Wondering how to become a Chartered Accountant after 12th? Learn the full CA course roadmap, duration, fees, eligibility, and step-by-step process from Foundation to Final in 2025.
Discover the complete process of becoming a Chartered Accountant after 12th in India. Learn about CA course levels, preparation tips, duration, registration process, fees, and recommended resources.
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Complete Roadmap: How to Become a Chartered Accountant After 12th
Chartered Accountancy (CA) is one of the most prestigious yet challenging professional courses in India. Conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), the CA exam is globally considered among the toughest exams. Most commerce students start preparing for CA right after completing their Class 12.
In this post, we break down the full roadmap to become a CA after 12th, including course levels, duration, fees, preparation tips, and more.
How Many Years Does It Take to Become a CA After 12th?
- Minimum Duration: 4.5 Years (if all exams are cleared on the first attempt)
- Average Duration: 5 to 5.5 Years
- Maximum Duration: 7+ Years (in case of repeated failures or delays)
Step-by-Step Process to Become a Chartered Accountant
1. CA Foundation Course (4β6 Months)
- Eligibility: 12th pass from any stream (Commerce preferred)
- Registration: Register on ICAI Official Website
- Registration Fee: Approx. 9,200 (including exam fees)
- Study Duration: Minimum 4 months before appearing for exam
- Exam Months: May and November
2. CA Intermediate Course (9β12 Months)
- Eligibility: Passed CA Foundation
- Registration: After Foundation result
- Study Duration: 8 months minimum
- Exam Attempt: May or November
- Note: Completing both groups in one attempt reduces overall time
3. Articleship Training (3 Years)
- Eligibility: After passing CA Intermediate
- Duration: 3 Years mandatory training under a practicing CA
- Additional Requirements: Complete ITT and GMCS training modules
- Note: Final exams can be attempted in the last 6 months of Articleship
4. CA Final Course (6β12 Months)
- Eligibility: Ongoing Articleship + Intermediate cleared
- Preparation Time: 6β12 months
- Exam Months: May and November
- Result & Membership: 1β2 months post-results for ICAI membership process
How to Become a Chartered Accountant After 12th(Exam Structure)
CA Foundation includes 4 papers:
- Principles and Practice of Accounting (100 Marks β Subjective)
- Business Laws & Business Correspondence and Reporting (100 Marks β Subjective)
- Business Mathematics, Logical Reasoning & Statistics (100 Marks β Objective)
- Business Economics & Business and Commercial Knowledge (100 Marks β Objective)
Negative Marking: 1/4 marks deducted in objective papers.
How to Prepare to Become a Chartered Accountant After 12th β Step-by-Step GuideCA Exams
1. Understand the Structure
- 3 Levels: Foundation, Intermediate, Final
- Training: 3-year Articleship
- Authority: ICAI
2. Use ICAI Study Material
- Official ICAI modules are the most reliable
- Study from ICAI-provided books and mock tests
3. Join Coaching or Self-Study
- If you need discipline and guidance, opt for a reputed CA coaching center
- If confident, follow ICAI material with online resources like YouTube, Unacademy, PrepCA
4. Time Management
- Study at least 6β8 hours daily
- Allocate specific time blocks for each subject
5. Mock Tests & PYQs
- Solve ICAI’s mock tests and previous year question papers regularly
- Practice writing subjective answers to improve presentation
Recommended Resources
- ICAI Website: Latest syllabus, notifications, and registration
- Reference Books:
- DS Rawat (Accounting)
- Munish Bhandari (Law)
- Taxmann publications
- Online Platforms:
- Unacademy
- PrepCA
- YouTube Channels (for free video lectures)
Required Skills to Become a Successful CA
- Analytical skills (especially in Maths and Accounting)
- Writing and presentation skills for subjective papers
- Time management and consistency
- Practical exposure during Articleship
Cost of a Chartered Accountant
| Stage | Approximate Fee |
|---|---|
| CA Foundation | 9,200 |
| CA Intermediate (Both Groups) | 18,000β20,000 |
| CA Final | 22,000β25,000 |
| Articleship Training | No fees, may receive stipend |
| Coaching Fees | 20,000 β 1,00,000 per year (optional) |
Where to Prepare for to Become a Chartered Accountant After 12th in India
- ICAI Official Website: Primary source of registration and material
- Local CA Coaching Centers: Especially in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, etc.
- Online Learning Platforms: Affordable and flexible
Q1: How many years does it take to become a Chartered Accountant after 12th?
A: It typically takes 4.5 to 5.5 years to become a CA after 12th, if all exams are cleared on the first attempt. This includes CA Foundation, Intermediate, Articleship, and Final levels.
Can I pursue CA after any stream in 12th?
A: Yes, you can pursue CA after completing 12th from any stream. However, Commerce students may find the subjects easier compared to Science or Arts students.
What is the eligibility for CA Foundation course?
A: Students must have passed Class 12 from a recognized board. Registration for CA Foundation can be done online on the ICAI official website.
How much does the CA course cost in total?
A: The total cost for CA (including registration, exam fees, and coaching) can range from βΉ60,000 to βΉ2,50,000 depending on self-study or coaching method.
Is CA a government or private course?
A: CA is a professional certification course regulated by ICAI, a statutory body under the Government of India. It is not a government job but a professional qualification.
What is Article ship in CA?
A: Article ship is a 3-year practical training under a practicing Chartered Accountant that begins after passing CA Intermediate. It is mandatory to become a CA.
Can I do CA and college together?
A: Yes, many students pursue B.Com alongside their CA studies, especially during the Foundation and Intermediate stages. However, managing time efficiently is crucial.
Final Advice-(How to Become a Chartered Accountant After 12th β Step-by-Step Guide)
If you’re serious about becoming a CA after 12th, start early, stay disciplined, and use the right resources. Even though itβs a long and difficult journey, the CA designation opens up excellent career opportunities in India and abroad.
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