how to become ca after graduation
CA After Graduation: A Complete 2025 Guide Are you thinking about pursuing CA after graduation? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a B.Com Graduate or come from a non-commerce background, this guide will provide you the complete process of becoming a Chartered Accountant after graduation via the Direct Entry Route. Routes To Becoming a CA Some students choose to pursue CA right after 12th grade, while others choose it after graduation. There are two main routes to becoming a Chartered Accountant: The CA Foundation Route: Students who pursue CA after 12th are required to complete the Foundation level. The CA Direct Entry Route: Students who pursue CA after graduation can directly start from the Intermediate level. The CA Direct Entry route is also open to applicants who have passed the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) or the Institute of Cost Accountants of India’s (ICAI) Intermediate level exam. Final Year Candidates can use the CA Direct Entry route if they are in their final year of graduation. Table of Contents Eligibility Criteria CA Course Duration After Graduation Step-by-Step Process to Become a CA After Graduation Final Thoughts FAQs About CA After Graduation Eligibility Criteria for CA After Graduation To take the Direct Entry Route and start directly from the CA Intermediate level, the following minimum marks are required: Commerce Graduates/Postgraduates: Minimum 55% marks Non-Commerce Graduates/Postgraduates: Minimum 60% marks This includes degrees in humanities, science, arts, etc. CA Course Duration After Graduation Here is a breakdown of the CA course duration: 8 months: Study period for CA Intermediate 4 weeks: ICITSS (Information Technology and Soft Skills) 2 years: Articleship training 4 weeks: AICITSS (Advanced IT & Soft Skills) 6 months: Study period for CA Final Total Duration: 3.5 to 4 years after graduation Step-by-Step Process for CA After Graduation 1. Register for CA Intermediate via Direct Entry Visit the ICAI official website, fill out the Direct Entry registration form, upload your graduation certificate, and pay the prescribed registration fees. You can also go directly to the ICAI Direct Entry Scheme page to begin. For the proper registration process, check out our Online Registration for the CA Intermediate Course. 2. Prepare for CA Intermediate After registration, you’re required to complete a 8-month study period to prepare for the CA Intermediate exams, which are divided into 2 groups containing 3 papers each. These exam formats include both multiple-choice and descriptive questions, demanding thorough preparation. For helpful strategies, check out our CA Intermediate Study Tips. 3. Complete ICITSS Before beginning your articleship, you must complete the ICITSS, a mandatory 4-week course focused on Information Technology and soft skills, aimed at equipping you with essential workplace competencies. 4. Begin Articleship Upon passing both groups of CA Intermediate exams and completing ICITSS, you will begin a 2-year articleship under the supervision of a licensed Chartered Accountant. This journey provides practical training and exposure in key areas such as taxation, auditing, accounting, and corporate laws. Wondering where to start? Explore our guide to Top Articleship Firms in India. 5. Complete AICITSS Following your articleship, you must complete the AICITSS—a 4-week advanced course that builds upon your previous training in IT and soft skills. Completion of this course is a prerequisite for attempting the CA Final exams. 6. Register for CA Final Once you have completed your articleship and AICITSS, you must register for the CA Final course. It is recommended to dedicate around 6 months to study and prepare for the final level. Visit the ICAI Final Course page for details. 7. Pass CA Final Exams The CA Final exam’s structure is similar to the Intermediate level, with 2 groups of 3 papers each. These exams are known for their complexity and require strategic preparation, mock test practice, and subject mastery. Clearing both groups qualifies you as a Chartered Accountant. Final Thoughts Pursuing CA after graduation is a smart career move with strong financial and professional rewards. The journey demands commitment, patience, and smart planning. Courses like ICITSS and AICITSS are designed to make you industry-ready. Start today and take the first step toward becoming a qualified Chartered Accountant! FAQs Frequently Asks Questions Can I do CA after graduation without Foundation? Yes, through the Direct Entry Route, you can skip CA Foundation and start from Intermediate. Is CA after BCom a good option? Absolutely. A commerce background aligns well with CA subjects and offers better understanding. What is the salary expectation after completing CA? A qualified CA’s starting salary ranges from INR 6–10 LPA, depending on skills, firm, and experience. What are the obstacles in CA after graduation? Intense preparation Consistency in the study Time management during articleship and exams