orientation Course)
These develop practical and communication skills.
Step 5: Start Articleship (3 Years)
Articleship is real practical training under a practicing CA.
During articleship, you learn:
- Tax filing
- Audits
- GST work
- Client handling
This is where you truly understand how the CA profession works.
Step 6: Clear CA Final Exam
CA Final is the last and toughest level.
- 2 groups
- Case-study based questions
- Deep practical knowledge required
Once you pass CA Final and complete articleship, you officially become a Chartered Accountant.
How to Become CA After Graduation
If you are a graduate or postgraduate, you can skip CA Foundation.
Eligibility:
- Commerce graduates: 55% marks
- Non-commerce graduates: 60% marks
You can directly register for CA Intermediate through the Direct Entry Route.
How Many Years Does It Take to Become CA?
- After 12th: 4.5 to 5 years (minimum)
- After graduation: 3 to 4 years
This depends on:
- Number of attempts
- Study consistency
- Coaching & guidance
Is CA Difficult?
Yes, CA is difficult. But it is not impossible.
Most students fail because of:
- Poor planning
- No revision strategy
- Ignoring mock tests
- Studying without guidance
With the right study plan and discipline, clearing CA is achievable.
CA Course Fees (Official ICAI Fees Only)
Approximate ICAI fees:
- CA Foundation: ₹11,300
- CA Intermediate: ₹18,000
- CA Final: ₹22,000
(Excludes coaching fees)
Compared to the value of the degree, this is very affordable.
Salary After Becoming CA
Fresh CA salary in India:
- ₹7 to ₹10 LPA (average)
With experience:
- ₹20–30 LPA
- Even more in industry, consulting, or own practice
CA salary depends on skills, domain, and city.
Common Questions Students Ask
Can I become CA with weak maths?
Yes. Basic practice is enough.
Can I do CA with college?
Yes. Many students manage both.
Is CA better than MBA?
CA is a professional license. MBA is a degree. Both are different.
Final Words
If you are searching for How to Become CA, it means you are serious about your future. CA is not just a course. It is a career that changes your life completely.
The journey is long. The exams are tough. But the reward is worth every effort.
Start early. Stay consistent. Get the right guidance.
And one day, you’ll proudly write CA before your name.
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