Please tell me the careerpath to become a CA.

Please tell me the careerpath to become a CA.

I am a student of 11th commerce with mathematics and accounts as my strongest subjects. I aspire to become a Chartered Accountant but there are people telling me how tough it really is to qualify as a CA. I am confident about my stronger subjects and believe that I have it in me to become a CA. Please outline the career path towards becoming a CA so that I could begin my preparations right from this level.

It is an advantage that you recognize your strength and show confidence towards your aspiration. Hard work, dedication, and good communication skill is all that it takes to become a CA. Since you are excellent in mathematics and accounts, it is definitely an advantage for you. To pursue a career as a CA, you will have to clear three exams:

• Common proficiency test (CPT)

• The integrated professional competence course (IPCC)

• The final CA exam.

Students who want to opt for career in this field are required to give the CPT exam after completing class XII with maths as a subject. After clearing the CPT exam, you can appear for IPCC exam. This exam requires a minimum of nine months of preparation. After clearing the IPCC exam, students are required to do internship (articleship) under a practicing CA for a period of three years before being eligible to appear for the final exam. Along with these exams, a student is required to undergo certain IT training and communication skill programmes. Alternately, a graduate can directly register for articleship and pass IPCC and final exam. Best of luck!